The two have signed a development agreement that promises to be the first step towards the physical regeneration of Gateshead’s centre – an important sign of investor confidence that could change the area beyond all recognition.
It is hoped that the agreement will signify Spenhill’s imminent submission of a planning application for Trinity Square, a 3.5 hectare site at the heart of the Town Centre, as well as the demolition of the multi-storey car park, known for its iconic structure made famous in the film ‘Get Carter’.
This follows the launch of the 1PLAN this week – a 20 year economic and spatial masterplan for NewcastleGateshead that sets out a vision to improve the area’s competitiveness, where business can grow and flourish and drive forward economic development.
Leader of Gateshead Council, Councillor Mick Henry said, “This agreement brings with it the confidence of one of the UK’s most significant investors – which will hopefully trigger further development. It is hoped that this will turn Trinity Square into a vibrant centre that meets the long held aspirations of Gateshead people.
“Gateshead town centre has been in need of regeneration for some time and we’ve sought research and recommendations over recent years on how we should go about delivering a town centre that will be a great place for visitors and local people.
“This agreement follows careful but complicated negotiations in which we have both taken into consideration economic change, changes in shopping habits, how and when people travel and what they expect from visiting an urban centre.
“Our ambition is for a development that would offer more facilities than simply replacement retailing and have a major impact on the regeneration of the town centre - we hope to receive a planning application soon.”
Doug Wilson, Corporate Affairs Manager for Spenhill said, “The development agreement signals our confidence in the future prosperity of Gateshead. Our proposals will include a range of facilities with new public spaces, shops, student housing, offices, a new town centre car park and a Tesco store. This will transform Trinity Square into somewhere that the people of Gateshead can be proud of and want to visit.”
For more information visit
www.yourtrinitysquare.co.uk.