More time to view Whitley Bay plans

01-FEB-10

Issued by: Graeme Cook

North Tyneside residents have an extra month to help shape the future of Whitley Bay Town Centre.

Following the success of drop-in sessions held earlier this month, the seaside town's regeneration plans are now on show for the next few weeks.

Elected Mayor Linda Arkley has given the go ahead for the extended display of the plans at Whitley Bay Library on Park Road, and residents have until Friday 19 February to put forward their suggestions.

The designs include ways for improving the appearance of the town centre shops, streets and paths, parks and open spaces, public transport and parking, leisure and services.

Mrs Arkley said: "Hundreds of people turned-out for the previous consultation sessions, but we feel it's essential that we get the views and priorities from as many people as possible.

"The regeneration of Whitley Bay is important to everyone connected with the town, so it's imperative that we get it right from the very start."

Residents of Whitley Bay are invited to give their opinions on short, medium and longer-term proposals, which have been shaped by a series of meetings with key stakeholders, including the Chamber of Trade and Nexus.

Comments made will be used to inform final decisions on the future of the town centres, including action plans about how to deliver specific projects within the towns.

North Tyneside Council has appointed consultant team ARUP to consider the options for improving the town centres of North Shields and Whitley Bay, to complement the work already being undertaken to improve Wallsend as part of the North Bank of the Tyne project.

On 15 and 16 January, the local authority held consultation sessions at the Park View Shopping Centre, Whitley Bay.