North Bank framework goes public

 

11-AUG-09

Issued by: Jeanette Hedley

The key proposals that will inspire the future regeneration of Wallsend and North Bank of the Tyne are set to go on public display next month.

Since December last year hundreds of residents and partner organisation, have been involved in a series of consultation events to give feedback on the plans for the development of the 600 hectare North Bank of the Tyne regeneration site.

Now the key proposals that will feature in the Strategic Framework to guide the future of the site, stretching from Walker in Newcastle to Bull Ring Dock in North Shields, are to go on public display.

They will be available in the Forum Shopping Centre, Wallsend between 10am and 5pm from September 2 until September 5 (in the old Sports Direct unit, opposite British Heart Foundation).

Officers will be available to answer any queries people may have.

"The regeneration of this area represents a key priority for the Council and the North Bank recommendations will play a central role in delivering this, " said North Tyneside Council's Cabinet member for Development, Councillor Jon Jo Macnamara.

"The information gathered from a series of public events, together with feedback from stakeholders and agencies has been used to prepare the Strategic Framework illustrating proposals for the North Bank of the Tyne area and Wallsend town centre."

The North Bank of the Tyne project is a partnership between North Tyneside Council, Newcastle City Council, One NorthEast and the Homes and Communities Agency.

The partnership appointed international property and regeneration experts GVA Grimley to prepare a framework for one of the country's biggest regeneration projects, together with an implementation strategy that results in a vibrant and vital district for living, working and leisure.

Over six months a series of public engagement events canvassed public views on issues ranging from how to improve housing, the future use of the former Swan Hunters site, how the regeneration of Wallsend can boost employment opportunities for borough residents, and whether the riverside should be opened up for leisure use.

The overall master plan will replace all previously produced plans and tackle social and economic issues, including how the partnership can seek to build on the successful marine industries along the North Bank of the Tyne and provide increased employment opportunities for the region.

This includes making recommendations on the future use of the former Swan Hunter shipyards site and the regeneration of Wallsend town centre.

Priority issues for the consultant have also included exploring how to achieve improved accessibility and transport opportunities linking the riverside and adjacent neighbourhoods,

And the framework will complement the ongoing regeneration on the south side of the river.

North Tyneside Council's Cabinet will receive the proposed Strategic Development Framework for consideration in September.

Once approved it will form part of the statutory Development Plan for North Tyneside.