Forum focuses on regeneration

23-AUG-10

Issued by: Duncan Bennett

Residents are being reminded that a special area forum will be held next week about Whitley Bay's regeneration.

People who attended Whitley Bay Area Forum last month said they wanted more detail on progress to date, particularly in relation to the Spanish City island site, including the Dome.

It led to Cllr Pam McIntyre, cabinet member for Community Engagement, calling for a one-off area forum on the issue, which will be attended by a team of senior council officers.

The event will be held on Tuesday, August 31, at 6.30pm at the PLAYHOUSE Whitley Bay, sponsored by the Evening Chronicle.

Cllr McIntyre said: "It's important we listen to what residents tell us.

"They told us very clearly they wanted more detail on Whitley Bay's regeneration, particularly concerning the Spanish City site and the Dome.

"That's why I felt it was important that the council holds a special area forum on the subject. I hope lots of people take the opportunity to come along, hear what's happening and ask any questions they have."

ENDS

Notes to editors:

The council is committed to delivering the regeneration of the seaside resort of Whitley Bay and Spanish City, as part of a wider strategy to regenerate the whole of North Tyneside's coast by building upon the many natural assets and existing attractions, including blue flag beaches, historic buildings and leisure facilities, that the coastal area offers.

The final phase of structural repairs to the Spanish City Dome is underway and will include temporary improvements to the shop fronts and windows to enhance the appearance of the building.

The council is in advanced discussions with short-listed developers concerning the future permanent use of the Spanish City island site, including reuse of the Dome.

Conditional planning approval for a scheme to realign the seafront highway around the back of the Spanish City Dome, creating the space for a new piazza on the extended promenade area to connect the building to the seafront.