Member Article

Young people invited to see Eldon Square plans

Plans for the restoration of Newcastle’s Old Eldon Square have been shown to the young people who use it, with the chance for them to speak directly to the council about the proposed plans that the £170 million remodeling and extension project will bring.

Staff from the council’s Play and Youth Services and Planning and Transportation division will be at the event to hand out information leaflets and answer any questions.

Plans for the square were agreed by the council in July and the main work to create new footpaths, a low wall with metal railings and seating is expected to begin in the summer next year. The scheme will also include additional lighting to improve security and add decorative interest to the square. The plans also retain a respectful setting for the Grade II listed War Memorial.

Executive Member for Regeneration, Planning and Transport, Councilor Mike Cookson said: “The square is a popular gathering spot for young people and, by holding these events, we can give them the opportunity to ask questions about the plans and hopefully allay any fears they may have about the schemes. “Investing in its future means people will be able to continue to treasure this valuable open space for many more years to come.”

As well as the restoration of Old Eldon Square, the remodeling and extension of Eldon Square Shopping Centre will see new shops opening on Blackettbridge this autumn; a brand new bus station opening on Prudhoe Street in spring next year and major redevelopment of the Greenmarket area.

The next information event will take place on September 30 between 12 noon and 3pm.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .