Member Article

Planning permission granted for 1,800 home initiative

Planning permission for the North East’s biggest ever housing led redevelopment initiative has been granted, paving the way for the construction of 1,800 homes on the banks of the Tyne.

Over the next 15 years £265 million will be invested in the 66 hectare site at Scotswood, creating new homes, commercial and community facilities, parks and public open spaces.

The redevelopment has been welcomed by Newcastle City Council Scotswood Ward Councillor Hazel Stephenson. She commented: “ The hard work, commitment and dedication of the residents, with whom we have worked closely with for many years, is to be applauded.

“The provision of quality housing for families within a well connected, safe, accessible and healthy local environment represents a welcome step in the regeneration of Benwell, Scotswood and the wider area.

“Together with the well designed public and green spaces, this will create a positive sense of place. Finally, as well as new homes, it will bring investment and jobs.”

Prior to confirmation that the project was to go ahead, extensive consultation with a wide range of interested organisations, individuals and local people, alongside formal discussions with public transport providers and environmental bodies. There were no objections.

The public/private joint venture comprises Newcastle City Council, and developers Barratt, Keepmoat and Yuill and will be delivered by the New Tyne West Development Company.
Construction of the first 378 homes is expected to be underway by the early summer, and residents will be moving in before then end of the year.

Chair of NTWDC, Alison Fellows, said: “This is fantastic news which I am sure gives local people real confidence that they will soon see the revitalisation of this historic part of Newcastle.

“We have endeavoured to involve them and keep them informed every step of the way and it was great to see many of them at the meeting to witness this important milestone.

“Much work still remains to be done before the first brick is laid but I feel sure that the spirit of co-operation which has developed among all concerned will ensure the project progresses as planned.”

The homes to be built will be two, two-and-a-half and three storey properties comprising 78 with two bedrooms, 206 with three, 44 with four and 50 apartments.

All will be to Level 4 of the government’s Code for Sustainable Homes – higher than the required standard – and are also compliant with the Lifetime Homes and Secured by Design standards. A sales village with nine show homes and a pavilion will also be constructed.

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