A major new development set to be based a stone throw away from central Newcastle has been approved.
It may seem like the UK has come to a standstill through the newly imposed restrictions, but that hasn’t stopped Gateshead Council’s Planning Committee being busy in giving the green light to the ambitious £260 million development.
Spanning almost 55,000 square metres and featuring at a prime position at Gateshead Quays, a world-class arena will feature at the heart of the complex. The mighty venue is set to cover 29,000 square metres and will include a capacity of 12,500 people, making it one of the largest arenas in the whole of Europe.
Other facilities will include an abundance of restaurants, a dual branded hotel, an exhibition centre and more than 7000 square metres of a flexible event space, along with spectacular panoramic views over the iconic River Tyne.
Artistic impressions unveil its prime position overlooking the River Tyne
Not only will the ASM Global complex provide plenty of recreation to the people of the North East, but will also boost the regional finances and job opportunities. 2000 jobs are expected to be created, providing a significant £60 million boost to the local economy. Its estimated the complex will attract more than 300,000 additional visitors to the North East annually.
ASM Global engaged internationally acclaimed HOK Architects to design the development, with world-leading construction company Sir Robert McAlpine now set the task of bringing the visions to life by building the facilities.
The new complex will also feature lots of outdoor space for visitors to enjoy
Enthusiastically speaking of the development, Martin Gannon, Gateshead Council Leader said: “We’ve wanted to revitalise this key site for a long time. Our long-term aspiration has always been to bring internationally recognisable facilities of this scale to not just Gateshead but the entire region.”
Tom Lynch, Director of Business Development, Europe for ASM Global also explained: “Newcastle Gateshead Quays will be a global leader in entertainment, leisure, and hospitality but most importantly it is about creating new employment and training opportunities for thousands at a time when they are badly needed.
Adding: “Despite the current challenges, we need to remember the worth of the events industry. We look forward to opening the venue late 2023.”
Elsewhere, Therme Group is set to launch an empire of wellbeing centres all over the UK.

