A first look at how a derelict Newcastle train yard could be transformed into a “landmark” development featuring hundreds of new homes and a car park has been unveiled.

New plans showcase how the disused Forth Goods Yard behind Central Station could be reimagined as part of major investment in a part of the city earmarked for a serious revamp over the next 20 years.

Detailed proposals for the Network Rail-owned site come as Newcastle City Council is also launching a public consultation on a masterplan for the wider Forth Yards project to the west of the city centre, which could include a total 2,500 homes and a new footbridge across the Tyne.

Redevelopment plans for the disused Forth Goods Yard behind Newcastle Central Station | blocwork/Platform 4/LDRS

placeholder image — Redevelopment plans for the disused Forth Goods Yard behind Newcastle Central Station | blocwork/Platform 4/LDRS

The rail yard is just one pocket of land within the larger Forth Yards area and is one where regeneration is at a more advanced stage, with a planning application soon to be submitted to Newcastle City Council.

Designs revealed today by development company blocwork and Platform 4, the recently-established Government property company set up to unlock building on railway land, show how the Forth Goods Yard could house 514 apartments across two residential blocks, a 650-space multi-storey car park, and new shops and green space.

The vision for the site would also involve the creation of an urban park on a disused railway viaduct heading out of Central Station and down Scotswood Road, which has been likened to New York’s popular High Line.

It is hoped that the Goods Yard, as well as the ongoing construction on the Olympian Homes development in Pottery Lane, can be a catalyst for further regeneration – most notably on the former Calders leadworks site next to the Utilita Arena, where the Government has committed £121.8 million to fund infrastructure and land remediation works.

The disused Forth Goods Yard behind Newcastle Central Station | blocwork/Platform 4/LDRS

Nick Legget, Development Director at blocwork, said: “Our plans for Forth Goods Yard would transform this strategic, disused site into a connected community, offering homes for residents. Improvements to public realm, landscaping and a new public highline will create links to the city centre and station and we are keen to hear what the community thinks about our plans.”

Ahead of the plans being sent to the city council for approval, a public consultation will run until midnight on Wednesday, November 26. Views on the proposals can be submitted online via ForthGoodsYard.co.uk, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 0800 066 8941.

Robin Dobson, CEO of Platform 4, added: “Following the recent funding secured for the wider Forth Yards area, there is real momentum both regionally and nationally to redevelop this important parcel of land adjacent to Newcastle Central Station.

“By unlocking this first phase we are a catalyst for the wider area to become a significant new neighbourhood for Newcastle with up to 2,500 homes.”

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