I think this would be a 'game changer' - MP and local events leader praise Gateshead arena investment plans
Promenent figures across Tyneside have praised funding to kick-start the development of the Gateshead Quays development.
On Tuesday, March 9 North East Mayor Kim McGuinness announced a £24m funding package for the area on the South Bank of the River Tyne.
The investment marked a significant turning point in the project to bring a new major 12,500-15,000 seat arena to the region.
Gateshead Council announced the initial plans for the site in 2017.
There were calls at the start of this year for the project to be abandoned, although these were rejected by Gateshead Council.
Funding comes as part of a wider £42m package to turbocharge the region’s creative industries.
Since the announcement, key names across Tyneside have praised the push for the development, including local MPs and the head of Newcastle’s Business Improvement District team.
Following the announcement, Stephen Patterson, CEO of NE1 Ltd said: “Investment from the North East Combined Authority in the new arena, associated infrastructure, and linear Quayside park is to be welcomed.
“It’s great news for the Quayside and an important step in securing a delivery partner for the arena and the wider transformation of the Quayside. A world-class facility in such an iconic location will be extremely attractive to international performers. This announcement needs to turn into implementation and quickly.
“This initial investment also provides a solid foundation on which to build and to push ahead with the delivery of the international conference centre.
“This would be a game-changer for the city and the region allowing us to compete internationally for major conferences and events and driving visits and spending from outside the region.
“We have always backed this vision. The Quayside is the perfect, iconic location for both an arena and a conference centre.
“With the initial funding secured, pressing ahead with plans for the international conference centre should remain a priority, as its delivery will be the final piece in the Quayside regeneration jigsaw. We hope that this initial funding announcement creates the right conditions for future investment.”
In response to the announcement, Mark Ferguson, MP for Gateshead Central and Whickham, added: "Over the last four decades Gateshead has led the way nationally and internationally on arts and culture.
“From the Garden Festival to the Angel of the North, the Millennium Bridge, Baltic and Glasshouse, we've been trailblazers. We've hosted the Turner Prize, MOBO events and the first ever BBC Proms outside of London, and we're just getting started.
"This is massive investment from Mayor Kim McGuinness, and a big vote of confidence in Gateshead Quays. This will accelerate the regeneration of the site to put us once again on the world stage for the arts.
"I will continue to do my bit, working with Kim and the council to promote Gateshead as a major centre for development, investment and growth that will enhance the quality of life for local residents."