Partner Article

Public prefers picture house plans

Plans for the derelict Jesmond Picture House in Newcastle received widespread support from residents after they were unveiled in a public exhibition earlier this week. The plan, proposed by property investors MK Partnership’s a mix of retail and office accommodation, aiming to increase employment in the area.

The new designs were adjusted in accordance to feedback received at a previous public consultation. The eco-friendly designs include natural ventilation and best use of natural light, durable limestone, cycle stands and an internalised staff bike store. Instead of using their cars, tenants can cycle to work, use the Metro station opposite or the nearby Osborne Road bus service.

Sunil Mehra, spokesperson for MK Partnership said: “The building has been designed to complement the surrounding area and minimise its impact.

“Although the limestone finish is more expensive, it lightens the appearance of the building as well as being very durable and attractive. All windows facing existing residential homes are above head height and will not overlook any of the surrounding properties and a sun path analysis, spanning a year, shows there will also be no change in the shadow cast by the new building compared with the existing cinema building. The top floor of the building will be of a zinc type material to emulate a slate coloured roof which will allow it to ‘disappear’ at night time.”

The MK Partnership have submitted a planning application and it will be considered by the City Council by the end of June.

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