250 jobs on horizon as Eldon Square development gets green light

Plans for 21 new catering units in Newcastle’s intu Eldon Square have been approved by Newcastle City Council, paving the way for an estimated 250 new jobs.

Intu plans to create a “dining quarter” within the current Sidgate and High Friar malls, with covered family dining space over two levels.

Kate Grant, asset management director for intu said: “Newcastle is a vibrant city and intu Eldon Square occupies the prime pitch with an annual footfall of 36 million.

“With such a strong catchment, lots of operators know that there is a huge demand for their brands in Newcastle and have been waiting for an opportunity like this to arrive. There is great interest in the project, and we’re excited to be bringing new catering concepts to Newcastle.”

Pat Ritchie, chief executive of Newcastle City Council, added : “The council is working hard with long-standing partners intu to drive growth and create jobs in the local economy by increasing the vibrancy and competitiveness of the city’s retail offer.

“Investing in our city, supporting business and creating the right conditions for growth are critical to our future. This new destination dining quarter will add to the distinctiveness of the city centre and underline Newcastle’s attractiveness as a key destination.”

Phil Steele, general manager of intu Eldon Square, commented: “Intu Eldon Square is really excited about this new development. There is a huge demand for restaurant space in the city, and this will really enhance the environment for our shoppers.”

It is expected that works will start on site in early 2014 for an opening around Easter 2015.

Intu is already investing heavily in the shopping centre which is currently undergoing a £22m refreshment and modernisation programme enhancing existing malls by upgrading ceilings and interiors and a new main entrance to the centre on Northumberland Street.