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Plan for ‘22,000 new jobs and 30,000 extra homes across Newcastle and Gateshead’ given green light

A vital plan that will shape development and deliver economic growth and jobs over the next 15 years has been approved.

The Gateshead and Newcastle Planning for the Future Core Strategy and Urban Core Plan was agreed by councillors on both sides of the Tyne today, after being deemed sound and legally compliant by an independent, government appointed inspector.

The Plan will guide development to 2030 and beyond, and includes provision for 22,000 expected new jobs and 30,000 extra homes across Newcastle and Gateshead. Key to the Plan is controlled growth in a number of neighbourhoods, and detailed studies have taken place to ensure that development takes place in the most sustainable way possible.

Council meetings at both Gateshead Civic Centre and Newcastle Civic Centre agreed the formal adoption of the Plan this afternoon after taking into account some amendments recommended by the independent inspector.

It sets out locations for thousands of new homes; land for economic development such as offices, retail space and major new roads. The majority of development will be focused on brownfield land and in regeneration areas, and also aims to prioritise new sites in the urban core.

Leader of Gateshead Council, Mick Henry, said: “This is an important document for everyone in Gateshead and Newcastle.

“We appreciate that many people have had strong feelings about individual parts of the Plan, and we’ve considered all of those concerns carefully, using the best available data throughout.

“This Plan gives us the blueprint that will ensure successful and thoroughly planned growth, to boost our economy and provide much needed housing for thousands of people.

“An independent inspector has agreed that the Plan is based on robust evidence and we can now put the years of theory and hard work into practice.”

Leader of Newcastle City Council, Nick Forbes, said: “This marks a significant milestone, and sets out the city’s ambitions to create new housing and jobs. This is an important part of the implementation of our vision for strong, safe and sustainable communities.

“It positions Newcastle and Gateshead alongside the best in Europe, giving investors the confidence that we have a clear plan for how we want to grow.

“A city that plans to grow demonstrates the ambition and confidence to attract new jobs and economic growth, and our Plan sends out a strong message that we are open for business. It provides the clarity that developers need to bring forward their plans, delivering new homes that people need, and new training opportunities, skills and jobs of the future.”

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