Member Article

Partnership invites Newcastle businesses to be part of city centre growth plans

Newcastle City Council in partnership with city centre business improvement agent NE1 Ltd are inviting local businesses to hear growth plans to transform Northumberland Street, and its surrounding area, into a European-leading retail destination.

One of the government’s high street tzars Mark Williams, who was former Chairman of the Retail Property Taskforce, and a Director of the Hark Group, has agreed to support the partners by independently chairing the partner working group, and providing expert advice on how our ambitions can be realised and funded.

Cllr Ged Bell, Cabinet Member for Investment and Development at Newcastle City Council, explained: “Northumberland Street and adjoining areas have the potential to set the tone for the type of city we want to be.

“We’re giving businesses the opportunity to strengthen the city’s appeal, increase footfall and visitors to Newcastle, encourage them to eat and stay in our city longer, all of which will have a positive effect on our economy.

“Newcastle was voted favourite UK city by the Guardian in 2014, let’s build on that accolade to become the best European city. But to become a global destination we need to think global, and up our game to compete with other major European cities.

“We’re confident that by investing in the transformation of Northumberland Street we can become a vibrant and attractive central retail district, which will act as a catalyst for wider economic regeneration.”

These improvements are part of the council’s programme of renewal and reinvention, Re-newcastle, delivering the biggest transformation of the city’s infrastructure in a generation.

Many of these improvements are underway in the city centre, including public realm and transport proposals for Percy Street, Barras Bridge and north of the city.

Over £1m has been invested in transport improvements on John Dobson Street which is nearing completion into a tree lined boulevard into the city’s flagship segregated cycle way, new road crossings, seating areas and improved public transport links.

This also links to the council’s current consultation on draft proposals to refresh its long term development aspirations for East Pilgrim Street which runs until 8 September.

Sean Bullick, Chief Executive of Business Improvement District (BID) Company, NE1 Ltd, added: “Northumberland Street is the premier shopping street in the North East of England and the challenges it faces are echoed both nationally and internationally.

“Due to the unprecedented and permanent changes in consumer behaviour and demand, it is imperative that Northumberland Street remains the spine of the city and continues to compete with Europe’s best.

“We are delighted to be working with Newcastle City Council and Mark Williams on plans to strengthen it as an integral part of the city’s retail core, renewing and strengthening links with Eldon Square, its feeder streets and with the universities and hospital”

He added: “We would encourage all businesses and retailers to attend the event on the 21 September.”

A meeting is being held at 1pm on Wednesday 21 September in the Tyneside Cinema.

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