Further steps taken on new £260m NewcastleGateshead Quayside arena and exhibition site

The latest step in a £260m arena, conference and exhibition centre for Gateshead Quays has been announced.

Sir Robert McAlpine has been named as the contractor, while Ask:Patrizia is Gateshead Council’s development partner.

Situated on the NewcastleGateshead Quayside, it is set to include a 12,500-capacity arena, 6,300m2 of conference and exhibition space, as well as two hotels, restaurants, car parking and bars.

Gateshead Council’s chief executive, Sheena Ramsey, said: “The appointment of Sir Robert McAlpine brings us a huge step closer to delivering this world class events destination for the region and we’re glad to have them on board.

“This development will act as a catalyst for renewed economic growth, maximising local employment, training and supply chain opportunities.

“This is about being ambitious for Gateshead, we need everyone in the borough to be able to fulfil their true potential and projects like this create the conditions for them to thrive.”

The new complex is set to open in 2023, while a full planning application is expected to be submitted in early 2020.

Speaking on behalf of Ask:Patrizia, John Hughes, managing director of Ask Real Estate, added: “Sir Robert McAlpine has a reputation for technical excellence and delivering complex developments safely, on time and within budget.

“We are looking forward to working with them to see this superb facility materialise.”

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