NUFC fans to benefit from Newcastle community infrastructure investment

A development and regeneration specialist has promised to improve the off-pitch match day experience for Newcastle fans with a raft of new community facilities.

The High Street Group has bought a controlling interest worth £10m in the company that acquired Strawberry Place – land located next to St James’ Park – from Newcastle United Football Club owner, Mike Ashley.

The company is now making plans to transform the space between the Strawberry Pub and The Gate into a hotel, bars and restaurants to improve options for pre and post-match revellers, as well as city locals and visitors.

Split into four areas, the site’s Blocks A and D are earmarked for residential developments including a 21-storey tower with over 300 residential apartments. High end offices would be provided in block B, of which 40 per cent has already been pre-let.

A hotel, bars and restaurants will take residence in Block C.

Gary Forrest – a former non-league player and current manager of West Auckland - commented: “This significant investment in Newcastle is part of the High Street Group’s continued mission to build communities and regenerate city centres.

“Our vision is to create a true community hub with leisure and retail facilities, a magnificent new hotel, luxury apartments at affordable rents and high quality office space. It is a hugely exciting opportunity to radically improve our city, bring investment and help to create hundreds of new jobs.

“This innovative idea would offer the thousands of fans who flock to St James’ Park a much wider choice of quality restaurants and bars, which would provide the ideal setting for pre and post-match revellers.

“We want to bring the whole of the city with us so, when the detailed plans are completed, we will listen to the views of local businesses, residents and football fans. Their comments will inform our progress.”