Details of £260m Gateshead Quays project reveal plans for nearly 300 bedrooms

Plans have been revealed for a £260m project at Gateshead Quays which is due to open in 2023.

New CGI videos and imagery released today show that the UK’s newest international conference and exhibition centre will be capable of hosting up to 5,000 delegates.

The £260m project on Gateshead Quays will also include a 12,500-capacity arena, two hotels with 290 bedrooms, bars, restaurants, and other public spaces.

A full planning application has been submitted for the 80,000 sq ft development, positioned between the BALTIC and Sage Gateshead, with a decision expected in autumn.

If agreed at planning, Gateshead Quays will create approximately 2,000 jobs and inject £60m into the regional economy each year, as well as attracting an extra 300,000 visitors to North East England.

Councillor Martin Gannon, leader of Gateshead Council, commented: “The Quays development confirms the region’s reputation for world-class events.

“Gateshead Quays will capitalise on a conferencing demand that the region has been unable to meet and showcase the North East’s strengths to a global audience.

“The new images show just how unique and special the waterfront site is. An events setting like no other in the UK.”

Kerrin MacPhie, head of business events at VisitBritain, said: “The Gateshead Quays development will create a huge opportunity for NewcastleGateshead, increasing its global reach to attract large-scale events from all over the world.

“This development is great for the business events industry in the UK and shows confidence within the market.

“The new centre will provide event planners with an exciting option in an already well-established destination within the business events industry and will have a positive impact on bringing more international associations and incentive groups to the area.”