20-storey block set for Quayside
A NEW “landmark” 20-storey apartment block overlooking the Gateshead Quayside could get the go-ahead from planning chiefs next week.
Developers want to build 317 apartments in Mill Road, close to the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, the Millennium Bridge, and the planned site of a new £250 million arena.
The development, on the site of the former Hawk’s Ironworks, would be a U-shaped block of residential flats, 20 storeys tall at its highest point on the corner of Mill Road and Hawks Road and stepping down to 15 and then nine floors.
However, Gateshead Council and Hawks Mill Student Developments Ltd have been in disagreement over how much the developer should pay towards off-site affordable housing through a section 106 agreement.
The council originally requested a £3.1m payment, but the applicant said that having to pay any fee at all could make the project financially unviable.
The proposals are recommended for approval at a council planning committee meeting next week, subject to an agreement being reached – with a revised suggestion of a £1m contribution.
A council report said that the scheme would be a “high quality, landmark development” at a focal point connecting the East Gateshead area and Baltic Business Quarter with Gateshead Quays and the town centre.
The planning application is a redesigned version of a previously approved building scheme that would have incorporated 366 flats, 244 for students.
The developer stated in its submission to the council: “The proposed scheme has been carefully considered with the purpose of achieving an attractive, high-quality development which will positively enhance the appearance of Gateshead town centre.
“High-quality materials have been specified to enforce the concept of a modern development, yet developing a strong reference to listed assets within close proximity to the application site.
“This is a development that will enhance the current environment and establish a desirable habitable community within the local and greater context in terms of employment areas and local amenities and social and leisure aspects.”
The development would also incorporate two retail units on the ground floor of the building, as well as 113 parking spaces in two undercroft car parks.
The land is currently hoarded off following the demolition of former office and warehouse buildings.
Two letters of concern have been sent to the council by neighbouring residents, raising fears over the height of the building dwarfing others in the area, increased traffic, and parking problems.