Student flats to be built on quayside ‘eyesore’ plot
MORE than 100 student flats are set to be built on an “eyesore” patch of land overlooking the Newcastle Quayside.
Council bosses have approved £14 million plans for two river view apartment blocks on a derelict plot in Skinnerburn Road, close to the Queen Elizabeth II Metro bridge.
Developer Stripe Homes revealed that it hoped to have the buildings, which will comprise 118 flats, completed by September 2021.
Managing director James Forrester said that the nine-storey development was aimed at second-year and mature university students wanting “a better level of accommodation”.
He said: “It’s important for the city of Newcastle that we continue to encourage investment in all areas of the economy and so today’s news is very positive in that respect.
“While Covid-19 does present some operational obstacles, we’re confident that we can remain on track to complete this development by September 2021.
“At Stripe Homes, we’ve seen a continued level of investment interest in Newcastle in recent weeks despite the uncertainty caused by the pandemic.
“This interest has been bolstered by demand from the student market. Today, secondyear and mature students, in particular, want a better level of accommodation in a good location with the availability of green space.
“This waterfront development will tick every box and its delivery along with other potential investment into the city, such as the takeover of the Newcastle football club, will positively contribute to the wider community and economy.”
Work had begun in 2011 to build a restaurant on the land with student accommodation above, but that project fell apart when Blythe House Developments went into insolvency and it has been vacant since then.
Newcastle City Council’s cabinet member for employment and culture, Coun Ged Bell, added: “There used to be a building on this site that was demolished many years ago and since then it has turned into a bit of an eyesore.
“Planning permission for a similar development was granted a few years ago but unfortunately lapsed. Now we have the go-ahead for what will be very nice student accommodation block right on the quayside which will be very popular among students for leisure and recreation.
“On the ground floor there are plans for a cafe, gym and micro business units that will create jobs and with electric bikes provided and green roofs this building will be great for the environment - a brilliant carfree addition to the city centre.”