Newcastle Helix PRS plans set for step forward

Plans to build a private rented sector (PRS) housing scheme in the centre of Newcastle – which could rise to 13 storeys and provide almost 200 apartments – have been recommended for approval. It comes two years after a similar project was blocked by the city council.The site on Heber Street has been earmarked for redevelopment by St James Boulevard Developments.It forms part of Newcastle Helix and is currently vacant, but was previously used as a yard area, surface car park and the NE4 bar, café, takeaway, shop and restaurant which was destroyed by fire and subsequently demolished in 2017.The building would have an L shaped footprint and would rise to between ten and 13 storeys. It would provide 169 residential units, as well as two rear courtyard areas. No car parking would be provided.A similar application was refused by planners in 2019 due to the absence of a section 106 agreement and poor levels of daylight and sunlight within the proposed accommodation.The fresh scheme will go before Newcastle City Council’s planning committee on 18 June 2021 with a recommendation for approval.A report filed ahead of the meeting said “the principle of redevelopment of this city centre site for residential development is acceptable and in keeping with national and local policy”. The applicant has also agreed to enter a section 106 obligation.