Step forward for Newcastle mixed-use scheme

Plans to knock down a Newcastle neighbourhood centre to make way for a mixed-use development featuring retail units, commercial space and new homes are set to be approved.The proposals for Newbiggin Hall Neighbourhood Centre on Trevelyan Drive, which were lodged by Gentoo Homes, have been recommended for the green light ahead of a Newcastle City Council planning meeting later this week (3 August 2018).Under the plans, the existing centre would be demolished and replaced with five retail units, including a 4,999 sq ft food store and 1,500 sq ft pharmacy. The remaining spaces would each span almost 750 sq ft and would be used for professional services or as a café/restaurant.The residential element of the scheme features 43 homes, comprising eight two-bed properties, 30 three-bed houses and five four-bed dwellings.A document published ahead of the meeting described the project as a “major regeneration scheme”.Final approval is subject to a number of conditions, including work beginning within three years.