It has long been recognised that
active or 'live' ground floor elevations that relate
to the street pattern and public realm are a vital
feature of a successful urban environment. Clearly
identifiable building entrances help to understand
a place and create activity where people move between
public and private space Buildings with live edges
enable people to monitor public space and help make
it safer. Twentieth century redevelopment in Gateshead
has resulted in a reduced amount of live active edges.
Many new developments particularly in the Town Centre
comprise large monolithic structures with blank elevations,
few or no doors and little animation or relationship
with
the public realm. Towards the edges of central
Gateshead much of the recent built form turns its
back on the public streets, thereby reducing overlooking
and creating a less safe environment. It also presents
confusion between public and private realms and
the areas of left over space contribute nothing
to the quality and urban structure of Gateshead.
