The purpose of the Regeneration Framework is to become a reference point for the renewal of central Gateshead as it evolves, offering a Vision of the possible future whilst identifying current issues that will either constrain or facilitate the opening up of a particular site or initiative. In effect, the Framework becomes a yardstick against which new proposals can be measured, in addition to making recommendations for the timing of infrastructure projects as demand on movement corridors, the public realm and utilities increases.
During the creation of the Framework, a number of core objectives have been identified. These have become the measures of success or failure as the Delivery Strategy unfolds.
Create the characteristics of a vibrant city centre, providing a unique destination
This is a critical requirement of the Framework, stemming from a desire amongst all consultees to avoid repeating the mistakes of the past. Density, land use mix, design and orientation will all contribute to the success of the core area
Break the stranglehold of passing traffic
It is an unavoidable fact that the majority of traffic using the system that rings Gateshead Town Centre is heading for alternative destinations. If Gateshead is to succeed as unique destination in the future, there is an immediate need to begin shifting the emphasis towards access to Gateshead
Continue focus on improved public transport
Central Gateshead has many of the public transport attributes called for in contemporary urban settlements, particularly with the completion of the transport interchange. There is no doubt, however, that there is scope for improvement, particularly to Metro service frequency and a phased increase in the bus offer
Deliver a broad mix of uses simultaneously
Gateshead Town Centre should not be seen as a retail destination alone. The call for a vibrant, lively town centre includes the proposal to add residential and employment uses to the core. If a balanced approach is to succeed, these should be developed in such a way as to ensure a range of new occupiers and users as each phase of development unfolds
Re-connect dispersed character areas
The barriers that separate the distinct character areas of Gateshead today must be penetrated, straddled or removed altogether if the Town is to benefit from re-integration. This requirement will require the removal of redundant barriers, such as the Gateshead Highway, and the creation of positive, radial, public realm links
Connect the plateau with the floor of the gorge
The renewal of the Town Centre must take advantage of the major investment in regeneration projects associated with the Quayside. To achieve this, a number of positive links must be delivered. These include a significant improvement in pedestrian connections, the introduction of the Quayside Transit and the creation of the Gateshead Funicular, a rail-based mechanical connection between the Town Centre and the Baltic. This should aim to be first and foremost a piece of Urban Theatre, an enjoyable feature that will help to promote Gateshead as a tourist destination
Champion pedestrian, cycle, bus and Metro movement
This aspiration will contribute to a movement away from reliance on car access, examining deliverable solutions for non-road based movement. A public realm strategy is to be developed which will link new public spaces with a series of safe movement corridors that are not constrained by traffic. Where appropriate, pedestrian crossings will be introduced. These will contribute to the ‘Gating’ of road traffic.
Expand the catchment potential of the Town Centre
When considering the content of the Town Centre, and particularly the retail element, the emerging scheme should aim to re-attract those locally-based shoppers who have taken to shopping in Newcastle and the Metro Centre as a result of the decline in the offer at Gateshead. In addition, the scheme brought forward should be able to attract a new range of shoppers from a broader catchment area
Attract a significant educational institution to the Town Centre
When considering appropriate uses for a town centre location, the idea of introducing a significant educational institution is likely to contribute to an exciting mix, extending movement and uses into the evening. The younger age group involved are also likely to broaden the range of people using the Town Centre at any one time.
Create a city-scale square as a focus for all community activities
Unique places in cities are not always created by spectacular buildings. More often than not, it is the treatment of the public spaces that creates lasting memories of a place, particularly in a high density urban environment. In the case of Gateshead Town Centre, it is proposed that a new urban space is created to serve as the frontage to the various uses being proposed. The space becomes linear rather than square, and is aligned on a north-south axis in order to reduce the negative microclimatic environment that persists on the site today.
