Issue - meetings

(i)            That the key elements of the Future High Street Fund Business Case submission be noted and approved;

(ii)          That the Executive Director Commercial Development and Economic Growth be authorised to work with the Leader of the Council to approve the finalised detail of the Future High Street Fund Business Case bid prior to its submission to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government; and

(iii)         At the point that Covid-19 measures allow, further public and stakeholder engagement be undertaken to build on the initial consultation that was undertaken in March 2020. 

Cabinet considered a report setting out the key elements of the Newcastle Town Centre Future High Street Fund submission.  The report sought approval for submission of the funding bid to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. 

The Leader introduced the report explaining the project was the centrepiece in the redevelopment of the Ryecroft site.  The scheme would contribute to the Council’s Corporate Priority of a “Town Centre for All”.  Indicative plans were presented showing options for each part of the site incorporating retirement living; residential development; public open space; office space; parking; community space; and retail.

The bid represented an opportunity to attract external funding of around £13m.  The Council had commissioned public consultation which had commenced earlier in the year with a two day consultation in the town centre.  The consultation process had had to be cut short due to the lockdown measures but initial results showed broad support for the emerging themes in the proposal. 

Members endorsed the proposals commenting that they would be transformative; deliver on public expectations of what a modern town centre should offer, the ‘pocket park’ aspect and plaza concept was highlighted and the mix of uses was commended. 

The Leader commented that the designs shown were indicative and the Council would be able to guide the design in keeping with the heritage of the area.

The submission deadline had been extended from the end of June to the end of July 2020.

Resolved:  That

(i)            the key elements of the Future High Street Fund Business Case submission be noted and approved;

(ii)           the Executive Director Commercial Development and Economic Growth be authorised to work with the Leader of the Council to approve the finalised detail of the Future High Street Fund Business Case bid prior to its submission to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government; and

(iii)         At the point that Covid-19 measures allow, further public and stakeholder engagement be undertaken to build on the initial consultation that was undertaken in March 2020.