Flooding fears hold up quayside revamp
Nov 10 2007 by Adrian Pearson, The Journal
QUAYSIDE redevelopment plans could be delayed as flood risks are debated by the Government.
Plans for a £10m office and restaurant complex between the Swing Bridge and the Tyne Bridge were debated by Gateshead councillors earlier this week, and they have now sent the proposals for Government approval.
Despite a council welcome for the development, which would replace the Tuxedo Princess along the riverside, the Absolute Leisure proposals will not be rushed through.
The Environment Agency has asked for a halt in the planning process and wants to know if alternative sites in areas with a lower probability of flooding could be found that would be appropriate for the type of development proposed.
Under new rules, any development in a flood-risk zone must give reasons why it could not be located in a safer site.
However, the developers are unlikely to want start work anywhere else.
As council officers described in their report, the location is an extremely prominent site which sits among one of the most iconic urban landscapes in Britain.
The report added: “It is critical that the development of this site compliments and sits wholly in context with its surroundings and is of the highest design quality and finish.”
The council is also insisting the building meets tough renewable energy commitments.
Absolute Leisure say the new buildings will be among the region’s most energy efficient. A spokesman said: “We are looking at how best to ensure the various energy requirements are met.
“Our only issue at the moment is the Environment Agency but that is a purely technical objection.
“We are one of the first companies in England to propose a development under new Environment Agency guidelines which insist on alternatives being considered. We should be complete by spring 2009 at the latest.”
Andrew Hickie, development control manager for Gateshead Council, said: “The Environment Agency submitted a technical objection because the applicant had failed to provide sequential test data on flood risk. Tests were under way prior to the committee meeting which were hoped to be agreed in advance of that meeting and we anticipate being able to agree these details in partnership with the Environment Agency and then refer the matter to Government Office North-East who normally take 21 days to consider them.”
The Tuxedo Princess will stage a leaving party next month as it prepares to close down. Owners Absolute Leisure are inviting former celebrities to a December 6 party before upping anchor in the New Year after 25 years of life as a Tyneside nightclub.
