PROPOSALS for a new extension to Gateshead’s Metrocentre could create more than 200 jobs, it was announced yesterday.
The £5m development on the former site of a filling station would be based around food and drink outlets.
Capital Shopping Centres (CSC), which owns both Metrocentre and Metro Retail Park, wants to create a landscaped boulevard with contemporary architecture and alfreso seating. Restaurant operator Harvester is likely to be involved.
The proposal is being unveiled at a public exhibition today and tomorrow when CSC wants to gauge shoppers’ opinion on the scheme before submitting a planning application.
Metrocentre general manager Tim Lamb said: “We are very excited about the proposals. The scheme will revive a currently unattractive redundant site, and offer our shoppers a pedestrian-friendly route connecting the centre with Metro Retail Park. We hope our customers will take this opportunity to give their views on the scheme, which has been designed to enhance our visitors’ experience.”
The site, which has its own car parking, lies next to the yellow and red car parks and across Hollinside Road from Metro Retail Park.
MetrOasis will occupy the old Esso site, which has been cleared ready for redevelopment. It would create more than 230 new jobs for the local community and represent a £5m private sector investment by the owners.
The site is within walking distance of the three and a half miles of malls and the family entertainment attractions at Metrocentre Qube.
Pedestrian routes between Metrocentre and the retail park will be improved, including new signage and lighting.
CSC say the scheme will be striking in design, using high quality materials on the boulevard and landscaped areas.
Over the next two days, shoppers are being encouraged to give their views at the exhibition located in Metrocentre Qube next to the Customer Services Desk in the yellow mall. Representatives of the developers and members of the project team will be available from 3pm-8pm today and 10am-3pm on Saturday.
The scheme is the latest improvement proposed for the Metrocentre, which will be 25 years old this year.
Comments can also be given by March 7 by visiting Metrocentre’s website www.metrocentre.uk.com, or the project website www.nlpplanning.com/metroasis
