Plans have been submitted for a performance square, linear park, arrival plaza and improved pedestrian routes at Gateshead Quays.

The application was submitted by Ask:PATRIZIA, Gateshead Council's private-sector development partner. It covers land between South Shore Road, Mills Road and Hawks Road. If approved, it would create new public spaces and carry out infrastructure works across the site.

The proposals are linked to an allocation of up to £24m approved by the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority in March. The funding is intended to prepare the site for future development, including the proposed Gateshead Quays arena.

The arena itself remains a future proposal. Previous plans for an arena and conference centre stalled after construction costs rose and market conditions changed. The authority's latest business-case work identifies a market-led arena as the preferred option for the site.

Gateshead Council cabinet member for economic development Steve Campion said the plans would create “beautiful and high-quality public spaces” if planning permission was granted.

The proposed Performance Square would provide space for outdoor events as well as everyday public use. The scheme would also create a linear park linking the riverside with the Baltic Quarter and improve routes across the site.

The application still requires planning permission. Earlier authority papers said earthworks were expected to begin in late 2026, with public realm works following in 2027. A timetable for the proposed arena has not been confirmed.