Latest consultation arranged for Blyth town centre plans
17 Nov 2022 ARCHIVED (over 3 months old) - view latest news
As part of the £70m regeneration of Blyth town centre, the County Council is holding its latest public consultation on the proposed plans for a brand new Culture Hub and improved Market Place.
Residents, businesses and workers in Blyth are being encouraged to visit the Keel Row Shopping Centre in Blyth between 2pm-7pm on Thursday, 24th November and between 10am and 2pm on Saturday, 26th November. There is also an online survey which goes live from November 24th for those who cannot attend in person at https://nland.cc/BlythCultureHub
The Culture Hub’s proposed features include an independent three-screen cinema, a food and drink offering, children's creative play provision and studio and multi-purpose space.
Councillor Wojciech Ploszaj, Cabinet Member for Business, at Northumberland County Council, said: “The Culture Hub and improved Market Place is a flagship project to improve the town centre. The new Hub will increase footfall in the heart of town with new things to see and do. It adds value to the range of things available across town whilst also making the Market Place a much safer, more welcoming and greener part of town for everyone to enjoy.
“We have been consulting with various stakeholders, including businesses and residents over the last few years and this public consultation provides an opportunity to provide feedback on the developing designs. We intend to submit planning permission in the spring of 2023.
“As people have already seen with the likes of the Bowes Street improvements and Energy Central Campus, the regeneration is happening at pace and by 2025, Blyth town centre will be a much better experience alongside all the investment going connect the town through improved transport and clean energy led growth with the educational facilities for the local community to access jobs and training in the future.
“Our aim with the Energising Blyth programme is that Blyth town centre will be a place that the community are proud of and that everyone will be keen to visit, learn, and work in.”
Councillor Kath Nisbet, who represents the Croft Ward in Blyth on Northumberland County Council, added: “We are all absolutely delighted to be at this stage of The Culture Hub and improved Market Place plans for Blyth. I really hope that people get behind the new building as it will be a fantastic addition to Blyth and a huge pull for both tourists and those looking to call Blyth home.
“The designs for The Culture Hub and Market Place both look incredible and I am excited to get to the planning permission stage. We want to hear from as many people as possible so do try and visit representatives in the Keel Row or complete the survey online to have your say.”
The Culture Hub and Market Place are part of the £70 million ‘Energising Blyth’ programme, funded by Northumberland County Council and HM Government Towns Fund as well as other investments.