Case study

£20 million for Gateshead Quays (Levelling Up Fund 2)

£20 million from the Levelling Up Fund has been awarded to the Gateshead Quays development.

The Sage

The funding will be invested into The Sage arena, conference and exhibition centre. The development will bring millions of pounds of investment to Gateshead and the North East.  

Once developed, The Sage will include:

  • a 12,500-capacity entertainment arena
  • an exhibition and conference centre
  • public space for events, cultural performances and recreation

All of which will be powered and heated by Gateshead’s low carbon District Energy Scheme, which aims to be Net Zero by 2030.

New hotel and improved green area

As part of the wider project, a dual-branded hotel has been relocated to vacant land directly opposite The Sage development. This will allow the land previously occupied by the hotels to be opened up as an urban park, bringing valuable green space into the area whilst enhancing biodiversity.

Councillor Martin Gannon, Leader of Gateshead Council said:

We’re delighted that the government recognised the benefits of The Sage development, especially during the current economic climate. As a Council we are dedicated to ensuring The Sage is delivered; so that we can deliver employment opportunities to our residents of Gateshead and beyond. The economic benefits of The Sage will radiate across the region out as local businesses and hospitality benefit from the increase of trade

Find out more about Levelling Up

Published 19 February 2024