Plans to complete the final phase of the multimillion-pound redevelopment of a well-known Jesmond office block have been outlined in a public consultation.
The regeneration project led by Jomast Developments could see a mix of 58 one and two-bedroomed private rented properties developed at the Jesmond Three Sixty complex on the site of the 1960s-built former Scottish Life House, next to the A1058 (Jesmond Road), Osborne Terrace, Sandyford Road and the A167 (central motorway).
Incorporating a possible seven to nine-storey development, these latest proposals are the final piece of a masterplan for a 60-year-old site that will also include opportunities for commercial and leisure uses across the lower levels of the building and a ‘mobility hub’ providing car parking and other sustainable travel options.
New investment will continue to see the site transformed into a ‘vibrant’ high-quality residential community, led by eye-catching landscaping and greening to tie together the public aspects of the estate, and with the mobility hub enhancing the accessibility of the whole development.
A key design feature of redevelopment plans will be the use of construction materials such as brick to complement the surrounding streets and the nearby derelict Quaker Meeting House. To the west of this building will be an outdoor courtyard, providing an attractive public space for travellers to and from Jesmond Metro Station to enjoy.
A further outdoor space, bordered with planted beds, is planned for a central courtyard to create a lush, green public space at the building’s heart, physically and visually connecting the outdoor spaces and tying together the whole site.
Aimed at young professionals, the designs for the development by GT3 Architects are seen as a welcome addition to housing provision in the city.
Lichfields will be discussing the plans with local stakeholders over the next few weeks; providing more information on the benefits of the project as part of a pre-application public consultation.
If plans get the green light in the Spring, onsite work could start as early as 2026, creating many new construction and supply chain jobs.
Jomast Developments is seeking the views of local people and stakeholders on the plans via a digital consultation, which was launched on Friday, October 18, and will run to November 4.
Robert Dibden, planning director at Lichfields’ Newcastle office, said: “This latest phase, led by some eye-catching landscaping, considers the whole site, tying everything together and providing the final piece of the development jigsaw. Residents and stakeholders are being consulted to understand the many opportunities and benefits the plans for Jesmond Three Sixty offer.
“There are currently huge pressures on the housing sector and, together with the new changes proposed to the planning system, more properties are desperately needed to provide a mix of good quality homes in an area where they want to live.”
Adam Hearld, Jomast’s development director, said: “Jesmond Three Sixty is a fantastic mixed use development and a great place to live for young, aspirational professionals, bringing new life to this great part of the city. We would like to hear the views of as many people as possible which will be considered before any plans are submitted to the planning authority.”
