Plans to demolish the vacant former Sage headquarters at Newcastle Great Park and replace it with up to 320 homes have drawn concerns from residents over pressure on local services.
Developer Avant Homes says the distinctive office building has been empty for more than five years and is "almost impossible" to repurpose. Its application argues there is "no market" for the inefficient building, and proposes a mix of houses and flats alongside a central public square and play area.
Residents and schools raise concerns
Residents and schools have raised concerns about the impact on school places, roads, public transport and healthcare. A petition calling for a halt to housebuilding around the estate has attracted more than 400 signatures.
Green councillor Jamie Robinson, vice chair of the council's planning committee, said: "Residents and local schools have highlighted existing pressures on school places, the local road network, public transport and primary healthcare access. The planning assessment will need to examine the cumulative impact of 320 new homes on these services and determine what mitigation or developer contributions are required to make the development acceptable in planning terms."
Council considers application
Newcastle City Council is currently considering the application for the Skyline Quarter development.
