Newcastle, Gateshead and Sunderland are redefining their riversides, city centres and towns through ambitious, inclusive regeneration that places people at its core. With £120 million allocated to the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority to support urban densification, the region is aligning its growth with national priorities—unlocking the potential of its urban core and benefiting local communities.
-Why are Strategic Regeneration Frameworks so important?
-How can urban density become a powerful catalyst for placemaking?
-What does this mean for local communities?
Inclusive placemaking has the power to drive investment as well as boost civic pride. By concentrating development within existing urban areas, densification when delivered well brings people closer to jobs, services and cultural amenities as well as delivering walkable, green environments where communities grow and thrive. They can create the critical mass needed for vibrant communities and well-used public spaces.
In Newcastle, Forth Yards represents the city’s last major riverside brownfield site, offering a unique opportunity to transform former industrial land into a vibrant, sustainable neighbourhood. Across the river, Gateshead is bringing the Baltic Quarter to life, creating a new neighbourhood with around 1,600 homes. Meanwhile, Sunderland is delivering one of the UK’s most ambitious regeneration programmes, including a new Creative Development Zone. This initiative unlocks the next phase of the Riverside’s revival, providing spaces for artists and creative businesses alongside commercial and residential developments.
Together, these projects show how inclusive placemaking can transform former industrial landscapes into sustainable, connected, and culturally rich communities—building neighbourhoods designed for tomorrow.
This panel of civic leaders, developers and placemakers will delve into community-centric urban development, densification as well as the latest trends and challenges when creating inclusive and connected neighbourhoods where people want to live, work and enjoy.
