A BUILDING widely acknowledged as among the region's ugliest 1960s eyesores is to be demolished in the summer.

Developers yesterday received planning permission for the demolition of Westgate House, in Newcastle.

The site is earmarked for a £15m redevelopment to create 94 apartments and 10,000sq ft of retail and leisure space

The site is owned by regional development agency One NorthEast.

John Holmes, regeneration and tourism director of One NorthEast, said: "With planning permission now granted, these plans can now radically transform this part of the city, bringing new life with new residents being attracted to apartments and regeneration through retail and leisure opportunities.

"For at least the last decade, various agencies have worked hard to remove this building and bring forward these exciting plans.

"We are delighted that the plans for the new development have been approved and are looking forward to work beginning on site."

Construction work is expected to begin next year.