DEVELOPERS can press ahead with a £260 million arena complex on Gateshead Quayside, after the government decided not to have the final say on the massive project.

Gateshead Council’s planning committee approved plans for a 12,500-capacity arena, a conference centre and hotel last month – with the development hailed as a “world class” addition that will bring an extra 400,000 visitors and more than £60 million to the local economy each year.

There remained some uncertainty around the scheme, after a request was lodged for a review by the National Planning Casework Unit – which could have led to an inspector launching an inquiry into the plans.

But local government secretary Robert Jenrick has now decided against a call-in of the planning application, paving the way for building work to start early next year.

A Gateshead Council spokesperson said: “Gateshead Council confirms that The Secretary of State has decided not to call in this application. 

“Construction is due to begin early 2021, giving a boost to the local supply chain and creating job opportunities at a time when the region needs it the most.”

The decision disappointed objectors, who hoped the government would force a rethink on the 13-storey hotel.

Residents of nearby Baltic Quays say the hotel will block light and damage the skyline of the Quayside, labelling it “monstrously overbearing”.

Baltic Quays resident and Director of Baltic Quays Leaseholds Ltd, Peter Bauckham said: “We are very disappointed that the Secretary of State has not called in the hotel plans on design grounds. 

“It remains our view that the hotel will be a blight on the Quayside landscape and that it was not given due attention at Gateshead’s Planning and Development Committee meeting.”

Council planners concluded that the hotel was “integral” to the £260m plans and pointed out that there are other tall buildings nearby – including the Sage, the Baltic, and a 20-storey hotel planned on nearby Mill Road.

The new arena site is located on land between the Sage and the Baltic, with the 12,500-capacity venue due to replace Newcastle’s Utilita Arena.

Developer Ask Patrizia says that the new facilities could be open in late 2023.