A THRIVING riverside community will soon be created as plans get under way for a tidal barrage on the Ouseburn River.

The barrage will breathe new life into the historic waterway and create a canal-like environment in the Ouseburn Valley by retaining a constant high water level against the flow of the incoming tide.

The valley, which nestles in between Jesmond Dene and the Tyne River bend, in Newcastle, is already home to a diverse scene of artists, businesses and residents.

Regeneration co-ordinator Peter McIntyre said: "The use of a barrage to create these canal-side environments is something that has been done to great effect in cities across Europe, and on a local level the construction of the barrage bridge across the River Tees was a great success."

Proposals for the barrage were put forward by Entec UK Ltd Environmental Engineering Consultants at a public meeting arranged by the Ouseburn Trust.

The trust originally commissioned the Entec study to find out how the river could be enhanced and measure the environmental impact of any changes.

The barrage will be below Glasshouse Bridge, along the East Quayside. Its design will be chosen from a shortlist of four ideas.

A project officer has been appointed and a completion date set for early 2005, before the Tall Ships visit.