The 18-storey tower block that could destroy Quayside views

Controversial building proposals rejected by Ouseburn locals and nearby businesses.

Hannah Gul-Khan
1st March 2022
The development is part of a plan to regenerate Malmo Quay along with 13 townhouses and 2 duplex apartments though residents worry the tower block will look disproportionate to the Tyneside scenery. 

PfP Igloos aim to breathe new life into the area where planning permission has not yet been granted. The agency believes “The scheme will support the on-going successful regeneration of the Ouseburn Valley” where the developers aim to create a “sculptural landmark”. 

Development manager at Igloo, Alec Hamlin, supports the plans for redevelopment and believes them to be “an addition to the waterside that is of exemplary design quality – a landmark that provides attractive open spaces that can be enjoyed by all". Their previous project in 2017 built 76 homes located on the Ouseburn riverside known for their large open spaces and community feel. 

The local community in Ouseburn do not share this enthusiasm, they fear the views of the Quayside could be ruined. Many have acted in their opposition, the website 'No to Malmo Quay' details that “this development threatens not only the impressive city vistas, including most notably the legendary view from the Free Trade Inn, but threatens the wonderfully special, but also fragile community into which the Ouseburn has evolved over the last 30 years". The website provides a portal to file an objection that is submitted to Newcastle City Council. The Chronicle have reported that so far there have been 1500 objections submitted, compared to 10 comments in support.

A meeting took place earlier this month to determine the public view of the development plans. Of the 60 to 70 residents who attended, not one expressed support towards the building of the tower block. Residents attacked its lack of affordability that does not serve the interests of the local community.  

Labour Councillor Nick Kemp told MSN News that there is “no reasonable basis for the proposed tall building at Malmo Quay”.  

Many took to social media to voice their frustration, where one user wrote “building this eyesore here which doesn’t sit with the aesthetics of the surrounding area whatsoever, might as well plaster Sports Direct down the side.” 

The future of Malmo Quay has not yet been determined but the community continues to express their objection to plans for the new development. 

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