Business minister backs conference centre proposals

A top Labour minister has predicted a “positive future” for a pivotal North East development site earmarked for a huge conference centre and arena.

- By DANIEL HOLLAND

Plans have been in the works for years to bring a “world class” events and leisure complex on the Gateshead Quayside, which would be known as The Sage.

But spiralling costs have put the regeneration proposals in doubt, with building work yet to start on a prime riverside plot between the Glasshouse music centre and Baltic art gallery.

After North East mayor Kim McGuinness said last week that she was “confident” that the development would come forward, Sunderland-born business secretary Jonathan Reynolds has added his backing to the project.