A key gateway into the region's largest shopping centre is to be redesigned at a cost of £6 million - including new food and drink outlets.

The Metrocentre Partnership has announced the submission of a planning application for the redevelopment of its Green Mall entrance. The proposed scheme would represent a significant investment to create new anchor units, enhance the public realm and landscaping, and revitalise one of the main gateways into the shopping centre.

Designed by Leslie Jones Architecture, the Gateshead proposals would bring enhanced biodiversity and landscaping, framed by new outward-facing restaurant venues, adding greater variety to the centre’s day-to-night offer.

The creation of over 18,000 sq ft of south-facing space across three new units would introduce a new destination for dining and drinking, adjacent to Marks & Spencer. The public realm improvements would deliver 'a more appealing and accessible entrance for visitors'.

Organic features such as green walls, and planter pockets are intended to form a statement entry to Metrocentre, aligned with recent sustainability-focused investment into the Green Mall car park, following the installation of 50 EV charging points, most of which are served by solar panel canopies.

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Ben Cox, Director at Sovereign Centros from CBRE, Asset Managers of Metrocentre, said: “Redefining the entrance to Green Mall is a natural next step in Metrocentre’s evolution following major investment across other malls over the last four years.

"This project would enhance Metrocentre’s day-to-night economy with a new take on our Food & Beverage offering, and create a much-improved sense of arrival at Green Mall. We are in early discussions with some top-quality operators and look forward to updating further in due course.

“Metrocentre continues to evolve, with projects such as the NHS Community Diagnostic Centre enhancing the visitor profile, and the Green Mall redevelopment the latest proposed investment to continue to push forward the destination.

"Our commitment to improving the visitor experience, while making Metrocentre a greener and more sustainable place, is the inspiration behind these latest proposals, and we look forward to discussing further with the planning authority.”

Martin Healy, Chairman of Metrocentre, said: “Investing in the redevelopment of the Green Mall entrance is a crucial step in our ongoing commitment to drive the revitalisation of Metrocentre.

"This £6 million investment will not only elevate the visitor experience with its high-quality restaurant offerings and landscaped design, but also support long-term growth and prosperity in the region. By creating new, sustainable spaces at the centre, we are laying the foundation for continued success, attracting both businesses and consumers to the North East.”