Project Engagement Report

We are pleased to share the Newcastle East High Streets Project Engagement Report (please see link at the bottom of the page). 

This report presents an analysis of first stage engagement feedback from the project, which gathered views and ideas from residents and stakeholders about Chillingham Road, Heaton Road, Heaton Park Road, Shields Road and Welbeck Road with a focus on public space, how people get around, buildings and their use. Engagement ran from mid-August to the end of October 2022, with close to 1,000 online and face-to-face contributions collected from across the east end and beyond. 

The current quality and feel of public space is consistently the main driver behind negative comments. Transport links (commonly translating as 'excessive traffic'), insufficient green space and a poor variety in terms of the current retail offer, often compound negative feelings.

Six key messages emerged from the analysis which will inform the next phase of the project, including developing a long-term plan for the area and launching a grants scheme that will enable improvements and animation of the five high streets.  

1. Consultation feedback is presented impartially and independently, providing a snapshot of views and ideas 

Close to 1,000 contributions were collated and analysed objectively and accurately, to fairly represent the views of contributors, without agenda or preconception. 

We cannot say that these contributions are representative of all those connected to the east end, but nor are they intended to be. This is largely due to the self-selection of contributors and the ability of contributors to make multiple comments. 

2. Of the five high streets, Shields Road is the most commented upon 

Shields Road attracted the largest public commentary, with 80% of commentators raising issues or concerns. There is less positivity across older generations, among whom there is a comparison with better days gone by. Comments generally relate to concerns around retail provision, anti-social behaviour and the need for increased greening, decluttering, people friendly space and more small, independent shops selling fresh food.  

3. The quality and feel of public space are one of the main reasons behind negative responses 

Feelings of decline are felt to have moved people away from the high streets in the east end. There are a number of issues highlighted in relation to the environmental streetscape, including insufficient green space, appearance of empty properties and a lack of child friendly provision. 

 4. The volume and speed of motorised traffic is frequently mentioned 

Traffic is regarded as heavy, polluting and not conducive to pedestrian safety, deterring people from seeing high streets as attractive destinations. Connectivity between the high streets and neighbourhoods, as well as the difficulty of using active travel to get around the area, are highlighted as problems. Less traffic appears as a top three environmental improvement in relation to four of the five high street areas, with better pavements and walking space requested, alongside safer crossings.  

5.  There is a desire to enhance and diversify the high street offer 

There was felt to be a poor variety of in terms of the current offer. Small independent shops including those selling fresh food, the provision of cultural opportunities, activities for older people, children and families were frequently requested.  

6. There is a need for further engagement to address gaps identified in the report 

From the feedback gathered, there is a clear need for further engagement regarding Welbeck Road, only 12 contributions were received, which accounts for just 2% of all Commonplace and face-to-face responses. There is also a need to extend engagement to underrepresented groups during the subsequent project phases. Further co-design and participatory work is planned to aid in the re-imagining of the future of high streets, help develop ideas and create positive change. 

Thank you to all who provided feedback in this first stage; your input has been most appreciated. 

This is part of 2-year project and there will be further opportunities to engage and shape more detailed plans for our high streets.