Golf entertainment facility at Former Federation Brewery Site, Lancaster Road, Gateshead

What was proposed

The application proposed demolishing the existing slab and building a three-storey golf entertainment facility with 102 bays, parking, access and landscaping.

“The application seeks full planning permission for the redevelopment of the site to provide a multi-level golf entertainment and leisure facility, operated by Topgolf. The proposed development comprises a three-storey building housing 102 golf hitting bays arranged across three levels. Within the same building, ancillary facilities will be provided including a bar and restaurant, event space, lounge areas, a rooftop terrace, and associated back-of-house functions.”

Officer report

The site and surroundings

The vacant former brewery site lies east of the Metrocentre, beside Cross Lane, Wellington Road, Lancaster Road and the A1.

“The application site is located on the former Federation Brewery site, positioned within the Dunston area of Gateshead, immediately east of the Metrocentre. It is bounded by Cross Lane and Wellington Road to the north and west, Lancaster Road to the east, and the A1 to the south.”

“Development on the site dates to 1980 when it was occupied by the Federation Brewery, which operated until 2010. Following its closure, the brewery buildings were demolished in 2013. Since that time, the site has remained vacant and unused, with only temporary occupation during works to the A1. Given this prolonged period of inactivity and the removal of all associated structures, it is considered that the former industrial use has been abandoned.”

Officer report

What people said

Five written representations included four objections about amenity, traffic, business access and visual impact, alongside one letter supporting regeneration benefits.

“Members of the public were notified by letter, press notice, and site notices were erected around the site boundary. A total of five written representations were received, comprising 4 objections, and 1 letter of support. The material planning issues raised are summarised below.”

Officer report

Who spoke

No speakers addressed the committee.

The committee’s decision

Permission was granted subject to a Section 106 agreement, financial contributions and planning conditions.

“That permission be GRANTED subject to a section 106 agreement.”

“A financial contribution towards off-site ecological enhancements to compensate for the loss of invertebrate habitat – up to 44,752.35; • A financial contribution towards lighting improvements along the Public Right of Way (PRoW) between Market Lane and Cross Lane, or alternative sustainable transport enhancements if the lighting scheme cannot be delivered - £36,000.00; and • A financial contribution towards sustainable transport initiatives within the…”

Minutes