Newcastle is one of the UK’s fastest growing cities with 21,000 new homes and 14,000 new jobs expected over the next 12 years.

Thanks to a pro-development local government, it’s in a somewhat unique position. Unlike other major urban areas, the challenge it faces is not a lack of housing supply. Whereas back in 2012-13 the number of new homes built in Newcastle amounted to just 65, in 2016-17 and 2017-18, record highs of more than 2,700 and 2,300 were completed respectively.

Rather the conundrum is how to carry on delivering at current levels in order to maintain its place as one of the most affordable core cities in the country.

Part of Newcastle’s housing success story has come from large-scale developments on land released from the green belt, but constraints remain tight, with more than a third of its area currently protected. Unconstrained land outside the city’s urban core is difficult to find, imaginative solutions are needed and, as we conclude in our latest research report, Spotlight on Newcastle: A north eastern powerhouse, this raises the inevitable question of where next? 

Plans are being brought forward for new mixed use developments – by Newby at the former Calders site and Igloo at East Quayside – which will regenerate parts of the waterfront. But it seems likely attention will once again have to focus on green belt release too. 

If that’s not possible, the city council will have to look beyond its own borders, co-operating with partners in the North of Tyne devolution deal to deliver housing elsewhere that is properly connected to Newcastle’s employment centres.

Further information

Contact Savills Newcastle