Historically known as Salt Meadows, the area now known as the Baltic Quarter in Gateshead was an established community village, including its own school and several pubs, housing families that predominantly worked at and supported the docks.

The 2009 masterplan envisaged an employment- led mixed use development, but only one element of the site has been delivered.

MCAU envisage a change in the focus that envisages a broader mix of uses to unlock its delivery and still realise significant commercial business growth and employment. The aim is to create a uniquely sustainable urban neighbourhood with a distinctive riverside character.

A day and evening economy can be established, where all uses support each other in a sustainable way. This entails workplaces that are near to  the home, and a commercial leisure and  local retail meeting local needs. An adaptable ‘future proofed’ car park/ green transport hub is envisaged. Community uses including schools and healthcare facilities will complete to integrated urban neighbourhood.