An empty former Toys ‘R’ Us at the Metrocentre is finally set to be demolished.
The vacant toy store has been left disused since the company ceased trading in April 2018. But it now looks set to be torn down and replaced by three new modern units, in the hope of attracting new retailers to the area. Gateshead Council’s planning committee unanimously approved proposals on Wednesday for the old Toys ‘R’ Us to be demolished and a row of new stores to be built in its place.
Similar plans to flatten the former family favourite shop had also been signed off in 2019, but have never come to fruition. A planning application from the Metrocentre Partnership said that the dated and “poor condition” of the Pinetree Way store has not generated enough interest from prospective tenants who could give it a new lease of life, with the new plans aiming to “revitalise the retail park with a fresh new practical space and a sleek modern visual presence”.
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It adds: “Redevelopment of the vacant Toys ‘R’ Us unit introduces an opportunity for three new modern retail units, that will attract new tenants. Currently Toys ‘R’ Us does not meet the visual standard of overall Metro Retail Park, and appears disconnected from the wider retail park. This opportunity will enhance the retail park, lifting the design and appearance of the site. The development will have minimal impacts on the wider retail park, due to the positioning of the works in the south end of the complex. The scheme improves the attractiveness and quality of Metro Retail Park, providing a fresh modern impression on the site and visitors.”
The plans were swiftly agreed by the borough’s planning committee on Wednesday, with civic centre officials impressed by the “contemporary and modern design” of the new units – which feature double height windows to the front and side. A planning officers’ report stated: “Overall, it is considered that the proposed scale, design, materials and landscaping of the proposed development will result in a high quality design which is appropriate for a new commercial retail building, within a commercial area of the Metrocentre.
“Architecturally the building is generally considered to be of a better quality design than the existing, in terms of both its appearance and materiality, and the units create active frontages along the two main elevations providing a welcoming environment for patrons. Furthermore, the proposed landscaping improves the quality of the public realm at the main frontage of the building and provides an attractive screen separating parking areas from the rear service yard.”
