The Cabinet of the North East Mayoral Combined Authority Council is scheduled to consider a significant strategic regeneration framework for the Newcastle and Gateshead urban core, alongside proposals for a pilot apprenticeship brokerage scheme aimed at creating opportunities for young people and employers.

Newcastle and Gateshead Mayoral Development Zone – Strategic Regeneration Framework

A key item on the agenda is the draft Newcastle and Gateshead Strategic Regeneration Framework (SRF). This framework is intended to guide the future development and regeneration of the urban core of Newcastle and Gateshead over the next 25 years. The SRF outlines a vision for transforming the area into an internationally significant destination for living, innovation, culture, and opportunity. It aims to unlock investment, coordinate delivery, and create new neighbourhoods, strengthen the economy, enhance culture and connectivity, and improve people's lives. The framework is built around three core outcomes: More People, Stronger Neighbourhoods, Innovation, Investment and Opportunity, and Distinctively Newcastle Gateshead, supported by cross-cutting themes of One Urban Core, A Connected Urban Core, and Healthy, Resilient and Future Ready. The SRF identifies eight key areas of opportunity for focused development and investment, including Tyne Heart, Newcastle City Core, Gateshead Town Centre, Boulevard & Stadium, Eastern Gateway, Innovation Quarter, Western Urban Villages, and Eastern Urban Villages. The report seeks endorsement of the draft SRF and approval to proceed with public and stakeholder consultation.

Delivering a North East Apprenticeship Brokerage Pilot

The Cabinet will also consider a report on delivering a North East Apprenticeship Brokerage Pilot. This initiative aims to create real opportunities for young people and employers by establishing a regionally coordinated, sector-led apprenticeship brokerage system. The pilot seeks to address the current fragmentation in apprenticeship brokerage across the North East, connecting employer demand with provider capacity and young people. The proposed model will build on existing provision and focus initially on the Housing, Leisure and Tourism, and Advanced Manufacturing sectors. Key activities will include dedicated apprenticeship specialists, talent pools, SME support, and targeted innovation funding. The report seeks approval for the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority to become an MSA Apprenticeship Brokerage Pilot area, subject to a successful application to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), and approval of the proposed approach to mobilisation and delivery. The pilot aims to deliver 1,500 additional apprenticeship starts for young people aged 16-24 by March 2029, with a specific ambition to support young people who are not in education, employment, or training (NEET).