Plans to redevelop Whitley Bay's former Empress Ballroom into a new STACK venue have divided the town's business community.
While some business owners hail the new plans for the Spanish City as part of the ongoing regeneration of Whitley Bay, others worry it will negatively impact existing small businesses.
If submitted plans are approved by North Tyneside Council, the new STACK venue would include a stage for live entertainment and space for street food and drink outlets. A new roof terrace is also on the cards for future patrons.
Read More: North Tyneside General Hospital applies for larger endoscopy unit to deal with Covid backlog
Kathryn Meadows, owner of Nicholson's Butchers on Park View, said: "I think it is fabulous for Whitley Bay, it will bring more people down to the town. It will draw different customers, it will attract a younger community which is exactly what we need.
"I just think it is brilliant. It's a lot more in keeping and a lot more on-trend than how South Parade used to be, a lot more civilised.
"There could be some noise and disturbance but in the grand scheme of things I think the seafront is in desperate need of something that is not a chain like the Beefeater. I like to support independent businesses like my own and for independents to be drawn there that's brilliant."
Nichola Strasser, the proprietor of Anne Thomas Workwear on Park View, was equally optimistic on hearing the news.
"I think it will be brilliant for Whitley Bay, it's what we need," explained Nichola. "We need somewhere for the youngsters to go and the oldies too.
"It will be absolutely fine, it's right by the sea, I don't think the houses will hear too much noise and there will be a cut-off point for music and it is the perfect venue. It is part of the ongoing regeneration of Whitley Bay."
Detractors in the local food and drink trade are concerned a STACK would hurt existing smaller businesses and detract customers from visiting the town centre.
Tony Patton, the owner of the Dog and Rabbit pub on Park View, said: "I think this will set back the regeneration of the town centre. A lot is going on at the seafront and it is really nice.
"But, at the same time, you need to have a plan for the town centre and the seafront. We had the carnival here, which was great for the kids, but it had a pied piper effect and took everyone to the seafront.
"It is a concern that this will do the same thing."
Mark Hirb, owner and manager of the Crab and Waltzer on Marine Avenue, said: "It won't help me, it is not going to be in my favour. There are enough eateries here now.
"We have got the Dome itself, we've got the Split Chimp, we've got the Whitley Whaler, two Italian restaurants, and Pantrini's. I think another one is going to hurt."
The plans, to be submitted this week by Danieli Group, include the creation of an external roof terrace together with the premises licence application. If successful the hope is to continue along the same route as other successful STACK sites, with the inclusion of a stage for live entertainment and space for street food and drink outlets.
Neill Winch, CEO of the Danieli Group, believes STACK would be a great addition to the town. He said: “Not only will it bring a new dimension to the existing leisure offering but, subject to planning and licensing, it will bring an underutilised building – and much-loved heritage asset - back into use. We are delighted to hopefully be able to continue to build STACK’s strong presence in the North East with this new and exciting venture.”
Read More:
Whitley Bay HSBC branch could be given new lease of life as flats
£8m plans to bring Tynemouth outdoor swimming pool back to life could become reality
Dog restrictions on beaches and public area to be reviewed by North Tyneside Council
Proposed Wallsend shop given go-ahead from councillors despite traffic objections
Newcastle grandmother's delight after Gateshead Council backs down on Askew Road bus lane fine
