Now Gateshead Council’s development partner Ask:Patrizia will submit planning early next with the aim of starting the project later in 2020.

The development includes a 12,500-capacity arena, conference and exhibition space; two hotels, bars, restaurants, car parking and extensive areas of public realm.

Chief executive of Gateshead Council, Sheena Ramsey, said: “The appointment of Sir Robert McAlpine brings us a huge step closer to delivering this world class events destination for the region and we’re glad to have them on board.

“This development will act as a catalyst for renewed economic growth, maximising local employment, training and supply chain opportunities. This is about being ambitious for Gateshead, we need everyone in the borough to be able to fulfil their true potential and projects like this create the conditions for them to thrive.”

The 10-acre site next to the Tyne is located between the Sage Gateshead and Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art

Mark Gibson, Managing Director for the Scotland and Northern Region, at Sir Robert McAlpine, said: “We bring a wealth of experience and have a highly-skilled, senior team to deliver this fantastic project using the local workforce and subcontractors wherever possible.

“We are looking forward to making a start as soon as the planning process is completed.”

Speaking on behalf of Ask:Patrizia, John Hughes, managing director of Ask Real Estate said: “Sir Robert McAlpine has a reputation for technical excellence and delivering complex developments safely, on time and within budget.

We are looking forward to working with them to see this superb facility materialise.”

The new complex is set to open in 2023.

The project team also includes: Project Manager, Legends; Gardiner and Theobald, QS and ARUP as both structural and M&E engineer.

AHR Architects is designing the overall masterplan for the site.