Main contractor Sir Robert McAlpine will now start site enabling work before the end of the year with construction expected to commence in March 2021 and the new complex open in 2023.

The scheme sits on the NewcastleGateshead waterfront at Gateshead Quays and includes a world class arena, purpose built conference and exhibition centre, restaurants, a dual branded hotel and large areas of outdoor realm and performance space.

Venue management company ASM Global will operate the campus, which includes a 12,500 capacity, 29,000 sqm arena and over 7,000 sqm of flexible event space.

The plans by HOK Architects were submitted by Gateshead Council’s development partner Ask:PATRIZIA.

Councillor Martin Gannon, Gateshead Council Leader said: “This project is transformational, and today’s decision signals confidence in the North East.

“Newcastle Gateshead Quays will be a global leader in entertainment, leisure, and hospitality but most importantly it is about creating new employment and training opportunities for thousands at a time when they are badly needed.

“Despite the current challenges, we need to remember the worth of the events industry. We look forward to opening the venue late 2023.”

Speaking on behalf of the Ask:PATRIZIA partnership John Hughes, managing director of Ask Real Estate said: “We have brought together a world-class team of designers, architects and operators to deliver this scheme which will be one of Europe’s key cultural locations.

“We look forward to now starting construction work and bringing these superb public facilities to life.“

The project team also includes: Project Manager and Contract Administrator, Legends International; Lichfields, Planning Consultants; Landscape Architects, Planit:IE; Gardiner and Theobald, QS; ARUP, structural engineers/ M&E and Vectos for transport planning.