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A contractor has now been chosen to build the £260m arena and conference centre that is being developed in Gateshead.

Sir Robert McAlpine has been chosen to build the “game-changing” conference centre, which will be located on Gateshead Quayside.

The development will include a 12,500-capacity arena along with 67,800sq ft of conference and exhibition space. It will also include two hotels, bars, restaurants, and a car park.

Sir Robert McAlpine was awarded the contract by Ask:Patrizia, the developer working with Gateshead Council.

Mark Gibson, managing director for the Scotland and Northern region at Sir Robert McAlpine, said: “We’re excited to be working on this world class conference and events development on the River Tyne, in a region with a global reputation for its cultural and leisure offer.

“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.”

Sheena Ramsey, chief executive of Gateshead Council, added: “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.”