Hundreds of new homes are coming to Gateshead as plans to regenerate a former freight depot have been given the green light.
Gateshead Council's planning committee voted to give Vistry Partnerships permission to build 300 dwellings and a community hub on the derelict plot on St James Road.
This means 73 two-bedroomed houses, 146 three-bedroomed houses and 21 four-bedroomed houses will be built.
The development will also include 60 apartments, with 15 one-bedroom and 45 two-bedroom.
An empty utility building will be pulled down to make way for the new homes.
A planning statement lodged with the council stated that 15% of the new properties would be classed as affordable housing.
The document also stated that the layout of the scheme would promote an active lifestyle.
It said: "The overall vision for the area is to develop a neighbourhood with a special identity and that is suitable for families, is sustainable, well connected and promotes an active lifestyle."
However, the authority received four objections to the proposals with fears raised about increased traffic, parking problems, a lack of pedestrian crossings on nearby Park Lane, and congestion.
Despite this, the council's planning department has recommended approval for the scheme saying that the site has already been earmarked for housing.
A report heard by the planning committee pointed out that granting planning permission for the development was the only way to get these homes.
It said: "The site has been identified by the Council t o deliver 198 homes in the next five years and 300 new homes overall, which can only be achieved if a planning approval is granted."
The planning committee backed this and voted to approve the proposals on Wednesday.
