For a generation of Tyneside children, it was a place of dreams.
However, the former Toys 'R' Us unit near the Metrocentre looks set to be bulldozed.
The huge unit has been empty since the firm went bust last year. Now, a bigger unit looks set to be built on the same spot.
Gateshead Council papers state "interest has been expressed" from other firms who wish to move into the replacement unit.
The names of those firms have not been made public. However, the council is set to approve a planning application from intu to demolish Toys 'R' Us and make way for the replacement.
"The redevelopment of the former Toys ‘R’ Us unit creates an opportunity for a new landmark retail unit, that will not only be fit for purpose in attracting a new tenant, but will also take the opportunity to lift the design standard and replace a poor quality building,” states the planning application.
A design and access statement by architects Mountford Pigott claims the new unit is needed as the current building looks "dated".
The firm said: “Whilst the unit has been marketed, there has been very little interest due to its poor and outmoded appearance, and also the limited internal height of the unit that makes it difficult to incorporate a trading mezzanine to meet the requirements of modern retailers."
Gateshead Council has recommended the application for approval by councillors on the Planning and Development Committee after receiving no objections to the plans.
A final decision will be made on Wednesday, November 6.
