Westoe Crown Village, South Shields, Newcastle
Shared garden courtyard, Westcoe Crown Village, Newcastle. Photo: © CPRE
New development
Medium-higher density: 50 dwellings per hectare (estimated)
Population: 1,500 - 2,000 can be housed when complete
Location
The homes have been built on an ex colliery situated on a sea front location close to the town centre. The development consists of a range of town houses, terraced houses, bungalows and apartments and there is a mix of properties for private sale and for public rent. There are indications of sustainable planning in the overall design, for example, there are bike sheds available for residents and parking bays rather than garages.
Residents told us they liked the attractive design which creates a variety of character in different houses and streets. The pleasant and convenient location which is adjacent to a number of parks and walkable to the town centre was another positive. The courtyard style design found in parts of the development are very popular with residents. The enclosed park enabled parents and grandparents to let children play outside, and sometimes people would leave large toys outside for communal use.
Residents have very few negative comments about the development. The main grumbles are about the limited parking and the management company which are seen to be providing an inconsistent service in terms of dealing with the communal facilities and services. The design of the houses and streets is generally popular but the houses are thought to be too close together on some areas of the estate.
A sense of belonging
I would like to see new communities having areas like this, with a proper courtyard. It gives you that sense of space and it is also a sense of belonging.You see people come in and you see who they are and it is like security.
Resident, WestoeThe sharing of communal recycling facilities does seem to create an expectation that recycling is something that “everyone does”.I’m encouraged to do it because the neighbours do it. Resident, Westoe
