A new campaign to help support Newcastle’s neighbourhoods and high streets recover from the pandemic will launch on Monday (Feb 21).
NewcastleGateshead Initiative (NGI) is delivering the WeAreNewcastle campaign, on behalf of Newcastle City Council, having received funding from the Government’s Welcome Back Fund via the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).
The aim of the campaign is to help local areas stimulate their economic development by delivering projects which will support innovation, businesses, create jobs and local community regeneration.
NGI has created WeAreNewcastle, a local pride campaign where designated neighbourhoods in Newcastle have been given their own identity to help tell the story of each area and promote businesses on those high streets.
Initially the campaign will focus on eight neighbourhoods and high streets: Shields Road; Byker; Elswick (West Road and Adelaide Terrace); Gosforth; Heaton (Heaton Road and Chillingham Road); Ouseburn and the Quayside.
NGI carried out research in each area to understand the current use of the high streets; any barriers to visiting and what was needed to encourage more visitors in the future. A full audit of businesses in each neighbourhood was also completed to identify their individual offer and strength.
An integrated advertising and marketing campaign will highlight the unique aspects of each neighbourhood from the arty and eclectic Ouseburn to the foodie heaven of Heaton, and encourage people living in Newcastle to explore what’s on their doorstep.
A new app has also been developed which will allow businesses to reach new customers and promote deals and discounts. The Geordie Street App will offer cutting edge opportunities for retailers to serve customers in new ways, and to let a wide audience of shoppers know they are very much open for business as they each work to continue their business recovery following lockdown.
The technology being used will not only help traders to promote their individual businesses but also enable them to set up new services including click and collect or delivery services.
Residents can download the app for FREE giving them up to date information on where to go and what is on offer in each area.
Paul Szomoru, Director at NGI, said: “This funding and campaign reflects the importance of supporting our local neighbourhoods and high streets.
“Newcastle’s charm and appeal is not just focused on the city centre, our neighbourhoods each have their own unique identity and story to tell. Through the WeAreNewcastle campaign we want to encourage residents to take advantage of the wonderful businesses they have on their doorstep.
“Our local high streets have been the backbone of our communities during the pandemic, stepping up to support new and existing customers and adapting the way they run their business to meet the demand, so now it is time for us to show our love for them.”
Cllr Ged Bell, cabinet member for Development, Neighbourhoods and Transport at Newcastle City Council said: “We’re delighted to be working with NGI on this campaign to put the spotlight on our creative, vibrant neighbourhoods by promoting what they can offer people living across the city. Offering businesses the support and advice they need will help to futureproof our neighbourhood high streets and encourage them to continue to thrive.
“We are committed to supporting the economic regrowth of our communities following the pandemic and would urge businesses and residents to get involved with the WeAreNewcastle campaign.”
Maria Baranowska, communications officer at the Ouseburn Trust, who have signed up to the Geordie Street App said: “We’re thrilled to be supporting the city’s Welcome Back campaign. After a tumultuous couple of years, it’s great to have the chance to showcase Newcastle and its fantastic suburbs.
“Ouseburn Valley was recently voted 29th coolest neighbourhood in the world by Time Out so it’s great to see a campaign that pushes our cultural gem to the people who live here, not just those visiting from afar. We hope the Geordie Street App will help people discover places they maybe haven’t ventured to before.”
To find out more go to https://wearenewcastle.org.uk/