College's new Baltic campus will change the landscape

Jun 18 2007 By The Journal

North-East businesses will be able to take advantage of Gateshead College's new £37m Baltic Campus, which will boast state-of-the-art conferencing and banqueting facilities when it opens in January 2008.

In the heart of Gateshead Quayside, one of the top conference destinations in Europe, the new building will span four floors and feature wireless technology throughout, rooms seating six to 200 people and 256 car parking spaces.

Ideally located beside two of the region's best known landmarks, the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art and The Sage Gateshead, the new centre will offer businesses a centrally located, cutting-edge conference venue.

It will include specialist resources, such as integrated ICT and interactive whiteboards, modern design and top class catering amenities.

Delegates will be able to relax in one of the two contemporary eateries, either the spacious 200-seater refectory or the stylish bistro, which can seat 39 people and will include an al fresco dining area.

The centre also promises to cater for anything from drinks receptions and canapés to formal banquets.

Gateshead College principal David Cheetham said: "We are investing a total of £60m in new campuses, in which we can offer first class conference facilities.

"We hope that our Baltic Campus will become the venue of choice amongst the region's business community and we are confident it will leave a lasting impression on visitors.

"Our Automotive and Manufacturing Centre of Excellence on Team Valley comprises a 32-seater conference boardroom and impressive exhibition space, whereas our Academy for Sport at Gateshead International Stadium represents a £15m investment and offers both modern classrooms and a hi-tech performance studio for hire."

Large events at the Baltic Campus, such as seminars and conferences, will all take place in the 200-seater performance theatre, which will feature cherry wood panelling, retractable seating and cutting edge IT facilities.

The stunning 72-seater conference and gallery area will be situated over two floors, joined by a spiral staircase and completely surrounded by glass - offering impressive views over the Newcastle Gateshead Quayside.

Featuring high quality design and inspirational public art, this area will be the epitome of style, offering a unique environment for events and conferences.

Medium-sized events will be hosted in the lecture theatre which will comfortably seat up to 49 people.

The Professional Development Centre, located on the ground floor of the new building, will consist of:

* Two conferencing suites accommodating 16 people each

* A large seminar room accommodating 40 people

* Two meeting rooms accommodating 30 and six people each

Smaller meeting and board rooms will be situated across the first and second floors.

Call (0191) 490-2246 for further information or visit micro-site www.baltic-campus2008.co.uk to view artist's impressions and a photo gallery of the Baltic Campus.