Gateshead MBC has announced the nine firms which are bidding to undertake its housing developments in a deal worth £1bn.

The council began looking for a partner last November to develop a number of existing and potential housing sites throughout Gateshead.

The first stage of the procurement exercise is now complete, and 15 possible partners have been reduced to nine, who will now receive an Invitation to participate in dialogue.

Head of planning and environmental strategy for Gateshead MBC, Stuart Timmiss, said: ‘We are very pleased with the response. Developers have confirmed that this is the right approach, especially in today's economic climate.'
Gateshead Council expects to shortlist three companies for the final round of the project.

The partner chosen will be capable of leading the construction of more than 2,500 new family homes, as well as improvements to existing homes in central Gateshead.

The nine companies are: