A scheme to extend the opening hours of shops in Newcastle has helped to bring in an extra 53.1m in revenue for the citys retailers.
Following the launch of the scheme six months ago, businesses in Newcastle now say it is vital to help ensure retailers prosper, cementing its reputation as the regions shopping capital.
According to a report by the Evening Chronicle, a number of shops have signed up to an 8pm closing time. In addition, shoppers are being enticed into the city centre by free car parking and additional bus services.
The scheme was masterminded by NE1, an independent company established to address issues facing Newcastle.
A statement on the companys website said: "NE1launched Alive after Five in October 2010 in response to appeals from Newcastle's business community to close the gap between the daytime and evening economies of the city.
"NE1 worked to coordinate the offer and pull together all the elements including the crucial feature, a permanent change to retail opening hours, coupled with free parking."
