We are an independent charity, working towards a vibrant, diverse & sustainable future for Newcastle Upon Tyne’s Ouseburn Valley. We work in partnership with volunteers, the local authority and the business community to enhance the physical, social and economic environment of the Valley, whilst promoting and preserving the area’s rich heritage and valued ecosystem. Above all, we aim to foster a sense of inclusivity by representing the full breadth of the Ouseburn community.

We deliver a vast range of projects which sit under four key themes - property, heritage, public realm and community. Since our inception in 1996, we’ve evolved immensely as an organisation and, today, the Trust serves the area’s community of businesses, residents and visitors through by acting as:

Advocates

We are here to provide a platform for those who have an interest in the area's future. We want to nurture true inclusivity in Ouseburn Valley by representing as many voices in our community as we can. Our goal is to ensure our urban village remains true to its residents, diverse range of visitors, and eclectic independent businesses.

Caretakers

We are responsible for managing and maintaining several properties in Ouseburn, ensuring they remain accessible, affordable and fit for purpose. In addition to the built environment, we strive to protect and nurture the Valley's natural environment, but our commitment to the public realm goes beyond that. We help keep our public spaces tidy and work with the local authority to help manage our streets and transport.

Custodians

We protect local heritage by housing photography and oral archives and work with a dedicated team of heritage researchers to gather precious information about our area’s history and development. We also bring to life heritage sites, such as the Victoria Tunnel, by making them accessible and educational. Crucially, we programme events and experiences which help people of all ages and backgrounds access the history of Ouseburn Valley.

Not-for-profit developers

We want to develop historic sites in the Valley and encourage the area’s long-term sustainability. In conjunction, we bring together local experts and dedicated volunteers to evaluate and influence regeneration projects happening in and around Ouseburn.

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Meet the Ouseburn Trust team | Meet our Trustees 

How we work

The Trust will seek to develop stronger relationships with local residents, businesses, cultural activities and events and other visitor attractions in the Valley. We will maintain effective governance practices, nurture effective partnerships and perform a coordinating role with a coherent voice for Ouseburn.

Read the story of the Ouseburn Trust

Our sub-groups 

We help facilitate four sub-groups which help direct our projects and directly feed in to the work we do. Groups are made up of volunteers and trustees who have a personal interest in the topics covered, they are open for anyone to attend. The four groups are:

• The Planning & Development Group
• The Environment Group
• The Heritage Group
• The Transport Group 

Ouseburn Trust membership 

Our members are invited to help make key decisions about our organisation, including selecting our trustees. Find out more about becoming a member of the Ouseburn Trust.