Downing Plaza

Height: 60m tallest
Floors: 18 tallest
Architect: Ian Simpson (http://www.iansimpsonarchitects.com/site/main.htm)
Developer: Downing Developments (http://www.downing.com/)


Development Details:

- 18 storey building containing a 183 bed hotel and 102 serviced apartments
- 10 storey non-residential educational institution
- Three buildings of 8 to 11 storeys containing 81 student accommodation units
- 5 to 7 storey non-residential educational institution or office building (Superseded)
- 10 storey student accommodation building

Phasing*

Phase 1: NUBS (Block B/ 10 Fl/ U/C)
Phase 2: Student Accommodation (Blocks C,D,E/ 8/10/11 Fl)
Phase 3: Offices (Block F/ 7 Fl) (Superseded) / Student Accommodation (Block F/ 10 Fl)
Phase X: Hotel & Apartments (Block A/ 18 Fl)

*May have changed.


Official description from Downing:

As the largest planning application to be granted in Newcastle for a generation, Downing Plaza signals a high water mark for the city’s regeneration.

The £200 million development is transforming the former Scottish and Newcastle Brewery into six new iconic buildings designed by the acclaimed Ian Simpson Architects. Featuring 200,000 sq ft of offices, a 183-room hotel, a 462-bed student village and extensive retail space, the scheme will form a impressive gateway to Newcastle City Council’s Science Central masterplan.

Downing Plaza has achieved a record-breaking commercial pre-let of 100,000 sq ft with Newcastle University Business School.

http://www.downing.com/mixeduse/showdetails.asp?recordid=88


Downing Plaza Planning Application: http://planningapplications.newcastle.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?previousCaseUprn=004510117572&previousCaseType=Property&activeTab=summary&previousKeyVal=000WLHBSLI000&previousCaseNumber=000WLHBSBU000&keyVal=K3H4HVBS01I00

Sandman Signature Planning Application: http://planningapplications.newcastle.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=summary&keyVal=KTS1DOBS00D00


General Images:

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/Downing%20Plaza/siteplan.jpg
(Superseded)

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/DPN/dpbfnl.jpg
(Latest)

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/Downing%20Plaza/completesouthelevation.jpg
(Superseded)

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/DPN/dpbfn5.jpg
(Latest)

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/Downing%20Plaza/buildingABeastevelvation.jpg

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/Downing%20Plaza/downing4.jpg

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/Downing%20Plaza/downing2.jpg

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/Downing%20Plaza/downing5.jpg

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/DPN/dpbfn1.jpg



Building A

Status: Approved
Height: 60m
Floors: 18
Use: Hotel & Apartments

Elevations:

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/Downing%20Plaza/buildingANorthElevation.jpg

Renders:

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/Downing%20Plaza/BuildingArender.jpg

Latest Photos:
N/A



Building B

Status: T/O
Height: 45m
Floors: 10
Use: Education
Website: http://www.ncl.ac.uk/nubs/about/facilities/newbuilding.htm

Elevations:

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/Downing%20Plaza/buildingBsouthelevation.jpg

Renders:

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/Downing%20Plaza/buildingbrender.jpg

Latest Photos:

http://www.entertainment-newcastle.com/images/downing20101112_8.jpg
Photo by Stamford

http://www.entertainment-newcastle.com/images/downing20101225_4.jpg
Photo by Stamford

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/Downing%20Plaza/DSC03933.jpg



Building C

Status: Under Construction
Height: 40m
Floors: 11
Use: Student Accommodation
Website: http://www.centrallink.co.uk/

Elevations (Right):

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/Downing%20Plaza/BuildingCEsouthelevation.jpg

Renders:

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/Downing%20Plaza/CErender.jpg

Latest Photos:

(MIDDLE)
http://www.entertainment-newcastle.com/images/downing20101225_6.jpg
Photo by Stamford

(ON LEFT)
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_m7RHCfp3u8s/TQodBKMCDUI/AAAAAAAAG_c/xwWVUwRygac/s1600/d10-12-13+Downing+Plaza+%25285%2529.jpg
Photo by newcastlephotos.blogspot.com



Building D

Status: T/O
Height: 40m
Floors: 11
Use: Student Accommodation
Website: http://www.centrallink.co.uk/

Elevations:

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/Downing%20Plaza/buildingdnorthelevation.jpg

Renders (Right):

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/Downing%20Plaza/buildingbrender.jpg

Latest Photos:

(ON LEFT)
http://www.entertainment-newcastle.com/images/downing20101225_3.jpg
Photo by Stamford

(ON RIGHT)
http://www.entertainment-newcastle.com/images/downing20101112_6.jpg
Photo by Stamford



Building E

Status: T/O
Height: 30m
Floors: 8
Use: Student Accommodation
Website: http://www.centrallink.co.uk/

Elevations (Right):

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/Downing%20Plaza/CDEwestelevation.jpg

Renders (Left):

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/Downing%20Plaza/buildingfrender.jpg

Latest Photos:

(ON LEFT)
http://www.entertainment-newcastle.com/images/downing20101225_2.jpg
Photo by Stamford



Building F (Superseded)

Status: Approved
Height: 25m
Floors: 7
Use: Office

Elevations:

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/Downing%20Plaza/buildingfeastelevation.jpg

Renders (Right):

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/Downing%20Plaza/buildingfrender.jpg

Latest Photos:
N/A



Building F

Status: Proposed
Height: 30m
Floors: 10
Use: Student Accommodation

Elevations:

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/DPN/dpbfnse2.jpg

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/DPN/dpbfnse.jpg

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/DPN/dpbfnwe.jpg

Renders:

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/DPN/dpbfn2.jpg

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/DPN/dpbfn4.jpg

Latest Photos:
N/A



Sandman Signature

Status: Under Development
Height: 40m
Floors: 11
Use: Hotel

Elevations:

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/Downing%20Plaza/sandmandelevation.jpg

Renders:

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/Downing%20Plaza/sandman.jpg

Latest Photos:

(ON LEFT)
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_m7RHCfp3u8s/TQodDtkf7vI/AAAAAAAAG_g/Ct87ZI8dTmE/s1600/d10-12-13+Downing+Plaza+P1.jpg
Photo by newcastlephotos.blogspot.com

http://www.entertainment-newcastle.com/images/downing20101112_10.jpg
Photo by Stamford



Latest News:

Work starts on city's £30m student village
May 26 2010 by Peter McCusker, The Journal

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nebusiness/may2010/6/1/downing-plaza-464141194.jpg

WORK has started on the second phase of a £200m scheme designed to breathe new life into the former Scottish and Newcastle Brewery site.

Property group Downing has started construction of a £30m student village at the site in Newcastle city centre as part of its flagship Downing Plaza scheme. Phase one – a 135,00sq ft office building – is already well under way.

The new development, adjacent to St James’ Park football ground and bounded by Wellington Street and Heber Street, will feature 519 en suite student bedrooms, spread across three 10-storey buildings.

An additional 8,000 sq ft of ground-floor retail space will also be created, providing a frontage on to Heber Street.

The student village will be located next to 135,000 sq ft of offices and teaching space, which has been pre-let by Newcastle University Business School.

The scheme is being constructed by Downing’s in-house contracting division, George Downing Construction (GDC), and is scheduled for completion in August 2011, ready for the city’s new student intake the following month.

Paul Houghton, director at Liverpool-based Downing, said: “There’s a clear demand for high-quality student accommodation in Newcastle city centre and Downing Plaza will deliver a safe, fit-for-purpose student cluster in the heart of the city.

“Students make a massive contribution to the cultural, social and economic fabric of a city and the market for student housing is strong and relatively stable, having experienced robust rental growth in the past five years.

“Downing Plaza will provide the perfect base for generations of young people to enjoy the best Newcastle has to offer in terms of education and city living.”

The £200m Downing Plaza scheme is designed to regenerate a four-acre site in Gallowgate, with six buildings designed by Manchester-based architects Ian Simpson.

Future phases of the scheme will include shops, an additional 100,000 sq ft of offices, a 183-bed hotel and a building with 102 serviced apartments.

Newcastle-based storeys:ssp are agents for the scheme. The plaza will act as the gateway to the Science Central area in Gallowgate.

This £500m, 19-acre scheme has been earmarked for research, business and education facilities plus new offices, homes, shops and restaurants.

Canadian developer Northland Properties are also working at the former Gallowgate headquarters of Scottish & Newcastle Breweries where it is creating a 169-room hotel – the Sandman Signature. This building is the last remnant of the Scottish & Newcastle Breweries on the site.

http://www.nebusiness.co.uk/commercial-property-north-east/news/2010/05/26/work-starts-on-city-s-30m-student-village-51140-26519094/

I'm not a fan of downing plaza. With the land they have I think they should move build a new arena there and move all developing business (like the plaza) where the arena is.

How far along is construction? I am guessing they are just doing groundwork at the minute?

It's great news that this is underway, even if the plans are a little underwhelming, but I wish we were replacing the old S&N block. I wonder if there's any images of the reclad knocking around. As far as I can remember, I think someone in the main thread said that it is going to be converted into a Canadian chain hotel.

I'm not a fan of downing plaza. With the land they have I think they should move build a new arena there and move all developing business (like the plaza) where the arena is.

This area is more integrated into the city with better transport links (metro, road, bus, pedestrian) so it makes sense for it to be mixed-use imo. An arena is only ever going to be used a couple of times a week whereas office/student res/apartments etc will be used 24/7 all year round. this land is owned by downing and not the council so it isnt technically part of this mythical 'Science City' project.

This area is more integrated into the city with better transport links (metro, road, bus, pedestrian) so it makes sense for it to be mixed-use imo. An arena is only ever going to be used a couple of times a week whereas office/student res/apartments etc will be used 24/7 all year round. this land is owned by downing and not the council so it isnt technically part of this mythical 'Science City' project.

The MRA doesnt get used every day of the week but the numbers that do go exceed the thousands. I thought the Metro being right outside would be a bigger attraction , also with it being close to Haymarket and Eldon bus station and restaurants nearby. Down at the arena, you have poor bus links, but are right next to the east coast mainline for the business people.

I'm just thinking out loud here, don't shoot me down

How far along is construction? I am guessing they are just doing groundwork at the minute?

It's great news that this is underway, even if the plans are a little underwhelming, but I wish we were replacing the old S&N block. I wonder if there's any images of the reclad knocking around. As far as I can remember, I think someone in the main thread said that it is going to be converted into a Canadian chain hotel.

Yeah construction is currently just at groundwork stage.

I don't think an application has been put in yet for the refurbishment of the S&N HQ, but when it is I guess thats when we'll get to see what it will look like. It is going to be a Sandman Signature hotel and I believe it will be the first of its brand in the UK.

These photo's were taken on 22nd September 2009 - will try to take some updated one's soon

http://img169.imageshack.us/img169/1953/dsc01153e.jpg

http://img27.imageshack.us/img27/9062/dsc01154u.jpg

Thanks for the pics Ahmed. You really appreciate how steep the site elevation is from that perspective.

Is work going on at the moment in the HQ tower? I noticed last night (I can see it from my kitchen window) that lights were on in the stairwells and a couple of floors.

It would be good if there was something on the St James' Metro station site too with the Metro station beneath as a complement to these schemes and the Wellbar House and Time Central developments.

It would be good if there was something on the St James' Metro station site too with the Metro station beneath as a complement to these schemes and the Wellbar House and Time Central developments.

I agree - but wasn't/isnt a lot of that arrea owned either by NUFC or Freddie S? I recall vaguely that there were hotel/casino plans for thereabouts. And back in ye olde pre-Ashley days they mave have thought that expanding the Gallowgate End to match the two new stands would have been a good idea. That would, presumably, have partly enveloped the metro station.

P.S. since when has 'iconic' held the meaning "simultaneously overdesigned but nevertheless rather dull"

Yes I think you're right about NUFC or Freddy owning it as I believe they wanted an MGM casino on the site. They were also going to develop the area of the small multi-storey car park at the opposite end of the ground just off Barrack Road into flats but nothing ever happened with that.

Ashley had been in discussions with NCC for a development on the carpark, and it was slated to include at least one tall building. Obviously that's stalled due to a/ ashley selling up (again - what a dimwit) and b/ the poor market for new builds. Freddy was also looking into building there, first with MGM and later as part of a comprehensive rebuild of the Gallowgate stand which wouldve took capacity to around the 60k-62k margin. he first planned a hotel on the Leazes carpark, look out over the park itself, which i thought looked really smart, and also an office building on the ground of the old supporter's club, which is the open triangular spot on barrack road.

There's been so many proposed schemes for that area it's ridiculous. I think the very first 'gallowgate masterplan' proposal launched around 2001-2002 included a 18 storey tower. And wasn't that simpson plan for a 60 storey tower for this site as well? Shame there's been so much dithering about becuase there's a real potential to create something like potsdammerplatz here.

I still think an SJP extension would be good for the city, imgaine if it started now?, it would be complete in time for the 2015 Rugby World Cup, and the 2018 Football World Cup, if we win our bid. Of course though I doubt any new owner would start an extension untill Newcastle United are a Premiership Club once again. like it or not, but Newcastle United and SJP are big players for our city, and having say a 60,000-62,000 seater stadium can only be good for us.
Also even if it was expended, their would still be enough room to build over the Metro.

But the biggest question would be, is it viable to extend the Metro into Science City/ Downing Plaza?

SJP is already terribly lop sided and unfortunately any further expansion will be severely limited due to the proximity of Leazes Terrace to the east of the ground .. shame :ohno:

SJP is already terribly lop sided and unfortunately any further expansion will be severely limited due to the proximity of Leazes Terrace to the east of the ground .. shame :ohno:

I love St James Park's lopsidedness, it gives it a lot of character and offers some great views across Tyneside from the top of the Leazes and Milbrun stands.

extending the gallowgate would make the stadium symmetrical and give it a horse-shoe shape, while also retaining the character by leaving the one stand smaller than the rest, a bit like Celtic Park.

extending the gallowgate would make the stadium symmetrical and give it a horse-shoe shape, while also retaining the character by leaving the one stand smaller than the rest, a bit like Celtic Park.

Yes, it would be like Celtic Park, but also Old Trafford has 3 big stands and one small one, you just don't see it as much, because the TV Camrea's are facing away from it.

Besides, anything beats those bowl flat pack stadiums.

extending the gallowgate would make the stadium symmetrical and give it a horse-shoe shape, while also retaining the character by leaving the one stand smaller than the rest, a bit like Celtic Park.

Johnny / Chris,

Is this the look you mean?

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/sjp6-imagined.jpg

Yes, that is the look that we mean, although the spiral that you see on it may not actualy be there.

Johnny / Chris,

Is this the look you mean?

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/sjp6-imagined.jpg

:drool:

Perhaps the dicussion of St. James' Park should be moved over to that thread and keep this one focused on Downing Plaza.

Isnt this the downing plaza thread? :colgate:

Isnt this the downing plaza thread? :colgate:

Apologies to all . . :cry:

Got carried away!

apparently the Sandman hotel element of this (inside the old S&N HQ) will house a restaurant(s) on the ground floor. the CEO of the sandman firm said:

Next week, Gaglardi said, it will close a seven-million-pound ($12.7-million) deal on the former Scottish & Newcastle brewery's landmark tower in Newcastle on Tyne, England. It'll spend "that much again" to develop a 170-room hotel to be operated under the year-old, upper-scale Sandman Signature brand.

"We think, in England, they need a good dose of North American hospitality. We think there's room for North American room service, room sizes and even bed sizes," said tall, bulky Gaglardi, 41, who plays hockey twice a week with the Blazers team here.

There'll also be room in Newcastle for a Moxie's Grill, Shark Club Bar and Grill or Chop Restaurant -- but not a Denny's restaurant -- all of which the group owns.

http://www.canada.com/vancouversun/news/business/story.html?id=e73db88d-ea99-4b0a-a2c2-31471d27920a&k=19404

Are they going to knock it down and start again? £7m seems like a lot for a reclad and interior fit?

Are they going to knock it down and start again? £7m seems like a lot for a reclad and interior fit?

Whilst £7m would be too cheap for a demolition and rebuild

I think it is a reclad - the amount sounds normal to me. It used to be offices so converting it into hotel will obviously take more time/money

Taken by me earlier today - seems like a fair bit of activity taken place

http://img517.imageshack.us/img517/6766/dsc01354v.jpg

they've dug quite a way down if you look at the grass next to those flats.

Is all that digging for just the foundations?

Is all that digging for just the foundations?

Digging the Metro extension from St James???

Digging the Metro extension from St James???

Ha, wishful thinking there i think! Although the aerial shots show a cut and cover trench would be so easy right now...a completely unobstructed path all the way to Big Lamp. oh well.

Given its location, i imagine it'll have a few floors of underground parking, might it be that?

Ha, wishful thinking there i think! Although the aerial shots show a cut and cover trench would be so easy right now...a completely unobstructed path all the way to Big Lamp. oh well.

Given its location, i imagine it'll have a few floors of underground parking, might it be that?

Yes, I too would love to think so, just a few hundred yards more, and anther station could prove successfull in that location for the future, and I doubt there will never be a better oportunity within the next 50 years to do it so easily.

Sadly it won't be though.

Sometime over the last couple of days a nice big tower crane has appeared on site. This project is really moving along, nice there's some good news.

Sometime over the last couple of days a nice big tower crane has appeared on site. This project is really moving along, nice there's some good news.

Yeah I noticed the crane on the skyline while travelling into the city centre today. I believe the first building to go up will be the Business School?

Crappy phone pic, but it shows the crane!!! woo!! lol

http://i411.photobucket.com/albums/pp192/Newcastlehollow/11112009013.jpg

which block is the business school.

also, would i be right in thinking it'll basically be the same height as the crane?

which block is the business school.

also, would i be right in thinking it'll basically be the same height as the crane?

Im not sure which is the Business school but going off the renders the height of the crane will indeed be about the height of the tallest building.

i cant wait until st james' is surrounded on all sides (apart from the park) by buildings - this, strawberry place, the SJP carpark, science city. Will be such a big city feel as all the buildings coming up are of a fairly big scale.

Couldn't agree more! I have imagined exactly the same thing.

The question I ask myself though, is, what are the realistic timescales until 'completion' of this ideal cityscape, which is (at least) mostly in planning?

2020, do you reckon?

I reckon thats a good shout.

i cant wait until st james' is surrounded on all sides (apart from the park) by buildings - this, strawberry place, the SJP carpark, science city. Will be such a big city feel as all the buildings coming up are of a fairly big scale.

Couldn't agree more! I have imagined exactly the same thing.

The question I ask myself though, is, what are the realistic timescales until 'completion' of this ideal cityscape, which is (at least) mostly in planning?

2020, do you reckon?

i cant wait until st james' is surrounded on all sides (apart from the park) by buildings - this, strawberry place, the SJP carpark, science city. Will be such a big city feel as all the buildings coming up are of a fairly big scale.

Yep, it should be good, even if we are a little dissapointed in the lack of height. Would have loved to see the Brewery offices go aswell and something more fittling built in its place. I hope its renovation turns out well but I am skeptical tbh.

Yep, it should be good, even if we are a little dissapointed in the lack of height. Would have loved to see the Brewery offices go aswell and something more fittling built in its place. I hope its renovation turns out well but I am skeptical tbh.

i am surprised we haven't had a planning application from sandman hotels yet. i am very interested to see what they do with the building. doubt they'll add any floors but it would be nice.

:bash::bash: Damn stupid posts being listed BEFORE the ones we are quoting!!!

Couldn't agree more! I have imagined exactly the same thing.

The question I ask myself though, is, what are the realistic timescales until 'completion' of this ideal (currently, mostly, in planning) Cityscape?

2020, do you reckon?

This scheme will help a lot in providing an active and relatively high frontage along barrack road/gallowgate roundabout, and i am hopeful that strawberry place will get going in the next couple of years. the wider Science city redevelopment will take much longer but i am sure we'll have some further density built there in a decade's time.

the SJP carpark is perhaps the most prized slice of land in the area though. sadly, due to the turmoil at the club i cant see anything happening soon. plans keep getting put forward and then shelved. but can you imagine walking down strawberry place when that part of the city is developed? the tall stadium on one side, hopefully tall development on the other, and Downing/Science City in front of you. would give a real 'canyon' effect with a sense of city like enclosure, something the area, with its expanses of empty land, has lacked for too long.

Yep, it should be good, even if we are a little dissapointed in the lack of height. Would have loved to see the Brewery offices go aswell and something more fittling built in its place. I hope its renovation turns out well but I am skeptical tbh.

I always used to like that 'curved' office block, when it was in full uses as the S&N Newcastle HQ.

I am still quite optimistic for the refurb, as I think that they have more than the 'bog-standard' 60s office block to work with . . so SHOULD be able to come up with something good, that fits in with the excellent quality of Time & Wellbar (and others to follow).

"Fingers Crossed"!!

:bash::bash: Damn stupid posts being listed BEFORE the ones we are quoting!!!

Quite 'frenetic' on here innit . . what ho!

I always used to like that 'curved' office block, when it was in full uses as the S&N Newcastle HQ.

I am still quite optimistic for the refurb, as I think that they have more than the 'bog-standard' 60s office block to work with . . so SHOULD be able to come up with something good, that fits in with the excellent quality of Time & Wellbar (and others to follow).

"Fingers Crossed"!!

Yeah, fingers crossed, I guess my opinions are influenced by its current decrepid state which leaves so much to be desired.

The slight curve on that block is its one redeeming feature, and I hope they make the most of it and try and 'accent' it as best possible with additions. And of course, a reclad of the highest quality is a MUST!

However... and this is the bit that worries me... Sandman hotels over here in Canada are a bit cheap and chatty. The one in Vancouver looks like an old 60s office block, and they seem ok with that!

The slight curve on that block is its one redeeming feature, and I hope they make the most of it and try and 'accent' it as best possible with additions. And of course, a reclad of the highest quality is a MUST!

However... and this is the bit that worries me... Sandman hotels over here in Canada are a bit cheap and chatty. The one in Vancouver looks like an old 60s office block, and they seem ok with that!

That is dissapointing to hear.

just done a little search about the S&N HQ and seen that Fairhursts will be putting the planning application together -

from march, 2009:

The Planning & Development division in Newcastle upon Tyne have been appointed by Northland Properties, Canada's largest privately owned hotel group, to prepare a planning application and supporting assessments for the conversion of an existing vacant office building to a four star 169 bed hotel.

The building, which was previously the Scottish & Newcastle Breweries office block, occupies a prominent comer location within the Science Central masterplan area of Newcastle, overlooking St James' Park football stadium and the proposed mixed use development on the former Gallowgate brewery site.

The project aims to enhance the existing fabric and character of a building which is important to the historical value of an area previously dominated by the brewery industry. It is likely to be the first development commenced within the key Science Central area.

Northland's 'Sandmand Signature' hotel brand aims to satisfy the demand for high quality hotel accommodation within the growing hotel market of the North East.

Mitch Gaglardi, Director of the Sandman Hotel Group UK stated: "Newcastle is a unique city with an excellent blend of both tourist and business traveller that fits ideally with the Sandman brand".

The planning application for the development will be submitted by the summer of 2009

My understanding of the height is the same as the stadium? Or am i being a bit optimistic there?

The hotel- yeah the Canada hotels look very 1960's affairs- although they are 4 stars and the building isnt the worse 1960's the city has or has had- so how they make the outside better will be important IMO. I noticed that they seem to be gutting the inside already there were big shoots coming down from the side of the building by the Downing site.

My understanding of the height is the same as the stadium? Or am i being a bit optimistic there?
The hotel- yeah the Canada hotels look very 1960's affairs- although they are 4 stars and the building isnt the worse 1960's the city has or has had- so how they make the outside better will be important IMO. I noticed that they seem to be gutting the inside already there were big shoots coming down from the side of the building by the Downing site.


It definately looks the same height as the stadium if not slightly taller.

It definately looks the same height as the stadium if not slightly taller.

I believe the 18 storey building will be a tiny bit taller than the stadium... I think the building they are on with now though is the 10 storey business school.

I was under the impression the stadium was 65m tall, so they're going to be similar.

I'm full of cold at the moment, so you might have already said and I didn't see it, but what and where is this building? Bizarrely reminds me of one in Berlin, but I'm pretty sure I'm wrong.

you're right, it is Berlin. GSW HQ renovation carried out by sauerbruch & hutton.

Is this near Checkpoint Charlie? It's a really interesting building and unlike a lot of skyscrapers it has a strong, active ground level.

The extent of the construction as of 13/11/09:

http://i411.photobucket.com/albums/pp192/Newcastlehollow/IMG_1616.jpg

A core? Damn :lol: Good news, I guess :banana:

A core? Damn :lol: Good news, I guess :banana:

Hey!, a starts a start!!! :lol:

When youve waited sooo long to see ANYTHING happen, a core is reason enough to have a party!! :cheers:

the people living the flats next door are going to have a hell of a time while this gets built.

I walked past this on my way home this evening and noticed that core. I was really surprised to see it going up so soon. I definitely didn't see a core there last time I walked past a couple of days ago (presumably it had started but was below the height of the hoardings), and I expected at least another couple of weeks of ground works before anything began to rise above the hoardings, so I'm very pleasantly surprised by this - incredibly fast progress!

I walked past this on my way home this evening and noticed that core. I was really surprised to see it going up so soon. I definitely didn't see a core there last time I walked past a couple of days ago (presumably it had started but was below the height of the hoardings), and I expected at least another couple of weeks of ground works before anything began to rise above the hoardings, so I'm very pleasantly surprised by this - incredibly fast progress!

Yeah i thought that too! I went past just 2 days before and that core wasnt there.

Is the core for the 10 storey office building (the business school one) or for the hotel tower?

Is the core for the 10 storey office building (the business school one) or for the hotel tower?

I can't tell the location of it from that photograph, if it is to the right of the site it will be for the 10 storey office building, which is what I suspect. As the 18 storey hotel is to the left, however I believe both of them are actually joined at ground level?

Hey!, a starts a start!!! :lol:

When youve waited sooo long to see ANYTHING happen, a core is reason enough to have a party!! :cheers:

I wasn't expecting to see a core so soon! I was just hanging on to the hope that Downing would maybe have a redesign of the hotel tower and give it a few extra floors, but it's probably too late now. Still, good news that work is getting on the site, something is better than nothing! :)

the people living the flats next door are going to have a hell of a time while this gets built.

Are those flats still full of nasty chavs? My Aunty found a dirty little girl wandering on the roads outside there around 10 years ago. She took her back in and her thick pig of a mother hadn't even realised she was gone. My Aunty wished she'd phoned the police, but it's too little too late now.

The sooner those flats disappear, the better.

i think saying everyone who lives there is a nasty chav because of one incident is a bit daft tbh. most people who live in council/housing association accomodation are fine, and in fact they're the ones who have to suffer the most from the visible minority of dickheads.

i think saying everyone who lives there is a nasty chav because of one incident is a bit daft tbh. most people who live in council/housing association accomodation are fine, and in fact they're the ones who have to suffer the most from the visible minority of dickheads.

Fair enough, Johnny. You're right, we can't judge everyone there, because of one instance of chavery :)

The blocks there are the council's emergency homeless accommodation. It is intended to replace these with a new facility in the near future

The blocks there are the council's emergency homeless accommodation. It is intended to replace these with a new facility in the near future

any plans to redevelop those blocks? i remember seeing a conceptual rendering of science city a while back and it seemed to include this site. would i be right in saying that this will be redeveloped with the rest of the brewery site?

to clarify the facility would be moved to another site and in all probability the current site would be part of SC-related development in time.

Downing's funding fix for Newcastle Uni

13.11.09

By Jennifer Rigby

Merchant Place pays £32.5m for first phase of brewery redevelopment

Downing, the Liverpool-based developer, has secured forward-funding for the first phase of its £200m redevelopment of the former Scottish & Newcastle Brewery in Newcastle.

London and Newcastle-based Merchant Place Corporate Finance has agreed to pay £32.5m for the scheme near Newcastle United’s sportsdirect. com @ St James’ Park ground.

The transaction is one of the largest in the area this year and reflects a net initial yield of around 6.5%.

Newcastle University has prelet the first phase — a 100,000 sq ft, nine-storey business school — on a 22-year lease. The building is expected to be completed by March 2011.

Merchant Place’s Anna Cumming said: “This was an excellent opportunity for our investors, given the first-class covenant offered by one of the country’s leading universities.”

The building is the first phase of the wider Downing Plaza scheme, which comprises 600,000 sq ft in six office buildings, two hotels and a 462-bed student village with retail.

Downing bought the site in 2004, for which the university signed Newcastle’s largest-ever prelet in 2008.

The scheme is seen as a gateway to Newcastle City Council’s “Science Central” plans in the Gallowgate area, next to Downing’s scheme.

This £700m pubic sector joint venture between the council, Newcastle University and regional development agency One North East will house scientific research centres and teaching facilities. It is a key regeneration project in the city.

Interest in Downing’s development from private sector investors such as Merchant Place will be a boost for the council’s nearby scheme.

Merchant Place arranges property partnerships on behalf of private investors, who are starting to show an appetite for UK property. Last week, a group of investors put together by Tritax exchanged contracts to buy three buildings at Birmingham’s Brindleyplace for £101m, reflecting a yield of 7.16%.

The Leeds office of Knight Frank advised Merchant Place.

Read more: http://www.propertyweek.com/story.asp?sectioncode=36&storycode=3153108#ixzz0XFKcJ363

Downing's funding fix for Newcastle Uni

13.11.09

Downing, the Liverpool-based developer, has secured forward-funding for the first phase of its £200m redevelopment of the former Scottish & Newcastle Brewery in Newcastle. London and Newcastle-based Merchant Place Corporate Finance has agreed to pay £32.5m for the scheme near Newcastle United’s sportsdirect. com @ St James’ Park ground.


You ARE kidding right? People aren't going to 'routinely' call it this now are they?

You ARE kidding right? People aren't going to 'routinely' call it this now are they?

Yep, every article will have to call it by its official name, every newspaper and tv report etc.

Thats the whole point of selling the naming rights im afraid.

:badnews::badnews:


Downing, the Liverpool-based developer, has secured forward-funding for the first phase of its £200m redevelopment of the former Scottish & Newcastle Brewery in Newcastle. London and Newcastle-based Merchant Place Corporate Finance has agreed to pay £32.5m for the scheme near Newcastle United’s sportsdirect. com @ St James’ Park ground.


You ARE kidding right? People aren't going to 'routinely' call it this now . . are they?

Yep, every article will have to call it by its official name, every newspaper and tv report etc. Thats the whole point of selling the naming rights im afraid.
:badnews::badnews:

I wonder how many articles will simply not mention the stadium now, or just refer to it as 'Newcastle's main football stadium' or 'the home of NUFC' or something.

I wonder how many articles will simply not mention the stadium now, or just refer to it as 'Newcastle's main football stadium' or 'the home of NUFC' or something.

Quite a bit i would guess cos using the 'full name' is just daft

lol. First I've heard of that. It's hilarious :lol:

lol. First I've heard of that. It's hilarious :lol:

I'm assuming you live in a cave bereft of contact with the media or people, but with one solitary computer terminal providing a link to SSC only......

It is completely daft, people just aren't going to use the full name, it's just too long and contrived.

Yeah, how in the blue hell can you not have heard of that!?!?!? There was absolute outrage a couple of weeks back!!

Yeah, how in the blue hell can you not have heard of that!?!?!? There was absolute outrage a couple of weeks back!!

Some of the news stories about this . . .

http://www.brandrepublic.com/BrandRepublicNews/News/948638/Newcastle-seeks-takers-ground-naming-rights/

http://www.nufcblog.org/2009/10/who-on-earth-would-buy-the-naming-rights-for-st-jamess-park/

http://thestar.com.my/sports/story.asp?file=/2009/11/6/sports/5053508&sec=sports

It is all MADNESS in my view, and typical (very typical) of the person involved!

Perhaps we should, though, take this discussion to the SKYBAR, or to the NEWCASTLE UNITED thread . .

Latest construction photo's from today:

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/Downing%20Plaza/DSC02801.jpg

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/Downing%20Plaza/DSC02795.jpg

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/Downing%20Plaza/DSC02792.jpg

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/Downing%20Plaza/DSC02796.jpg

So GREAT to see the height being reached . . early days, but very good to see!

Excellent photos, thanks for posting them TPNE!

That concrete pile is going up fast, they are usually the slowest part of construction.

core blimey.

This picture is making me hope the building next door is actually getting a re-clad, because if it's just internal work, then it's going to ruin a nice area of Newcastle.

Just woundering, how easy would it be to re-clad the white buildings across the road?

I should ask my sister since she works in one of them, and used to work in the Wellbar tower before it was brought down, but I don't think she would know much about the construction side of things.

the white buildings are only a few years old. but yeah the residential element of that is really ageing fast, you can see dirt stains on every block. but tbh the white material to start with was always cheap and nasty. Citygate is a huge planning failure imo - a carpark next to the ancient town walls? A threatening blank wall running alongside the boulevard? White and grey cladding that looks like a 1980s pharmacuetical HQ in slough business park? An unforgiving bulky shape with no visual interest?

bleh. the only aspect that looks half decent is the glazed gallowgate entrance.

Just changing those panels to a silver/grey colour would change the whole look for the better, and the dirt wouldn't show up either, you would of thought they would clean those buildings regualry, but no they don't.

It would just be the architectural equivilant of the emperor's new clothes. These re-clads are always a shameless attempt at dressing mutton as lamb and rarely work. What I really can't stomach are cases where a brutalist building is stripped away of any design concept, effective or otherwise, and replaced with cheap aluminium panels.

Anyway, good to see that core rising up. Looks like it belongs to the hotel tower

A reclad if done well that respects what is essentially, ableit dated building, a simple design constructed of reasonable materials. I'd hate to see a reclad like many of Manchester's highrises, but one that respects that this is a building of its time. I wouldn't mind the sides clad in sandstone similar to Times Central / Wellbar House.

With regard to Citygate, i've no real issue with it tbh. Its design is simple (poor execution in its finish), it just reminds me of an American Hospital and i'm sure the majority of Tyneside residents wouldn't bat an eyelid or have an opinion on it.

I'm more interested in what will happen with the National Car Garage across the road from Citygate.

Nice pics TPNE!! Shame we are not witnessing the birth of a 30+ floor tower though.

core blimey.

Nice pun :okay:

Anyway, good to see that core rising up. Looks like it belongs to the hotel tower

It will be good along that stretch, with two big hotels next door to eachother then, when the "S&N HQ" building (also a hotel) is done. .

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/Downing%20Plaza/DSC02796.jpg
http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u209/gazcowley/Downing%20Plaza/downing4.jpg

There will be a 'real bit of life' to that stretch.

If 'Strawberry Place' then gets cracking . . it will really throw the light on the one bit that will be left undeveloped in that area (a bit like 'Imperial Quay' and '57 Quayside' do, down on the Quayside) the "gap" of the above St James' Metro and the Car Park site.

The very obvious nature of the gap, then, might encourage its redevelopment.

^^ Looking at the photo then the render it makes it look like it's the core for the hotel tower... I always thought the business school was going up first though. Unless it's just the angles of the photos...

It will be good along that stretch, with two big hotels next door to eachother then, when the "S&N HQ" building (also a hotel) is done. .

'Done'? Don't tell me there still planning on 'sprucing it up'? :ohno:

It looks like it's going to be changed to Black and White...

Iconic Toon landmark set to earn its stripes
THE former home of Scottish & Newcastle breweries is steadying itself for a multi-million pound makeover. Here, DAN WARBURTON catches up with the man behind the bid, Mitchell Gaglardi . . .

THE TOON might already be black and white . . . but now one of Tyneside’s most iconic buildings could be getting a similar facelift.

Earlier this year Northland Properties, based in Vancouver, acquired the former home of Scottish & Newcastle breweries , next to St James’ Park, in a multi-million pound deal from Liverpool-based developer Downing.

And in keeping with Tyneside’s proud football heritage, the Gallowgate building could be painted a Magpies shade of black and white.

The former brewery is to be turned into a four-star hotel after the Canadian company bought the striking 13-storey block.

Now it plans to completely refurbish the structure and develop a development with 170 rooms known as the Sandman Signature, which will boast views across Newcastle city centre.

The hotel is expected to create 150 jobs when it opens for business in summer 2011.

And last night the man behind the venture, Mitch Gaglardi, director of Sandman Hotel Group UK, spoke of his love of the city.

He said: “When I was a student in Canada at the University of British Columbia I had a friend I did some favours for, and in return she would bring round a four-pack of Newcastle Brown Ale.

“I bumped into her after I had moved to Newcastle and she immediately thought I had come to the North East just for the beer.

“I had to explain that I hadn’t moved to the city just so I could get more of my favourite ale.

“But I’m excited about this new development. We are going to trying and bring a little bit of Canadian hospitality to the city.

“We are planning to turn it in to one of our signature hotels, with 170 rooms with a bar and restaurant on the ground floor.

“It’s black and white and we have submitted applications with the council.

“We are a hotel group and we actively search for sites to build on. Newcastle has some great attributes and there are some really favourable market conditions. There is a major artery running nearby in the form of the A1.”

The Tyneside brewery beat competition from sites in major cities across the country for the development, designed by Fairhursts Design Group.

Manchester, Birmingham and London were all considered in a 10-month hunt but it was Newcastle that came out on top.

In 2007 the Gaglardi empire, along with partners from National Hockey League players Shane Doan, Jarome Iginla, Mark Recchi and Darryl Sydor, purchased the Kamloops Blazers, a Western Hockey League team.

And last night Mitch refused to rule out buying a slice of Mike Ashley’s beleaguered Newcastle United.

He said: “We’ve had the hockey team for three seasons and we’ve certainly beat out efforts every season to the one prior. We bought the hockey team with a few players who are actually still playing.

“We kind of have our ears to the street for other potential deals, but this was the first venture that we’ve taken on in that respect. But the hockey team is not the be all and end all.

“Football is something we would consider in this country if anything was to come our way.

“But Newcastle United would be much bigger than what we’ve done in Canada with the hockey team. The stadium there can hold around 5,000 so this would be a much bigger task.

“That’s not to say that if the opportunity came along we wouldn’t jump on it.”


http://www.sundaysun.co.uk/news/north-east-news/2009/11/29/iconic-toon-landmark-set-to-earn-its-stripes-79310-25277469/

It says there that a planning application has been submitted but I can't seem to find it on the council's website yet. I'm guessing it is yet to be validated?

It will be good along that stretch, with two big hotels next door to eachother then, when the "S&N HQ" building (also a hotel) is done. .

'Done'? Don't tell me there still planning on 'sprucing it up'? :ohno:

It is going to become a 170 room hotel, called the Sandman Signature.

Black and white stripes? That'll look even worse than it does now!

Black and white stripes? That'll look even worse than it does now!

I don't think it will be black&white stripes, or atleast if it was, not as we know them, buildings just don't look like fotball tops.

Anyway, it's good newsthat theoutside will also be getting refurbished, although this news has just spoilt my reading of todays Sunday Sun before I get it. Thats great, the Sunday Sun only has one interesting column, and then the football, thats half the paper gone already, maybe I should ask for it for half price.

Anyway, it's good newsthat theoutside will also be getting refurbished, although this news has just spoilt my reading of todays Sunday Sun before I get it. Thats great, the Sunday Sun only has one interesting column, and then the football, thats half the paper gone already, maybe I should ask for it for half price.

Oops!

Black and white stripes? That'll look even worse than it does now!

I can't see it being black and white stripes. Perhaps a white building with black glass windows, Citygate anyone?

Or something like this perhaps..

http://www.premierland.com/images/citytwr.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/Sn.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/Sn.jpg

Yes fucking please!!!!!

If 'Strawberry Place' then gets cracking. . it will really throw the light on the one bit that will be left undeveloped in that area (a bit like 'Imperial Quay' and '57 Quayside' do, down on the Quayside) the "gap" of the above St James' Metro and the Car Park site.

The very obvious nature of the gap, then, might encourage its redevelopment.

I know what you mean, but there's a very obvious flaw in that argument.

Still, having a building of around 60m at the northern edge of the area should make a tall proposal for the remaining space less conspicuous and less likely to draw opposition from nearby residents.

Now i like that. Now to get Jarome Iginla over here and geer some interest up for Ice hockey in the region, oh and a new arena would be nice.

Where did you see that picture Johnny? I so hope it turns out looking like that!

from the sunday sun.

random yellow bit at the bottom needs to be painted white.

Well I certainly like the look of that! I hope it gets passed. Looks quite classy and much better than how it looks now!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/Sn.jpg

That looks impressive - would be delighted if that is how its refurbished

Yeah it looks good if it would look like that- I actaully quite like the way the building curves slightly and is one of the better 1960's they they built. I see they are emptying the inside already so work has begun already.

Surely the interior Downing are already working on it the Business School- isnt that the first phase?

Infact Id be overjoyed if it turns out like that!!

It looks bloody superb!!!!!!!

Yeah it looks good if it would look like that- I actaully quite like the way the building curves slightly and is one of the better 1960's they they built. I see they are emptying the inside already so work has begun already.

Surely the interior Downing are already working on it the Business School- isnt that the first phase?

Yes, I have always liked (a lot) the curved S&N HQ building, though I am aware that some do not. With a well considered external (as well as internal) refurbishment, and with it "brought back to life" as a hotel, it could well (at least) hold its own from an appearence perspective, alongside the various 'new builds' it will be sitting next to.

Just wondering, how easy would it be to re-clad the white buildings across the road? I should ask my sister since she works in one of them, and used to work in the Wellbar tower before it was brought down, but I don't think she would know much about the construction side of things.

The 'Citygate' buildings are the ones you mean I think? They are very new buildings and I agree with what has been said on here, they need to kept 'externally clean' better than they are. They seem to be built of a material that was designed with "ease of cleaning" in mind - so DO IT!!

Overall, I like these buildings and from the air, they look like a large ocean liner steaming off towards St James' Park!!

See what I mean?

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/CityGate.jpg
A good photo of an ocean liner!!!

.

I agree NH .. I do like Citygate, although considering what was there before (i.e. Gallogate Coach Station) anything's an improvement !

i dont like how it is so blank and aggressive facing the boulevard, not to mention ugly with a tendency to get dirty. wouldve been nicer had it been more broken up, and some cafes/shops/pubs on the ground to entice people inward to a nice square fronting the city walls. instead we got a surface carpark when it wouldve been better to construct a multistorey and free up space on the ground (though money from this did go on improving the moat). the one bit that is alright is the gallowgate entrance which is glazed.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3092/2597785484_febb969c83_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2766/4091126282_4de201d79e_o.jpg

http://www.gos.gov.uk/nestore/images/pages/citygate.gif

I agree NH .. I do like Citygate, although considering what was there before (i.e. Gallogate Coach Station) anything's an improvement !

I rather liked the architecture of Gallowgate Coach Station - a nice piece of inter-war Scando-Dutchness.

wouldve been nicer had it been more broken up, and some cafes/shops/pubs on the ground to entice people inward to a nice square fronting the city walls.

Dead right. A 'boulevard' with nothing on it to tempt people to saunter along it IS NOT A FREAKIN' BOULEVARD!

Dead right. A 'boulevard' with nothing on it to tempt people to saunter along it IS NOT A FREAKIN' BOULEVARD!

it's 'dead space' along that stretch, apart from when the football is on, and hundreds of fans stream through the private carpark and through the little cut, maybe stopping for a piss or two against the soiled white walls. :lol:

it's 'dead space' along that stretch, apart from when the football is on, and hundreds of fans stream through the private carpark and through the little cut, maybe stopping for a piss or two against the soiled white walls. :lol:

Maybe that's why the proposed Signature Hotel has a yellow-painted area at ground level...

I have to say I do quite like city gate, almost for the same reasons as johnny doesn't like it. The aggresive, foreboding facade gives me an overhwelming sense that god doesn't exist.

speaking of Citygate, thought you might find these then/now comparison shots interesting

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2533/4146936809_342634213f_o.jpg ... Gallowgate circa. 1970

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2693/4146936987_f38cdf841a_o.jpg ... Gallowgate 2009

Is it just me who thinks the coach station should be built on top of Gallowgate Metro station. Would make for an interesting travel hub in the city, on the end of the main road that brings the coaches into Newcastle, and the metro would be ideal for those wishing to travel home ASAP.

I don't actually mind City Gate, would be better if they built on that car park though! Infact I think the main entrance with the glass looks rather good!

Is it just me who thinks the coach station should be built on top of Gallowgate Metro station. Would make for an interesting travel hub in the city, on the end of the main road that brings the coaches into Newcastle, and the metro would be ideal for those wishing to travel home ASAP.

For me this area is prime for some large buildings, so unless the coach station be incorporated into such a project, I wouldn't be in favour of it being there.

Is it just me who thinks the coach station should be built on top of Gallowgate Metro station. Would make for an interesting travel hub in the city, on the end of the main road that brings the coaches into Newcastle, and the metro would be ideal for those wishing to travel home ASAP.

Chris,

To me, that is a GREAT idea.

"The return of" . . Gallowgate Coach Station!!!

Yes, a tall "end of boulevard" building is what I have always envisaged on that spot . . BUT, you may have something there . . and we really DO need a PROPER (ideally, prominently positioned) long-distance coach station, don't we?

Where else could it go?

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/Sn.jpg

Judging by everyone else's reactions to this picture, it seems I must be the only one on here who is not impressed by this. My initial reaction was "yuck", I don't think it looks tasteful at all.

Very good idea- other location would be in the EPS area- but Gallowgate by St James Park Metro would be an excellent idea.

I think it's the white bit, and yellow bit that makes it look bad Andrew, it would in my opinion would look much better if it was Black, andthen the two different greys, but it may look much better when it's complete. I think this is yet another building that should be judged when complete. The top of it looks great though.

I think it's the white bit, and yellow bit that makes it look bad Andrew, it would in my opinion would look much better if it was Black, andthen the two different greys, but it may look much better when it's complete. I think this is yet another building that should be judged when complete. The top of it looks great though.

I agree, top looks great, not so much the bottom.

anyone on here with photoshop able to do a mock up of the tower being just black, or banded with just the darker colours? TownplanningNE?

anyone on here with photoshop able to do a mock up of the tower being just black, or banded with just the darker colours? TownplanningNE?


When i frst saw the pic, I thought it was just something you had knocked up on photoshop, I didnt actually realise that it was for real! :lol:

When i frst saw the pic, I thought it was just something you had knocked up on photoshop, I didnt actually realise that it was for real! :lol:

i dont know if it is the real deal or the sunday sun's version, though it has the branded logo so who knows.

anyone on here with photoshop able to do a mock up of the tower being just black, or banded with just the darker colours? TownplanningNE?

Just had a quick go of it on photoshop and this is the tower as just all black:

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/Downing%20Plaza/ssblack.jpg

^^ I'm liking it!, maybe you could at a dash of white here and there?

looks....evil.

Infact, making the signs gold on that black building would look canny imho.

Looks good, maybe backligting should be used on the signs, and maybe along some windows or something though.

In the Sunday Sun render, the colours look to me like the aftermath of fire damage...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/Sn.jpg

So we've gone from having the tallest building outside London proposed for the site, to... that?

I got in trouble with Ryder for emailing Downing and telling them it was a bad idea to retain the current building. After seeing that, I'm not sorry anymore.

So we've gone from having the tallest building outside London proposed for the site, to... that?

I got in trouble with Ryder for emailing Downing and telling them it was a bad idea to retain the current building. After seeing that, I'm not sorry anymore.

Ah yes, I remember the Tall Tower . .

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/TallBreweryTowerProposal.jpg
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/TallBreweryTowerProposal001.jpg

This was our 'best ever' opportunity for something REALLY tall. Can't see it ever happening now, I don't think!

typically ridiculous mock-up in the paper there - there actual design was rather different.

typically ridiculous mock-up in the paper there - there actual design was rather different.

Not sure, but is this one any more like it was?

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/TallBreweryTowerProposal002.jpg

yeah that's the one, an Ian Simpson design:

from skyscrapernews:
http://www.skyscrapernews.com/images/pics/1772GallowgateTower_pic2.jpg

yeah that's the one, an Ian Simpson design:

from skyscrapernews:
http://www.skyscrapernews.com/images/pics/1772GallowgateTower_pic2.jpg

I fell in love with that building, infact reaserching that building lead me to skyscrapernews, which led me to SSC, so I owe my SSC life to that building.

Interesting wording in that article concerning the brewery building/hotel:

"Apart from the giant tower other options on the table include three large towers surrounding a public open space, as well as a medium size development. The final proposal is refurbishing the 12 storey Scottish and Newcastle building...this is seen as a fallback if no other option can be agreed on'


So what we're actally getting is Downing's 'safety-net' plan in case all the other more radical (some might say better) proposals fell through? Tarting it up like a Pantone colour chart is not going to hide that fact!

Is it still not possible to build that tower, elsewhere in Science city, I mean if their was a potential need for it only about 1-2 years ago, then I'm sure that is still there is NCC are still hopefull of doing what they imagined before the global economy came down.

Is it still not possible to build that tower, elsewhere in Science city, I mean if their was a potential need for it only about 1-2 years ago, then I'm sure that is still there is NCC are still hopefull of doing what they imagined before the global economy came down.

That was probably the problem- their wasn't the need for such buildings in Newcastle then and their certainly isnt now. I think the 17 storey Downing might be the highest we see in the city- we might get a 20 storey in Science city if it takes off- but I won't be holding my breath.

That was probably the problem- their wasn't the need for such buildings in Newcastle then and their certainly isnt now. I think the 17 storey Downing might be the highest we see in the city- we might get a 20 storey in Science city if it takes off- but I won't be holding my breath.

Whatever happend to the build and they come, build it great and they will come in their millions attitude?

i wouldn't say there is not the demand for it - i think there was as much demand in newcastle as there was in comparable cities ie sheffield or cardiff, and more than smaller cities who also built tall such as Swansea. one reason it never happened was the obstacles erected in the path of developer's by local nimbys, a reactionary press, and a council who sent out mixed signals. remember newcastle was receiving proposals for tall buildings before most UK regional cities, only for the proposals to be met with opposition.

A 52 storey building seemed excessive to me, but i think building something like 25 or 30 storeys couldve been achieved had circumstances been different.

it'll probably be a while until those sorts of proposals come along again.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/Sn.jpg

Its not bad. Not good, but not bad. I would like to see more detailed plans of the ground floor areas. It would look great if they have an elaborate canopy over the entrance, or a large glazed double height lobby looking out down Gallowgate... something grand.

I don't quite understand how that thing is getting any praise?

I don't quite understand how that thing is getting any praise?

Agreed

I don't quite understand how that thing is getting any praise?

I think its getting praise because when you consider how the building looks now, the render makes it look almost a 100% improvement.

I don't quite understand how that thing is getting any praise?

A lot of people like the building a lot, and a refurbishment of it will make it even better.

A lot of people do not like it, but that's life!

I think its getting praise because when you consider how the building looks now, the render makes it look almost a 100% improvement.

That is no excuse to like a building. We deserve better, why does Newcastle always get the poor end of the stick? If this was Manc or Liverpool, they wouldn't paint a dilapidated building and expect people to be grateful, they'd knock it down and build something superior. The building is awful now and taking it from awful to bad is not good enough for this city.

That is no excuse to like a building. We deserve better, why does Newcastle always get the poor end of the stick? If this was Manc or Liverpool, they wouldn't paint a dilapidated building and expect people to be grateful, they'd knock it down and build something superior. The building is awful now and taking it from awful to bad is not good enough for this city.

I see your point. I feel too that we tend to get the poor end of the stick. But in this instance I think maybe I just like the fact that it looks a little different and perhaps a little 'daring' for a colour sheme in Newcastle.

That is no excuse to like a building. We deserve better, why does Newcastle always get the poor end of the stick? If this was Manc or Liverpool, they wouldn't paint a dilapidated building and expect people to be grateful, they'd knock it down and build something superior. The building is awful now and taking it from awful to bad is not good enough for this city.

dilapidated? thats a bit extreme

Yes in an ideal world someone would knock it down and build a fantastic building BUT its not an ideal world. It is far, far cheaper to refurbish it and thats what Sandman will do

I think if done properly a refurb could look good as its a decent height and in a decent location

But this:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/Sn.jpg

Is not done properly though! It's a poor attempt and frankly quite tacky. Why in the world aren't people in Newcastle calling for higher quality? The football fans will no doubt see it and think it's "proper mint", but that is very little consolation to me.

As you can probably tell, I'm very disappointed. Sorry if I'm coming across as an arse hole :(

But this:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/Sn.jpg

Is not done properly though! It's a poor attempt and frankly quite tacky. Why in the world aren't people in Newcastle calling for higher quality? The football fans will no doubt see it and think it's "proper mint", but that is very little consolation to me.

As you can probably tell, I'm very disappointed. Sorry if I'm coming across as an arse hole :(

Why would that be the case?

Thats the thing about Architecture/Art etc what is good to one person is garbage to another, as has been demonstrated by that render.

Thats just a render that the paper showed, not sure if its actually from Sandman themselves - im sure we will get to see a more detailed version of it when an application is put in BUT i have to say i think it looks good - since the original height, shape of the building is fine - it just needs to be modernised and internally sorted out

I dunno Newcastle guy, I'm not sure how they could refurb it any better than that really? Any suggestions?

I dunno Newcastle guy, I'm not sure how they could refurb it any better than that really? Any suggestions?

Pull it down?

I am really looking forward to the fabulous former "S&N HQ Building" re-opening, all beautifully re-furbished, as a hotel!

That's what I love about architectural appreciation . . NOBODY is right, it's all about opinions . . though some people seem to 'think' they are right at times!!

Love it!

application has been submitted to add a floor to each student residential block for the Downing part of this site. Will be done by reducing floor to ceiling heights rather than an increase in overall height.

I am really looking forward to the fabulous former "S&N HQ Building" re-opening, all beautifully re-furbished, as a hotel!

That's what I love about architectural appreciation . . NOBODY is right, it's all about opinions . . though some people seem to 'think' they are right at times!!

Love it!

Yeah it will be good to retain part of the brewing heritage. I might write to Sandaman and suggest they consider a small museum (picture gallery, couple of small exhibits) within the building which charts the history of the site and brewing on tyneside. I have seen similar things in hotels and they work well to occupy bored guests!

Yeah it will be good to retain part of the brewing heritage. I might write to Sandaman and suggest they consider a small museum (picture gallery, couple of small exhibits) within the building which charts the history of the site and brewing on tyneside. I have seen similar things in hotels and they work well to occupy bored guests!

THAT is a very good idea. Hope you get a positive response.

I did something very similar once, at a place I used to work. I was criticised for it at the time, it is much appreciated now. Once things are totally GONE, they are gone forever. Many people do not realise that until AFTER the event . . unfortunately.

application has been submitted to add a floor to each student residential block for the Downing part of this site. Will be done by reducing floor to ceiling heights rather than an increase in overall height.

This is what has been done in the hotel tower to increase it from 17 to 18 floors.

I dunno Newcastle guy, I'm not sure how they could refurb it any better than that really? Any suggestions?

Weren't there some renders knocking around a couple of years ago showing day and night views of it redeveloped? I seem to remember them being better, though even they weren't as good as I'd expect for a site like this. Maybe I saw them when I was at Ryder, I can't remember now. I just remember seeing them.

application has been submitted to add a floor to each student residential block for the Downing part of this site. Will be done by reducing floor to ceiling heights rather than an increase in overall height.

Of course it will... :ohno:

THAT is a very good idea. Hope you get a positive response.

I did something very similar once, at a place I used to work. I was criticised for it at the time, it is much appreciated now. Once things are totally GONE, they are gone forever. Many people do not realise that until AFTER the event . . unfortunately.

I hope we get some kind of a Brewery Statue/Monument type thing in the area.

I hope we get some kind of a Brewery Statue/Monument type thing in the area.

What I'd like to see along those lines would be the original spring - where the first brewery there drew its water, and which gave its name to the area as Spring Gardens - to be located beneath the rubble-field and used to supply water to a fountain or water feature.

What I'd like to see along those lines would be the original spring - where the first brewery there drew its water, and which gave its name to the area as Spring Gardens - to be located beneath the rubble-field and used to supply water to a fountain or water feature.

nice idea!

I was in Newcastle on Sunday (09.12.06) and couldn't help but notice they've started on a second core.

Some quick snaps courtesy of my mobile phone:

http://img31.imageshack.us/img31/7172/downingplaza003.jpg

http://img30.imageshack.us/img30/9295/downingplaza004.jpg

http://img130.imageshack.us/img130/3734/downingplaza005.jpg

http://img37.imageshack.us/img37/5264/downingplaza001.jpg

http://img37.imageshack.us/img37/4629/downingplaza002.jpg

Thats going up faster then NUFC into the Premiership (as it stands, no jinx).

Thanks for them photos forsakenarchitecture, could you tell if it was part of the same building or do you think they've started on one of the other ones?

It looks like 2 separate buildings going up (might be totally wrong here) as we have 2 different core's going up

Went passed the Downing Plaza site today and that 2nd core is much larger than the first, also its going up very quick!

Went passed the Downing Plaza site today and that 2nd core is much larger than the first, also its going up very quick!

Yes, the 2nd core certainly seems to be a far larger/broader core, as is shown in the 3rd photo of 'Post 176' (above) though it is (today) now also taller than in that photo.

Is it because it is a far deeper building (this new second core, the one further away from the S&N HQ building) as it looks like it is on the original concept photos from way back . . .

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u209/gazcowley/Downing%20Plaza/downing1.jpg

I notice (in the above) it has a Newcastle University 'crest' on it . . is this to be the Business School building?

So do we think both cores are for the same building (The one that is to be the business school?) or do we think it's two seperate buildings?

So do we think both cores are for the same building (The one that is to be the business school?) or do we think it's two seperate buildings?

I would say its for the same building.

So do we think both cores are for the same building (The one that is to be the business school?) or do we think it's two seperate buildings?

I could easily be very wrong, but I certainly (initially) assumed it was two different buildings . .

1 - The 'tall thin' core that went up first, I thought was for the taller/thinner building immediately next to the old S&N HQ building.

2 - The second 'wider' core, would be for the wider building further away from the S&N HQ building.

Both proposed buildings shown below . .
http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u209/gazcowley/Downing%20Plaza/downing4.jpg

I could well be wrong though!

The second core is approximately twice the length and width of the first core.

Comparing the two images below against an aerial view of the site, I’d personally say that these two cores of close proximity to each other are for the same building (the silver/grey Business School in the render) and that the second core will be the primary one for the building. Of course, this is merely guess work and I’m happy to be proved wrong.

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u209/gazcowley/Downing%20Plaza/downing1.jpg

http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/3996/downingplaza007.jpg

The second core is approximately twice the length and width of the first core.

Comparing the two images below against an aerial view of the site, I’d personally say that these two cores of close proximity to each other are for the same building (the silver/grey Business School in the render) and that the second core will be the primary one for the building. Of course, this is merely guess work and I’m happy to be proved wrong.

That is my thought aswell, if it was for the taller building, then it would be more to the right, also if it was for the building behind the Business school, then it would be further back. Buildings tend to have more then one core, for the starwells, Wellbar Central had at least 2.

That is my thought aswell, if it was for the taller building, then it would be more to the right, also if it was for the building behind the Business school, then it would be further back. Buildings tend to have more then one core, for the starwells, Wellbar Central had at least 2.

Yeah, my thoughts exactly. There is plenty of room for the smaller brown coloured building to stand infront of where I took the photo. And obviously, the taller building slots in perfect on the right without the tower crane being an obstruction.

Looking at the above photo it certainly looks like it is just the one building

Thanks for that photo, definately confirms its just for the one building, the business school.

What's the finish going to be on the outside? It looks like some sort of metal panels in the render at the top of this page. Is that practical/affordable? I think it'd look great to start with but might not age that well.

Application has been made for the Sandman Hotel conversion, and this is actually how it will look with the brick and concrete painted over. the application makes reference to black and white being a suitable finish because A/ Nufc and B/ Citygate!:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/Sn.jpg

Change of use from vacant office building (Class B1) to 170 bed hotel (Class C1), infilling of ground floor vehicular access to form ancillary bar/restaurant, alterations to elevations including enlargement of windows, recladding of external facade and installation of external lighting system

unfortunately the quality of the planning document is abysmal :ohno: so these were the best images i could get:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/sandman6.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/sandman5.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/sandman4.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/sandman3.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/sandman2.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/sandman.jpg

Wow, theres going to be some big change to Gallowgate looking at that last render!

Wow, theres going to be some big change to Gallowgate looking at that last render!

yeah the Downing buildings are huge. Though with the emphasis on black white and monochrome it would be nice to have a bit of colour.

Also the garage along SJ Boulevard looks really out of place the last image, and it would complete the heber street 'block' if it was redeveloped.

I must say that I like the night time lighting!

I wonder how the Shark Club will will cope with the match day hordes wanting a quick pint! ? :lol:

I take it National Tyre's will be staying? It will spoil that block so it really needs to moved

As for the renders - they are not the greatest quality so not sure how they will turn out. Though it does seem like it will be one of those buildings that looks better at night

That's going to look attrocious next to the modernity of the Downing buildings. It'll look like it's been done 'on the cheap' even if that's far from the truth. I'd implore the council to reject the scheme but given the current jobs situation I doubt they will.

That's going to look attrocious next to the modernity of the Downing buildings. It'll look like it's been done 'on the cheap' even if that's far from the truth. I'd implore the council to reject the scheme but given the current jobs situation I doubt they will.

The former S&N HQ building is going to look fantastic, in my opinion.

Do you think the new buildings are of any (individual) architectural merit at all?

They appear to be very "of the moment" (if the 'moment' ever exists) and look like they will appear VERY old fashioned within a very short space of time, as most 'of the moment' buildings very quickly do!

Future generations of SSC posters will be going "UGH!!!!", I think!

I agree about the new buildings, sure they might look impressive for a couple of months but I think they will age terribly.

The designs just leave so much to be desired. I too am looking forward to the Sandman and think it will look rather smart.

The big issue I have is the group of buildings together. I don't think you could put three different buildings together that don't suit being next to each other if you tried. From certain angles it looks appalling. All in all its massively dissapointing but I am just thankful that something is actually being built.

I think the Uni building looks good, about ageing, well thats something you have to take a gamble on, unless you build them from a past area then all new buildings will have that gamble on them.

I'm still disapointed that, that tower isn't going to be built.

in comparison to time central, wellbar central and strawberry place across the street, all of these buildings look cheap.

in comparison to time central, wellbar central and strawberry place across the street, all of these buildings look cheap.

Yes, I think Time Central and Wellbar Central look quality. Strawberry Place looks like it will eventually be quite distinctive too.

It's the plot above St James Park Metro that will be the "key" to the overall/complete effect of the area, down the line!

Yes, I think Time Central and Wellbar Central look quality. Strawberry Place looks like it will eventually be quite distinctive too.

It's the plot above St James Park Metro that will be the "key" to the overall/complete effect of the area, down the line!

Yeah, it is absolutely crucial that nothing short of a brilliant piece of architecture is built on this spot. For me it holds the key to the success of the gallowgate area aesthetically.

They appear to be very "of the moment" (if the 'moment' ever exists) and look like they will appear VERY old fashioned within a very short space of time, as most 'of the moment' buildings very quickly do!
!

Like those newspaper clippings of developments proposed in the 1960's you've posted, eh? I agree that buildings should be designed with the intention of still looking good in 100 years time or more, although they should still reflect the era that they were built in.

Like those newspaper clippings of developments proposed in the 1960's you've posted, eh? I agree that buildings should be designed with the intention of still looking good in 100 years time or more, although they should still reflect the era that they were built in.

Proposals are one thing, actual constructions are another thing entirely.

To compare like-with-like (ie, developments actually built) all eras that I have been around in have abounded with top quality architecture as well as with utter cr*p. All eras that I have been around in have (often) tended to celebrate the utter cr*p as they were being proposed/being built (because it's "their" cr*p) almost as much as (what turned out to be) their quality proposals. At least some people have done that, not all!

The 'common' factor throughout seems to always be that (again, only from some) there is a natural high level of support for 'now' (whenever that may be) because of the feeling that "we have learnt from others silly mistakes".

Not always, though!

Either that or biting the hand that feeds and 'moving on' from quality architecture styles for the sake of it.

I'm still not entirely sure what your overall point is though, or more specifically what you're suggesting as a solution. If 'now' architecture is bad (and I agree that it frequently is), then are you suggesting recreating halcyon days of architecture by reviving 'quality' architectural styles such as art deco. How about a gothic revival revival? Or even Egyptian?

Either that or biting the hand that feeds and 'moving on' from quality architecture styles for the sake of it.

I'm still not entirely sure what your overall point is though, or more specifically what you're suggesting as a solution. If 'now' architecture is bad (and I agree that it frequently is), then are you suggesting recreating halcyon days of architecture by reviving 'quality' architectural styles such as art deco. How about a gothic revival revival? Or even Egyptian?

I would like to see more of the styled building we already have in Grainger town and Grey St, of course the interiors may have to be rather different then what they would be like if they were built 200 years ago to meet modern needs, but I see no reason why they can't be built from the outside like they used to be. I would encourage this on streets we already have, and in places where buildings are being taken down. In other areas I would like to see more modern buildings, like in Science city, that land should be used for modern architecture, and hopefully taller buildings, so that Newcastle has a great blend, of new and old. I would also welcome Neo-Gothic architecture in Newcastle aswell, but noone seems to do that sort of stuff any more, it always seems to be bland things, buildings with no detail on the outside, or American style Georgian architecture, which is no good to anyone.

I wouldnt bank on the Sandman being there forever though. I'd say a good quality refurb might extend the life of the building, but in 20 years they will be faced with another extensive refurb to update the (then out of of date) interiors and might consider building something new then.

I am pleased the tower never got properly proposed and built for 2 reasons:

1. If construction was starting now, as with the other Downing buildings, the recession would see it cancelled. We would probably have ended up with something cheap or a surface car park for the next 20 years.
2. If construction had started last year it would probably have screwed the rest of the site and the smaller buildings would never be built for economic reasons. With a drop in demand for office space across the city, the tower might have taken some high profile tenants from other parts of the city and also prevented other smaller developments from happening too, like Strawberry place etc.

I would rather see more areas developed for low-rise than one corner of the city developed with an oversize high rise.

Here's the Design and Access Statement

http://planningapplications.newcastle.gov.uk/online-applications/files/E5399D99C53B3176E3D301AD30F88AAA/pdf/document-167546.pdf

Just scanned in by the council, so quality is cr@p. I still can't believe they're just going to paint the brick. I thought they were going to re-clad it in something. Honestly, I think the painted brickwork will look pretty bad to start with, and atrocious after 6 months at that busy bit of road. The justification for the colours (or lack thereof) is particularly awful. Talk about clutching at straws.

Here's the Design and Access Statement

http://planningapplications.newcastle.gov.uk/online-applications/files/E5399D99C53B3176E3D301AD30F88AAA/pdf/document-167546.pdf

Just scanned in by the council, so quality is cr@p. I still can't believe they're just going to paint the brick. I thought they were going to re-clad it in something. Honestly, I think the painted brickwork will look pretty bad to start with, and atrocious after 6 months at that busy bit of road. The justification for the colours (or lack thereof) is particularly awful. Talk about clutching at straws.

Oh dear :ohno:

That doesn't sound too good at all, even though I do quite like the render, if they are just painting it I can see it looking poor.

Here's the Design and Access Statement

http://planningapplications.newcastle.gov.uk/online-applications/files/E5399D99C53B3176E3D301AD30F88AAA/pdf/document-167546.pdf

Just scanned in by the council, so quality is cr@p. I still can't believe they're just going to paint the brick. I thought they were going to re-clad it in something. Honestly, I think the painted brickwork will look pretty bad to start with, and atrocious after 6 months at that busy bit of road. The justification for the colours (or lack thereof) is particularly awful. Talk about clutching at straws.

:lol: you have to laugh. all in all it seemed a bit unprofessional so i wouldnt be surprised to see this one knocked back.

How come I'm just getting a meesage saying document unable to read?

The 2nd core (the wider one) is now higher than the other one

quick question Geordie - how are the roads round gallowgate? the quayside streets are pretty clear so wonder how it'll be tomorrow lunch for the football.

quick question Geordie - how are the roads round gallowgate? the quayside streets are pretty clear so wonder how it'll be tomorrow lunch for the football.

No idea mate - I didnt go to work. I looked outside and just got put off (Terrible like considering it was probably a busy night :bash: )

Top of Stanhope Street is clear so im guessing the Gallowgate area should be fine - i think all the main roads are fine, its just the smaller, residential streets

Either that or biting the hand that feeds and 'moving on' from quality architecture styles for the sake of it.

I'm still not entirely sure what your overall point is though, or more specifically what you're suggesting as a solution. If 'now' architecture is bad (and I agree that it frequently is), then are you suggesting recreating halcyon days of architecture by reviving 'quality' architectural styles such as art deco. How about a gothic revival revival? Or even Egyptian?

I don't want to end up with a pastiche of previous styles though. I want to live in the modern, vibrant city of Newcastle not Poundbury. Time Central and Wellbar House strike a good balance between referencing the past with their choice of building materials and being thoroughly modern inside.

I'm not saying we should disregard the old though, the quality old buildings we currently have should be maintained well but there's room for both modern and traditional.

taken earlier today:

http://img710.imageshack.us/img710/3012/downing.jpg

Thanks for the photo update Johnny. Haven't been in the city for a while so its good to see its progress.

We are all amazed by how fast progress the builders have erected the "cores" wait till you see the steel frame start next week

I believe the refurb hotel is nothing to do with the build of the NUBS building and proposed student accomodation

Seems to quite a size going by those pictures.

We are all amazed by how fast progress the builders have erected the "cores" wait till you see the steel frame start next week

I believe the refurb hotel is nothing to do with the build of the NUBS building and proposed student accomodation

Yep, I believe that Downing sold the Brewery HQ tower to the hotel company and they are following their own development plans.

I'm still disapointed the 50 story tower isn't going to be built.:ohno:

so WHAT is being built?

A building for NUBS, and a strudent accomodation block servibing 500 students.
Sorry I just read news. Cany wait for it to be completed, sure it will revitalise the whole area, look forward to reviewing progress throughout the project .

so WHAT is being built?

This . . .

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u209/gazcowley/Downing%20Plaza/downing1.jpg

so WHAT is being built?

Development Details:

- 18 storey building containing a 183 bed hotel and 102 serviced apartments
- 10 storey Business School
- Three buildings of 7, 9 & 10 storeys containing 81 student accommodation units
- 7 storey non-residential educational institution or office building

Interesting that the little patch of land on the right of the above rendering is shown as grass. Using the wonders of google street view, I have 'been' there, and seen that the area is at present not grass covered and somewhat unsightly, especially with the walls of the substation behind. I'm assuming downing don't actually own the site and therefore have no plans to actually landscape it as part of the development, which would be a shame.

I think that grass bit will be developed when Science city finally goes ahead.

i think that triangle is owned by NUFC as shepherd proposed a hotel development there.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/no12.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/no1.jpg

also part of the development was extending the gallowgate stand and building this apartment block on the site of the nufc leazes carpark with steps down into the park itself. wouldve looked great.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/no123.jpg

Development Details:

- 18 storey building containing a 183 bed hotel and 102 serviced apartments
- 10 storey Business School
- Three buildings of 7, 9 & 10 storeys containing 81 student accommodation units
- 7 storey non-residential educational institution or office building

all at once? is it phased?

I would suggest for the refurb building, that it had a more gradual phasing of colour - such as the Maastoren in Rotterdam, it takes what is a dull colour and make it quite funky (as the Dutch always seem to do!)

http://www.fredcarla.nl/mooi%20rtdam%20Maastoren2.jpg

Far more impressive than the strips of contrasting shades of black, grey and white

all at once? is it phased?

The two cores appear to correspond to the business school. I assume that if the hotel was under construction now, there would be an extra core between the large one and the S&N building.

Has the hotel on the triangle of land I mentioned been scrapped then? Looked interesting.

^yep. scuppered when the club was sold to ashley in 2007.

all at once? is it phased?

I believe it's phased. I'd guess Business School first, then the hotel/apartment building, then the office building and finally the student accomodation.

I believe the hotel "site" is up for sale and is not part of current construction plans, things can quickly change especially when people see other developments taking shape.

see the steel frame has started!!!!!

I believe the hotel "site" is up for sale and is not part of current construction plans, things can quickly change especially when people see other developments taking shape.

see the steel frame has started!!!!!

What hotel "site" are you referring too? The brewery HQ? or the Downing hotel?

I believe the "site" i refered to is what was proposed for a hotel but is not currently in part of developers plans as it "is up for sale"

anyone know what is planned for the "big" siteover the road????

I'm still unsure what your referring too. The brewery HQ tower was up for sale but is now owned by a hotel operator with planning applications for it. However there is also a hotel that was part of Downing plans. The 18 storey hotel/apartments. If this is the one you are referring too; it seems quite strange to sell part of the development that already has planning permision.

Actually I've just read the last few posts on this thread again and theres been talk of the other site that was owned by NUFC and was planned to be a hotel; so now I'm totally confused!

The "big" site over the road is planned to become Science Central, part of Newcastle Science City.

yes I was refering to the "proposed" new hotel, current climate is probably reason to off load part of site. Planning permission is a + to someone interested in a purchase

That is really interesting then, so we're going to have a completed Downing Plaza, the Sandman Signature and an empty gap in the middle? :ohno:

first i've heard of that, do you have a source for the info babe ruth?

I've just looked at the Downing Press release regarding Downing Plaza construction start and it states at the bottom:

Future phases of Downing Plaza will include an additional 100,000 sq ft of offices, two hotels - a 183-bed hotel and 102-bed suite hotel - a 462-bed student village and extensive retail space, across six steel and glass-clad buildings designed by acclaimed architects Ian Simpson.


So this must be a very recent thing if true.

johnnypd, the hotel site is up for sale!!! google is a wonderful tool

^^ I haven't found anything on google relating to Downing selling any of their development. The only news relating to Downing Plaza and a hotel is that of the sale of the Brewery HQ to the hotel group opening the Sandman Signature.

I think Ruth must be mistaken or misunderstood the Brewery HQ was sold to Sandman hotels after planning to knock the building down and build on it themselves- the 50 odd floor tower was metioned- obviously a large proportion of the tower would have been apartments and the recession seen this plan thrown in the bin. The building was hence sold to the canadian hotel group.

Bed occupancy in Newcastle is one of the highest in the UK- and it would be mad for Downing not to build the 4 star hotel there- operators would jump on the chance to be on that site- right next to St James's park and right next to the new up coming office sector of the city means occupancy would be high all week. With Crown Plaza being built on Stephenson Quarter, already a hilton, copthorne and Malmaison- a Radisson hotel or even a Novotel would be my bet.

I think your right about Ruth being mistaken/misunderstood.

Anyway while browsing for information I came across some saying Downing were in 'advanced' talks for Novotel to operate the 4 star hotel and Adagio City Aparthotel to operate the serviced apartments. This was news to me.

Well if it was Novotel- some of them are really nice and they seem to be expanding quickly- the new one in Liverpool looks really smart. Still think we miss that Radisson hotel thought.

Totally off on a tangent- but does anyone know what is happening with Irving/ Irvine house (it think that is the name) that has permission for a hotel beween the Lit and Phil and Tokyo pub on Westgate Road- and for that matter is Sleeperz going ahead? If those two would happen the street would be just finished off nicely.

Sleeperz still has expansion plans listed on their website but I haven't heard anymore. I really like the look of it though. I'm guessing the plans might be on hold for a short while due to the recession.

There is already a Novotel in Newcastle. However it is serving the Airport mainly, so one in the city centre would be a good choice. I agree about the Radisson, they recently opened a Radisson SAS in Durham.

I feel the city really could do with a Radisson and also a Ramada hotel. Do we not have a thread for hotels?

Not sure if I could stomach a ramada. Perhaps a marriott, or even better a residence inn. Hotels based around appartments, with kitchens and living areas are popular these days. I think the hotel du vin may be a similar concept.

I think there was talk not long ago of Marriott looking at the city centre. They already have 2 here though, one at Gosforth and one at the MetroCentre. Is that what the Staybridge suites are? I'm guessing thats what they mean by the serviced apartments part of the hotel.

time will tell

time will tell

So would a source... (Not Google- Already done a search and as I've said there's no such results; just all about the Brewery HQ).

Sleeperz still has expansion plans listed on their website but I haven't heard anymore. I really like the look of it though. I'm guessing the plans might be on hold for a short while due to the recession.

There is already a Novotel in Newcastle. However it is serving the Airport mainly, so one in the city centre would be a good choice. I agree about the Radisson, they recently opened a Radisson SAS in Durham.

I feel the city really could do with a Radisson and also a Ramada hotel. Do we not have a thread for hotels?

The new 'Newcastle Airport hotel' was originally going to open under the 'Ramada' chain before the developers went bust ... Hilton have now stepped in and will eventually open it under their 'Doubletree' brand.

I feel the city really could do with a Radisson and also a Ramada hotel. Do we not have a thread for hotels?

So far, I think all the hotels have their own individual 'Project threads'.

That doesn't mean to say we shouldn't have a "Newcastle Hotels" general thread, if we want one?