http://1.2.3.13/bmi/images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nechronical/oct2009/3/4/new-323683337.jpg

McAleer and Rushe are set to knock down the Newgate Shopping Centre and "Quality" Hotel and redevelop the area into three hotels and some retail. Also as part of the scheme a new street will be created between Newgate Street and Fenkle Street dividing the block into two. http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-evening-chronicle/2009/10/10/100m-revamp-newgate-street-could-lead-to-600-jobs-72703-24898034/

Wonder if we can pull in the numerous posts we had on this from the 'Full Summary of Projects' thread recently !

http://1.2.3.13/bmi/images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nechronical/oct2009/3/4/new-323683337.jpg

McAleer and Rushe are set to knock down the Newgate Shopping Centre and "Quality" Hotel and redevelop the area into three hotels and some retail. Also as part of the scheme a new street will be created between Newgate Street and Fenkle Street dividing the block into two. http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-evening-chronicle/2009/10/10/100m-revamp-newgate-street-could-lead-to-600-jobs-72703-24898034/

It's about time, what would that mean for players though? Also wouldn't the tennants have something to say about it?

http://www.mcaleer-rushe.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/DBI1A.jpg
http://www.mcaleer-rushe.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/CD22.jpg
http://www.mcaleer-rushe.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/DBI1B.jpg

I actually like that (despite how brief the drawings are). The windows should be clear on all floors though, then it would look 10 times better.

I have to say i'm not a big fan of those renders, low rise hum drum springs to mind .. however, the Newgate centre itself just has to go :ohno:

I have to say i'm not a big fan of those renders, low rise hum drum springs to mind .. however, the Newgate centre itself just has to go :ohno:

It does seem interesting though. I think it's simple, it goes with our Neo Classic buildings, but has a little touch of modern within it. It would be interesting to see how the windows not being in line with those above them would work in real life though.

I guess it's hard to tell with those pictures, I also think its going to be one of those that will be hard to tell until they have gone up. I mean look at ES South, great renders, but they spoilt it by going cheap with the Faux windows that have no desire to even pretend that they are not real.

I think it looks alright, but a lot will depend on the materials being right on the largely stone sections. In the clayton street picture it looks like the stone joins on to an old-looking building, is this the one already there or will they be building that new to form a kind of transition with the new block?

I think it looks decent enough - not brilliant BUT miles better than what is there currently. Also i think it will be one of those that will look better when finished - provided they do have proper windows and not that plastic rubbish we see on ES

BIG improvement on the current Newgate Centre, God that place is awful, I really feel there is a renewed confidence emerging in the city, we seem to have a number of developments ongoing/nearing completion

I quite like the look of it from them renders, the stone cladding looks similar to that of the new King's Gate building at Newcastle University, if it was to this quality it would be good.

On those renders - am i right in assuming the 1st render is of Newgate Street, the 2nd is the corner of Newgate Street-Clayton Street, the 3rd?

the 3rd looks to be clayton street itself. i dont understand the classical building in that one - is it just their computerised version of the existing building or do they plan to knock it down and rebuild a cheap imitation?

no images of the grainger street side yet.

the 3rd looks to be clayton street itself. i dont understand the classical building in that one - is it just their computerised version of the existing building or do they plan to knock it down and rebuild a cheap imitation?

no images of the grainger street side yet.

You talking about the 1st render? That building is what is currently the Rose & Crown - so maybe that building is gonna stay? or is the whole lot supposed to be demolished?

You talking about the 1st render? That building is what is currently the Rose & Crown - so maybe that building is gonna stay? or is the whole lot supposed to be demolished?

I mean in the 3rd picture. the building to the right looks georgian, like the one there, but some details are different from the existing building and the stone matches up with the new build.

Give the poor guy on the computer a break! It's a compuetr image, it's not supposed to look exactly like it's real! The building you're talking about can be seen on Google maps street view as Mr Discount, I'm pretty sure. There's only so much you can show on a computer image, and this can sometimes be used by the developers to hoodwink the public, but seeing as they've used the same texture for the Rose and Crown and Mr Discount as the new ones, it would suggest that the new building will be in natural stone, or at least something that's supposed to look like that. More details will come out when it's in for planning, but I don't think it looks bad. Where's this new street they were talking about?

Ha! Without knowing, or meaning to, I've been defending someone I know! Just met the guy who actually did those renders in the pub, (didn't know he'd done them before now), and those images that were released to the Journal were unfinished images. I saw the latest ones, and they look a lot better. The planning app should be going in soon, so we'll all see the final images soon I would have thought

Ha! Without knowing, or meaning to, I've been defending someone I know! Just met the guy who actually did those renders in the pub, (didn't know he'd done them before now), and those images that were released to the Journal were unfinished images. I saw the latest ones, and they look a lot better. The planning app should be going in soon, so we'll all see the final images soon I would have thought

this is your chance to get some exclusive info....:)

Other than it should be in for planning the end of next week, there's not much else to tell I'm afraid!

Where you able to find out if the building would be done with natural stone or not?

I actually like that (despite how brief the drawings are). The windows should be clear on all floors though, then it would look 10 times better.

I assume the colours are a not-entirely-successful attempt to make the windows look less bland. Take away the shades of blue and change nothing else, and I'd say they'd be very bland, compared to the Graingertown buildings they're trying to echo. I'd not want to insist on Georgian glazing bars and Corinthian pilasters, but it'd be good if someone could think of decent substitutes.

Perhaps those finished renders will show they've cracked that now...

Chatton - they weren't done by a slightly unhinged but incredibly likeable ex-colleague, were they?

Either way, I'm afraid I dislike the look of these buildings massively.They just look cheap, squat and fake - so they'll fit in beautifully with the Eldon Square extension! Why they're done in fake stone (and it will almost certainly be fake stone, probably that artstone stuff) I have no idea. And why the buildings then have to be "livened up" with some "ker-azy" bright colours I have no idea.

Also, does anyone know what the character of the street will be? Is it going to be the awful privatised space a few of us are dreading?

Where is the new street going to be? Are they going to punch a hole between Grainger Street and Clayton Street?

Where is the new street going to be? Are they going to punch a hole between Grainger Street and Clayton Street?

Posted by johnnypd on the "Zurich House" thread . . .
my guess:

http://img38.imageshack.us/img38/5175/newstreet.jpg

Anger, yes, the location where I met the aforementioned ex-colleague should have given it away!

Try to find out the details on this place then, see if he knows much? Hope he's doing okay. Must admit though, I really think these designs need to go straight back to the drawing board but having seen the rubbish that's been allowed on that street already I expect the planners will just wave it through...

A view I hope we all see again VERY soon, next to the Rose & Crown on Newgate Street . . .
This photo was taken in 1966, and shows a 'construction site' next to the Rose & Crown. Sadly (and unlike the next time we see this view) this consruction site was for the building of the Swallow Hotel and Newgate Shopping Centre.
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/1966SwallowHotelNewgateStbeingbuilt.jpg

And here is the same view shortly after, and as I mostly remember it . . as The Swallow Hotel, which it was for most of it's life.
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/SwallowHotelNewgateStreet.jpg

With LUCK, the above will all be gone SOON!

A colleague of mine from London had the grave misfortune to stay in that hotel recently. Picked it sight unseen based on location. I met him there - the first time I have ever been in the place. What a sh*thole.

A colleague of mine from London had the grave misfortune to stay in that hotel recently. Picked it sight unseen based on location. I met him there - the first time I have ever been in the place. What a sh*thole.

It's not a Swallow Hotel any more is it, what chain is it now?

It's not a Swallow Hotel any more is it, what chain is it now?

It is the Newgate Hotel which is owned by the Focus Hotel Group

A view I hope we all see again VERY soon, next to the Rose & Crown on Newgate Street . . .
This photo was taken in 1966, and shows a 'construction site' next to the Rose & Crown. Sadly (and unlike the next time we see this view) this consruction site was for the building of the Swallow Hotel and Newgate Shopping Centre.
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/1966SwallowHotelNewgateStbeingbuilt.jpg

And here is the same view shortly after, and as I mostly remember it . . as The Swallow Hotel, which it was for most of it's life.
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/SwallowHotelNewgateStreet.jpg

With LUCK, the above will all be gone SOON!

NOW

Here are the latest plans for the Newgate Street Redevelopment . . .

"1960s version"!!

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/NewgateStreetRedevelopment1960s.jpg

Newgate facelift unveiled
PROPOSALS to replace a Newcastle city centre eyesore as part of a £200m redevelopment have been submitted to the city council.

The massive makeover of the Newgate Shopping Centre would see the creation of three new hotels, offices and shops, as well as a new street running from Newgate Street to Fenkle Street.

The former Quality Hotel building, which towers above shops on the street and is regarded by many as an eyesore, would be demolished, along with the Newgate Shopping Centre.

Irish developer McAleer and Rushe, which bought the Newgate Shopping Centre for £18.2m three years ago, has now submitted the plans to Newcastle City Council, with work due to start in 2011.

Michael Hepburn, associate director at Nathaniel Lichfield and Partners, who submitted the plans for the developer said: “The development represents a major show of confidence in Newcastle’s property sector, given the current economic circumstances.

“The investment of around £200m into the local economy could lead to the creation of over 700 jobs.

“The scheme represents the next logical step in the redevelopment and rejuvenation of Newcastle’s retail heart and city centre core.

“It will provide a real boost to Newgate Street, Grainger Street, Clayton Street and the wider area, providing a tangible enhancement of this important district.

“There has been strong interest from top quality retailers in occupying the new units. There has also been a great deal of interest from hotel operators, which illustrates the continued draw of Newcastle as a business and tourist destination.”

The design and layout of the development has been led by Newcastle’s Devereux Architects. They have sought to restore historic features, such as the curve of Newgate Street and create a new chare linking to Falconar’s Court.

Architects from Devereux have been working with English Heritage on the plans, which it hopes will complement Richard Grainger and John Dobson’s buildings on Grainger Street and Clayton Street, a conservation area.

Peter Swift, director at Devereux, said: “We are very proud to be involved in the redevelopment of a major historic quarter in the city centre.

“This is a key project for our practice and adds to the extensive commercial experience we have within the region, which includes the recent planning approval for the 200-bed hotel and 60,000 sq ft office building on Baltic Quay, Gateshead also for McAleer & Rushe. We have a long history of regeneration in the city centre, including the St James’ Gate development next to Centre for Life and the redevelopment of the former Binns department store on Grainger Street.

“We look forward to continuing to build our reputation within the region for our regeneration work.”

Contemporary in design the new mixed-use development opens up the city block by creating a new chare off Newgate Street, which gives access to the 165-bed four-star hotel, the 250-bed two-star and the 153-bed one-star hotel. The line of Newgate Street would also be brought forward to reflect the original medieval curve, which, at ground level, would provide new retail outlets.


http://www.nebusiness.co.uk/commercial-property-north-east/news/2009/12/09/newgate-facelift-unveiled-51140-25350457/

http://i759.photobucket.com/albums/xx240/TownPlanningNE/Newgate%20St/artist-s-impressions-of-the-propose.jpg

I really hope that cladding is not the fake sandstone of the ES extension.

Excellent news, I really hope they approve it.
Imgine it starting in 2011 aswell, I mean next year we will see many projects complete, and and means after that we will have something else new and exciting to look forward to aswell. Looks like an increase in hotel beds, which is what we need, and also more retail, hmm could this be high end retail I wonder?

I really hope that cladding is not the fake sandstone of the ES extension.

agreed. looks a bit trashy in the pic posted by townplanningNE, though that is due to the coloured strips and dodgy lighting. can't really get a feel for the material of the cladding.

anyway just had a look on newcastle council's planning portal and can't see details of this. since the website received a makeover (losing the special interest section) theyve been really slow uploading new applications.

I really hope that cladding is not the fake sandstone of the ES extension.

I think the English Heritage would of expressed concerns about something like that happening, they are really picky when it comes to listed buildings, and buidlings around them to fit in with them aswell. Anyway, that what I think, and also hope too.

It also looks like the planner are prepared to start the construction/demolition right away aswell, so that is very good news, because it could easily of been put back becasue of the recession, so now we just have to wait and hope NCC play their part correctly.

from the pics we're seeing it looks like the new 'street' will be quite narrow and pedestrian only.

thinking outside the box, that is not such a bad idea. this is an example of making such a route alive and active, from Melbourne:

http://17.media.tumblr.com/qckvHpoZDd5rsilazr9dBNro_500.jpg

now we're not going to get something as vibrant and gritty as that, but the general idea of utilising active frontages - ie a bar, nightclub entrance (as there is a basement leisure unit in this scheme iirc) and a cafe would make sure it is not dingy and threatening but a viable through-route.

anyway just had a look on newcastle council's planning portal and can't see details of this. since the website received a makeover (losing the special interest section) theyve been really slow uploading new applications.

Yeah I've had a look too, I've been looking for the Sandman Signature application too with no luck! Seem to be very slow uploading the new applications and the map feature is virtually useless! It never loads properly!

They work well in other countries, however I don't think it will be as narrow as that, and would be about the width of a oneway road or similar. I also don't think night clubs is the market they are after, if they are looking to bring hotel to the area aswell, especially if they are say 3*-4*, anything above a Travel Inn, in other words. Hopefully it lives up to it's hype.

This 'second pic' (not in the on-line article) was included in the hard-copy version of todays Journal article on this development . . .

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

panelling looks very cheap there, though i guess it would be fine for a side-street and not a major elevation. the size of the street looks pretty good. what is the building at the very end?

Is this 'new street' going to be a through route, or just a cul-de-sac allowing access to the interior of the site?

Is this 'new street' going to be a through route, or just a cul-de-sac allowing access to the interior of the site?

it's connecting with falconer's court/fenkle street so the former.

You know they are doing there, what should have been done with ES South... take a hulking bloody great shopping centre and split it up into smaller chunks with proper thoroughfares.

You know they are doing there, what should have been done with ES South... take a hulking bloody great shopping centre and split it up into smaller chunks with proper thoroughfares.

:yes: i still have hope they could do this with the section at the end of Clayton street so that it joins onto blackett street and opens up onto Old Eldon Square.

^^ And lose poundland, bimbis and supercuts! You must be kidding... I would never set foot in the place again :)

from the pics we're seeing it looks like the new 'street' will be quite narrow and pedestrian only.

thinking outside the box, that is not such a bad idea. this is an example of making such a route alive and active, from Melbourne:

http://17.media.tumblr.com/qckvHpoZDd5rsilazr9dBNro_500.jpg

now we're not going to get something as vibrant and gritty as that, but the general idea of utilising active frontages - ie a bar, nightclub entrance (as there is a basement leisure unit in this scheme iirc) and a cafe would make sure it is not dingy and threatening but a viable through-route.

That would be the least likely but possibly most attractive proposition....apart from maybe the area around Pink Lane do we have anywhere in the city which can give this sort of urban experience? That gets my vote (by which i mean, Poundland are invariably waiting around the corner to buy the lot)


Also in that Melboune photo there is a piece by renowned international street artist 'Invader' who, as luck would have it, has adorned our city with about 25 of his mosaic pieces...the only city outside London and Manchester in the UK:

http://www.space-invaders.com/sominv.html

(scroll down to Newcastle obviously!)

Ive seen those in Newcastle before but didnt know that Invader person was behind all of them.

Other areas which could/do offer that - low friars street, high bridge, ermmm, that's about it!

I hope thats a worry you have Lebowski, and not any of your inside information regarding Poundland.

So any idea when we should expect an announcement of weather or not planning permission has been accepted?

You know, when the Newgate Shopping Centre goes, a small part of me will be sad because here in Newcastle 2009, we have our very own 1980's time capsule. I know it was built before that but I cannot help feeling like I have been teleported back 25 years as soon as I step through those doors.

This is no bad thing!, SOS....Save Our Shopping centre!!!!!

You know, when the Newgate Shopping Centre goes, a small part of me will be sad because here in Newcastle 2009, we have our very own 1980's time capsule. I know it was built before that but I cannot help feeling like I have been teleported back 25 years as soon as I step through those doors.

This is no bad thing!, SOS....Save Our Shopping centre!!!!!

You start that campaign to save it, and I'll be the one around there hitting you with a baseball bat.:lol:

planning application for this finally uploaded:

2009/1765/01/DET | Redevelopment of existing Newgate Centre, comprising the demolition of existing buildings and the erection of six new buildings varying between 4 and 7 storeys (plus basement), to accommodate 3 hotels (use class C1) of 160, 165 and 250 bedrooms, 4944sqm of office floor space (use class B1); 3051sqm gross floor space on the ground floor to be used for retail and/or leisure (Use classes A1 and/or A2 and/orA3 and/or D2 and/or casino (sui generis); and 4371 sqm in the basement to be used for retail or leisure (use classes A1 and/or D2 and/or A3 and/or casino (sui generis); creation of car park ( 33 spaces) and a new chare at ground level, alterations to elevations of no. 67 Clayton Street and Change of use of the building from retail (use class A1) to offices (use class B1) and associated landscaping scheme | Newgate Centre, Newgate Street And 67 Clayton Road Newcastle upon Tyne

http://planningapplications.newcastle.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=summary&keyVal=KTOBBVBS07X00

some pics -

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

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/ngcl1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/ngcl2.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/ngcl3.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/ngcl4.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/ngcl5.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/ngcl6.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/ngcl7.jpg

layout of the new 'street'. going to be an interesting public space, backing onto bins and service entrances and the back wall of woolies.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/ngcl8.jpg

Wow, anyway to vote in favour of this?

I quite like the front on to Grainger st, but those white buildings dont do it for me at all.

I'm not sure why I like it, maybe because it's simple, still modern, but doesn't seem to offend any of it's surrounding (atleast not on plan) while still having some sort of image. I also like how the new st will create public area, which this city needs more of. I think what really does it for me is that it's a rather decent project replacing something truely aweful, and if you had anything other then decent in that area then it will become something standing out and as aweful as what is already there. It also make more of that space then what is there now.

Some of the pics still need to be more clear though.

It appears the new st will be named Newgate Chare.

Probably a little better than what;s already there, but I don't like the coloured panels much. I also have a worry that even more so than the Grainger Town debate we've had before, significant efforts will need to be made to attract quality tenants to these units - the proximity of the new Debenhams may help, but this needs to be set against the proximity of the pound shops on Clayton Street.

i can see the ground floor and basement units getting snapped up by leisure firms wanting to open bars - inbetween the bigg market and the gate, underneath a couple of hotels, it would be a prime location for the stag + hen crowd.

I like the scheme, much better than what is presently there. I'm not worried about bars/leisure opening there as it's not specified in the planning permission. I'd imagine shops would be keen to open there as they'll have a guaranteed number of people above them in the hotels so that should lead to footfall and there should be leakage from ES/Debenhams too.

Wow, anyway to vote in favour of this?

Other than indirectly at general/local election, not really... You can write a letter of support for applications during the public consultation stage though.

I think Johnny's point will be interesting, seeing whether this new development leads to Newgate St becoming even more of a drinking strip or whether the influence of Debenhams turns it into more of a shopping destination. I have to say I wouldn't want any more small streets and alleys built in that area if there's going to be loads of drunk people staggering around there. And if we get high-end retailers in these units will it put another nail in EPS's coffin?

Architecturally speaking I really don't think these are either terrible or brilliant. I'm not a huge fan of horizontal strip windows or the sort of long, vertical glazing strips that they have on the Grainger St facade either. I can understand why the council has insisted upon sandstone on the Grainger St facades and the Grainger St/Newgate St junction, but surely the buildings on Newgate St could have been more relaxed..?

some better images of this scheme:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/clayton.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/clayton1.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/clayton2.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/clayton3.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/clayton4.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/clayton5.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/clayton6.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/clayton7.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/clayton8.jpg

I still don't know why, but I like it, simple, sort of modern, fits in, but doesn't if you kow what I mean. I just hope I won't be made to regret my words, if planning permission is granted and the all round quality is poor.

Sorry, I just don't like these much. The coloured panels just don't look right, they look a bit cheap.

The string courses (the horizontal lines of stone that stand out from the facade) on the Grainger Street frontage just don't look right either - they're too short and they're cut through by the window openings.

Looks like a gold filling in a mouth full of rotten teeth.

Agreed Anger. I think the worst elevation is the Newgate Street building that looks like it will have a facade of grey panels. looks very cheap.

While the Grainger Street elevation is clumsy and bulky alongside the ornate victorian neighbours which all have exquisite dormer windows and dramatic pointed roofs. It looks like a relic from the 90s and im not sure it is any better than what stands there currently.

It's the entrances to Newgate shopping centre I'm not too keen on, the entrances on Clayton St, and the one Grainger St, the others I rather like. I know some of you say you don't like the coloured panels, but I think they won't be permanant, I'm sure if needed they can be removed for clear panels, and maybe they won't be a bright as they are in the pictures which would make it look better in my opinion.

It's the enterences to Newgate shopping centre I'm not too keen on, the enterences on Clayton St, and the one Grainger St, the others I rather like. I know some of you say you don't like the coloured panels, but I think they won't be permanant, I'm sure if needed they can be removed for clear panels, and maybe they won't be a bright as they are in the pictures which would make it look better in my opinion.

that's a fair point. the building on the corner of newgate and clayton looks alright to me, sans coloured panels of course. it's the other stuff that i'm not keen on.

I quite like it, apart from the Grainger street part, I think it could be made to fit in better. The rest just looks like typical modern buildings, just standard really. Certainly better than what currently stands there.

I still don't know why, but I like it, simple, sort of modern, fits in, but doesn't if you kow what I mean. I just hope I won't be made to regret my words, if planning permission is granted and the all round quality is poor.

Totally agree with you there, somehow it just seems to 'fit in'! Weirdly

I dont like the Grainger Street bit - i quite like the other parts, though part of me is probably just glad the current lump of shite will be going

I quite like it, apart from the Grainger street part, I think it could be made to fit in better. The rest just looks like typical modern buildings, just standard really. Certainly better than what currently stands there.

I agree, the Grainger Street part is horrific.

I'm torn on this. It's certainly a big improvement, but it could be much better. I don't mind the building with the blue panels, it's the other two that bring it down for me.

For me, I like the actual parts on Clayton St and Grainger St. Its the Newgate St parts I have an issue with. It looks terrible.

Does anyone know when a decision is set to be made on this?

Does anyone know when a decision is set to be made on this?

I think for something this big in such a prominent location and even creating a new 'chare' or 'street' coupled with the reknown glacial speed NCC work I would not b holding your breath any decsion being made soon.

Personally I think the building will fit in nicely with the Gate and Eldon Square. I don't think it is offensive- but then again I wouldnt say it s some masterpeice. It is however a massive improvement as to what is there now- Newgate Shopping Centre clearly is not going to work and that hotel has got to be the worst building in the city centre still standing- they have go to go asap.

I do worry what the tenants will be though. Right next to stag and hen central and a 1 star hotel it will bound to be a massive attraction for this clientel. This with it being next to the Gate and Bigg Market has got to mean the new Chare to be closed off over the night or it will end up as a toliet/ shagging shop on a weekend if it is to attract any retailer of a good quality. More than likely it won't b closed off and will therefore be an extension of Clayton Street.

I'm guessing the tenants that already have stores in the shopping centre/on the streets will be interested in taking the new space in this development? I can't think of many apart from Jessops, Games Workshop, Subway, etc.

I'm guessing the tenants that already have stores in the shopping centre/on the streets will be interested in taking the new space in this development? I can't think of many apart from Jessops, Games Workshop, Subway, etc.

Idols or whatever that sport/strip bar is called.:ohno:

Though the girls there are very nice.

Idols or whatever that sport/strip bar is called.:ohno:


It's one of the biggest shitholes in the whole city.

It's one of the biggest shitholes in the whole city.

Yup, it certianly is.

I do worry what the tenants will be though. Right next to stag and hen central and a 1 star hotel it will bound to be a massive attraction for this clientel.

I've been thinking the same thing. There's a lot of examples of a certain type of club and bar around there (the type that cater more for younger people wanting to get smashed and pull - which I'm not knocking as I've been to plenty when I was a few years younger), but also you have the Co-op, the new Debenhams and the new retail units that will come as part of the ES extension.

As a result I don't see either type of use being totally dislodged, but I can see this development swinging the balance more towards on or the other and I've not idea which way it'll go.

As for Idols (the place currently in the Newgate Shopping Centre), that place used to have some real knuckle-draggers coming out of there. I used to cycle past it as fast as I could on the rickshaw!

I think there's something to be said for containing all the underage drinkers and out-of-towners in one place. Leave the Bigg Market/Newgate Street/The Gate to them. It might mean grown-ups are attracted back into the rest of town in the evenings.

True - at least that way you know where to steer clear of on a Saturday night!

I do feel the City Council should insist on a piece of traditional architecture here, something by the likes of Quilnal Terry or John Simpson that will blend in with what is overall a handsome block of early to late Victorian buildings.

Eevn a good quality traditional facade fontinh a modern interior could work as it has been done to great effect by Joshn Simpson in the City of London. his current proposal, whilst finally replacing one of the worse eyesores in the city centre looks cheap and nasty.

Anyone know if this has been granted planning permission? Also the thread title could perhaps be changed to reflect the SSC standard format?

Anyone know if this has been granted planning permission? Also the thread title could perhaps be changed to reflect the SSC standard format?

Would you say the thread title should be something like . . .

Newgate St Swallow Hotel Site | Newcastle | 5fl & 6fl | Proposed

(Let me know and I will arrange)

That sounds good to me, though surely we will soon find out if it's be given permission or not.

Would you say the thread title should be something like . . .

Newgate St Swallow Hotel Site | Newcastle | 5fl & 6fl | Proposed

(Let me know and I will arrange)

Sounds good. Just with the amendment of the addition of the number of buildings and amount of floors to 6x4/7fl.

Newgate St Swallow Hotel Site | Newcastle | 6x4/7fl | Proposed

That sounds good to me, though surely we will soon find out if it's be given permission or not.

Based on when it was submitted and the 13week target for major applications the decision should be soon!

Sounds good. Just with the amendment of the addition of the number of buildings and amount of floors to 6x4/7fl.

Newgate St Swallow Hotel Site | Newcastle | 6x4/7fl | Proposed

Had put the name change to the mods before reading this . . and wasn't sure if everyone knew it as the 'Swallow Hotel' site, though that is what it was for 95% of its life!

Surely this has been accepted or rejected by now?

It should be decided anytime now... just have to keep a look out for the decision.

Just to mention English Heritage aren't keen on the architectural quality of the designs although they seem content with the scale and massing. I have to laugh at one of the neighbour objections stating it is a monstrosity... What do they think of what is currently there??

Its good that we have someone looking out for issues like 'architectural quality' these days. I hope English Heritage can push for proper stone cladding at least.

Where were EH when the ES South plans went in? Having a nap?

Its good that we have someone looking out for issues like 'architectural quality' these days. I hope English Heritage can push for proper stone cladding at least.

Where were EH when the ES South plans went in? Having a nap?

Just what I was just thinking!

Hopefully we'll see a reshuffle on the designs, especially the frontage onto Grainger St.

Seamaster: I think there's something to be said for containing all the underage drinkers and out-of-towners in one place. Leave the Bigg Market/Newgate Street/The Gate to them. It might mean grown-ups are attracted back into the rest of town in the evenings

On the topic of bars, do you think that if 'underage drinkers and out-of-towners' are on the stretch from Bigg Market to the Gate then 'grown-up' bars could be the answer to Pilgrim St's regeneration?
There's already some great bars (Popolo's, Blue Coyote, Bacchus, Tyneside Cinema bar) and restaurants (Paradiso, Flatbread, Pani's) there.

I think it might well go that way although it'll depend upon how the East Pilgrim St area is developed I reckon.

A few more laid back bars along there would really offer something good to the city, to offer something different to the sorts of bars that you get in the Bigg Market/Gate and those you get on Collingwood St.

an area similar to Manchester's Northern Quarter but scaled down would be good around EPS, it would offer a nice change to the rest of the city.

Well their seems to be no decision in sight for this project.

Not sure if this is part of the project, its certainly on the same block - proposed 180 bed hostel:

http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2010/03/30/backpackers-hostel-planned-for-former-journal-headquarters-61634-26134279/

With the planned 1-star hotel for the same street, this area could become a bargain hunters* nirvana!

(*Penniless students, tramps and DSS flop-house evictees)

^thats a different scheme. there's been a few proposals for that building in the last couple of years, including knocking it down for a modern building. refurbishment seems like a better idea though.

How poor do you have to be to use a 1* hotel?

I think hostels usually have strict time that people can stay there- usually 2 weeks I think- so a hostel wouldnt end up like a DSS flop house. I rather welcome more affordable accom in the city centre and the building in pretty much bring back to life a building that in the current economic climate would just stand there empty rotting away.

I think hostels usually have strict time that people can stay there- usually 2 weeks I think- so a hostel wouldnt end up like a DSS flop house. I rather welcome more affordable accom in the city centre and the building in pretty much bring back to life a building that in the current economic climate would just stand there empty rotting away.
Like I said though, how poor do you have to be to be able to only afford a 1* hotel?, surely the amenaties will be pretty poor aswell to only warrent 1*, I just for the life of me can't see why anyone would think having a 1* hotel as part of a new build building is a good idea.

Formula One type hotels- basically dorm type furniture- a sink in your room and shared showers. No bar or restaurant and just a check in desk. I think we need all types of acconmodation- any city worth it salt will have EVERY type of accom- we have 4 star and a lot of 3 star- but not many really cheap accom in the city centre. On the other hand we also need a 5 star hotel- just the one- something really special.

Formula One type hotels- basically dorm type furniture- a sink in your room and shared showers. No bar or restaurant and just a check in desk. I think we need all types of acconmodation- any city worth it salt will have EVERY type of accom- we have 4 star and a lot of 3 star- but not many really cheap accom in the city centre. On the other hand we also need a 5 star hotel- just the one- something really special.

Completely agree with this, all types of accommodation are needed and I'm pleased this scheme will include a mix. As you say though the city does need a 5 star hotel. I'm sure in the Stephenson Quarter plans it said 4/5* hotels. I'm guessing the Crowne Plaza will be 4* though?

backpacking hostels are good for attracting young folk from abroad - european students, aussies, americans or canadians touring europe etc. in relation to other UK cities i think we do quite poorly in terms of attracting these kinds of visitors who can improve the vitality of a city centre. aussies and kiwis in particular have a reputation for going somewhere for a short while and ending up staying for ages opening up small businesses etc.

anyway there's plenty of hostel accom in the world's big cities, it is, as jon says, an essential component of a city's options.

Just had a little scoot through planning pages on NCC website...seems that this is recommended to grant permission on June 4th Commitee meeting. Didn't read the details, however.

Just had a little scoot through planning pages on NCC website...seems that this is recommended to grant permission on June 4th Commitee meeting. Didn't read the details, however.So are there any changes to the plans at all, since there has been complaints about the entrances off Newgate street?

Not sure what has changed. Little article today, nothing we didn't already know, but nice to know it's active

http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2010/05/27/decision-imminent-on-new-vision-for-newgate-street-centre-61634-26530456/

Not sure what has changed. Little article today, nothing we didn't already know, but nice to know it's active

http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2010/05/27/decision-imminent-on-new-vision-for-newgate-street-centre-61634-26530456/Yeah little we didn't know, but as always we always find out what happening before anyone in the general public does.

Myself personally I like the design providing that it is built with quality materials. I'm not too sure on the Grainger street infill though.

This is going to look a million times better than what is there now. I hope it gets approval and work gets started asap. That Newgate shopping centre and hotel are just horrific!

So are there any changes to the plans at all, since there has been complaints about the entrances off Newgate street?

There look to have been a number of changes as a result of comments from English Heritage and others, summarised in the planning report (http://democracy.newcastle.gov.uk/mgConvert2PDF.aspx?ID=23700) - canopies removed to match Graingertown, redesign of the Grainger Street infill building, and more natural stone (though it looks as if that may be only on Grainger Street - I'd quite have liked to see sandstone along Clayton Street as well, but I don't think that's happening).

There are photomontages of the revised proposals (http://planningapplications.newcastle.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=documents&keyVal=KTOBBVBS07X00) on the planning applications site (at the bottom, dated 6 April) - which do look much better than the original ones. It looks like an example of the development control system working...?

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v729/marc_elliott/Newgate%20Hotel/NewgateHotel4.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v729/marc_elliott/Newgate%20Hotel/NewgateHotel5.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v729/marc_elliott/Newgate%20Hotel/NewgateHotel6.png
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v729/marc_elliott/Newgate%20Hotel/NewgateHotel1.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v729/marc_elliott/Newgate%20Hotel/NewgateHotel2.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v729/marc_elliott/Newgate%20Hotel/NewgateHotel3.png

I really like the modern Clayton Street corner building, not so sure about the Grainger Street insertion though. Too Much glass, dont get me wrong the current building uses stone awfully but this is the opposite.

This is pretty desperate stuff. Cut price design on a par with St Andrews Mall. The Newgate Street frontage might be OK somewhere like St James Bvd, but in the midfdle of a conservation area? And why the irregular window pattern? Oh, sorry - architect must have seen it in a magazine, so it must be fashionable just now. What a rebel, pushing at the boundaries of convention! In ten years time it will seem incredibly dated (vide the wavy roofs on TWDC-era buildings). The view north up Clayton Street (second photo) is better, if only we could have proper (ie regular, respectful of the general architectural scheme of the street) fenestration the whole length. But no. And as for the Grainger Street building, I just want to cry.

As for the view S down Clayton Street, note how the Grainger buildings are slightly receded at the corner: an attractive feature. Does Mr Commercial Architect respect/echo this in his design? Hell, no: no dead dude's going to dictate to HIM. And so what could have been a unifying townscape feature is chucked in the bin.

So, basically, yet another chance missed; and the city disfigured by third rate, shit architecture.

This is pretty desperate stuff. Cut price design on a par with St Andrews Mall. The Newgate Street frontage might be OK somewhere like St James Bvd, but in the midfdle of a conservation area? And why the irregular window pattern? Oh, sorry - architect must have seen it in a magazine, so it must be fashionable just now. What a rebel, pushing at the boundaries of convention! In ten years time it will seem incredibly dated (vide the wavy roofs on TWDC-era buildings). The view north up Clayton Street (second photo) is better, if only we could have proper (ie regular, respectful of the general architectural scheme of the street) fenestration the whole length. But no. And as for the Grainger Street building, I just want to cry.

As for the view S down Clayton Street, note how the Grainger buildings are slightly receded at the corner: an attractive feature. Does Mr Commercial Architect respect/echo this in his design? Hell, no: no dead dude's going to dictate to HIM. And so what could have been a unifying townscape feature is chucked in the bin.

So, basically, yet another chance missed; and the city disfigured by third rate, shit architecture.

I agree with every word.... I have no architectural training or knowledge whatsoever and even I can see this is appalling. It just looks so unacceptably cheap and rushed, especially given its location. Is there anyone policing these decisions?

I agree with every word.... I have no architectural training or knowledge whatsoever and even I can see this is appalling. It just looks so unacceptably cheap and rushed, especially given its location. Is there anyone policing these decisions?

I agree with you both, I think these designs are rubbish.

As for the policing, have a look at the outside of Eldon Square South, just accross the road. In other words, "no".

The windows on this one do at least look as if they might actually be windows.

Ideally, I think the Council should be pushing for new developments round the edges of Graingertown to feel like extensions of it - not necessarily pastiche neoclassical, but sandstone cladding and comparable attention to detail. But ES South has set such a low benchmark that my first reaction to this was that it could have been worse...

The windows on this one do at least look as if they might actually be windows.

:lol: There is that to be said for it!

And you're bang on about buildings around the fringes of Grainger Town.

I'd actually make the buildings to the edge of Grainger Town contrast with it, but in a complimentary way - I think that creating "Grainger Town Lite" to the edges just reduces the impact of it's architecture.

Either way, either approach would be a lot better than simply allowing any poor quality rubbish to be built next to the area.

Minded to grant at committee today. Hunters Moor Hospital approved; one further interesting application saw the committee refuse conversion of a Jesmond property to HMO, under the new requirement to get planning permission for change to this use.

As I've said before, is there anything this council won't accept..? Other than students not wanting to live in purpose-built over-priced rabbit hutches, that is...

Minded to grant at committee today.

confirmed . .

Newgate Street shopping centre to go in revamp
Jun 5 2010 by Amy Hunt, The Journal

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/jun2010/8/7/newgate-shopping-centre-342598801.jpg

A MULTI-MILLION pound scheme to replace an eyesore shopping centre has been given the green light.

Newgate Street in Newcastle is set for an £100m revamp which will see the 1960s shopping centre demolished and replaced with new shops, offices and three hotels.

A total of 1,200 jobs look set to be created by the scheme, which was given planning permission by city councillors.

They decided the regeneration would breathe new life into a part of the city left behind by the building of the Gate and the extension of Eldon Square.

The Newgate Shopping Centre has long been considered an eyesore and a blot on the Grainger Town conservation area.

Of 240 nearby businesses consulted on the plans only one objection was received.

Planners also gave the go-ahead for the Quality Hotel and Newgate Shopping Centre to be demolished and for a listed building on Clayton Street to be renovated as part of the scheme.


FULL ARTICLE - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2010/06/05/newgate-street-shopping-centre-to-go-in-revamp-61634-26591951/

Thread Title, changed to "Approved".

.
Not too much 'new news' in todays Journal article, though there seems more detail on street design, etc.

Newgate Street Shopping centre's new life
Jun 9 2010 by Peter McCusker, The Journal


TALKS are progressing between developers and leisure operators over the £100m redevelopment of a prominent Newcastle city centre shopping centre with work expected to start early next year.

The project will see the Newgate Street shopping centre demolished and replaced by three hotels, offices and shops, as well as a pedestrianised street.

Designed by the Newcastle office of Devereux Architects for Northern Irish developer McAleer & Rushe the ambitious scheme was approved by Newcastle City Council last week.

The three hotels will add will add over 550 new beds to the city centre and the developers are currently in talks with a number of interested operators.

Graham Mitchell, development manager at Irish developer McAleer and Rushe, said: “We are delighted to have received planning permission after a long and detailed planning application process and we now look forward to progressing the scheme.”

Peter Swift, director at Devereux Architects, said: "We are delighted that the scheme has received planning approval following three years of consultation with English Heritage, the planning authority and local stakeholders.

"We have a long history of regeneration and believe that the Newgate Street makeover will revitalise that part of the city centre.

“This is a key project for our practice and adds to the extensive commercial experience we have within the region."

Contemporary in design the new mixed-use development opens up the city block by creating a new Chare off Newgate Street which will give access to 165-bed four-star, 250-bed two-star and 153-bed one-star hotels.

The line of Newgate Street will also be brought forward to reflect the original medieval curve which at ground level will provide new retail outlets with the potential to attract retailers looking for larges spaces of up to 50,000 sq ft.

This will further add to the appeal of this quarter of the city centre which has received a boost with the extension of the Eldon Square Shopping Centre earlier this year.

The Newgate Shopping Centre has long been considered an eyesore and a blot on the Grainger Town conservation area. The scheme has met with the approval of English Heritage.

Flamewall Ltd, a subsidiary of Irish developer McAleer and Rushe, bought the centre for £18.2m four-and-a-half years ago.


ARTICLE - http://www.nebusiness.co.uk/commercial-property-north-east/news/2010/06/09/newgate-street-shopping-centre-s-new-life-51140-26614039/

A render from the above article:

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nebusiness/jun2010/3/3/computer-generated-image-of-newgate-street-shopping-centre-98877104.jpg

Now that looks better. It looks like real stone, or something that is as close to real stone as you can get.

I must admit I do like the look of that latest render, especially when you scroll up a bit and compare it to the current building on that site!!

http://i743.photobucket.com/albums/xx74/toonlegend/NewgateDevelpoment.jpg

http://i743.photobucket.com/albums/xx74/toonlegend/NewgateDevelpoment3.jpg

Thanks for adding these images maxtoon, I hadn't seen a proper plan before of how the buildings would fit into the streets and how the new "street" would work. Interesting stuff!

Now that looks better. It looks like real stone, or something that is as close to real stone as you can get.

If I'm reading the elevation in the planning app (http://planningapplications.newcastle.gov.uk/online-applications/files/01F571955359263B1A37E22AA41AF6E9/pdf/document-184347.pdf) right, most of the Newgate Street and Clayton Street façades will be clad in "Rainscreen - sandstone composite panels laid with random horizontal joints". I'm not an expert about this, but that doesn't sound quite as much like real stone as the "hammer-faced sandstone" that they're using on the Grainger Street façade (the bits of it round the edges where it's not glass).

But I guess it will at least be sandstone-coloured. Though presumably not as lovely as the cladding on Time Central and the new Wellbar.

I quick search of "Rainscreen - Sandstone" on google shows that it appears to be real stone but cut in away that it is easily placed onto buildings, I.E. cladding, so basically that means it could end up being the same cladding used on Time Central, Wellbar Central, Kings Gate, and ES Bus Station. Fingers crossed.

yeah rainscreen sandstone cladding is used on time central and wellbar central, and with the varying tones shown on that render it seems it won't just be the huge uniform panels of the ES Extension. though imo the stone really jars with the colour panels, i'd like to see some images of this without those additions.

I still find those colour panels to be really, really tacky. Plus the corner building would look better with more vertical windows. The horizontal windows just jar with the surroundings.

I'm still puzzled by this. I think the key word in the description of the cladding may be "composite" - which I take to mean not thin slices of actual sandstone (which is what I assume Time Central/Wellbar are clad in) but fake stone made with sand and glue. But also, the most recent photomontages don't look sandstone-coloured at all (nor do they have the blue panels) - look again at this one which elliott posted (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showpost.php?p=57737719&postcount=116), where there seems to be a clear colour contrast with the sandstone buildings surrounding:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v729/marc_elliott/Newgate%20Hotel/NewgateHotel1.jpg

Yup, they tend to use a composite these days, which is much cheaper. I'm not certain if it's the same stuff, but one of these composites is called "Artstone".

My main concern about the stuff is whether it ages in the same way as natural stone or not.

As for Time Central and Wellbar, I wouldn't be surprised if they're clad in reconstituted stone too, although I couldn't tell you. I think that there are different qualities and types available.

THE £100m vision for Newcastle’s Newgate Street created by Teesside-based Devereux Architects has unanimously received planning approval from Newcastle City Council.

The project, which will see the creation of three new hotels, offices and shops, as well as a new pedestrianised street, has been designed by award-winning Devereux Architects for Northern Irish developer McAleer & Rushe.

Following extensive meetings with English Heritage and Newcastle City Council, the proposals have been given the green light by planners which ensure that the scheme complements and enhances its historic surroundings.

The development control committee and councillors commented on the very high standard of design which has been brought to bear upon the scheme.

Peter Swift, Director at Devereux Architects, said: “We are delighted that the scheme has received planning approval following three years of consultation with English Heritage, the planning authority and local stakeholders.

“We have a long history of regeneration and believe that the Newgate Street makeover will revitalise that part of the city centre.

“This is a key project for our practice and adds to the extensive commercial experience we have within the region.”

Contemporary in design, the new mixed-use development opens up the city block by creating a new Chare off Newgate Street which will give access to 165-bed four-star, 250-bed two-star and 153-bed one-star hotels.

The line of Newgate Street will also be brought forward to reflect the original medieval curve which at ground level will provide exciting new retail outlets helping to rejuvenate this area of the city.

The redevelopment of Newgate Street will be starting as soon as possible, and has the potential to create over 700 jobs once complete.

Link: http://www.nebusiness.co.uk/commercial-property-north-east/news/2010/06/15/the-100m-vision-for-newcastle-s-newgate-street-created-by-teesside-based-devereux-architects-has-unanimously-received-planning-approval-from-newcastle-city-council-51140-26650958/

Anyone got any idea or heard when this is due to begin?

Anyone got any idea or heard when this is due to begin?I'm sure when the planning permission went in they were hoping to start the demolition by the end of this year. So assuming it is still going to plan we should start to see tennants move out and demolition work to start soon.

Well two and a half month into 2011 and no sign of action on the site. When I passed on Monday Jessops didn't even seem preparing to move out of their location, so I'm guessing it could be a little while until we see action on this site yet.

The Grainger St entrance is appalling..I had the opportunity to talk to the architect a while ago when they were showing the plans in an empty shop..I asked him why he hadn't attempted to right the wrongs of the original centre by making the Grainger St entrance(and the Clayton St entrance) look like the buildings next to it..he gave some bull about not wanting to copy? he wasn't amused when I pointed out he was copying the look of the Wilkinsons store for his Newgate St plan.
I like the idea of the new shopping lane but the rest of it is dreadful..imho

I see that - Conservation Area Consent: Demolition of of Newgate Street shopping centre including retail units, hotel, offices and car park was granted on 25 March 2011 - see http://planningapplications.newcastle.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=documents&keyVal=KUT101BS00A00

I see that - Conservation Area Consent: Demolition of of Newgate Street shopping centre including retail units, hotel, offices and car park was granted on 25 March 2011 - see http://planningapplications.newcastle.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=documents&keyVal=KUT101BS00A00Hopefully this means we will see the development start soon.

I see that - Conservation Area Consent: Demolition of of Newgate Street shopping centre including retail units, hotel, offices and car park was granted on 25 March 2011 - see http://planningapplications.newcastle.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=documents&keyVal=KUT101BS00A00

Why has it taken so long for this to be approved?
It was created in Dec 2009!

Finance and stability in the market, presumably.

Why has it taken so long for this to be approved?
It was created in Dec 2009!That is for the development of the site, demolition permission is a different application.

Good point.

Either way Joe, the application for demolition will probably have been put in quite recently and approved quickly presumably. It's usually a sign that things will be kicking off very soon.

That is for the development of the site, demolition permission is a different application.

Beg to differ - definitely an application for demolition @ 2009/1799/01/CAC - http://publicaccess.newcastle.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=documents&keyVal=KUT101BS00A00

2009/1799/01/CAC | Conservation Area Consent: Demolition of of Newgate Street shopping centre including retail units, hotel, offices and car park | Newgate Centre Newgate Street Newcastle upon Tyne :ohno:

I'd be very surprised if it's been a case of the application taking this long to be decided (although you never know...). Presumably the developers asked for it to be suspended for a while. Once you've given planning permission why would you take so long to give permission to demolish? Maybe the developers have taken ages to prove that the demolition can be done safely?

McAleer & Rushe to make beds in Newgate


http://www.propertyweek.com/pictures/458xAny/8/9/5/1689895_Newgate_Street_Day.jpg


01 April 2011

McAleer & Rushe is attempting to start development on a £100m retail and hotel scheme in the former Newgate Shopping Centre

It bought the site in 2007 for £18.4m and this month will find out whether it has received planning consent for three hotels, 80,000 sq ft of retail and leisure, and 56,500 sq ft of offices.

The developer is thought to already have one operator on board to operate all three hotels: a one-star hotel with 165 rooms, a two-star hotel with 250 rooms and four-star hotel with 160 rooms.

Read more (http://www.propertyweek.com/news/mcaleer-and-rushe-to-make-beds-in-newgate/5015929.article)

The full article also mentions they are considering opening it up with a walkway being built between Newgate Street to Fenkle Street.

.

Perhaps Accor then? Can't think of any other single operator who has such a range of brands, to operate 1,2 and 4*?

Would ruin any chance of Downing being a Novotel then though?

ewww a 1* hotel in the middle of Newcastle although it will probably get lots of business from the bigg market on the weekend

wonder if they thought of doing the Japanese pod style hotel to squeeze some extra people in lol

Takes all sorts lol...we've not got many big brand mega-budget in the city centre...no Ibis, Etap, Easyhotel etc...IMO, we need them to plug the gap between hostels and Travelodge etc. Will do more trade at the minute than the ever-dreamt-about 5 star!

So how far along is this now?, are retailer moving out yet?

Not by the looks of things, and Jessops seem to have a new bit of signage as well.

So how far along is this now?, are retailer moving out yet?

One is for sure. I ll tell you in a day or two - they've just signed the lease on another quite nice vacant property.

Perhaps Accor then? Can't think of any other single operator who has such a range of brands, to operate 1,2 and 4*?

Would ruin any chance of Downing being a Novotel then though?

Yes, that could only be Accor, and the hotels would be an Etap (one star), an Ibis (2 star), and either a Mercure or a Novotel (4 star).

Yes Accor are the most likely opperator. I quite like Mercure and have stayed at several hotels in Germany and Holland. There's also Formule 1 (1*) from Accor. They are ranked below Etap I think. Etap rooms are en suite, while F1 have communal bathrooms. The reviews for both brands are poor on tripadvisor.

http://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/01/e8/f0/01/formule-1-liverpool-city.jpg

Former food store on Newgate Street - next to Halfords has been leased to a new tenant. National non food shop relocating within Newcastle. Surprising given that the property has a fairly short shelf life.

Former food store on Newgate Street - next to Halfords has been leased to a new tenant. National non food shop relocating within Newcastle. Surprising given that the property has a fairly short shelf life.

Thats debatable, under the forthcoming economic conditions I can see the Newgate Centre standing for a while yet! They're just wringing out as much rent as possible while its still standing i guess. Out of interest who's moving in (and where are they vacating)?

Thats debatable, under the forthcoming economic conditions I can see the Newgate Centre standing for a while yet! They're just wringing out as much rent as possible while its still standing i guess. Out of interest who's moving in (and where are they vacating)?

I am told the furniture store on the corner of Clayton and Newgate St. Walmsleys.

I work in a new building in Bradford designed and built by M & R. Click to see a couple of views. (http://www.mcaleer-rushe.co.uk/commercial-developments/completed/southgate-bradford/)

Some elements of the facade are stone similar in style to the above which looks good compared to the plain rendered back (but not so hot when soggy from driving rain!) but it is of course simply cladding fixed on to blockwork or concrete, unsurprising for this day and age.

HI all...any news about the Newgate street redevelopment? It's now nearly end of March and it's still looking the same as ever.

Mrs NP knows some people associated with it - came up in conversation last week. Essentially don't hold your breath. The plethora of hotel applications and the funding being ROI seemed to make them think nothing was happening in the foreseeable. My reading is that they'll need to do something before the place falls down.

As an aside was in the Polish store in the 'mall' [great place] and noticed that some of the shops that connect to Clayton St had been converted into some sort of 'yoof' place, free ipads [albeit ones nailed down] etc.

I really hope it happens because that particular area looks terrible and a sore thumb in contrast to the surrounding buildings. I went to Newgate the other day. 95% of the shops are gone. Games Workshop, Pins and Needles tattoo, Idols bar, and another place whose name escapes me are still there.