Member Article

London Olympic Team for Newcastle Science City

A consortium planning the 2012 Olympic Games in London will be recommended as preferred master planners for the Newcastle Science City project.

EDAW, a consortium of architects, civil engineers and property surveyors, will lead the transformation of the brewery site in Newcastle city centre. The planners’ remit is to work with the site’s three owners to create a design incorporating research and business facilities alongside a range of residential, retail and leisure amenities.

Paul Walker, chairman of Newcastle Science City Partnership, said: ’’The proposed appointment of EDAW is an important step forward in our vision for a dynamic and ambitious Newcastle Science City which benefits the whole region. “We already have cutting edge science in our region and we are now well on our way to creating the right environment to attract the substantial private sector investment needed to make the project an even greater success.”

Pat Ritchie, director of strategy and development at One NorthEast, said: ’‘This is a multi national consortium with a proven track record of delivery and also strong links to the region. “EDAW were master planners behind the award-winning Grainger Town project that spearheaded the dramatic restoration of the historic heart of Newcastle, effectively doubling the residential population of the area and providing offices to attract 2000 new jobs.’’

The selection panel was made up of representatives from the three partners who jointly own the brewery site – Newcastle City Council, regional development agency One NorthEast and Newcastle University. The appointment is subject to the approval of the council’s procurement committee which meets on 20th November.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .