Work begins on multi-million Grey Street development

Work has begun on a multi-million pound office development in historic former town houses on one of the UK’s most prestigious streets.

Cousins Properties, part of the Tyneside-based Hanro Group, contracted Sunderland-based Brims Construction to undertake the sensitive remodelling of the two adjoining properties on Newcastle’s famous Grey Street.

Originally built in 1860 the five storey, Grade I/II* listed properties at 33-39 Grey Street, have been latterly used as offices following earlier conversions.

Jason Wood, director of Brims Construction, said: “We have worked in conjunction with both Hanro and the project architect’s Archial, to understand their aspirations.

“Although a complete overhaul of the interior is on-going, as is the norm with a building of this age and type, protecting and retaining the original features forms a key part of the work.

“These have been sensitively incorporated alongside the more modern touches required in a high quality office environment.”

Adam Serfontein, managing director of the Hanro Group, said: “Part of the beauty of Grey Street is the iconic ‘curve and slope’, which means there are very few buildings with large, level open plan floors such as this one.

“This refurbishment, to create Grade A office accommodation, has sensitively maintained and developed the historic fabric that gives this building its character.”

When complete the 150-year-old building will provide approximately 10,000 sq ft of accommodation over three floors.

These have been designed to enable each suite to have independent occupation, if appropriate, with the development including separates entrances.

The building also includes dedicated parking to the rear, full lift access from the refurbished entrance area, full new mechanical and electrical installation – including raised access floors - contemporary wash rooms and kitchen areas.

Simon Bell, director of Archial said: ’The external façade gently curves down the hill and has the finest architectural detail of all the Georgian facades on the west side of the street.

“The interior retains a wealth of original features and the first floor in particular is regarded as having some of the best preserved spaces in the Grainger Town area.

“Whilst retaining the building’s historic features the development includes additional stylish contemporary designs – particularly in the entrance and common areas.

“These will give the finished development a clear modern identity that will distinguish the building from others in the vicinity.”

Serfontein added: “This development demonstrates the Hanro Group’s long term commitment to investment throughout Newcastle City Region.

“It builds upon our good working relationship with Newcastle Council conservation team to achieve a respectful refurbishment scheme which provides attractive functional suites.”

He added that the work will be completed next month and Hanro is a long-term player, and ‘mindful of the current economic climate’, is happy to consider flexible lease terms.