Member Article

Newcastle’s White Hart Yard to undergo £2.5 million transformation

One of Newcastle’s most historic areas is set for a new lease of life creating an exciting space for drink, food and events.

Ladhar Leisure is to transform the White Hart Yard area of Newcastle to open up and connect venues in Grey Street with the Cloth Market.

The first phase of the £2.5 million development is expected to create 100 jobs.

Barry Ladhar, director of Ladhar Leisure, said the inspiration for the concept comes from pop up developments in areas of London such as Shoreditch and Dalston but the architecture, local businesses, produce and customers would make the development distinctively North East.

Mr Ladhar’s team is working closely with the city council, development company NE1 and English Heritage to ensure the listed buildings in the White Hart Yard are protected and developed sympathetically.

When completed, White Hart Yard will encompass 30,000 sq ft, include two new bars, relocation of the gentlemen’s club Diamonds, a nightclub, an intimate champagne/wine bar for around 100 people, a cobbled walkway with venues connected by a bridge, space for events along with pop up food, drink and retail outlets, and potentially a rooftop garden.

It is hoped the first phase of the development, subject to final planning permission, could be open by Easter 2015.

White Hart Yard will be the latest venture in Ladhar Leisure’s development of venues throughout Newcastle.

Earlier this year Offshore 44 became the Hop & Cleaver on the Quayside next door to Redhouse which was also refurbished. Ladhar also introduced the contemporary gin and draft house Pleased to Meet You in High Bridge last year to complement Lady Grey’s in its quest to create a Grey Street to Quayside corridor of high quality venues.

Barry Ladhar said: “White Hart Yard aims to be an aspirational and discerning all day hangout showcasing a multi venue experience of bars, food concepts and events spaces.”

“We want to create a cultural and hybrid festival venue in the heart of Newcastle that will stir up music, food and drink and as importantly discussion, focusing on the very best the North of England has to offer in street food, cocktails, music events and the pioneering craft drinks market.

“Regular street stalls, pop up cinema, guest chefs and masterclasses mixed with the best in food, drink, music and retail will make this a unique Newcastle experience.”