Improvement works to Northumberland Street now confirmed

Plans to revamp Northumberland Street have taken a significant step forward, with Newcastle City Council’s announcement that a contractor has now been appointed and preparatory work to start before Christmas in readiness for the major improvements starting in the New Year.

The improvements, part of the council’s ongoing commitment to transform the city centre, will cement Northumberland Street’s position as the region’s most vibrant and important high street, setting it apart from other streets and creating an elegant environment. New paving inspired by the street’s Medieval history will be complemented by seating, trees, greenery, and lighting.

Northumberland Street, together with the other streets that have received investment as part of the ongoing programme of improvements, will offer a destination that reflects the changing needs of city centres. Not only will there be great shops, but also spaces for events, entertainment and for people just to spend time in a more welcoming place that can be enjoyed both day and night.

Local businesses will benefit as more people will be attracted to visit the city, helping to deliver economic growth as well as providing opportunities that will enrich the cultural offerings.

Cllr Alex Hay, Cabinet member for a Thriving City, Newcastle City Council said: “Our vision for Newcastle is a successful city which is economically strong, inclusive and sustainable, and that’s why we need a city centre that works for everyone.

“Northumberland Street is at the city’s heart and plays a vital role in the lives of local people, so I am therefore delighted that we can now progress with our plans to transform it into somewhere they can be proud of.

“Northumberland Street will be the flagship scheme, and this gives us the opportunity to align it with the other regeneration initiatives underway in the city to ensure we are all working together to maximise benefits for the people of Newcastle.”

Kieran McBride, Fenwick Newcastle Store Director said: “This significant investment from the council will create a lively and prosperous cultural hub in the city centre for locals and tourists to enjoy, enabling businesses such as Fenwick to continue serving the region for many years to come.”

The works on Northumberland Street are being funded by the Government’s Levelling up Fund (LUF), as part of an overall £20m package. This money that was initially earmarked for Blackett Street and Old Eldon Square has now been diverted following the council’s decision to defer those plans.

In addition to the significant investment in Northumberland Street, the funding will also allow for improvements to the area around the Grainger Market, to complement the plans already underway inside the market as part of the £7m received from the LUF.

It will also fund improved digital connectivity in the city centre, including the provision of free Wifi in the Grainger Market and across the city centre. Following a competitive tendering exercise, Taylor Woodrow has been awarded an 18-month contract to carry out the works to Northumberland Street, which are due to be completed by summer 2025.

By Mark Adair – Correspondent, Bdaily

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