Grant breathes life into Byker hobby rooms

A Newcastle-based housing provider is helping to revitalise historic spaces on one of the city’s most iconic estates.

Karbon Homes has begun work to transform two grade II* listed hobby rooms on the iconic Byker Estate after securing more than £98,000 from Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Capital Fund.

The refurbishment, delivered by property maintenance specialist CLC, will include new timber windows and doors, upgraded plumbing, roller shutters and a full electrical rewire.

Once complete, St Michael’s Mount will become an artist studio, while Spires Lane will offer a new community space for Byker residents.

Victoria Keen, place partnership strategic lead at Karbon Homes, said: “It’s fantastic to see work starting on the hobby rooms. CLC were selected as they have a great reputation and experience of working on listed buildings. 

“We’re very proud of the estate's heritage and so for us it was important we worked with an organisation that understands this.

“We’re looking forward to seeing the process of refurbishment and of course the end product which will be wo brand new facilities that will no doubt benefit the community for years to come.”

Matt Hilton, from CLC Group, added: “CLC is extremely proud to be commencing work with Karbon Homes on this prestigious heritage project at Byker Estate. 

“Our specialist conservation teams are skilled at preserving listed and protected buildings of historic importance. 

“We preserve their historical authenticity and carefully modernise them so they can serve as practical and functional spaces for the local community today – and for future generations too. 

“Our strong local presence means we will be strongly supporting our client’s commitment to working with local partners.”

North Louise Brennan, director of regions at Historic England, added: “The Byker Estate is one of the most important examples of post-war housing design in England – more importantly it is home to so many people. 

“We are pleased to support Karbon Homes in bringing these Grade II* listed hobby rooms back into active use for residents. 

“Through the Heritage at Risk Capital Fund, Historic England helps protect heritage while ensuring it continues to serve the communities it was created for. 

“Projects like this show how thoughtful repair and new uses can strengthen local pride and create opportunities for residents now and in the future.”

Work is due to finish by late March.

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →