Newcastle City Council has commissioned Robertson Construction Group to manage the £9m Grainger Market restoration. This major project intends to revitalise an iconic landmark of Newcastle, backed by a substantial government grant.
- The restoration project is largely funded by an £8.2m levelling up grant provided by the UK government last year.
- Robertson Construction Group will commence work with initial demolition within the central arcade this month.
- The project aims to enhance visibility with glazed entrances, while tackling challenges like ageing utilities and a historic air raid shelter.
- Grainger Market vendors are integral to the renovation, reflecting Newcastle’s commitment to an inclusive economy.
Newcastle’s historic Grainger Market is set to undergo a significant transformation as the Newcastle City Council appoints Robertson Construction Group as the management contractor for this £9 million undertaking. Central to the redevelopment is an £8.2 million levelling up grant awarded by the UK government, supplemented by an additional £800,000 from the council. The renovation aims to preserve the market’s heritage while enhancing its functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Set against a backdrop of architectural ambition, the project will commence with the demolition of outdated units within the central arcade, paving the way for the installation of two modern pavilions and upgraded toilet facilities. The market’s entrances are slated for complete refurbishment, incorporating glazed, automatic sliding doors to not only improve visibility but also to effectively reduce draughts. These changes align with a broader strategy to modernise the market’s external and internal features, including décor, wayfinding, and signage, thereby fostering an enhanced shopping experience for visitors.
Despite the grand vision, several logistical challenges could potentially impact the timeline, which targets completion by the summer of 2025. Among the issues are the market’s ageing utility supplies and the preservation requirements of a listed air raid shelter that partially occupies the site. These factors introduce an element of complexity that necessitates careful management and innovative solutions to uphold the integrity of the timeline.
Nick Kemp, Leader of Newcastle City Council, highlights the cultural significance of the Grainger Market, describing it as “a jewel in the crown” of Newcastle. His statements underscore the market’s role as a crucial part of ongoing urban investments that include improvements to other notable areas such as Northumberland Street and Eldon Square. Kemp stresses the importance of the market’s traders, who he regards as essential to the city’s goal of creating an inclusive economy that celebrates and supports local heritage.
Neil Kennedy, regional managing director at Robertson Construction, expressed enthusiasm for the project, noting the privilege of contributing to such an important city landmark. He emphasised the collaborative effort between the construction group, Newcastle City Council, and the local community to bring about this visionary restoration, underscoring the project’s potential to significantly benefit both the market and the surrounding area.
The Grainger Market restoration epitomises a collaborative effort to blend historical preservation with modern advancements.
