Stephenson Quarter
Newcastle’s Stephenson Quarter, located behind the city’s train station, was once home to a host of thriving industrial activity including the creation of Stephenson’s Rocket. Currently underused, plans are afoot that will see this area restored to the heart of everyday life in Newcastle city centre. November 2008 saw site developer Silverlink win planning permission for its £200 million redevelopment scheme. Plans are in place for construction to start this summer. Silverlink’s approved plans for the 3.5hectare site include office space, two hotels, 155 residential apartments, restaurants, a gym, retail space, two new public spaces, a multi-storey car park, a new sorting office and a railway heritage centre, ensuring the area’s important heritage is given due prominence amid the modern redevelopment. The plans also include the restoration of 20 South Street home
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of Robert Stephenson’s engineering works. Michelle Percy, marketing director at Silverlink says: “This will be one of Newcastle’s biggest mixed developments in the coming years and interest is already high. The city is seen as a vibrant and dynamic location and sites like the Stephenson Quarter are unique. “We aim to create a dynamic area that will reach out and draw people into the different spaces and buildings, and encourage them to return. Stephenson Quarter will promote access for all and breathe new life into the area.”