Connecting the past with an eye on the future
DEVELOPERS of a £137m regeneration scheme in Newcastle city centre have given it a name to reflect its historic roots.
The partnership of igloo Regeneration, Thriving Investments (part of the Places for People group) and Newcastle City Council has called the area behind Central Station Founders Place in recognition of its former use as the workshops and site offices of Robert Stephenson & Company, the first company in the world to specifically design and build locomotive steam engines.
The development, which makes up part of the wider Stephenson Quarter, includes a mix of new buildings and heritage buildings that have been renovated for employment use. Its spaces include the recently-completed Pattern Shop and a new office development called The Pioneer.
Designed by RIBA Stirling Prize-winning architects Allford Hall Monaghan Morris, The Pioneer offers 100,000 sq ft of space over 10 storeys with outdoor terraces and panoramic views across the city.
There will also be around 80 zero-carbon homes, while future phases of development include Orchard Yard, the Railyards and Coppersmith Shop, which aim to offer a mix of residential, creative workshop hubs, a destination restaurant and retail businesses.
Insiyah Khushnood from igloo said: “Founders Place is one of the most inspirational settings imaginable and we’re looking forward to hearing responses to our shared vision from the market.
“The creative, pioneering founders from the area’s past and the heritage legacy of their work is an incredible starting point for any new scheme, and we felt it was important to retain the heart and soul that makes the area so special for today’s founders.
“This is a place designed for the future, where people will want to work, live and enjoy life for many years to come.
“It’s the strongest signal yet that Newcastle is proudly and successfully combining its rich heritage with cuttingedge work spaces designed for a talented and dynamic workforce. Anyone who has the privilege to work here will know they are part of something special that’s connected to entrepreneurs of the past but with eyes firmly fixed on the future.”
Agents Knight Frank have been appointed to secure pre-let partners across Founders Place. Partner Patrick Matheson, said: “The collection of buildings that make up Founders Place have an enviable heritage and character that is evident across the whole development. It offers superb work options in the very heart of Newcastle with the strongest of eco-credentials.”
Founders Place follows earlier developments on Stephenson Quarter that include the Crowne Plaza Hotel and The Boiler Shop music and events venue.