Robertson Construction is due to begin a multi-million-pound project to restore and enhance a historic Grade-I listed market in Newcastle.
The contractor is working with the project’s management contractor, Newcastle City Council, to begin work on Grainger Market.
two new pavilions are to be installed within the Arcade, with improved toilet facilities provided.
The market’s entrances will also be renovated to increase its visibility, and fitted with glazed automatic sliding doors to help reduce draughts.
FaulknerBrowns Architects designed the renovation, originally designed by 19th-century architect John Dobson and built in 1835.
The project is being led by the council at a cost of £9 million, £8.2 million of which is from levelling up funding and the remaining £800,000 from the council.
Wayfinding and signage in the alleys will also feature, building upon the market’s original designs, and the external area around the entrances will also be upgraded.
Final surveys are ongoing on the site and traders have been consulted on the plans.
Improvement works will begin in late September, starting with demolition of existing units within the central Arcade.
It is expected to complete by summer 2025, despite facing challenges such as ageing utility supplies within the market and the presence of a listed air raid shelter beneath part of the site.
Leader of Newcastle City Council, Councillor Nick Kemp, called the Market a “jewel in the crown” of the city and the traders are its lifeblood.
He said: “Everyone who calls this city home has their own memories of the Grainger Market. “This won’t be an easy redevelopment, but I am delighted we have our contractor on board and that work will be getting underway soon.”
Neil Kennedy, regional managing director of Robertson Construction North East, said: “We’ve worked with Newcastle City Council on a range of fantastic projects over the years and to be chosen as delivery partner for the restoration of Grainger Market is a great honour.
“The Grainger Market project is an outstanding opportunity to improve a key Newcastle landmark, and we are looking forward to working alongside the traders and local communities to make Newcastle City Council’s vision a reality.
“It’s important to us, as a regional contractor, to work closely with our local supply chain and we are committed to bringing social and economic benefits to the community.
“Right now, that means local employment and supply chain spend for the construction phase of the project but it’s clear this is just the start of the positive impact the improved Grainger Market will bring to the city.”
Was this interesting? Mulalley secures major increases in future workload
If you have a tip or story idea that fits with our publication, please contact the news reporter miles@wavenews.co.uk
Get industry news in 5 minutes!
A daily email that makes industry news enjoyable. It’s completely free.
