About – Newcastle NE1 Bigg Market

Giving a historic heart back to Newcastle

After the successful 2013 BID renewal NE1 set out its priorities for a second term – key amongst these was the requirement to transform the economic fortunes of the Bigg Market.

Our objective is to capitalise on the area’s fabulous heritage value and deliver an attractive, commercially sustainable destination of quality in the heart of the city. Situated centrally in the area between the recently regenerated Central Station, Grey’s Monument and Grey Street, and on the walking route to the Quayside via St Nicholas’ Cathedral and the Black Gate it is essential that the Bigg Market evolves so as to make a positive contribution to the wider city centre.

But this is no philanthropic project and the capital investment made by interested parties has to earn a return. We’re confident this is achievable.

In late 2014, NE1 applied to the Heritage Lottery fund (HLF) under the Townscape Heritage programme for £1.6m of grant funding to help rejuvenate the Bigg Market, whilst protecting and restoring a key part of the city’s rich heritage.
With other match funding contributions, including from NE1, the City Council and landlords themselves, the project pot will be worth some £3.2m.

The Development

Public Realm Refurbishment

The refurbishment of the public realm is currently underway and due for completion in late 2018

This phase of the project is led by Southern Green landscape architects

The works are being carried out by Historic Property Restoration

Investment in Public Realm is close to £1million

Newcastle City Council have supported the investment with a £300k grant

Restoration and repair
of facades

Grants are available to building owners for the restoration and repair of shopfronts and facades

Restoration of shopfronts is key to restoring the heritage value of the area and reverse increasing vacancy rates

Improving the streetscape could catalyse further investment in the wider area

A number of buildings have been identified as in need of restoration

GENTS WC

The Victorian Gentleman’s WC were taken out of service by NCC in 2012

A Grant has been offered to NCC for refurbishment of the WC’s to bring it back into commercial use and prevent further deterioration

A number of potential uses have been submitted including a Wine Bar.

Activity Plan

The long term vision for the Bigg Market is to improve the environment of this important historic space by recreating a link between Grainger Town and Old Newcastle.

We also seek to attract new audiences including residents and visitors during the day time.

To do this, a number of activities will be taking place as a fundamental part of the project to encourage participation and engagement with the area.

These include formal and informal learning. Further information on activities can be found in the news & events section of the website.