The new name has been revealed for a £137m Newcastle city centre regeneration scheme.
Founders Place is a nod to the industrial past of the 4-hectare space, located in the Stephenson Quarter.
The scheme is a partnership between igloo Regeneration, Thriving Investments (part of the Places for People group) and Newcastle City Council.
Positioned next to the city’s central railway station, the new development combines a mixed-use spaces, with 200 years of industrial heritage – it was the originally the location of the workshops and site offices of Robert Stephenson & Company; the first company in the world to specifically design and build locomotive steam engines.
“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,” said Insiyah Khushnood from igloo.
“It’s the strongest signal yet that Newcastle is proudly and successfully combining its rich heritage with cutting-edge 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.”
The area includes landmark offices, The Pioneer; and the Grade II Listed Pattern Shop, which has been restored and is due for completion this spring. Future phases will see the completion of Orchard Yard, the Railyards and Coppersmith Shop.
“As more staff return to shared offices, either full-time or in hybrid roles, we know employers want to offer superior spaces that will enhance their employees’ working experience and well-being,” added Patrick Matheson, a partner at agents Knight Frank.
“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 city centre with the strongest of eco-credentials.”
