Newcastle's Grainger Market nears completion

Image: 'An improved Nelson Street' by Grainger Market, courtesy of LDA Design for Newcastle City Council

Newcastle City Council is reporting that various phases of work for the regeneration of historic Grainger Market, have now been completed as planned, including the works to the air raid shelter and the demolition of the central arcade. The work has been led by Robertson Construction Group, Newcastle City Council's management contractor.

Grainger Market was built in 1835 by architect John Dobson with an iron and glass roof and classical details in the form of Corinthian pillasters,

The City Council states that structural works have also been completed that will enable further progress to be made, for example the streel frame for the Nelson Street pavilion and the steel frames for the fourteen entrances to allow for the new sliding doors. 

The current focus of work is the entrance upgrades and substantial tiling programme throughout the market, which is being carried out in phases to keep any disruption to a minimum. 

This includes the uplift of the existing flooring and new ceramic tiles being laid, with bespoke floor tiles at each exit showing exactly which street customers are stepping onto. Original features are also being preserved and used again wherever possible. 

Once the Nelson Street pavilion and toilets are complete, work will begin at the Nun Street end of the arcade, again with the new pavilion, toilets and flooring. The final aspects of the programme will focus on external work to the paving and planters, and new signage and lighting throughout the market.  

Cllr Dan Greenhough, Cabinet member for Economy, Jobs and Skills at Newcastle City Council, said: “The multi-million-pound project to restore Newcastle's iconic Grainger Market is advancing well, with significant progress made in the programme that will protect and enhance this must-loved building. 

“This is a very exciting time for the market as we continue with the improvement works which will deliver long-term benefits for all involved. We would like to thank traders and customers for their patience and understanding. 

“We are sure everyone who is part of the market and shops here has their eye on the long-term goal and is very excited to see the finished result.”

Image below - courtesy LDA Design: