'Historic' Newcastle city centre site to be transformed into new aparthotel and restaurant

A new apartment-style hotel (aparthotel) and cafe/restaurant are set to transform an ‘historic’ corner of Newcastle’s city centre following planning approval.

The news will see the elegantly curved Grade II listed 36 - 40 Clayton Street redeveloped into 13 aparthotels spread across the upper floor areas. This is part of an ‘ambitious’ project that will see the historic fabric of the building retained, securing the long-term future of one Newcastle’s heritage assets.

A ground floor café/restaurant will also go ahead as part of the plans to repurpose the long-vacant Grade II listed building, which was originally built in 1837 by Richard Grainger on the street named after John Clayton, the 19th century town clerk and antiquarian.

Sean Hedley, managing director of North East planning and development specialist Hedley Planning, who oversaw the planning and listed building applications, said the scheme’s design balances the desire to sensitively preserve the historic fabric while delivering a modern fit-out, which complies with all national and local heritage policies.

The supporting statement which accompanied the proposed alteration said the plans “truly represent sensitive enhancements to the significance of the listed building”. This important location now enters a new phase after being vacant for years. In doing so, it will deliver important city-centre-based visitor accommodation and an ‘attractive’ eating venue.

Sean Headley commented: “As planners, we always want to create heritage projects that deliver a long-lasting legacy.

“In achieving this, we are able to make a valuable contribution to clients’ plans and design ambitions, reducing the likelihood of objections on heritage grounds. This helps to transform our listed buildings and historic properties for generations to come.”

Panther Properties Plc is the developer behind the Clayton Street project with planning approval awarded by Newcastle City Council planning committee.

By Matthew Neville – Senior Correspondent, Bdaily

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