Pilgrim’s Quarter reaches construction milestone

A landmark office development in Newcastle has reached a significant milestone as construction has completed on a new Government hub set to house thousands of staff.

Pilgrim’s Quarter, part of the wider Pilgrim Street regeneration, has reached practical completion, enabling HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to begin fitting out its new 463,000sq ft regional centre ahead of a planned move-in date of 2027. 

Delivered ahead of schedule, the building will accommodate around 9000 employees, making it HMRC’s largest regional hub in the UK.

Karen Kilgour, leader of Newcastle City Council, said: “Pilgrim Street is one of the most historic streets in Newcastle, and the regeneration that has taken place within the area in recent years, enabled through brilliant and aligned partnership working, has resulted in a truly revitalised city-centre district that meets the needs of businesses and reflects the ambitions of our city. 

“HMRC choosing to open their largest regional hub in Pilgrim’s Quarter is one of the great success stories of this scheme, and I look forward to them taking occupation in the near future and adding to the vibrant commercial ecosystem that’s taking shape here.” 

Louis Roberts, director of estates at HMRC, added: “We look forward to occupying our new regional centre from 2027, which demonstrates our commitment to the area and its economy.” 

Developed by Reuben Brothers (Newcastle) Limited, the project forms one of the North East’s biggest commercial regeneration schemes. 

The new-build office has been seamlessly integrated with the Grade II-listed Carliol House façade, bringing together contemporary design and historic architecture across a full city block bounded by Pilgrim Street, Market Street, New Bridge Street West and John Dobson Street.

Roger Thornton, head of property at Motcomb Estates, the asset manager for Reuben Brothers, added: “This represents a major milestone for HMRC, Pilgrim’s Quarter and for Newcastle city centre as a whole.

“It’s a transformational scheme that reflects the skill and collaboration of all partners involved, from our own team to the construction and design partners who’ve brought the vision to life. 

“It’s fantastic to see this landscape-defining project come to fruition and to have played our part in delivering a development that will have a lasting, positive impact on Newcastle. 

“Pilgrim’s Quarter is central to our wider regeneration ambitions for the city, and we’re proud to see it set a new benchmark for quality in workspace development.” 

Avison Young led project management and employer’s agent services, with Bowmer & Kirkland as main contractor, Ryder Architecture as lead architect and Cundall as engineering consultant.

Chris Turnbull, principal at Avison Young, added: “This successful handover is the culmination of years of close collaboration between all partners. 

“Pilgrim’s Quarter is a project of great regional and national significance, and our project management team has expertly guided the development through every stage to its practical completion. 

“We now look forward to seeing the fit-out take shape and the building fully occupied, breathing new life into the surrounding area of Newcastle city centre. 

“It’s a privilege to have supported a project that not only transforms the local skyline but also contributes meaningfully to the city’s long-term prosperity and resilience.” 

Paul Anderson, contracts manager at Bowmer & Kirkland, added: “Despite the challenges involved in constructing such a large building in a constrained city-centre environment, the dedication and teamwork of all involved has ensured a seamless delivery, integrating heritage with modern business ambition. 

“This project has been a testament to what can be achieved when all parties share a common goal and commitment to excellence. 

“We’re incredibly proud of what has been accomplished here and look forward to seeing the building brought to life as HMRC’s new home.” 

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