Part of these plans include a new pop-up location for Stack, a shipping container-based development containing multiple bars and food stalls. The venue originally occupied Pilgrim Street before being forced to close in May 2022. A planning application has been submitted for Stack, with developers expecting to have the venue running by Christmas.
Developments have been delayed. The plan for land owned between Newcastle City Council and the Clouston Group has been earmarked for redevelopment since 2008. The recession pushed initial plans back to 2012. Issues arose in June 2018 when the council dropped its partnership with the group over their lack of finances. The group remains committed to developing sites in the area still under their ownership.
The group remains committed to developing sites in the area still under their ownership
Other issues have also arisen with the Crowne Plaza Hotel, built in 2013 under a council loan of £15m. The council have repeatedly funded loans to the business, resulting in a near £30m debt incurred by the business. The hotel is now managed by an American company, Interstate Hotels and Resorts.
The project now continues with the developers PfP Igloo, under the name of a new company Stephenson Works LLP. The developers are credited with the highly successful regeneration of the Ouseburn Valley. The project transformed the former industrial area into a space for businesses and new homes.
Redevelopment plans for the Stephenson Quarter are planned to finish in 7 years. Costs for the new project are estimated at £104m of public and private investment.