For example, the much-loved bar- ‘The Mushroom’, which after 23 years left with a leaving party including 2000 of its loyal customers in late January of this month after a lack of support from “both local and national powers”. Also, Hard Rock Cafe, known for its live music and merchandise closed in March 2025, despite its popularity and favourable location near the favoured Quayside.
Locals to the Northeast and fellow business owners look at the council to blame for these rapid changes in the High Street. Despite a rising look towards the council by the community, there is still a lack of accountability. Following the success of the Christmas market, the council congratulated themselves and stall owners on their work but failed to address awareness about the issues the stalls caused for small businesses, who were being blocked or ignored due to the market.
Despite a rising look towards the council by the community, there is still a lack of accountability
The council need to make sure people coming to Newcastle are aware of independent businesses, as despite the work they do they are often ignored by people who lean towards well known businesses and chains such as Pizza Express or H&M. Making a week dedicated to showing off independent businesses could really show the council doing a good deed, and help promote these companies thrive in an economically struggling society. Newcastle is known for using the internet to promote ideas such as their ‘Restaurant week’ or ‘Cocktail week’ where discounts can be enjoyed all over the city. Why not do a week just for the independents, where they can promote their pieces without the fight of being ignored due to the prominence of other well-known brands.
These independents are choosing to not backdown or give up and to keep the community of the lively and innovative ‘Toon’ alive. Let us keep them in business and focus in on helping the smaller businesses thrive.