Bank and bowling alley to move into former store
LDRSPlans for a bank and bowling alley to move into a former Sports Direct store have been approved.
Newcastle City Council granted permission for the Reuben brothers' overhaul of Monument Mall, which they bought in a reported £37m deal in 2021.
Major refurbishment works will see Lloyds Bank relocate to the Northumberland Street site from Grey Street and leisure operator Lane7 move into the building's basement.
However, plans for a rooftop terrace restaurant and bar have been axed after the idea was deemed to be financially unviable, the Local Democracy Reporting Service understands.
On Friday, council planners issued permission for a makeover of the prominent spot, which has been surrounded by hoardings for months.
Work to transform it has already begun, with new shop fronts and entrances created off the high street from Brunswick Place.
The council said the redevelopment would "bring a vacant retail unit back into use within the prime retail area of the city centre" and "deliver a high quality and sustainable design".
In design documents, Newcastle-based Ryder Architecture said: "Brunswick Place provides an opportunity to introduce active frontage to both Monument Mall and Fenwick department store opposite.
"As an alternative route between Monument and Northumberland Street, it would be ideal for street food and a marketplace environment."
Proposals said the area would have new shop front entrances, lighting and signage to help reduce potential crime and refuse bins would be relocated.
"As a combined offer this will activate the street to pedestrians and through management and supervision, we hope to create a safe public space," the documents said.