UK-NORTHWEST-L Archives

From: "Brian Carter" <>
Subject: [UK-NW] Streetwise
Date: Sun, 19 Aug 2001 14:18:28 +0100

While its Quiet On The list
This out of the Local Free Metro Paper 14 August

Pilgrim Street Newcastle

Pilgrim Street runs from
Blackett street , near
Monument Station,down to its
Junction with Mosley Street

It is here that Richard
Grainger, the city’s foremost
Architect, positioned the Royal
Arcade, his third great work of
The mid 19th century

The Royal Arcade was
Planned to relieve the city’s
Need for a corn exchange but
When completed it soon
Became the region’s first indoor
Retail and commercial centre

The Arcade comprised two
Hugh office blocks, one facing
Pilgrim Street and the other
Facing Manor Chare, linked by a
Narrower shopping arcade

When it opened the post
Office moved in as did the
Stamp, Excise and Permit
Offices, the Saving Bank and
Other prestigious financial firms

The stone front extended for
94ft and was 75ft high.The
250ft long interior was 20ft wide
and 35ft high and cost £40.000.

Despite the Arcade’s
Grandeur,it was a failure and
Was in decline by 1860 by 1880
It was being considered for
Demolition – although its fate
Was not sealed until 1963 when
It was replaced by modern
Office complex which stands
There today

This thread:

• [UK-NW] Streetwise by "Brian Carter" <>

  • [UK-NW] Streetwise by "Brian Carter" <>