A flagship city centre regeneration project delivered by Newcastle’s Labour Council has been completed, transforming Ridley Place into a greener, more attractive destination for residents, visitors and local businesses.
The Labour administration has delivered a comprehensive overhaul of the popular city centre street, creating a modern public space designed to support independent businesses, encourage investment and make Newcastle’s city centre cleaner, greener and more welcoming.
Ridley Place, home to a diverse range of independent retailers, cafés and professional services, has been fully repaved with high-quality materials, while bespoke seating, planters and street furniture have been installed throughout the street. The furniture was manufactured by Newcastle-based company Raskl, whose designs draw inspiration from the city’s proud industrial heritage, ensuring investment has also supported local jobs and expertise.
The transformation also includes a new pocket park, additional trees and planting, improved cycle parking and sustainable landscaping, helping to deliver Labour’s ambition of creating a carbon-neutral Newcastle while making the area a more enjoyable place to spend time.
Public art has also been placed at the heart of the regeneration, with a striking new mural welcoming visitors to Ridley Place and a second artwork planned later this year to complete the street’s visual identity.
New suspended lighting has been installed across the street, improving safety and creating an attractive evening atmosphere while providing opportunities for future artistic installations and events.
Labour Councillor Alex Hay, Cabinet Member for a Thriving City at Newcastle City Council, said:
“We remain committed to transforming the city centre into a clean, green and welcoming place that attracts visitors and investment while giving local people a real sense of pride in where they live.
“Our vision for Ridley Place was to create an exciting destination where independent businesses can flourish, and these improvements have delivered exactly that.
“The new trees and planting make the street more attractive while supporting our environmental ambitions. The locally manufactured seating and planters showcase Newcastle talent, and the new lighting and public art create a destination that people will want to visit throughout the day and into the evening.
“I’d like to thank the businesses on Ridley Place for working with us throughout these improvements. Together we’ve created a fantastic new space that will attract more visitors, support local trade and strengthen our city centre.”
The completion of Ridley Place marks another successful regeneration project delivered under Labour’s leadership, demonstrating the council’s continued investment in Newcastle’s high streets, public spaces and local economy.