Hotel and restaurants set to open in Newcastle's landmark Co-op building

The iconic Co-operative building in the centre of Newcastle is set to be developed into a 231-bedroom hotel and restaurants.

Planning permission has been submitted by Merchant Place Developments (MPD) to Newcastle City Council for the 150,000sq ft redevelopment of the Grade II-listed building and the adjoining premises in St Andrew's Street.

William Grafton, project director at MPD, said the 1930s art-deco building and the adjoining early 20th century property would be treated with sensitivity within a location that has seen considerable improvement in recent years.

A historic arcade which has been uncovered within the site during initial investigative work is to be preserved to form part of the proposed hotel. "Other features to be retained include the outstanding stairwells that run through the six-storey building," Grafton said.

Designed by the Red Box Design Group, the project includes retail space and a gym. Subject to planning permission being granted, a contractor will be announced in the autumn with the restaurants and shops opening in autumn 2012. The hotel is due to open in summer 2012.

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By Janet Harmer

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