Revitalising a Listed Landmark: Jesmond Bus Depot Redevelopment

Context

The former Jesmond Bus Depot, designed by the Newcastle-based firm Marshall and Tweedy in 1931 and now a vacant and vandalised Grade II listed building in a prominent city centre location, had deteriorated significantly since becoming vacant in 2022, suffering from graffiti, structural damage, and break-ins, with ongoing anti-social behaviour making the site unsafe and unsightly. Located close to Newcastle city centre, the site occupies a highly visible and strategically significant position within the urban fabric.

Despite its striking Doric façade and rich history, attempts to repurpose the site to find a new transport-related operator failed, following a two-year marketing effort which yielded no interest in continuing its original use.

Vistry North East, working with Hedley Planning and Faulkner Browns, sought to regenerate the site into a vibrant, mixed-use development balancing heritage conservation with contemporary needs.

Consultation Approach

Using the PlaceChangers Engagement Tool, Hedley Planning delivered an interactive digital consultation experience complementing their traditional in-person exhibition. Hedley Planning invited nearby residents to respond online or attend in person via postcard invitations.

Requiring a fast turnaround, setting up the interactive consultation on PlaceChangers had a lead-in time of only two days for setup and review, demonstrating the ability to generate interactive engagement formats on PlaceChangers rapidly.

PlaceChangers platform facilitated structured feedback across key themes, including heritage integration, access, public space, dwelling mix, and design. Respondents navigated the proposal via a digital tour that included CGI overlays and accessible visuals, encouraging participation from a broad demographic.

Alexander Franklin, associated director at Hedley Planning, mentioned:

“The Jesmond Bus Depot consultation was very well received and feedback was very positive.”

Key Outcomes

Feedback highlighted a very positive response to the regeneration proposals, with 94% of respondents viewing the regeneration of the site as necessary, and 74% supporting the proposals.

Respondents appreciated the scheme’s ambition to restore vibrancy to the site and preserve the iconic façade. Many respondents welcomed the reactivation of a long-derelict site and the prospect of improved public space. Suggestions ranged from enhancing cyclist and pedestrian access to ensuring commercial units support local character. Overall, respondents expressed hope for a thoughtful scheme that balanced modern needs with respect for the site’s historical and neighbourhood context.

This project showcases how interactive consultations, even on a highly constrained and sensitive site, can build consensus around regeneration. By blending historic conservation with modern needs and opening dialogue across the community, the project laid firm foundations for planning success and broader partnership-led development across the region.