Monday, May 9, 2011

Intermission

A slight pause. I have been watching with interest as the new University of Newcastle Business School at Gallowgate takes shape. Ingeniously sandwiched between the former Newcastle and Scottish Breweries administration block (itself being converted into a hotel) and Pitt Street, the distinctive cladding and angular facades give this building a 'stealth bomber' appearance.

Behind lies the huge spaces of the former Scottish and Newcastle Brewery site, destined so it is claimed to become Newcastle's 'Science City'. Maybe. In these straightened times finance must be an issue. This is sad news. If the building designed for this impressive corner of the city - for too long neglected and stymied by single use and access problems - is an example of what to expect then this will be an exciting addition to the city, adding to a growing re-orientation westwards in the city's focus.

Taking advantage of the (nearly surreal) good weather I have compiled a portrait of the new building, tacking on one of another older development slightly further up Barrack Road; the fine 'in-fill' building which today houses a firm of city solicitor's, long a favourite new building. Let us be honest, how many have there been?

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