First look at proposed Strawberry House student accommodation in the shadow of St James’ Park

Leazes Park Road is about to look different as consultation begins on the former Barker & Stonehouse building and Strawberry House.

When the furniture store closed, which adjoins Strawberry House, it was rumoured Newcastle United could be looking at the site as part of St James’ Park expansion plans, however an urban regeneration specialist is planning to bring more student accommodation to the area.

Vita Group intends to save the old Strawberry House building, incorporating it into the designs for redevelopment.

Over the last decade, demand for Newcastle’s student accommodation has grown by circa 25% with over 52,000 students studying in the city each year and significant growth from international students of 55% since the 2016/17 academic year.

A consultation page has also been created with information about the redevelopment, with detailed plans posted on 11 October following the event for people to browse at their own leisure and provide feedback through the onlinefeedback form.

Max Bielby, Vita Group Chief Operating Officer said: “We’re delighted to share our ideas for the former Barker & Stonehouse building and look forward to meeting local residents and the wider city to talk through our proposal. Newcastle has a fantastic reputation as a great place to study, this reputation continues to draw more students’ year-on-year, creating greater demand on the city’s infrastructure, the redevelopment of this scheme could help to alleviate some of those pressures whilst adding to the city, creating a new thriving community.”