‘Loved it, feel sorry for staff and workers’: Newcastle reacts to STACK closure news

As STACK Newcastle today announces its permanent closure from May 2022, Geordies have been reacting to the news.

The food and drink hub is having to cease operating to make way for the new Pilgrim Quarter development.

In an emotional statement posted on social media channels today, STACK said they were “extremely sad” at the news and thanked their three million visitors over the years for bringing an “unforgettable atmosphere”.

The business also announced a month-long closing party throughout April, hoping that customers would see them out in style.

The statement read: "There is no easy way to share this news and we are extremely sad to have to make this announcement.

“After 4 years at Pilgrim Street, we can confirm STACK Newcastle will close at midnight on Monday 2 May 2022 to make way for the Pilgrim Quarter development.

“We have had an amazing four years, welcoming over 3 million visitors and have been overwhelmed by the support you have shown us.

“We will be hosting a month-long closing party throughout April, culminating with one all mighty final bank holiday weekend at STACK from Sat 30 – Monday 2 May.

“We hope you will all join us over the next 6 weeks to celebrate everything we have become famous for – great street food, great entertainment, and a great atmosphere.

“The good times would not have been possible without you – THANK YOU for making STACK your own. So, wipe your eyes, grab your mates and head to STACK for our final farewell dates.”

In the immediate aftermath of the announcement, customers took to social media to share their memories of the hospitality hub.

One wrote: "Loved that place feel sorry for the workers and staff who are losing their jobs."

Someone else said: "Went for the first time a few weeks back, and now this."

Another shared: "It’s a shame. Great place for food, drink and live music."

Some banded together in the hopes that STACK finds a new place in the city centre to trade from.

Responding to that idea, STACK said: “Everyone in the city wants STACK to stay and become a more permanent feature in the city, if we can make this happen down the line, we will do everything in our power to bring it back.”

Others also shared disappointment with the loss but looked forward to the business boom the Pilgrim Quarter should bring.

One user said: "Sad to lose a popular entertainment spot but could end up being not a bad move for the city as a whole given the amount of potential footfall for shops etc from the HMRC office going there."

Despite the outpouring of love for STACK, some users did admit that they hadn't fallen in love with the outdoor space.

Some pointed to expensive food and drink as being a reason why the loss of STACK might not be too hard a pill to swallow for them.