A £1.85million stonemasonry contract has been completed at the redevelopment of Grade II listed Carliol House in Newcastle city centre, forming part of the wider Pilgrim’s Quarter regeneration scheme.

Specialist contractor Classic Masonry was appointed by main contractor Bowmer+Kirkland to deliver extensive stone conservation, façade retention and precast installation works as part of the creation of a new 460,000ft² office complex for HM Revenue & Customs.

The project centred on the retention of the 120m-long Art Deco façade and dome of Carliol House, integrating the historic structure into a nine-storey contemporary office building that will eventually accommodate up to 9,000 HMRC staff. The retained façade is believed to be among the largest structural façade retentions undertaken in the UK, with the Portland stone elevation temporarily supported by a substantial steel framework during construction.

As part of the works, Classic Masonry assisted with the temporary dismantling of the prominent dome at the Carliol House and Market Street junction. The structure was carefully cleaned, repaired and reinstated following completion of the main structural works.

Alongside conservation activity, Bowmer+Kirkland was responsible for the design, manufacture and installation of precast concrete elements, new cladding systems and architectural columns forming part of the new-build sections of the development, creating continuity between retained historic fabric and contemporary construction.

Mike Moody, managing director of Classic Masonry, has underlined how the project demonstrates how historic masonry can be successfully incorporated into large-scale commercial developments. He highlighted collaboration between the contractor team, project architect Ryder Architecture and conservation officers at Newcastle City Council in developing appropriate interventions to protect the structural and heritage value of the façade.

The completed building will serve as HMRC’s largest regional hub and acts as the focal point of the wider Pilgrim’s Quarter regeneration, combining large-scale commercial workspace with the preservation of one of Newcastle’s most recognisable historic façades.