By Meg, 14 and Harrison, 13
Northumberland Street’s redevelopment has been a years-long project, which is due to be finished in early 2026.
The redevelopment project, which is expected to be finished by next year, will “create an elegant and high-quality environment that is inspired by the street’s Medieval history and will reinforce its position as the region’s most vibrant and important high street, setting it apart from other streets.”
The Medieval aspect of Northumberland Street will be in the form of 15-metre pillars, and is inspired by the guideposts across the causeway to Holy Island, which pilgrims took when following St Cuthbert.
The pillars are designed to be a spectacle, with remote-controlled lights; however, there is the argument that they are too abstract.
“Part of it is a mystery, to make you stop and figure out what it is,” says Ella, “but I think there still should be some explanation as to what they are.”
To get more down to earth, Northumberland Street’s redevelopment will also hopefully decrease the anti-social behaviour.
“If young people like the area more, they are less likely to treat it badly,” says Ella. “If it looks nicer and it is more inviting, people will be unlikely to commit crimes there.”
The novelty will eventually wear off, but in the meantime, it does look like it’s going to be an inviting space. “I think they will for a while. But not forever,” says Harrison.
“There will be a good length of time where it will stay looking new. I think young people will use it, as there’s more seating.”
The redevelopment plans also include lots of trees and greenery, including a rain garden, which collects rainwater and other runoff and blooms flowers. Grey Street has had similar designs to it, which will create a cohesive flow to the city.
The side streets around Northumberland Street, including Saville Row and Ridley Place, have already had a refresh and are much more inviting areas.
“It will look less like a liminal space,” says Ella. “I don’t pay attention to the shops on there enough. The new stuff may make me pay attention a bit more.”
This story was written by two young people as part of the Headliners Young Journalist programme. This project was made possible by the Million Hours Fund.
