Newcastle Cathedral

Sensitive, sustainable solutions for a sacred civic place

Introduction

The landmark restoration and renewal of Newcastle Cathedral has delivered a civic and sacred space fit for the 21st Century and beyond, underpinned by sustainable interventions and an expert understanding of the historical and social significance of the Grade I-listed place of worship.

The completed ‘Common Ground in Sacred Space’ project has reinforced Newcastle Cathedral’s place at the heart of modern city life, giving renewed significance of the lantern tower as a visible point of welcome within the city.

Completed in August 2021, the latter stages of the project played out during months considered challenging by most; the impact of Covid-19 exaggerating the need for collaboration within the multidisciplinary team during the project’s closing stages.

'Purcell has been involved in the largest refurbishment since the works that took place here in 1882, when St Nicholas’ became a cathedral.

At its heart, the project has been about creating a sustainable future for our magnificent Cathedral, celebrating its elegance, but also energising its mission to welcome visitors of all faiths and none into our story.'

– The Very Revd Geoff Miller, Dean of Newcastle

Net zero churches

Sustainably sourced, underfloor heating was also installed beneath the reconfigured nave floor, removing the costly and inefficient need to heat the entire, echoing space within the cathedral for visitors. This gentle ‘heat sink’ is powered in part by air sourced heat pumps hidden on top of the new lobby.

When the refurbishment works were completed in 2021, the cathedral was among the first Grade I-listed cathedrals to have the technology installed.

The cathedral’s ambitious plan to reach net-zero carbon across its whole site by 2030 is part of the Church of England’s campaign to achieve net-zero by 2030, a move which was voted in by General Synod in 2020.

New facilities, including a lift, have been introduced with as little impact to the cathedral fabric and exterior as possible. A converted basement frames modern new amenities, forestalling the need to extend the cathedral’s footprint, while the new lobby expands access and sustainable design.

Ancient stone ledgers

100+

ancient stone ledgers restored and re-laid

one tonne

average weight of each ledger

A deep understanding of Newcastle Cathedral’s history guided the project from the outset. Our team developed a Conservation Management Plan to identify key heritage elements and opportunities for thoughtful change.

This framework supported essential works to future-proof the space with minimal impact on its historic fabric, integrating innovative design while preserving its character. The surrounding landscape was reimagined to improve accessibility, including a new main entrance with lifts and ramps.

The result is a more inclusive, flexible, and sustainable Cathedral—ready to serve cultural, civic, and religious life at the heart of the city

Team

Jo Bartle Deputy Regional Partner

Details

Client The Dean and Chapter of Newcastle Cathedral
Team York Studio
Location Newcastle
Country United Kingdon
Listing Status Grade I
Photography Nick Farka; Daniel Hopkinson

Awards

RIBA North East Won 2023
AJ Retrofit: Cultural and Religious Buildings Shortlisted 2023
Construction Excellence North East: Conservation/Regeneration Shorlisted 2021