OOBE has been commissioned to develop the landscape design and public realm for North Block, Worswick Chambers, Fire Station Hotel, Bank House, and Pilgrim Place—key components of the Pilgrim Street Masterplan. The landscape vision focuses on creating inviting and flexible spaces that serve both the users of the new Pilgrim Street developments and the wider community.

Building on our previous involvement, OOBE has a deep understanding of the site’s context, including its highways, heritage, and drainage complexities. A key aspect of this public realm project is ensuring robustness, longevity, and appropriateness while delivering a high-quality finish. The design incorporates generous fixed seating and integrated planters, providing comfortable resting areas.

Flexible open spaces accommodate a variety of events, from market stalls and street food vendors to live performances, transforming the area into a vibrant community hub.

A self-sustaining, naturalistic planting strategy throughout the masterplan encourages biodiversity, contributing to Newcastle’s ecological health. The landscape design prioritises resilience and adaptability while maintaining a high-quality finish. Generous fixed nseating is seamlessly integrated into steps and planters, offering inviting spaces to rest. The flexible open spaces are designed to host events, including markets, food vendors, and performances, fostering a lively public realm. Proposed rain gardens across the site will mitigate surface water runoff, enhancing sustainability.

Bespoke street furniture, contemporary paving materials, and well-considered signage establish a strong sense of place and improve pedestrian connectivity to the city centre. At Bank House, south-facing external terraces serve as both a green foreground to the building and a welcoming social space.

This transformational project will breathe new life into a key part of Newcastle. By creating a series of dynamic, inclusive, and flexible public spaces, OOBE has shaped a high-quality and welcoming destination. This accessible environment invites people to linger, socialise, and experience a green oasis in the heart of the city—placemaking at its best.