MEA House gets English Heritage Listing

Gleaming with pride in the Winter sun, MEA House, Newcastle celebrates its listing status with English Heritage.

"MEA House was the first office purpose-built to house multiple voluntary organisations under one roof, demonstrating the growing social relevance of the ‘third sector’. Designed in the early 70s by Ryder and Yates, its unique, innovative design dispenses with the need for columns, instead suspending the building slabs from deep beams within." http://heritagecalling.com/2015/01/28/14-of-the-finest-post-war-offices-designed-by-leading-architects/

I loved this building as soon as it was built back in 1974.  The mirrored glass exterior was unlike any other building in Newcastle at the time and was reminiscent of skyscrapers in American cities.  It is looking a bit dilapidated nowadays, especially the surrounding walkways, but the listing status may now encourage some money to be spent on its upkeep and refurbishment.

Lets hope it can avoid tubs of Artex in future!

http://novumcastellum.blogspot.co.uk/2014/05/mea-house-staircase-artex.html

Sustrans to open a bike workshop and cafe

Sustrans encourages us to "commute with confidence"

Back in September 2013, I blogged about a new cafe that looked to be opening in the Fusion bar / Supershop premises on the Blue Carpet: 
http://novumcastellum.blogspot.co.uk/2013/09/new-cafe-bar-for-blue-carpet-square.html.

Nothing came of this and the premises have remained empty ever since.  But, I have now heard that Sustrans - the "leading charity enabling people to choose healthier, cleaner and cheaper journeys" are set to open up a bicycle hub where cyclists can leave their bikes securely and have a shower.  As well as promoting walking and cycling for our regular journeys, they will have people on hand to give advice on cycling and safe routes. There will also be a cafe on the premises.  Sustrans plan to move their Newcastle office to Higham House, above the cafe. 

Newcastle Winter sun - John Dobson Street

Newcastle in the Winter Sun - Grainger Street