The extension, now fully let, showcases more than 25 new retailers; many of which are venturing into Newcastle for the first time. Apple, Hollister, Superdry and Guess have all opened debut stores in the city, reinvigorating the existing mix to attract more shoppers to the area.
Over the next 12 months, more than 30 million visits are expected to Eldon Square thanks to several new food and retail outlets. The four-storey Debenhams, anchoring St Andrew’s Way, is the first new department store in Newcastle for a generation. Tesco Metro and Paperchase are opening debut stores in the city, and other new shops include fashion brands Miss Selfridge, Schuh and All Saints, and a new restaurant from Lau’s 202.
In the face of competing high street brands, existing retailers have decided to up their game by launching new store designs and full fashion ranges. Top Shop is bringing its iconic New York design to the Newcastle store, and River Island and New Look are opening flagships in the centre.
Eldon Square, a joint venture between Capital Shopping Centres and Newcastle City Council, has undergone improvements since 2006, when 22,000 sq ft of new retail space was added on Blackettbridge mall. This was followed by a new bus station in March 2007, and the completion of St George’s Way in February 2008, providing 14 new stores and 48,000 sq ft of retail space.
Later that year, the city council re-landscaped Old Eldon Square – a city landmark – with new flowerbeds, trees, walkways and seating. Kay Chaldecott, managing director of Capital Shopping Centres, said: “St Andrew’s Way is the culmination of many years’ proactive and energetic activity as long term investors in Newcastle, and is testament to the shared vision and commitment of Newcastle City Council and Capital Shopping Centres.
“We are immensely proud of Eldon Square and the positive changes it has brought to the city centre, harnessing its great spirit and augmenting the shopping experience. This expansion will reinforce Eldon Square’s position as one of the leading retail destinations in the UK.”
But the improvements aren’t stopping quite yet. The floors in the existing centre are due to undergo a £2m refurbishment, and further new retailers will shortly be announced. The food offer in the centre has also been extended, with the addition of Nando’s, Strada, Starbucks Coffee, Waitrose, and Wagamama, as well as new restaurants in established stores including The Brasserie, The Place to Eat in John Lewis, and YO! Sushi and The American Diner in Fenwick.
Eldon Square’s centre manager, Tim Lamb said: “Newcastle has a focus on the future and Eldon Square plays a significant role in its vision to enhance this vibrant, modern city.
“Before the new development programme began, Eldon Square was already the focal point for shoppers in the North East. Anchored by John Lewis, Fenwick and Marks & Spencer department stores, we offered a comprehensive range of retail from national multiples to specialist retailers as well as restaurants and bars.
“The new development has allowed us to offer modern, well configured retail space to a range of exciting and high profile brands, not currently represented in the region. St Andrew’s Way links seamlessly into the existing shopping centre and provides easy access to the city centre via Clayton Street and Newgate Street.”

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