Newcastle’s Pilgrim’s Quarter, part of the Pilgrim Street regeneration area, has reached a landmark milestone as the new regional centre for HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and UK Government hub is officially handed over. This marks completion of the base build and will enable HMRC to commence its fit-out, ahead of moving to the city centre office in 2027.
Delivered ahead of schedule, the 463,000 sq ft office will accommodate approximately 9,000 HMRC staff, making it the department’s largest regional hub in the UK. The building is the centrepiece of the wider Pilgrim’s Quarter regeneration scheme, one of the largest commercial development projects in the North East.
The transformation of the full city block, which fronts Pilgrim Street, Market Street, New Bridge Street West and John Dobson Street, and the new-build office for HMRC has been expertly integrated with the historic façade of the Grade II listed Carliol House, blending modern ambition with the area’s rich heritage.
The project was developed by Reuben Brothers (Newcastle) Limited, with Bowmer & Kirkland serving as the main contractor, Ryder Architecture as lead architect, Cundall as engineering consultant, and Avison Young providing project management and employer’s agent services.
HMRC will now commence its Category B fit-out of the space, transforming it into a modern, inclusive and sustainable workplace, ahead of employees moving into the site in 2027.
Pilgrim’s Quarter marks a new chapter in the transformation of Newcastle’s commercial landscape, demonstrating how strategic public sector investment, coupled with private sector collaboration, can create high-quality workplaces that underpin regional regeneration and economic confidence.
Cllr Karen Kilgour, Leader of Newcastle City Council, said:
“Pilgrim Street is one of the most historic streets in Newcastle, and the regeneration that has taken place within the area in recent years, enabled through brilliant and aligned partnership working, has resulted in a truly revitalised city centre district that meets the needs of businesses and reflects the ambitions of our city.
“HMRC choosing to open their largest regional hub in Pilgrim’s Quarter is one of the great success stories of this scheme, and I look forward to them taking occupation in the near future and adding to the vibrant commercial ecosystem that’s taking shape here.”
Louis Roberts, Director of Estates at HM Revenue and Customs, added:
“We look forward to occupying our new regional centre from 2027, which demonstrates our commitment to the area and its economy.”
Roger Thornton, Head of Property at Motcomb Estates, the Asset Manager for Reuben Brothers, added:
“This represents a major milestone for HMRC, Pilgrim’s Quarter and for Newcastle city centre as a whole. It’s a transformational scheme that reflects the skill and collaboration of all partners involved, from our own team to the construction and design partners who’ve brought the vision to life.
“It’s fantastic to see this landscape-defining project come to fruition and to have played our part in delivering a development that will have a lasting, positive impact on Newcastle. Pilgrim’s Quarter is central to our wider regeneration ambitions for the city, and we’re proud to see it set a new benchmark for quality in workspace development.”
Paul Anderson, Contracts Manager at Bowmer & Kirkland, added:
“Despite the challenges involved in constructing such a large building in a constrained city centre environment, the dedication and teamwork of all involved has ensured a seamless delivery, integrating heritage with modern business ambition.
“This project has been a testament to what can be achieved when all parties share a common goal and commitment to excellence. We’re incredibly proud of what has been accomplished here and look forward to seeing the building brought to life as HMRC’s new home.”
Chris Turnbull, Principal at Avison Young, added:
“This successful handover is the culmination of years of close collaboration between all partners. Pilgrim’s Quarter is a project of great regional and national significance, and our project management team has expertly guided the development through every stage to its practical completion.
“We now look forward to seeing the fit-out take shape and the building fully occupied, breathing new life into the surrounding area of Newcastle city centre. It’s a privilege to have supported a project that not only transforms the local skyline but also contributes meaningfully to the city’s long-term prosperity and resilience.”
