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In 2005 consultants Latham Architects were appointed to carry out a study in relation to future planning applications within Newcastle town centre. 

From this report, areas for improvement for the eastern approach into the town centre were recommended. 

Group Repair Scheme

Fifty five properties on John Street, Wharf Street and part of Albert Street were externally refurbished in a two phase scheme that was completed in April 2005 at a cost of £632,000. 

Works carried out included:

• Replacement windows and doors
• Front boundary walls
• Replacement rainwater goods
• Replacement roofing
   

Improvements to rear of properties

Additional environmental improvements to the backs of properties on John Street and Wharf Street took place including the re-laying of rear paving, demolition of some outbuildings, provision of new rear gates and entry gates, re-pointing or replacement of boundary walls as necessary. 

This additional work was to compliment the other Renew work and to help raise confidence in the residential environment. The project cost £24,000 and the cost was split between RENEW North Staffs and Newcastle Borough Council.

Road/footway improvements

In addition to repairs to the front and rear of the properties, traffic safety/management and kerb and footway resurfacing and improvements took place.

The cost of project was £60,000 and this was shared equally by RENEW and Staffordshire County Council.

Andrew Place Refurbishment

Andrew Place is a 1970s commercial and social housing development owned and managed by Aspire Housing Association. 

The scheme involved substantial works to the frontage, including:

• Landscaping/planting of existing grassed areas
• Resurfacing Tarmac Pathways
• 1.2m bow top fencing and gates
• Replacing two street lamps
• Seating
• Floor mounted flood lights
• Additional complementary fencing at Boundary Street and Lockwood Street at £6,600

The development is in a prominent location and helped transform its image and had a direct effect on 300 residents and ground floor businesses.

Consultation with residents began in June 2005 and works were completed in December 2005.  The total project cost was £100,000 and was split between RENEW, Aspire Housing and Newcatle Borough Council.