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High Friars Square JLP01_10_28904
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High Friars Square JLP01_10_28904
Eldon Square Shopping Centre, Newgate Street, Newcastle upon Tyne. A neon sign reading High Friars Square at bottom of an escalator at the Eldon Square shopping centre in Newcastle.
Laing won the £ 5.2m contract to extend the shopping centre in March 1986 for completion in October 1987, a second contract in January 1987 to build the retail unit that bridges Blackett Street and connects the old with the new development and a third in May 1987 for improvements and upgrading across the whole Eldon Square site.
High Friars way, one of the routes through the shopping centre, takes its name from High Friars Chare, a medieval alleyway or street in north eastern dialect, whose course it roughly follows. Presumably High Friars Square, pictured, lies at one end of this passageway
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 24340066
© Historic England Archive
1980s Shopping Centre Sign Escalator Neon
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the essence of 1980s nostalgia in Newcastle upon Tyne's Eldon Square shopping centre. The image showcases a vibrant neon sign that reads "High Friars Square" positioned at the bottom of an escalator. As shoppers ascend or descend, they are greeted by this illuminated symbol, guiding them through the bustling retail haven. The significance of High Friars Square lies not only in its visual appeal but also in its historical context. The renowned construction company Laing played a pivotal role in expanding and enhancing the shopping centre during this era. With contracts totaling £5.2 million, Laing extended the complex, built a connecting retail unit over Blackett Street, and implemented various improvements across Eldon Square. Interestingly, High Friars way takes inspiration from High Friars Chare, an ancient alleyway or street with deep roots in local dialect and history. Presumably located at one end of this medieval passageway, High Friars Square serves as a modern-day intersection where tradition meets contemporary commerce. As we admire this snapshot frozen in time by A© Historic England Archive photographer Joh, we can't help but be transported back to an era when neon signs adorned cityscapes and escalators represented progress and convenience. This photograph encapsulates both the architectural evolution of Eldon Square Shopping Centre and the enduring charm it holds for residents and visitors alike.
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