Byker is well known as a unique social housing development. 

The original Byker Estate was built in the 1900’s to provide housing for the growing workforce employed in the heavy industries (mainly ship building) on the banks of the River Tyne.  The housing was typical of a Victorian working class area - densely built terraces but in the style of Tyneside Flats.

By the 1960’s, much of the housing in Byker was in poor condition - many properties were deemed unfit for human habitation and required a back log of major repairs.  It was around this time (1966) that Newcastle City Corporation  took the decision to redevelop the area. 

The Estate was built on a “rolling programme” in 11 phases to house 9,500 people.

The future

It is an exciting time in Byker with major works under way through the Modern Homes Programme.  The first phase of the external renewal programme is now nearly finished and the focus is now turning towards internal packages.   

The Estate is also being painted to renew Byker back to its original bright primary colours.  To find out more about the Modern Homes Programme, visit Modern Homes Investment.

Listed status

Thr Byker Estate was awarded with Grade II* Listed status on 5^th July 2007 by Culture Minister David Lammy following advice from English Heritage.  David Lammy said:

“The Byker Estate is an extraordinary and outstanding piece of architecture which has won awards and attracted attention throughout its life.  Its influence, both on design and the way we involve communities in the planning process, has been profound”. 

The listed status of the Byker Estate will ensure that care will be taken over decisions affecting its future.  It also means that any alterations must respect the character and interest of the buildings and preservation must be taken into account when considering any redevelopment proposals.

More Byker information

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