9000-job Newcastle HM Revenue and Customs base begins to rise from ground

The makings of a 9000-job office block are now rising high into a city’s sky.

Latest pictures show progress on a HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) complex at Pilgrim’s Quarter, in Newcastle, is moving at pace.

Bosses say the development will sit as part of the Government Hub network and operate as the largest of HMRC’s 13 regional centres.

Workers from an existing Benton Park View base, on the outskirts of Newcastle, and a sister base in Washington, Wearside, are expected to move into the hub by 2027.

The Ryder Architecture-designed Pilgrim’s Quarter complex is being developed and funded by Reuben Brothers (Newcastle) Ltd, with Bowmer and Kirkland acting as main contractor.

Avison Young is providing commercial, town planning, development, agency, property management and project management services, with engineering input from Cundall.

Project manager Chris Turnbull, of Avison Young, said: “We are pleased with the progress, which has involved extensive demolition and clearance works.”

Ed Besford, regional director at Bowmer and Kirkland, added: “This scheme will bring so much to Newcastle, in terms of construction jobs and future opportunities for the local workforce.”