This is a major heritage project aimed at revitalising the City’s 13th-century, Grade I listed ‘Black Gate’, bringing it back into public use as a heritage, education and community resource. 

Development funding of £43,400 has been awarded to the Partnership to help progress the project that will see the restored ancient Black Gate, providing a new portal to the City’s rich history, culture and character. The project aims to combine the Black Gate with its medieval neighbours - the Castle Keep and St. Nicholas Cathedral - to provide an outstanding and dynamic heritage asset that will tell the story of the remarkable history of the Newcastle and its countless generations of residents.

The HLF first-round pass* means that the City Council can now progress to the second round of the HLF application process and has up to two years to submit more detailed plans and apply for the £1.17 million of HLF support that it is seeking for the project.

Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund in the North East, Ivor Crowther, said: "The Heritage Lottery Fund is pleased to be giving its initial support to this project which, if it goes on to secure a full grant, will not only rejuvenate Newcastle’s fascinating medieval heart, but will also provide Newcastle and its local communities with a fantastic new resource in which to explore its rich and diverse heritage.”

Cllr John Shipley, Leader of Newcastle City Council, said:
“We are absolutely delighted that the Heritage Lottery Fund has given its initial support for our project. The Black Gate, along with Castle Keep and St Nicholas Cathedral, form the medieval nucleus to Newcastle. This project will open up Old Newcastle to future generations, so they can understand and enjoy the fascinating history of their home city.”

Notes to editors

* A first-round pass means the project meets our criteria for funding and we believe it has potential to deliver high-quality benefits and value for Lottery money. The application was in competition with other supportable projects, so a first-round pass is an endorsement of outline proposals. Having been awarded a first-round pass, the project now has up to two years to submit fully developed proposals to compete for a firm award.

On occasion an applicant with a first-round pass will also be awarded development funding towards the development of their scheme.

The DCMS consultation on National Lottery shares is currently underway. To find out more about the consultation.

Using money raised through the National Lottery, the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) sustains and transforms a wide range of heritage for present and future generations to take part in, learn from and enjoy. From museums, parks and historic places to archaeology, natural environment and cultural traditions, we invest in every part of our diverse heritage. HLF has supported 33,900 projects, allocating £4.4billion across the UK. 

Further information
 
Katie Owen or Alison Scott, HLF Press Office on 020 7591 6036/32. Out of hours mobile on 07973 613 820.