PRESERVATION VERSUS PROGRESS

Layers of history, architecture, planning, culture, industry, have all built up over time to make the city of Newcastle how it is today. Social and economic change has left Newcastle with many historic buildings no longer needed or suitable for the uses for which they were designed, but which form a rich architectural legacy.
The cultural memory and historic value which transcends a building's usefulness is recognised through listed building
legislation and the strength of the conservation lobby. Demolition is not an option; new uses must be found for these buildings which attempt to address the 'preservation/progress' dichotomy - preserving and enhancing their character, whilst accepting the need for rational and viable economic uses.
In any re-use project, the resolution of technical issues - structural load, space planning, upgrading and integrating services, acoustic problems, building regulations, fire regulations, access and management - is not always compatible with the demands of conservation. This paper will focus on a pilot study (to be conducted in July/August 1999) of a rehabilitated, historic building in Newcastle, investigating the competing interests of different actors; identifying their relative levels of power and influence; and exploring how these relationships are manifested through the design, development and conservation of the building.