Castle Car Park

The 450-space Castle Car Park was built as part of the Ryecroft redevelopment in Newcastle-under-Lyme, replacing the outdated Midway car park. A key element of the Council’s Future High Street programme, it supports the town’s regeneration by enabling new homes, offices, shops, a hotel, and public spaces.

Funded by £11 million from the Government’s Future High Street Fund, including £3.5 million for the car park, the project improves parking provision while enhancing safety, accessibility, and sustainability. The modern, well-lit facility features energy-efficient lighting, natural ventilation, 22 EV charging points, and a dedicated cycle hub, creating a secure and welcoming environment.

The Council’s ambition was clear - they wanted the best car park in the region, not just a functional facility, but a landmark development setting the benchmark for future regeneration, which would be efficient to run. The modern design, cutting-edge technology, and high-quality finish reflect NUL’s commitment to excellence and innovation.

Beyond construction, the Council was committed to maximising local impact, ensuring opportunities for local businesses, labour, training, jobs, and apprenticeships, creating long-term economic benefits for the town.

Its successful delivery sets a benchmark for future developments, demonstrating the Council’s commitment to high-quality infrastructure and a vibrant, accessible town centre.

A steel frame with composite metal decking and concrete provided the optimal structural solution, delivering flexibility, reduced loadings and programme certainty. The innovative RESDEV Deckmaster System R accelerated construction, simplified installation interfaces and enhanced overall buildability.

Complex ground conditions, including uncharted drainage, culverts, asbestos and a high water table, were successfully managed through extensive investigation and specialist engineering solutions. Foundation designs were adapted to accommodate a diverted and sealed culvert, ensuring efficient delivery of the scheme.

The original castle-inspired vision was reimagined as a distinctive bronze façade, creating a landmark facility that sets a new benchmark for regeneration and establishes a strong identity for future development phases.

The project generated significant social value, strengthening the local supply chain and creating lasting community benefits. A pre-construction Getting Connected event engaged local businesses, suppliers and job seekers, helping drive local procurement opportunities and support regional SMEs.

Social value outcomes exceeded all targets, delivering 20 local jobs (target: 10), engaging 104 students (target: 40), providing 152 training weeks and 200 apprentice/T-Level weeks across 14 learners. In addition, £33,643 was spent with VCSEs and 28% of project spend was retained locally, surpassing the 25% target.

“Morgan Sindall fully understood our ambition to deliver a high-quality, landmark facility for our regeneration programme. Through innovative design, strong collaboration and a transparent ‘no surprises’ approach, the team delivered on time and on budget despite early site challenges. Their proactive, supportive approach gave us confidence throughout.

Simon McEneny, Deputy Chief Executive, Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council