Newcastle's 'landmark' Co-op department store sold

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-tees-26697572

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A former "landmark" Co-op department store has been sold for £9m.

The Grade II listed art deco building on Newgate Street, Newcastle, had been closed since 2007, though the food hall stayed open until 2011.

The plans for the six-floor building include retail and leisure outlets and a Premier Inn hotel.

Co-operative group director Geoff Player said the "significant transaction" would lead to the rejuvenation of a "landmark building".

The property has been bought by the National Grid UK pension scheme.

The sale also includes the adjoining NCP car park and Landmark Chinese restaurant facing Stowell Street.

There have been a number of previous proposals for the 1930s building, most involving hotel and leisure facilities.