Historic barracks in Newcastle may become car dealership

A car dealership is looking to turn historic guardhouses on Barrack Road in Newcastle into office space. The former military barracks have been empty since 2019 after being used for restaurants. Lloyds Motor Group plans to remove modern extensions from the Grade II listed building. They believe this will help preserve the building's history. The Northumberland and Newcastle Society supports the idea, saying it will help restore an important part of the city's heritage. The Newcastle Conservation Advisory Panel also backs the project but wants more details about the materials to be used. They feel this information is essential for preserving the building's character. Fenham Barracks was built in 1806 to house military units. Over time, it expanded to include many facilities. Some parts of the complex were demolished in 1938. Lloyds Motor Group, which already has car dealerships nearby, plans to use the site's former restaurant parking lot for staff and vehicle storage.