This Spring marks a major transformation for Gosforth Shopping Centre, as it unveils its new name, new look, and new purpose.
Renamed Gosforth Central, the 74,000 sq. ft. space on Gosforth’s High Street is being reimagined as a vibrant hub for independent retailers, local businesses, and the community. This rebranding effort, which includes a fresh logo, colour scheme, and modern design elements, reflects the Centre’s vision of becoming a dynamic one-stop destination for shopping, dining, and leisure.
The overhaul of Gosforth Central has been a community-driven effort, following its purchase by a group of local investors two years ago. The new owners have worked to transform the space, making it a place that not only offers quality goods but also serves as a gathering spot for local residents and visitors. The aim is clear: create a welcoming environment where people can shop, eat, and spend time together.
As part of the redevelopment, new and exciting businesses have made their home at Gosforth Central. Earlier this year, the Centre welcomed Pure Knead, an artisan bakery beloved by foodies across the North East. Originally founded at Tynemouth Market in 2015, Pure Knead has expanded to Gosforth, adding to the growing local food scene. Next door, DE:CO, an eclectic shop offering home décor, gifts, art, and vintage furniture, has opened in a newly constructed retail unit. Owned by Jim Gregory, who also runs Flea Circus in Heaton, DE:CO brings a fresh aesthetic to the Centre.
Gosforth Central is also now home to Pique, a South American restaurant from the creators of the nearby Gosforth Traders. Offering small plates, brunch, lunch, and an excellent selection of wines, Pique is said to be ‘a perfect spot for socialising and indulging in culinary delights’.
Georgina Scott-Batey, the Centre Manager at Gosforth Central, reflected on the exciting changes taking place: “2025 is an incredibly exciting year for us. We’re bringing in new businesses that fit the character of Gosforth while transforming the space into one that’s modern, open, and inclusive for all ages.” She added that the Centre is also collaborating with Gosforth Central Park to improve access and plan community events throughout Spring and Summer, including their popular monthly Urban Park Markets.
Will Reavley, retail property expert and Senior Surveyor at Bradley Hall, shared his thoughts on the rise of independent retail and the transformation of Gosforth Central: “The shift towards independent retail is becoming a defining feature of today’s high streets, especially in areas like Gosforth, which is one of the most affluent suburbs in the UK. The redevelopment of Gosforth Central as a hub for local, independent businesses will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the wider High Street.
“It’s an exciting time for Gosforth, as the focus on unique, community-driven shops will bring new vibrancy to the area, attracting both locals and visitors. This transformation ensures that the High Street remains a place where people want to spend time, shop, and enjoy leisure activities, contributing to the continued prosperity of the area. The combination of independent retailers and national chains will strike the perfect balance, offering something for everyone and strengthening Gosforth’s position as a premier shopping destination.”
Interior design firm Design North, led by local designer Scott Stewart, has been pivotal in giving Gosforth Central a fresh, contemporary look. Scott’s team has worked on numerous high-profile projects across the UK, and at Gosforth Central, they’ve advised on renovated stairwells and designed key amenities like restrooms and baby changing facilities. Design North also led the interior design of Pique, as well as a new entrance to the adjoining park and canopies to enhance the exterior.
“Working on Gosforth Central has been a true passion project,” said Scott Stewart. “It’s been fantastic to see the transformation of this iconic space. The goal is to ensure the Centre remains an accessible and welcoming place for the entire community.”
A new children’s gallery space showcasing artwork from local schools will be introduced later this year, along with a children’s area for young ones to enjoy. Seating areas and community boards will further encourage visitors to relax, socialise, and engage.
Community involvement remains at the heart of Gosforth Central’s redesign. Local residents and visitors have already been able to enjoy special events like the popular outdoor cinema, The Royalty (named after a former Gosforth cinema), which will return in June. Outdoor theatre performances by The Three Inch Fools will also make a return at the end of June. Additionally, the Centre hosted a “Scarves of Support” wall, where locals decorated scarves in anticipation of the Carabao Cup final, and gave out free flowers on International Women’s Day as part of their seasonal installations.
Further strengthening its connection to the community, the Centre is also offering the old lettering from across the site for sale, with all proceeds going towards the Gosforth Park play area fund. Georgina Scott-Batey, who also volunteers on the Play Park’s development, emphasised the importance of integrating both the Centre and the adjacent park, creating spaces for all ages to enjoy.
National retailers like Sainsbury’s, Boots, Costa Coffee, and Savers remain key tenants at Gosforth Central, alongside a growing number of local businesses such as The Florence, Yumlush, Etto, Julie’s Flowers, and Donald Gilbert’s Butchers. The combination of established brands and independent retailers has helped boost footfall, with the new shops and community-focused activities drawing in both regulars and newcomers.
The revitalisation of Gosforth Central is part of a broader regeneration taking place along Gosforth High Street, where vacant units are being repurposed for new businesses, such as Tremolo Lounge, a new café with a community feel, and One:Eleven, a trendy coffee shop. Local estate agent Bradley Hall has noted the positive impact of these changes, highlighting the increase in foot traffic along the High Street.
For more information about Gosforth Central and to stay up-to-date on upcoming events and business openings, visit Gosforth Central.
Gosforth Central is set to become a key destination for shopping, dining, and community gatherings in the heart of Gosforth, where independent retailers are given the space to thrive alongside our favourite nationals and the community comes together in an exciting, modern environment.
