Published 14 June 2024
Newcastle in shock at return of legendary bar to city centre
Newcastle drinkers who have fond memories of a long closed down city centre bar are in a state of shock at the news that it is making a shock return and is set to re-open its doors as soon as next month.
Originally The Printers Pier, the pub right next door to the old Chronicle offices in Pudding Chare, the venue then entered a new era by becoming Fleet Street, a place that, very much like Cosy Joes is now, was one of those bars that people of all ages flocked to every single weekend; to dance their cares away to pop classics, sing their hearts out and get rather merry.
It was a sad day in the summer of 2015 when Fleet Street shut its doors for what, everyone presumed would be the final ever time. However, after rumours of it quickly being revamped to become The Purple Bear and reports of it being pulled down amounted to nothing, there’s a huge twist in the tale,. as Fleet Street is coming back with a new live entertainment and sports bar vibe and a new look.
Plans were officially unveiled on Thursday for the £330,000 investment, as new licensees Andrew White and Michael Bray get ready to completely overhaul the premises, which have now been standing empty for nine years. The plan is for sport to be shown on TVs in the downstairs bar, with a view to the top floor then becoming a dedicated sports lounge.
The new Fleet Street will also recruit local DJs and performers to serve up entertainment to drinkers every weekend, while designs for the building show a new black exterior with orange signage.
As soon as ChronicleLive broke the news of Fleet Street’s return early on Thursday evening, the reaction was huge. Commenting on the Facebook post about the bar re-opening, one excited former customer wrote: “Can’t believe it!” with another replying: “Shocker of the week!” as another exclaimed: “Never in the world!”
Other readers reminisced about playing snooker after work back in the Printers’ Pie days, while some declared they hoped that the famous Fleet Street jugs of cocktail would make a return.