£3 Million Acquisition and Transformation of Newcastle's The Gander to Create Up to 30 New Jobs
A familiar Newcastle city-centre pub is set for a spectacular transformation, with plans to create one of the city's most exciting new sports and entertainment destinations as the former Magpie enters a new chapter as The Gander.
Pub operator Amber Taverns is investing £3 million in acquiring and completely redeveloping the premises in the Haymarket area, creating up to 30 new jobs and breathing fresh life into a well-known venue just a short walk from St James' Park. And while almost everything inside is being transformed, one thing won't change, its ambition to be a great place for Newcastle United fans to gather before and after a match.
The extensive refurbishment will see the interior completely stripped out and rebuilt, with a major investment in state-of-the-art sound and vision technology designed to deliver an incredible matchday atmosphere. However, football is only part of the story.
The new-look Gander will feature a purpose-built stage for live bands and regular music nights, three darts areas and a pool table. One of the biggest attractions will be an impressive, fully soundproofed karaoke room, available for private hire and accommodating up to 20 people. Complete with its own bar area and private toilets, the space will also double as a VIP room, making it ideal for birthdays, celebrations, groups and Newcastle's famous stag and hen parties.
Right in the heart of Newcastle’s student accommodation scene, The Gander is also gearing up to put its own stamp on the city’s legendary Wednesday student nights. Expect a Gander-style party night packed with great music, affordable drinks and plenty of surprises, adding a fresh twist to an already buzzing midweek scene.
There's particularly good news for anyone who remembers the pub's former facilities! The redevelopment includes a complete overhaul of the toilets and drainage systems, with brand-new facilities throughout. And for those booking the private karaoke room, there's an added touch of VIP treatment, with an exclusive set of toilets reserved for their use. No queuing with the crowds, just a little extra luxury to keep the party going!
Experienced pub operators David and Donna Molloy, will take the helm when The Gander opens early December.
Alex Ozobia, Business Development Manager for Amber Taverns said, "We've wanted to open in Newcastle city centre for a long time, and we couldn't be more excited about this opportunity. We know Newcastle already has a fantastic pub and nightlife scene, and we believe we can bring something genuinely exciting to it. We're investing heavily in the technology, entertainment and facilities to create an amazing atmosphere, particularly on matchdays.
"Whether you're heading to St James' Park, meeting friends for a few drinks, enjoying live music or celebrating a special occasion, we want The Gander to become somewhere people love spending time. We're also delighted to be creating up to 30 jobs and bringing a significant investment into the city centre. With David and Donna at the helm we’re confident The Gander will become much more than a great place to watch football or enjoy a night out. It will be a proper local, where people feel welcome, friendships are made and the community come together.
For David and Donna Molloy, the opportunity to take on the new venue is an exciting challenge. David said, "We’re incredibly excited to be taking on The Gander. It’s a fantastic location with a great history, and the investment Amber is making gives us a brilliant opportunity to create something special. The plans for the pub are incredible, and we're looking forward to welcoming customers, building a great team and creating a venue that becomes a real favourite with locals and visitors alike.
"We’ve got some exciting plans for our own Gander-style spin on student nights and we want people to come for the football, the music and the entertainment, but just as importantly, to keep coming back because they love the atmosphere."
Located close to the Haymarket, The Gate and Bigg Market, The Gander will be perfectly positioned for Newcastle's busy shopping, entertainment and nightlife scene. The development is expected to create between 25 and 30 full-time and part-time jobs with the opening currently planned for early December, just in time for the festive season and a busy period of football and celebrations.
