A significant tribute has been paid to the legacy of renowned architect Robert Burns Dick, who designed many iconic buildings in the North East of England, including the famous Spanish City in Whitley Bay. A plaque honouring his contributions was unveiled on October 7, 2023, at the headquarters of the Good Neighbour Project on Sunnybank Avenue.
Burns Dick (1868-1954) is credited with designing over 20 prominent structures that remain in use today. His notable works include the Laing Art Gallery in Newcastle, the Newcastle University Students’ Union, the Market Street police station, and the towers of the Tyne Bridge. His designs are a testament to the architectural heritage of the region.
The period following the First World War saw an increased demand for “homes fit for heroes,” a movement that Burns Dick was actively involved in through his work on council estates, such as the Pendower Estate in Newcastle’s west end. The unveiling of the plaque coincides with ongoing efforts to recognize his contributions to architecture and urban planning.
During the ceremony, the Lord Mayor of Newcastle, Cllr Henry Gallagher, remarked, “Robert Burns Dick made a considerable contribution to the architectural heritage of the city, the region and beyond. He’s been described as the unknown architect, but the buildings he designed are far from unknown. They are as much a part of our region today as they were when he first designed them. That is testimony to his greatness as an architect.”
Born in Stirling, Scotland, Burns Dick relocated to Newcastle as a child, where he attended the Royal Grammar School. He later pursued his passion for architecture by studying at Art School and taking on a position with Mr. W Lister Newcombe in 1883. In 1898, he partnered with James T Cackett to establish the firm Cackett & Burns Dick.
The architect’s innovative approach to municipal housing set him apart. He designed the Pendower Estate with a layout reminiscent of an English village, featuring 12-18 houses per acre, as opposed to the standard 20 at the time. This design philosophy highlighted his commitment to creating functional and aesthetically pleasing living environments.
In 1924, Burns Dick became a founding member of the Newcastle Upon Tyne Society, an organization aimed at enhancing the beauty, health, and amenities of the city. This society later became the Northumberland and Newcastle Society, which continues to advocate for the preservation of the region’s architectural heritage.
John Matthews, Chairman of the Northumberland and Newcastle Society, expressed his delight at the plaque’s unveiling, stating, “I am delighted that we now have a plaque in Newcastle dedicated to Robert Burns Dick in recognition of his involvement in so many of the city’s historic buildings, which have stood the test of time and have been successfully repurposed for practical use in the 21st century.”
Aside from his major works, Burns Dick contributed to various landmarks throughout Newcastle, including Pilgrim House, Cross House, the Armstrong Naval Yard in Walker, and the Berwick police station, which opened in 1901. His leadership of the Northern Architectural Association from 1914 to 1918 further solidified his influence in the field.
Current president of the Northern Architectural Association, Neil Barker, praised Burns Dick as “a very talented man, not just an architect of some repute but an artist and town planner.” He noted that even in 1925, Burns Dick proposed significant improvements to the layout of Newcastle’s city centre to address existing and anticipated traffic issues.
Despite his passing in a care home in Surrey at the age of 86, Burns Dick was laid to rest in Newcastle, where he spent much of his life. His modest headstone in Elswick cemetery reflects his enduring affection for the city.
As the city continues to celebrate its architectural heritage, the legacy of Robert Burns Dick remains visible in the structures he designed, which have adapted to modern needs while preserving their historical significance. His recognition through this plaque serves as a reminder of the lasting impact of his work on Newcastle and the broader region.
