The Project
Walker history and heritage
Walker, or as it was once known, Wall-Carr meaning a marshy place by the (Hadrian's) wall, has witnessed a rich history of industrial growth and decline over the years.
The origins on Swan Hunter can be traced back to Low Walker when the Neptune Shipyard was founded in 1860 by John Wigham Richardson. The yard's first ship was the Victoria, a paddle steamer launched in the same year. The shipbuilding industry spread to Wallsend and in the decade prior to the First World War, it witnessed its heyday which resulted in the region becoming famous globally for its shipbuilding.
It was only during the 1930’s that Walker became submerged in the urban spread of Newcastle, however the green, open space of Walker Park established in 1888 has remained as a place of recreation and leisure for residents. Today Walker has developed into a buzzing area with many international businesses, which have occupied the area for generations.
While Walker is in mid-development for its future, there is no danger of losing its past; you can still literally see the history when walking down the street. Walker’s heritage is engrained in the buildings, through the cycle paths and within its widespread wonderful parks.