Review Launched Into Future Of Development Corporations

The Tees Valley Mayor has announced plans to launch a review into the future of the Middlesbrough Development Corporation and the Hartlepool Development Corporation.

Since their establishment, the Development Corporations have played an important role in advancing regeneration in both towns.

They have progressed site preparation, secured planning permissions, established development frameworks and worked with partners to accelerate town centre renewal – creating strong foundations for continued investment and delivery.

However, the context in which they were created has evolved, with forthcoming national legislation expected to provide consolidated planning powers directly to elected Mayors.

At the same time, the financial environment has become more challenging. Increased borrowing costs, construction inflation, scheme viability pressures and ongoing revenue commitments mean governance arrangements must be kept under review to ensure public funds are used effectively and sustainably.

Alongside these changes, the Combined Authority is strengthening partnership working with its constituent authorities to ensure regeneration is delivered collaboratively and reflects local priorities.

Working with the Mayor of Middlesbrough and the Leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, the Tees Valley Mayor will use the powers set out in national legislation to conduct a review into their future.

The review will consider governance arrangements for both organisations.

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “Since their creation, the Development Corporations have helped lay the foundations for regeneration in Middlesbrough and Hartlepool, unlocking sites and securing planning progress.

“However, the context has changed, with new national planning powers for Mayors and a more challenging economic environment. It is therefore right that we review governance arrangements to ensure regeneration is delivered in the most effective and sustainable way.

“Our ambition has not changed. Regeneration in Middlesbrough and Hartlepool remains a priority, and we will continue working closely with councils to deliver vibrant town centres for residents and businesses.”

Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke said: “I welcome this review into the future of the MDC. Improving our town centre so that more people live here, work here and visit in their spare time is a key challenge for us as a Council and TVCA.

“The people of Middlesbrough rightly expect to see progress and aren’t interested in which body is in charge or takes credit. I just want to get on with the projects that can make a difference and help our town thrive.”