Views Sought on Huge Vision to Breathe New Life Into Heart of Middlesbrough

A huge vision is set to breathe new life into the heart of Middlesbrough – with leaders seeking more public views on the plan.

The Middlesbrough Development Corporation has joined forces with experienced property developers iMpeC and Buccleuch Property to design a rejuvenated Gresham.

Now more views are wanted from businesses and Middlesbrough’s public on the major improvements lined up – with a new consultation set for launch next Wednesday (17 July).

A high-quality mixed-use scheme is being lined up which will see a new housing offer of professionally managed, purpose-built rental accommodation which the developers say will appeal to a range of people including young professionals and students.

The proposals will offer high-quality accommodation for around 1,000 people with the aim of attracting and retaining talent in Middlesbrough, supporting the growth of Teesside University and boosting the economic rejuvenation of both Gresham and the wider town.

A high-quality hotel, green spaces and improved pedestrian links to the University campus are all part of the plan.

Subject to the feedback received – and permission being rubber-stamped for assets to transfer to the MDC – work is set to start in 2025.

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen, who chairs the Middlesbrough Development Corporation, said: “For far too long, Gresham has been a byword for the failure of those in charge to get a grip.

“Now we are grasping the heart of Middlesbrough with both hands.

“We’ve got industry experts with a brilliant vision of what is to come – but this means nothing if we don’t bring the town with us and work together.

“We’re getting views of Teessiders, lifeblood businesses and the people of Gresham, and feeding them into this plan. We’re determined to make this work where others have fallen well short.

“This will bring us another step closer to getting spades in the ground and making a real difference to the town, rather than leaving Gresham to fall behind.”

Work to tidy up parts of the area has taken place in recent weeks to clean up litter, cut grass and remove broken hoardings.

Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke said: “Gresham has a massive role to play in the future of our town centre and I’m pleased local people will get the opportunity to have their say on the redevelopment.

“Creating the right kind of housing that will attract people to live in our town centre is in the best interests of everyone in Middlesbrough.

“The site has so much potential and we’ve got to take the opportunity to deliver for the town.”

Developers iMpeC and Buccleuch Property are already actively consulting with key stakeholders – including Middlesbrough Council, Cleveland Police, the University and the NHS, to make sure the project meets the community’s needs.

A public consultation event will take place in Newport Community Hub from 2pm to 7pm on Wednesday (17 July) where people can see the plans and air their thoughts.

Business visits have also taken place with a dedicated consultation event for local firms to be announced soon.

iMpeC Director Neil McMillan said: “Our vision is to create a new choice of accommodation for the town that will help attract and retain students and young professionals and support the recruitment for the rapidly growing digital, professional services and advanced manufacturing sectors.

“By offering new professionally managed rental accommodation with flexible terms, unparalleled service and high-quality amenities, comparable to those in university cities like Newcastle, Leeds and Manchester, we can provide a new housing offer that will appeal to a range of people including students and young professionals.

“Attracting and retaining this group within Middlesbrough is crucial for the town’s future prosperity.

“Providing accommodation for around 1,000 residents will boost local businesses and drive further investment. We are determined to make this development a catalyst for broader regeneration across the town centre.

“We look forward to consulting with local residents, businesses and community stakeholders. I’d urge people to pay us a visit on 17 July.”

The launch comes after a new expanded board for the Middlesbrough Development Corporation was approved last month.