Project Title: Renaissance of Middlesbrough Town Centre – Development of Urban Spaces

Project Description:
Middlesbrough town centre is identified as a flagship project in the Regional Economic Strategy. This project forms part of the regeneration of the public realm areas which has seen the creation of a new high quality environment within investment corridors, introduction of public art/feature lighting, commercial property improvements, linkages to the University and public transport facilities.

This project supplements the work already undertaken by implementing a programme of upgrading key public spaces and places through the centre. The spaces identified follow a strategic study entitled ‘Middlesbrough – People, Places and Spaces’ prepared by Gillespies and Gehl Architects on behalf of the Council and Town Centre Company. A parallel initiative will betaking in key spaces identified in the housing areas on the periphery of the town centre using Neighbourhood Renewal funding.

The aim of the project is to create a series of high quality spaces linking Middlehaven in the north to the south side of the University Campus and Albert Park to the south. There is now considerable international evidence that the quality of such spaces directly influences their uses, the generation of footfall and the success of adjacent businesses. This programme is phased with initial works now progressing as part of the approved scheme Linthorpe Road Central Renaissance, further phases relate to the area around the Cenotaph, Exchange Square to the north and the area around Jack Hatfield Square through to the current Registry Office. Works to the public realm in these areas will be developed alongside regeneration of strategic development sites / buildings in the target areas resulting in improvements in the built environment and leverage of private sector investment. In the proposed scheme to the Cenotaph site this would include a commercial property grant scheme targeting properties along Linthorpe Road from its junction with Parliament Road down to St Barnabas Road. This area includes specific targeting of the currently vacant Temple public house (former Methodist Church) a key gateway building to this area.

Lead Organisation (underlined) and Key Partners:
Middlesbrough Town Centre Company, Middlesbrough Council Transport & Design Services.