Landmark North East town hall to get major makeover

Middlesbrough Council has appointed locally-based Walter Thompson (Contractors) as the main contractor for the redevelopment of the borough’s historic Old Town Hall.

Work on the Grade II listed building (first opened in 1846 and vacant since 1996) will bring the landmark structure back into use as a modern business destination within Middlehaven’s Boho Zone.

Reflecting the national importance of restoring and repurposing historic buildings for contemporary use, the project is supported by more than £4.5 million from The National Lottery Heritage Fund as well as £1.8 million of existing government funding.

Once complete, the building will provide over 650m² of high-quality office accommodation for the growing digital and creative sector, while preserving one of the town’s most important heritage assets.

Councillor Theo Furness, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive Member for Development, said: “The Old Town Hall is one of the real icons of Middlesbrough’s history and heritage, and I’m delighted to see it being brought back into use.

“It’s been a key feature of the town’s skyline for 180 years, and these ambitious plans will ensure it continues to play an important role in the life of the town for many decades to come.

“It is both a potent symbol of Middlesbrough’s industrial heyday, and of the boundless ambition and aspiration we have for the future.”

Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke added: “The building is in St Hilda’s, which was Middlesbrough’s historic heart, and saw our town play a pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution.

“The Old Town Hall survives as a reminder of the town’s incredible origins, and its influence will continue as a striking focal point.”