Boost for Middlesbrough’s tech sector with plans for “iconic digital hub”

Plans for a flagship development in the centre of Middlesbrough’s growing digital campus have been put forward this week.

Proposals for the new seven-storey Boho X building have been submitted to Middlesbrough Council.

Comprising 60,000 sq ft of grade A office space for the digital and creative sector, the development will also feature a swimming pool and gym, café, rooftop bar and event space and a lecture theatre.

If approved, Boho X will be delivered by global property developer and construction company BCEGI, which will establish a town-wide apprenticeship scheme and offer work placements to young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Middlesbrough mayor Andy Preston commented: “Middlesbrough can compete with Leeds and Newcastle, and this building will bring the jobs and investment to make that happen.

“It’s the best office building for many miles and it will ignite more investment - tens of millions of pounds - that will start the process of re-energising central Middlesbrough.

“From Berwick Hills to Stainton, everyone everywhere will benefit from this investment because it will boost our town’s financial security and help us to provide better council services. This building is a fantastic statement of confidence in a post-Covid Middlesbrough.”

The project is being part-funded by £26.5m from the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority.

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen added: “It’s great to see this important project move a step closer.

“Growing our tech and digital sectors is an important part of my plan for jobs and Boho X will deliver the high-quality office space needed so that the amazing businesses we already have here can grow.

“It will also mean we have the space to attract other companies to the region creating even more well-paid jobs in an ever-growing sector.”