Crown Square plans raise the roof

A “landmark” regeneration scheme in the heart of Middlesbrough has been officially launched.

Crown Square was unveiled at national property event UKREiiF as the name and brand behind the £200 million vision in Gresham and central Middlesbrough.

The project’s first phase will deliver more than 230 build-to-rent apartments, student accommodation for more than 400 people, as well as one of the UK’s first Fairfield by Marriott hotels.

Led by iMpeC and Buccleuch Property alongside the Middlesbrough Development Corporation (MDC), the scheme is expected to bring 1500 homes, 4000 jobs and renewed vibrancy to the town. 

Artist's impression of the redeveloped Gresham district

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen, who was in attendance at UKREiiF for Crown Square’s launch, said: “Middlesbrough has been in dire need of action for generations – and now it has come. 

“It’s great to see Crown Square launched – with building work and hoardings going up around these brilliant developments soon. 

“The time for talk is over, and now we can start to see even more action on the ground to build on our massive strengths in digital industries and provide for our growing university. 

“We’ve got developers on board with a great hunger and a very good pedigree – and a brilliant vision for all to see. 

“Now it’s time to put it into action and deliver what has been promised to Middlesbrough for so long – and I’d urge other businesses, developers and ambitious company owners to come with us.”

Neil McMillan, director at iMpeC, is leading the charge to make Crown Square a Northern beacon.

He added: “We’ve looked at the challenges in the town, but we’ve also identified and recognised some of the wonderful things going on. 

“It has a major university, which has just invested £280 million, some rapidly growing digital businesses and billions of pounds going into Teesworks, creating jobs in advanced manufacturing. 

“You’ve got a bustling professional services sector – so there are some wonderful things happening attracting people to work in and around the town.

“But ultimately, the town centre needs regenerating to both attract and retain those talented people.

“That is key.”

Neil also explained how the new hotel will meet an unmet demand and make a statement on Borough Road as people come into Middlesbrough from the A66.

He said: “It’s the type of hotel brand you associate with successful towns and cities – it’ll be one of the first things visitors will see as they arrive.”

Planning permission for the first phase has been secured, with a public consultation on phase two set to take place this summer.

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