Clearing the way for Thornaby’s regeneration

A long-vacant building in Thornaby is finally being cleared to make way for future development.

Demolition work has started on the former Golden Eagle hotel, marking a “key milestone” for the £23.9 million Thornaby Town Deal. 

The removal of asbestos and strip-out works are now under way, with the full demolition expected to be completed by spring 2026.

Following demolition, the site will be prepared for potential redevelopment by town centre owner LCP Proudreed.

MGL Demolition is delivering the project, which is funded through the Town Deal and Indigenous Growth fund following approval from Stockton Council’s cabinet.

Mark Davison Jnr, head of demolition at MGL Demolition, said: “MGL Demolition is proud to support this key milestone for Thornaby as work begins to safely demolish the Golden Eagle. 

“This represents a significant step forward in unlocking future opportunities and accelerating the wider regeneration of the town centre.”

Clearing the long-derelict hotel meets one of the key goals set by the Thornaby Town Deal Board, which brings together public and private sector representatives. 

The move ends years of speculation around the future of the site and supports ambitions to revitalise the wider town centre.

Mark White CBE DL, chair of the Thornaby Town Deal Board, said: "Following years of hard work, planning and cooperation, I am delighted to be with the Board to mark such a momentous occasion for Thornaby-on-Tees.

“This demolition milestone shows the willingness of all partners on the Town Deal Board to work together to find solutions with the single goal of improving the town.”

Councillor Richard Eglington, cabinet member for regeneration and housing at Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, added: “We are really pleased that with the support of the Thornaby Town Deal Board, the long-awaited removal of the Golden Eagle has begun to bring about positive change to the town centre.

“This is the next step towards unlocking new opportunities for Thornaby by removing a building that has been an eyesore for a number of years and a barrier for future investment.

“Given the building is situated in the middle of a busy town centre, close to businesses and residents, we are all working together to ensure it is brought down quickly and most importantly, safely.”

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