An opportunity to create accommodation at the heart of Middlesborough's Middlehaven regeneration area has been unveiled.

The prospectus for the Urban Pioneers project was formally launched on by Middlesbrough Council and the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA).

The initiative is aimed at those looking for something over and above what mainstream builders can offer - the opportunity to create a building which really meets their needs, while saving on development costs.

Developments could include homes, active ground floors uses, offices or live-work units. Two sites – on either side of Cleveland Street – have been identified as ideal for the project.

The sites benefit from a great town centre location in Middlesborough's historic heart where the first pioneers laid their roots in the early 19th Century as the 'Infant Hercules' began to flex its industrial muscles.


In addition to excellent transport links, the units will face a fantastic new park that is being created in early 2014.

Full details are laid out in a prospectus that will be launched by the Executive Director of Neighbourhood and Communities, Kevin Parkes and Neil Graham, Head of Capital Development at the HCA.

The Urban Pioneers project is the first phase of the Middlehaven Development Framework which is a blueprint for the long-term development of the area as a key extension of the town centre. Under the scheme, the first pioneers will not have to buy the land up front but will benefit from serviced sites, saving them money and allowing them to get a head start on their custom-build projects.

Launching the new prospectus, Councillor Rooney said: "Great progress has already been made at Middlehaven, with the creation of 21st Century office accommodation alongside the very latest in residential design and the thriving Middlesbrough College development. Middlehaven represents the future, and this innovative project gives people the opportunity to take an active role in the regeneration of the area and create their own accommodation."

(CD/JP)