Historic Quarter

The Historic Quarter was designated a Conservation Area in 1989 and centres around the Grade II-listed railway station, extending north towards Middlehaven and south towards the town centre.

The quarter was the focus of a programme of improvements designed to reinvigorate the area and drive investment, after the area was chosen to receive key funding through Historic England’s High Street Heritage Action Zone fund. Over £2m has been invested.

The programme saw a number of improvements made to Exchange Square and Zetland Road such as new paving and street furniture, improved lighting and planting. The Henry Bolckow statue and keystone heads from the Royal Exchange have also been restored and conserved. Work started in autumn 2020 and was completed in March 2024.

Four historic properties benefited from grants to assist with building repairs and restoration. This was a catalyst for further private-sector investment and new uses in the area.

The buildings that benefited from the grants are some of the oldest in Middlesbrough, and were the homes or workplaces of Middlesbrough’s former industrial pioneers. The heritage of the zone has been preserved through careful restoration work, while improving the look and feel of the area for visitors and residents.

Programme highlights included:

• Property improvement grants to bring eligible buildings back into use
• Upgrading Zetland Road and Exchange Square public spaces, enhancing the commercial appeal of the area and complementing the railway station investment
• Over 4,500 people participating in community engagement events, giving people the opportunity to learn about the area’s heritage and influence the project
• A cultural programme where local communities and cultural organisations celebrated the area, and activities were delivered to make it a more attractive, engaging, and vibrant place

To find out more, visit the Historic Quarter website or email HAZ@middlesbrough.gov.uk.

Speak to the Investment team: invest@middlesbrough.gov.uk