Start with the Park: Middlehaven

Delivering on our policy pledge with a new open space as a catalyst for regeneration.

Renewal

Placemaking

Policy

Landscape Design

Our Development Framework for Middlehaven had promoted the building of a new urban park in the heart of the area as a catalyst for regeneration. Its role was to bring a step change to the image of Middlehaven, to enhance the setting of the spectacular Transporter Bridge and to provide a new open space amenity in Middlesbrough town centre.

Urban Initiatives was appointed by the HCA and Middlesbrough Council to undertake the design of the park, as part of a team led by CH2M. Our Development Framework advocated for the creation of a series of development plots fronting onto the park to attract smaller developers, builders and investors to the area and our commission also involved defining these plots as part of the ‘Urban Pioneers Project’.

The park provides a peaceful and tranquil environment next to the busy Durham Street, with intimate spaces for people to relax and spend time. A meandering route passes through a sequence of spaces leading towards the Transporter Bridge. A hard space provides a focus at the entrance to the park and spill-out space for a café.

Urban Initiatives obtained detailed planning consent for the park, remedial works and an outline consent for the Urban Pioneers Project in April 2014. The park was opened in Autumn 2015. The Urban Pioneers plots were developed following the agreed Design Code soon after.

CLIENT
The Homes and Communities Agency Middlesbrough Council
LOCATION
Middlehaven, Middlesbrough, UK
SERVICES
Renewal, Placemaking, Policy
DATES
2013 - 2014
PROJECT OUTCOMES

Design and planning permission for new urban park
Implementation of Park
Catalyst for new development

COLLABORATORS

CH2M