The restoration of Middlesbrough’s Old Town Hall is being led by Middlesbrough Council with support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund

Heritage restoration specialists Group Ginger last year drew up plans to put the building – opened in 1846 and immortalised by LS Lowry – firmly at the heart of Middlesbrough’s ongoing regeneration drive.

And over the next 12 months contractor Walter Thompson will develop the Grade ll-listed structure into a business space within the town’s burgeoning Boho Zone.

The £6.3 million project will see the demolition of a 1970s extension to the building, alongside much-needed structural work.

The original clock tower will also be restored and brought back into use, while a modern marketplace extension will contrast the old and the new and will be a key feature of the town’s bicentenary celebrations in 2028.

Councillor Theo Furness, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive member for Development, said: “The Old Town Hall is one of the real icons of Middlesbrough’s history and heritage, and I’m delighted to see it being brought back into use.

“It’s been a key feature of the town’s skyline for 180 years, and these ambitious plans will ensure it continues to play an important role in the life of  the town for many decades to come.

“The Old Town Hall is both a potent symbol of Middlesbrough’s industrial heyday, and of the boundless ambition and aspiration we have for the future.”

Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke added: “St Hilda’s was Middlesbrough’s historic heart, and saw our town play a pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution.

“The Old Town Hall survives as a reminder of Middlesbrough’s incredible origins, and its influence will continue as a striking focal point of modern-day Middlehaven.

“This is a year of real progress for Middlesbrough and we’ll be making further announcements over the coming months.”

Louise Sutherland, Head of Engagement, England, North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “We’re thrilled to be supporting the restoration of the Old Town Hall, one of Middlesbrough’s most historic buildings.

“It is fantastic news to see that this ambitious and exciting project is progressing and that thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, the future of this amazing building will be secured by bringing it back into use and engaging local communities with its important heritage.”

Paul Hammerton, Managing Director at Walter Thompson, said: “This is a hugely important project for Middlesbrough and one we’re very proud to be delivering.

“Bringing a building of this significance back into use is about more than construction, it’s about respecting its history while ensuring it has a sustainable future for generations to come.

“We’re looking forward to working closely with Middlesbrough Council and the wider project team to see the Old Town Hall come back to life.”