Twin brother developers see potential in hometown
BBCTwin brothers and property developers say an area that has been "getting bad press" has "massive" untapped potential, following their investment of almost £3m into historic buildings in the town centre.
Jack and Tom Atha, 34, have bought three properties in Middlesbrough's historic quarter for £1.4m, and plan to spend a further £1.4m developing them into offices, events and social spaces.
The pair, born in Middlesbrough, plan to expand the existing business centre at Commerce House, creating a co-working space and private offices, alongside a coffee shop in a neighbouring former banking hall.
Tom Atha said "Teesside doesn't get shouted up enough", adding the pair want to unlock its promise.
The brothers are hoping to attract small and medium-sized businesses, particularly technology and creative firms, and encourage them to establish their firms and subsequently evolve in the town centre.
Tom Atha said Teesside already had a strong technology sector, supported by talent coming through Teesside University as well as major companies bringing skilled workers into the area.
He praised the university's support for start-ups, saying he hoped businesses which started life there would eventually move into commercial premises such as those planned by him and his brother.
Jack, said he and Tom wanted to bring "a bit of city [life] into Middlesbrough".
"Leeds and Manchester are unbelievably exciting, modern places to work. Why can't Middlesbrough have that? he said, speaking on BBC Radio Tees.
Tom AthaThe twins acknowledged that empty buildings remain a challenge in the town centre and they recognise they will need to "offer value for money" to attract tenants.
"There's no point charging stupid rents that no one can afford and having a half-empty building. It doesn't do anyone any favours," said Tom.
Work on the new development is expected to begin in spring 2027, with the completed business hub set to open in early 2028.
The investment comes amid wider efforts to regenerate Middlesbrough.
Tees Valley Combined Authority has invested £21m in Boho X, home to games developer Double Eleven.
It has also provided £9.7m towards Six Centre Square - together with £2m from Middlesbrough Council's Towns Fund - which is now home to major employers AXA and TUI.
Additionally, plans have been approved, through the mayor's £160m Investment Zone programme, for a proposed digital and creative enterprise hub in the town - estimated to cost between £7m and £10m, subject to further approval.
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said it was "fantastic" to see two local businessmen showing confidence in Middlesbrough and "putting their money behind the town's future".
Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke also welcomed the plans, saying further investment around the railway station was positive for the town centre, highlighting that there are "lots of successful venues in the historic quarter attracting people to town".
