Future of Middlesbrough and Hartlepool Development Corporations uncertain
A review by the Tees Valley Combined Authority into the bodies charged with overseeing regeneration in the regions is due to start soon, with Mayor Ben Houchen saying that increased mayoral powers and the economic climate have ‘changed the context’ behind how they should operate.
South Tees Development Corporation, which was established in 2017 and leads on regeneration of the Teesworks/former Redcar steelworks site alongside public and private partners, will not undergo a review.
Since their establishment in 2023, the Middlesbrough and Hartlepool Development Corporations have been tasked with advancing regeneration in both towns, including the currently delayed £200m Gresham scheme and a £12bn investment into advanced nuclear energy at the former Hartlepool power station.
Upcoming national legislation is expected to provide consolidated planning powers directly to elected Mayors, which has led Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen to reassess how the corporations function.
The review will consider governance arrangements for both organisations.
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “Since their creation, the Development Corporations have helped lay the foundations for regeneration in Middlesbrough and Hartlepool, unlocking sites and securing planning progress.
“However, the context has changed, with new national planning powers for Mayors and a more challenging economic environment.
“It is therefore right that we review governance arrangements to ensure regeneration is delivered in the most effective and sustainable way.
“Our ambition has not changed. Regeneration in Middlesbrough and Hartlepool remains a priority, and we will continue working closely with councils to deliver vibrant town centres for residents and businesses.”
Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke said: “I welcome this review into the future of the MDC. Improving our town centre so that more people live here, work here and visit in their spare time is a key challenge for us as a Council and TVCA.
“The people of Middlesbrough rightly expect to see progress and aren’t interested in which body is in charge or takes credit. I just want to get on with the projects that can make a difference and help our town thrive.”
