Wates has been appointed to deliver the major Gresham regeneration project in Middlesbrough, UK, to revitalise a large disused area at the heart of the town.

The project is a key component of the wider Middlesbrough master plan.

The mayoral-led Middlesbrough Development Corporation (MDC) is spearheading the initiative in collaboration with property developers iMpeC and Buccleuch Property.

In the first phase of the regeneration, more than 230 build-to-rent (BTR) properties and residential accommodations will be built for over 450 students.

Global hotel brand Fairfield by Marriott is also holding discussions to establish a hotel featuring 200 bedrooms within the regeneration area.

A planning application is anticipated to be submitted in the upcoming weeks for the project’s initial phase.

Subject to receiving planning permission and approval from the MDC board, construction could commence as early as mid-2025.

The broader objective of the scheme is to provide quality accommodation that will attract and retain talent within the town.

It also aims to support Teesside University's growth and initiate plans to regenerate Middlesbrough's centre. The project is expected to create up to 4,000 jobs, contributing significantly to the local economy.

Wates Construction East managing director David Wingfield said: “The Gresham regeneration will help accelerate this potential even further, bringing a disused area back to life through the creation of community, and we’re incredibly proud to be appointed to deliver it.

“We plan to deliver more than £50m ($63.22m) in social value to Middlesbrough through this scheme, aligning with our values to create thriving places and allowing us to make a lasting impact in the heart of the community.”