Twin brothers Jack and Tom Atha, both 34 and born in Middlesbrough, are investing almost £3m into historic buildings in the town centre. The pair have bought three properties for £1.4m and plan to spend a further £1.4m developing them into offices, events spaces and social venues.
The developers plan to expand the existing business centre at Commerce House, creating a co-working space and private offices. A coffee shop will open in a neighbouring former banking hall, which forms part of the grade II-listed Commerce House building.
Attracting tech and creative businesses
The brothers aim to attract small and medium-sized businesses, particularly technology and creative firms, to establish and grow their operations in the town centre. Tom Atha said Teesside already had a strong technology sector, supported by talent from Teesside University and major companies bringing skilled workers into the area. He praised the university's support for start-ups, hoping businesses which began there would eventually move into commercial premises such as those planned by him and his brother.
Jack Atha 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.
The twins acknowledged that empty buildings remain a challenge in the town centre and said they will need to "offer value for money" to attract tenants. Tom Atha said: "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."
Timeline and next steps
Work on the new development is expected to begin in spring 2027, with the completed business hub set to open in early 2028.
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 welcomed the plans, saying further investment around the railway station was positive for the town centre.