A significant milestone has been reached this week, signalling an important next step for the flagship development at the heart of Middlesbrough’s digital powerhouse following the application for planning permission.
They outline new designs for the Boho X building which will act as a regional and national focal point for the burgeoning digital sector.
And striking new artist’s impressions show how the seven-storey building will fit into the wider Boho masterplan already transforming Middlesbrough’s historic heart.
It’s already carved out a reputation as one of the best locations in the UK for up-and-coming talent and skills within the digital sector, acting as a base for new businesses and industry start-ups.
Boho X’s state-of-the-art spacious, modern working environments will act as a further catalyst for social, economic and environmental change across the Tees Valley and the wider region.
Key elements of the development include:
- 60,000 sq ft of high quality grade A office space for the digital and creative sector
- Flexible office space for large or small organisations
- Swimming pool and gym, café, the rooftop bar/event space, lecture theatre
- High quality public realm
Subject to planning permission, Boho X will be delivered by global property developer and construction company BCEGI who will establish a town-wide apprenticeship scheme and offer work placements to young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Work is due to start in August next year, with a completion date in December 2022.
Dongwen Yu, Lead Director of BCEGI said: “We are delighted to be working alongside Middlesbrough Council to deliver this iconic digital hub.”
“Our vision is to deliver a thriving, successful and attractive heart to Middlesbrough which will serve the needs of local people and businesses for decades to come.”
“This is an ambitious and carefully crafted proposal that expresses the confidence in Middlesbrough.”
“Boho X will deliver a best-in-class destination that meets the aspirations of existing and new occupiers and reinforces Boho as a fantastic location for digitally focused businesses.”
Middlesbrough mayor Andy Preston said: “Middlesbrough can compete with Leeds and Newcastle, and this building will bring the jobs and investment to make that happen.”
“It’s the best office building for many miles and it will ignite more investment – tens of millions of pounds – that will start the process of reenergising central Middlesbrough.
“From Berwick Hills to Stainton, everyone everywhere will benefit from this investment because it will boost our town’s financial security and help us to provide better council services.
“This building is a fantastic statement of confidence in a post-Covid Middlesbrough.
“As the pandemic struck and economic chaos arrived, we amended our initial plans for a much taller building and devised this stunning but less expensive alternative.
“For ambitious businesses, the facilities and atmosphere here will be a must: a rooftop bar and conferencing, gym, wellness suite and a magnificent cafe. Interest in this building is already huge.”
The project is being part-funded by £26.5 million from the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority.
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “It’s great to see this important project move a step closer.”
“Growing our tech and digital sectors is an important part of my plan for jobs and Boho X will deliver the high-quality office space needed so that the amazing businesses we already have here can grow.
“It will also mean we have the space to attract other companies to the region creating even more well-paid jobs in an ever-growing sector.”
Dongwen Yu, Lead director at BCEGI, said: “We are delighted to be working alongside Middlesbrough Council to deliver this iconic digital hub.
“Our vision is to deliver a thriving, successful and attractive heart to Middlesbrough which will serve the needs of local people and businesses for decades to come.
“This is an ambitious and carefully crafted proposal that expresses the confidence in Middlesbrough.
“Boho X will deliver a best-in-class destination that meets the aspirations of existing and new occupiers and reinforces Boho as a fantastic location for digitally focused businesses.”
