Big boost for Church Street renovation

Published Friday, 15th March 2019

The regeneration of one of Hartlepool’s most historic streets has been given a big boost after funding was approved for the renovation of a derelict shop.

The property in Church Street - the former Mama Mias takeaway - was acquired by Hartlepool Borough Council last year with the aim of bringing it back into use to complement improvement works already carried out in the area.

The intention is to create 2 flats on the upper floors and renovate the ground-floor for commercial use, although a hot food takeaway will not be permitted.

In approving a renovation works budget of £207,000, members of the Council’s Finance and Policy Committee heard that 61% of the total costs of the project - including the purchase of the property - will be covered by external grant funding. The balance will be met from anticipated rental income.

The project will now be referred to a full meeting of Hartlepool Borough Council for final approval.

Councillor Christopher Akers-Belcher, Leader of the Council and Chair of the Finance and Policy Committee, said: “A lot of work has already been carried out to transform the wider Church Street/Church Square area and create a wider Innovation and Skills Quarter (ISQ) in the town.

“This project builds on that and, in particular, it will help to enhance the viability and setting of an adjoining property, the former Shades Hotel, which is also owned by the Council and for which a major renovation scheme is proposed.

“The two flats we are proposing to create on the upper floors will also attract New Homes Bonus from the Government, resulting in additional income for the Council.”

Councillor Kevin Cranney, a member of the Finance and Policy Committee and Chair of the Regeneration Services Committee, added: “The property was acquired to boost the regeneration of Church Street and the wider ISQ, and approval of the funding package for its renovation shows how we are continuing to deliver on our ambitious plans for the town.”