Breathing new life into historic Church Street

Published Wednesday, 2nd March 2022

A derelict former takeaway in Church Street has been transformed in a major renovation scheme – a sign of the increasing confidence sweeping the historic area.

The former Mamma Mia’s premises has been refurbished by Hartlepool Borough Council, creating a commercial unit on the ground-floor with two high-quality flats above.

Part of the Council’s Capital Investment Programme, the scheme has been carried out by the in-house Construction Section.

The Council bought the premises as part of its aim to ensure that run-down properties do not detract from the on-going revitalisation of the area. Church Street itself has benefitted from a multi-million pound revamp to create a more open, pedestrian-friendly street.

Councillor Shane Moore, Leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, said: “This building was in an appalling state and the transformation is amazing.”

The premises had to be first cleared of debris and rubbish before being stripped back and effectively rebuilt.

Councillor Moore added: “The creation of a commercial unit and high-quality accommodation demonstrates the Council’s commitment to the long-term regeneration of the town centre.”

Councillor Paddy Brown, Chair of the Economic Growth and Regeneration Committee, said: “There are clear signs of how confidence in Church Street is growing, with increased private sector investment in new bars and restaurants. This shows the positive impact of work carried out by the Council.”

(Left-right): Councillor Shane Moore, Leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, and Councillor Paddy Brown, Chair of the Council’s Economic Growth and Regeneration Committee, outside the refurbished property

(Left-right): Councillor Shane Moore, Leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, and Councillor Paddy Brown, Chair of the Council’s Economic Growth and Regeneration Committee, outside the refurbished property

More information about the commercial unit is available from Philip Timmins in the Council’s Strategic Asset Management Department on (01429) 523228 or philip.timmins@hartlepool.gov.uk

The development of the flats received grant funding support of £78,000 from Homes England. They will be let at an affordable rent by the Council and advertised on Tees Valley Homefinder at https://portal.teesvalleyhomefinder.org/

Kirsty Birbeck, Provider Manager at Homes England, said “Despite the current challenges affecting the country, supporting new housing remains our number one priority. We will continue to do business with partners like Hartlepool Borough Council, who are committed to building vital new homes in the Hartlepool area.”