Middlesbrough Town Hall has secured £2.59 million in funding from Arts Council England to carry out essential repairs and ensure the historic building remains a central part of the town’s cultural life. Announced on 14 April 2026, the grant is part of a larger £127.8 million national investment package supporting 130 cultural venues across England.
Middlesbrough Council is providing an additional £2 million for the project, bringing the total investment to over £4 million. This combined funding will be used to complete critical restoration work on the Grade II* listed building’s roof, stonework, and windows.
The Town Hall, which was designed in 13th Century French Gothic style and opened on 23 January 1889, is a significant part of the town’s heritage. Local leaders have stated that this work is vital for safeguarding the future of the venue, which hosts hundreds of events every year.
Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke welcomed the funding, noting that it will help build momentum for the town’s bid to become the UK City of Culture 2029. Deputy Mayor Philippa Storey, the Executive Member for Culture at the council, added that the investment recognises the value of the venue as the heart of Middlesbrough’s cultural offerings.
Rebecca Ball, Area Director North at Arts Council England, said the investment will ensure that cultural organisations can continue to deliver arts and culture to their communities. The funding is being provided through the Creative Foundations Fund, which supports large-scale capital improvements for cultural buildings.
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