The Historic Quarter transformation programme will significantly improve Exchange Square and Zetland Road by:

• enhancing the look and feel of both areas with hard surface upgrades, trees, new street furniture, and better lighting
• creating inviting spaces where people want to spend time
• complementing the architecture and character of the area

Exchange Square

The improvements to Exchange Square were completed in 2022. The works included upgrading the paving, landscaping, lighting, street furniture, and cleaning the Grade-II listed statue of Henry Bolckow. The square has also been made more accessible.

The demolition of the former Slam bar and nightclub has opened space adjacent to Exchange Square, underneath the A66. The STACK entertainment venue will temporarily occupy this space.

Middle photo (Bolckow statue) © Meldrum

Zetland Road

The next phase of public realm development in the HSHAZ will be at Zetland Road. Improvements will be made in 2023/2024 and complement the £34m investment in Middlesbrough's railway station.

The Zetland Road scheme will help prioritise pedestrians over vehicles by introducing informal pedestrian crossings and a pavement build out. The new pedestrian crossings will be at key points along the road and align with the new entrance to the railway station. This will be complemented by upgrading the hard surfaces and widening the pavement on the northern side of the road, to create a better setting for the railway station.