Old Middlesbrough Town Hall set to be leased out

The old town hall and clock tower were built in 1846

Middlesbrough's old town hall and clock tower could be refurbished and brought back into use if a proposed lease is agreed.

The Grade II listed building, described as a "boarded up eyesore" by the council, has been derelict since 1996.

Councillors are expected to approve a "one-year lockout" arrangement with the Tees Valley Community Foundation this week.

Initial plans would see the Middlehaven site used for office space.

The council estimates the cost of renovating the old town hall and clock tower, built in 1846, to be "in excess of £1m".

The deal with the foundation would allow it exclusive rights to develop a full proposal. If a satisfactory scheme is presented, the building would then be leased for 25 years at a low rent level.

In a report to be discussed on Thursday, council officers say if successful, the plans would restore "a building of major importance in Middlesbrough's history and heritage".

The Middlehaven area is the town's main regeneration site.