A new era for Rivers House in Middlesbrough [Archived]

Rivers House in Middlesbrough has been converted from an existing office space into 18 supported housing apartments with the benefit of being close to a vibrant Chinese community in the heart of Middlesbrough.

Built across two floors, the one and two-bedroom redevelopment include modern bathrooms, kitchens, landscaped garden and parking.

The scheme has been delivered by Thirteen, with the conversion and extension work of the new apartments being carried out by Esh Construction, supported by funding from Homes England.

Chris Smith, Thirteen's Interim Chief Executive, said: "It's incredible to see the final transformation of our former housing office that's undergone extensive work to convert it into much-needed apartments. It's in an excellent location close to Middlesbrough town centre and complements the existing Chinese elder scheme at Tai Hua Court, next door.

"We've worked closely with Esh Construction and other partners to deliver these fantastic new apartments, and we're really proud of what's been achieved.

"A massive regeneration programme is ongoing across Middlesbrough, and this is another piece in the jigsaw to improve the town centre as a place to live."

Middlesbrough Mayor Andy Preston, said: “It was great to see the work on Rivers House and I’m sure the residents who will live there will love it.”

Colin Ford, Operations Director at Esh Construction, added: “Rivers House is another fantastic project we have completed in partnership with Thirteen. Giving back to the local community is at the core of Esh’s values and throughout the scheme we delivered a raft of initiatives to leave a lasting legacy.

“Contributing to training and employment, a previously unemployed local resident was employed for the duration of the scheme and a Middlesbrough College T-Level student completed a placement on the project. Further, funding was pledged to St Alphonsus Church Hall to replace a broken heating system and a substantial amount of upgrade works are taking place at nearby Hazer and Elder Court following consultations with Thirteen and residents.”