First of 145 new affordable homes unveiled in the heart of Middlesbrough [Archived]

The Union Village development, which we have delivered, will bring 145 two, three and four-bedroom homes to a site off Union Street in Gresham.

The development is made up of a mix of houses, apartments and bungalows, and more than 40 homes have been occupied so far.

Representatives from Thirteen and our partners in the scheme – Middlesbrough Council, Tees Valley Combined Authority, Homes England, and Esh Construction – took a look around the new homes during an unveiling event.

Matt Forrest, our chief executive, said: “We’re delighted to be bringing this site back into use and look forward to these high-quality new homes contributing to the revival of this great neighbourhood, right in the heart of Middlesbrough.

“Redeveloping brownfield sites like this is not without its challenges – it’s been a long time in the making but there has been an absolute determination to make this happen from all of the partners involved and it has been a real joint effort throughout.

“We have set a clear ambition to increase the housing supply across our operating areas and have delivered a record 650 new homes in 2024/25. Developments like Union Village are key to that, and to helping us meet the housing needs of our customers.”

Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke added: “Gresham is a community I know really well, having previously been a councillor here. The Union Village development is really impressive and one that can help increase local pride in this area.

“The standard of these homes is excellent and I wish the families that are moving in all the very best. Let’s hope this is the first of many projects that can help give this important part of our town a positive future.”

The Union Village development has been supported by Homes England’s Affordable Homes Programme.

Shahi Islam, director of affordable housing grants at Homes England, said: “As the Government’s housing and regeneration agency, increasing the supply of quality affordable homes remains one of our key objectives and we are committed to supporting Thirteen to achieve their ambitions.

“The Union Village development is a prime example of how the agency works with partners through the Affordable Homes Programme to build the homes people need and create new thriving communities.”

Mark Binns, operations director at Esh Construction, which is building the homes, added: “Seeing the first homes handed over at Union Village is a proud moment for everyone involved. This project is the result of strong partnership working with Thirteen Group and all stakeholders, and it’s great to see our collective efforts coming to fruition as the first families start moving into high-quality, affordable homes in the heart of Middlesbrough.”

The new homes at Union Village are being allocated through a Local Lettings Policy.

To register an interest in a new home at Union Village, complete the Register your interest form on the Union Village website and register for a My Thirteen account.