As part of our work with the Middlesbrough Cultural Partnership, Navigator North are leading on a brand-new project called Celebrating Hidden Middlesbrough.
Over the next two years, we will be creating and presenting community events, art exhibitions, workshops and a range of projects all of which are inspired by Middlesbrough’s historically significant buildings, heritage archives and public collections.
What’s more, we’ll be doing this from a new base in the centre of town; The Masham Hotel on Linthorpe Road
Historic England have funded this project as part of their Heritage High Street Heritage Action Zone (HAZ) scheme. HAZ projects are happening all over the country, and they are designed to protect and spotlight the heritage stories on our high streets.
One of our directors, Vicky Holbrough said, “We’ve been inspired by the original Winter Garden which aimed to improve health and wellbeing and bring arts and culture to the people of Middlesbrough between 1907 to 1963.
“The Masham is open to everyone, a place to be creative, meet your neighbours and see Middlesbrough in a brand-new way.”
Our Celebrating Hidden Middlesbrough cultural programme will shine a light on the culture, history and stories of the high street, inviting everyone to join in and see their hometown with fresh eyes.
It will explore the heritage of Exchange Square and Zetland Road, expand on the recently re-established Tunnel Gallery based in Middlesbrough Railway Station and connect with historically significant works from the Middlesbrough Collection held at MIMA.
Kate Wilson, Partnerships Team Leader for Historic England in the North East and Yorkshire said: “Revealing the history of Middlesbrough’s distinctive historic quarter will help achieve the prosperous future we all want.
When you arrive at the station what better way to begin your experience than to find yourself surrounded by such fine public buildings and spaces.
We want to celebrate and unlock the potential of this historic North East town by investing in this High Street Heritage Action Zone scheme and help it thrive and make a positive contribution to the future of Middlesbrough.”