ATM help transform Middlesbrough historic quarter - Exchange Square

Middlesbrough’s Historic Quarter was the commercial centre of the town’s industrial boom in the second half of the 19th century, and the area features some beautiful Victorian buildings. In the centre of the Historic Quarter is Middlesbrough’s Grade II-listed railway station. Most visitors to the town will travel through the Historic Quarter whilst visiting Middlesbrough.

It plays host to a statue of Henry Bolckow and several old keystones from the Royal Exchange, which was demolished in 1984–1985 when the A66 road was being constructed.

In 2021, work began on a revamp of the square, which has benefited from a £2 million funding boost through Historic England’s High Street Heritage Action Zone programme.

Accredited Contractor, ATM alongside Meldrum planted trees, shrubs, herbaceous plantings, and seasonal bulb plantings as part of the project. Planting a variety of different trees during the project, including six Pinus Nigra, Austrian Pine, and three Sorbus Asria Lutescens, Whitebeam Lutescens. The team also executed the planting of 1,800 plants and shrubs and 14,000 bulbs.

Once the landscaping was completed, the ATM team were asked to return for annual maintenance to the soft landscaping.

The final project enhanced the look of the square with hard surface upgrades, trees and planting, new street furniture, and better lighting, complementing the architecture and character of the conservation area and supporting local businesses.

The Pinus Nigra trees bring grandeur and elegance, providing shade and a pleasant microclimate. The Sorbus Aria Lutescens trees add vibrancy and contrast with their whitebeam leaves. With strategic placements, the diverse array of plants, shrubs, and bulbs brings bursts of colour, creating visually captivating displays throughout the square.

The revitalised Exchange Square now offers a harmonious blend of textures, forms, and colours, transforming it into an engaging and picturesque environment. The carefully considered selection and placement of each plant and tree have resulted in a captivating space that enriches the experience for residents and visitors.