Stockton Council considers plan for 50 flats in Thornaby, converting offices into residential units with added amenities.
A company called Landmark Estates wants to build flats there. They want to convert George Stephenson House, a building on St Mark’s Court, into flats with one to three bedrooms.
The plan will also include a gym and laundry rooms. A communal room and concierge are also planned for the three-story building, which used to be Revenue and Customs offices; the aim is to use the building as is.
Fahim Farooqui, from Total Planning Solutions, spoke about the plan. He said the plan is to change offices which will easily become fifty flats, noting they won’t change the outside of the building.
People shared their thoughts on the project. Some thought about using buildings for homeless people, while others wanted the council to focus on jobs. Some questioned the building’s designation, and others saw a residential future coming; one person even suggested a mini-hospital use.