Ashbrookes secures funding for student accommodation scheme at historic Linthorpe Assembly Rooms
Ashbrookes has secured planning permission and development finance to convert the former Linthorpe Assembly Rooms in Middlesbrough into high-quality student and residential apartments, revitalising a much-loved local landmark.
The scheme, which is supported by funding from the Momentum Finance Group, will see the early 20th century building in Linthorpe Road transformed into 16 spacious apartments, each measuring at least 37 square metres, almost double the size of typical student studios in the town.
Work is set to begin shortly, with the appointment of a specialist contractor, Stockton-based Kaldani Builders Ltd, to deliver the construction phase. Alongside the residential accommodation, the scheme also includes new commercial space, including a restaurant, and will deliver a gross development value of £1.7 million.
The project will also meet growing demand from Teesside University’s expanding student population, offering a unique accommodation option well suited to postgraduate and international students, particularly couples or those looking for more generous living space.
The Linthorpe Assembly Rooms scheme is part of Ashbrookes’ wider development strategy, which will see more than 170 new student rooms delivered across the North East in the coming years.
This will increase the company’s owned portfolio to more than 250 rooms, and its managed portfolio to in excess of 800, consolidating its position as a leading property owner and operator in the regional student accommodation market.
Originally built in 1924 and designed by Robert Ridley Kitching, a former mayor of Middlesbrough, the Linthorpe Assembly Rooms were once a key social hub for the town, hosting music and dance events throughout the 1940s, 50s and 60s.
The development will breathe new life into the building, preserving its character while creating modern living space that supports the growth and evolution of the local area.
Arif Mushtaq, CEO of Ashbrookes Group, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to regenerate a cherished local building while addressing the need for more high-quality accommodation in Middlesbrough.
“We’re creating large, modern apartments that are ideal for postgraduate and international students looking for space, privacy and a home they can settle into. It's a step forward for the town's student offering and reflects our long-term commitment to investing in Middlesbrough's future.
“We don’t just develop properties, we retain and operate them as part of a growing portfolio, which helps us maintain high standards across the board and build lasting relationships with local communities.”
Watch the video: Ashbrookes embarks on regeneration of Linthorpe Assembly Rooms - Inside the Assembly Rooms Project: Arif Mushtaq Shares Ashbrookes' Vision 🎥
Indicative artist’s impression of Assembly Rooms, Middlesbrough
To read more about Linthrope Assembly Rooms click here
28th April 2025