An ambitious proposal to transform undeveloped land in Middlesbrough into a pop-up container village has got the go-ahead from council bosses.

Last year, Danieli Group unveiled its plans to create STACK Middlesbrough at the undercroft where the A66 flyover meets Exchange Square.

The scheme, which will be in place for at least three years, will use 25 shipping containers and create a central plaza with seating, along with six street food stalls and three bars and a stage for live entertainment.

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After plans were first displayed at the start of 2023, it has now won approval from Middlesbrough Council, and the Danieli Group wants to hear from anyone interested in taking up a street food unit.

The hope is to hear from a variety of different food providers, with the intention of having an exciting and varied mix.

Neill Winch, CEO of the Danieli Group is delighted that the scheme has been approved by planners.

“We know that STACK Middlesbrough will be a huge asset to the area and bring a new dimension to the town’s leisure offering,” he said.

“We are looking forward to getting work under way and also hearing from anyone who can help us achieve the exciting and unique food offering that STACK is renowned for.

“We are keen to hear from people who can deliver exciting and modern street food.”

Middlesbrough Mayor Andy Preston said: “STACK has attracted hundreds of thousands of visitors to its other North East sites and we can look forward to more of the same in Middlesbrough.

“People are really excited to try this out. This latest investment in our food and drink offer shows once again that we’re punching above our weight and turning our town centre around bit by bit. 

“We have a fantastic summer of events on the way and it’s brilliant news that STACK can be a part of it.”

This will be the second investment by Danieli Group in Middlesbrough, following on from its proposal to transform the former Banking Hall at Commerce House at the corner of Exchange Square, into a new branch of its pan-Asian restaurant, The Muddler.