International hotel brand Fairfield by Marriott is in discussions to open a new 200-bedroom hotel coming to the heart of Middlesbrough.

Fairfield by Marriott is primed to be the newest name on Middlesbrough’s skyline – with building work on the Gresham hotel project expected to start in early summer next year, subject to board approval.

Members of the Middlesbrough Development Corporation Board will meet this Friday to agree next steps on the hotel’s operator and contractors for the project as well as drawing down on allocated funding to take forward the wider vision for the town centre (October 25).

Fairfield by Marriott has 1,300 properties internationally– with the chain overseen by parent firm and hospitality giant Marriott International.

(Image: PR)

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen, who is also chair of Middlesbrough Development Corporation (MDC), said: “To have Marriott coming on board in the heart of Middlesbrough is another huge boost to our ambitions and a vote of confidence in what we all want to achieve.

“For far too long, Gresham has been left to rack and ruin but now that we are involved, we are doing what needs to be done, and getting straight to work.

“We’re making real progress in getting a grip of the town centre and giving it the investment, vision and, most importantly, the action it needs and deserves."

The MDC is working to "rejuvenate Gresham" alongside property developers iMpeC and Buccleuch Property by offering "high-quality accommodation" to attract and retain talent in the town, support the growth of Teesside University.

The first phase of the Development MDC’s masterplan aims to seek planning approval for five mews houses, more than 230 build-to-rent properties, and a new block of 400 student accommodation beds.

iMpeC Director Neil McMillan said: “The Marriott brand fits perfectly with our vision for Gresham.

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"We plan to deliver a transformational project at this key gateway location, providing a new accommodation offer that will help attract and retain students in the town and support its growing digital, professional and Advanced Manufacturing sectors to keep talent in Middlesbrough.

“Marriott is an internationally-recognised brand with great pedigree – and this hotel is a key element to our offer and will provide a great boost to businesses and their visitors.

"It will also offer a place to stay for investors and the thousands of workers taking on projects in the town and at Teesworks.”