Stack Middlesbrough: New images show how trendy shipping container scheme could look

If the plans are approved, STACK Middlesbrough would be trading for three years in the “arcaded undercroft” beneath the main road. Owner Danieli Group is also keen to find a permanent site in the town.

A licensing application has also been submitted. The scheme wants permission for booze to be served and music to be played from 10am to midnight Sunday to Thursday and 10am to 1am on Friday and Saturday.

The site will make use of the space that’s been cleared following the demolition of Slam nightclub which had been standing empty since 2016. Exchange Square has been undergoing redevelopment through the £640,000 High Street Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ) project.

STACK is aiming to open in Middlesbrough in time for Easter 2023 and it’s thought it could create 115 jobs. The new scheme will be constructed of 25 shipping containers, designed around a central plaza with seating surrounded by five street food vendor outlets and three bars.

Hadrian’s Tipi – with its own bar – will be popping up at the site too. And a new stage area will mean that live performances and events can also be rolled out.

CEO of Danieli Group Neill Winch said the company had a strong growth strategy in place. He added: “We are very happy at the prospect of a pop-up scheme in Middlesbrough which, if successful, will be in place for three years.

“Given the rapid expansion of the brand, we would also hope to identify a site for a permanent STACK in Middlesbrough in the long term.”

Middlesbrough Mayor Andy Preston said: “Amazing things are happening really quickly in this key gateway to Middlesbrough. STACK will be a fantastic addition to Exchange Square which has been given a new lease of life.”

Between 2018 and 2022, STACK in Newcastle was a hugely popular spot and the owners will be hoping to recreate that success in Teesside. The Toon venue was forced to close its doors to allow for the construction of the new HMRC offices, but it has a new home in Worswick Chambers in Pilgrim Street that’s set to open early next year.