Middlesbrough entrepreneurs invest in former Lloyds Bank site in student accommodation transformation

Twin entrepreneurs from Middlesbrough are investing in their hometown in a project set to be the pair’s biggest yet.

At the age of 19, Jack and Tom Atha established Teesside-based Atha Developments, have chosen a former bank as the site of their new “luxury student accommodation”, St James Studios.

The duo has plans to transform the former Lloyds Bank on the corner of Albert Road and Grange Road, into 60 large en-suite studio apartments, each with fully-fitted kitchens.

The unique accommodation will also feature a range of 24-hour facilities, including a cinema, social study room, concierge and a private lounge.

There are plans for a bar on the ground floor, which will offer a discount to all Atha Developments’ tenants, for university students and young professionals to take advantage.

Jack said: “St James Studios will offer an unparalleled living experience for students with its massive studios and amazing facilities for everyone to enjoy.

“We were very keen to involve local businesses with the project, so we’ve teamed up with Darlington-based firm Niven Architects, and Northallerton-based contractors Walter Thompson, along with various [other] consultants.

“We are proud Boro boys and we’re passionate about the town and helping it to grow. It’s great to be able to take part in a big project like this, using local businesses who have the same values as us.”

Tom added: “Location is key. St James Studios is within metres of Teesside University so students are going to be able to roll out of bed and attend their lecture within minutes, or try to.”

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