The iconic red telephone boxes behind Middlesbrough Town Hall have been a familiar sight in the town for decades (and surely a part of every five-piece band’s promo photos).
Designed by architect Sir Giles Gilbert Scott in 1936 (that’s referring to the K6 model seen here – there are earlier designs dating back to the 1920s), only about 8000 of the red phone boxes remain in use. Many have been converted for use as pop-up libraries, defibrillator stations, even art installations.
Personal Memories
When we first posted this article it became clear that these phone boxes held treasured memories for many people in the town. The Town Hall has not only been the venue for countless concerts and events, but with the registry office nearby many couples have taken their first photos as newlyweds there.
The discussion on the ever-wonderful Memories of Middlesbrough Facebook group prompted a whole range of stories. One commenter made his first call to his future wife of 32 years from one of the phone boxes. Another told about his brother proposing to his wife there. They were a natural meeting point on night’s out in the days before mobile phones, although not always successfully; one commentator remembers being stood up on a date there in the late 60s. There were also a few less-repeatable stories, but we’ll set those aside…
Decline and Repair
By 2020 the boxes were in a somewhat shabby state. The decline in use of phone boxes (and so money for their upkeep) meant that they were neglected, broken and often used as de facto public urinals.
In a foresighted bid to halt this decline, the boxes were removed for repair in June 2020 (and were repainted my Memories of Middlesbrough contributor Mike Jackson). In November they made their way back to their rightful home – good as new and ready for their next incarnation…
Transmit, Transform, Translate
Stephen Hurrel’s ‘Transmit, Transform, Translate’ was part of the wonderful Middlesbrough Art Weekender, and saw the five boxes fitted with coloured lights which lit up in response to sound and movement. The piece was initially commissioned by Creative Factory for Middlesbrough Borough Council, and eventually produced with Navigator North.
Stephen sent us a description of the work in 2022:
“Resonant of a past age, these redundant yet iconic phone boxes have become triggers of memories for an older generation and perhaps objects of curiosity for a younger generation.
They signify a transition, or leap, from an analogue world to a digital world, from objects full of life and sound to the silent relics of today.
Now, for the dark winter months the artist has reactivated them using light, colour, sound and movement.”
May the Town Hall phone boxes be the site of art, music and romantic trysts for another 90 years!
North East Statues 