Dovecot Street is a well known feature of the heart of Stockton-on-Tees.
While it is a relatively modest street, its history is intertwined with the broader economic and cultural development of Stockton.
Early History of Dovecot Street
Dovecot Mill, taken from Paul Menzies’ book Stockton A Colourful Past
Stockton-on-Tees itself dates back to the Anglo-Saxon period and developed into a market town by the 14th century. However, Dovecot Street, as we know it today, grew more prominently in the 19th century during the height of the Industrial Revolution.
It originates mid-way up the western side of the High Street, and stretches west along what was originally known as Mill Lane.
An early map showing Dovecot Street and Mill Lane. From Teesside Archives’ collection.
It was once known as Ducket Lane, from its original position alongside narrow strips of ploughed land alongside Yarm Lane.
There was also a dovecote building at the entrance to the street, which saw its name eventually change to Dove Cote Lane.
Dovecot Mill was constructed in 1814 along Mill Lane. This street would be built along and serve as Dovecot Lane itself later, and the windmill lasted until the 1930s.
Like much of Stockton, it was influenced by the rapid urbanization and the expansion of the town’s infrastructure to accommodate its burgeoning industries, particularly shipbuilding, ironworks, and engineering.
Industrial Growth and Urban Development
During the 19th and early 20th centuries, Stockton-on-Tees transformed into an industrial powerhouse. Dovecot Street became home to various small businesses, shops, and residential areas, reflecting the growing needs of the working-class population. As industries flourished in the wider Teesside region, local streets like Dovecot played an essential role in housing workers and providing local services.
Original landmarks famous of Dovecot Street include the Quaker Meeting House of 1724 and the Millfield Tax Office.
The “Lit & Phil”, Alma Hotel and Spread Eagle Hotel
Close to the High Street, the Alma Hotel, Stockton’s Library, and the Literary and Philosophical Institute (Lit & Phil), and the Spreadeagle Hotel were all found on Dovecot Street.
Other landmarks include the Brunswick Methodist Church of 1823 (demolished 2010) and Hebron Hall of 1900.
Cultural and Civic Landmarks
Former Hippodrome, Essoldo and Cannon theatre/cinema.
On the corner of Dovecot Street and Prince Regent Street the Hippodrome Theatre was built in 1905.
Following a fire in 1932 is was rebuild as a cinema, and later a venue for variety shows.
It became the Essoldo Cinema, with three screens, in 1973 – the first example of a multi-screen cinema on Teesside.
Later it was known as the Cannon Cinema, before closing in 1993.
In the mid-20th century, Dovecot Street became part of the broader urban renewal efforts that many northern towns in England undertook. Many of its older buildings, like the “Lit & Phil” were demolished and replaced by modern retail and office blocks, often of much more brutal architectural styles.
Dovecot Street was even the home of Radio Tees for a while.
In the early 2000s the Wellington Square shopping precinct was built, with an entrance off Dovecot Street close to the High Street. Whilst built in a sympathetic style, it saw some buildings from the street (and other Stockton streets) demolished to create an entrance.
The ARC venue. Photo (c) Google
Today, Dovecot Street is known for its role in Stockton’s cultural and civic life. One of the most prominent landmarks on the street is the ARC (Arts, Culture, and Community), a significant cultural venue offering a theatre, cinema, and gallery space, built in 1999.
ARC was built on the site of the former Hippodrome Theatre/Cannon cinema.
Dovecot Street today, showing the entrance to Wellington Square. Photo (c) Google
In recent decades, Stockton-on-Tees, including areas like Dovecot Street, has been part of ongoing revitalization projects. The street now hosts a mix of cultural venues, shops, and businesses, showcasing the town’s transition from an industrial hub to a more diversified economy focused on the arts, retail, and service sectors.
What are your memories of Dovecot Street? Leave a comment below!