Hartlepool Civic Society

The late 1960s were a time of great change in Hartlepool.

“Modern” was the trend – a number of streets and older buildings were swept aside. Some were derelict, but some were just in the way of plans.

Inspired by local photographer and town historian Douglas Ferriday, the Civic Society held its first meeting on April 25th 1972.

In October 1972 one of the first buildings to be discussed by the Society was Christ Church which was due to close as a church and be demolished. A campaign was begun by the Society gaining the support of townsfolk and businesses and the building was thankfully saved.

In 1996, after massive refurbishment it opened as Hartlepool Art Gallery and remains so today.