Redcar regeneration continues with new seaside attraction and 'cultural hub'

Redcar’s Town Deal has taken another step forward as two major projects have been granted planning permission.

Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council’s Regulatory Committee approved plans for a new family attraction to be built, which will be known as the Culture and Leisure Anchor Attraction. This will transform Redcar’s High Street and Esplanade and create a new outdoor events space.

This means the former M&S building and Goodwins will be demolished this spring, and construction of the attraction will begin in the summer.

More indoor cultural and leisure activities and events will be on offer which will help Redcar become a “year‐round” destination, creating a more “vibrant and attractive” Esplanade, and enhancing the town’s leisure offer for both locals and tourists.

A new relocated library will also help to create a new community focus, providing a “modern, exciting and welcoming” space for all, with access to digital technology, information, services and learning. It will include a children’s library with a storytelling area and will be flexible for a range of events and activities.

The cultural hub will replace the existing library provision based at Redcar and Cleveland House and place the library at the heart of the town centre, supported by a regular programme of events. The colour and type of cladding on the exterior of the building will be subject to further engagement at the detailed design stage.

Also approved at the Council’s Regulatory Committee was the public realm improvements to Redcar’s high street. This means residents and tourists will see improvements to the area such as the introduction of new street furniture, more landscaping with plants and trees, improved lighting, and more.

The improvements will help create a vibrant town centre which attracts more visitors and residents, supporting local independent businesses, jobs and attracting further investment

Darren Winter, chair of Redcar Town Board, said: “We are delighted the plans for the Culture and Leisure Anchor Attraction have been approved as well as the public realm improvements; these projects will support the wider regeneration of Redcar’s High Street that we know residents, businesses, and visitors want now and in the future.”

Cllr Chris Gallacher, cabinet member for Economic Development at the council, added: “The projects will transform the heart of Redcar town centre with a fresh offering of new and dynamic attractions and entertainment for locals and visitors throughout the year, and in all seasons.”

By Matthew Neville – Senior Correspondent, Bdaily

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