Yahoo News Redcar Central Station transformation set to begin on Grade II listed building
The major revamp of the Grade II listed Redcar Central Station is about to start.
Starting from Monday, May 20, conservation work will commence to transform the currently vacant and rundown building into a lively and inviting gateway to the town. The redeveloped station will serve as both a leisure and retail hub and a crucial transport link, offering rail facilities such as ticket machines, travel information and sheltered waiting areas, along with food and drink outlets operating throughout the day and evening.
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Despite the building's Victorian heritage, there will be an emphasis on sustainability, with only electricity being used and renewable energy systems installed; solar panels will be discreetly placed to maintain the traditional materials and aesthetic of the building.
While the works will inevitably cause some disruption around the station, including some nighttime operations on the trackside elevation, access to the railway platforms will remain open. Signage will be in place to guide passengers to and from the trains.
Cllr Lynn Pallister, Cabinet Member for Growth and Enterprise at Redcar and Cleveland Council, said: "Our residents have been looking forward to seeing some progress on Redcar Central Station, and I know they'll be pleased to finally see some being made. This is fantastic for Redcar and its local businesses as it gives visitors a more welcoming first impression of the town. In recent years we have developed some amazing leisure facilities such as a mini-golf course and a children's play park on the seafront, a thriving cinema in The Regent, as well as the current development of sports activity hub in Beach Base and a family-friendly entertainment venue on the high street. It really is an exciting time for the area that I'm sure will encourage many more visitors."
Funded by the Government's Levelling Up Partnership Fund, Welcome to Redcar and Cleveland fund administered via Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority, and the Railway Heritage Trust, the project isn't expected to be completed until 2025, but significant progress will be visible this year.
Robertson Construction North East has been appointed as the main contractor for the scheme, which also benefits from the expertise of conservation architect Howarth Litchfield, project and cost manager Identity Consult, and rail specialist Principal Designer Vextrix.
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen added: "This vital work will restore Redcar station to its former glory while providing new, modern spaces for our brilliant leisure and hospitality businesses. It will encourage even more people to visit Redcar and see first-hand the fantastic new entertainment spaces while supporting the town."
Neil Turner, architect and director for Howarth Litchfield, said: "The innovative conversion will bring life and vitality back to the building and contribute to the council's wider strategy of improvement in the town centre.''
Garry Hope, of Robertson Construction North East, commented: "The transformation of Redcar Central Station will deliver a thriving community space, and we look forward to being part of the community throughout the build."
