Seafront set for £30m renovation

Work is expected to start in summer 2010

A vertical pier is part of ambitious £30m plans to breathe new life into a Teesside seafront.

The regeneration scheme for Redcar aims to help return it to its heyday and bring in more visitors.

The project will involve strengthening the seafront defences and a promenade including performance space, seating areas and water cascades.

The 80ft vertical pier will have a 360 degree viewing platform and will be visible from both land and sea.

Our vision is deliberately ambitious because we want to stand out from the crowd Councillor Sheelagh Clarke

Councillor Sheelagh Clarke said: "Everyone who lives in Redcar & Cleveland loves our seafront and would welcome the opportunity to return to its heyday, where families flocked here for a great day out.

"The area has looked tired for a number of years and our plans will put our seafront back on the tourism map and undoubtedly attract visitors both old and new.

"Our vision is deliberately ambitious because we want to stand out from the crowd and show people Redcar is a fantastic town and the seafront is second to none, and that once you have come you will always remember it."

An exhibition of the designs will be on display from Saturday for a week in a marquee on the seafront.

People in the area played a major part in the designs for the regeneration with more than 7,000 giving their views in consultations in 2008.

A detailed design will be drawn up in the next six months with work expected to begin in summer 2010 following the approval of the funding package.