Goodwins building in Redcar purchased to deliver Anchor attraction and events space

REDCAR’S Town Deal has taken a step forward by completing the purchase of the Goodwins building in the town, which took place yesterday (Monday 16 January).

The purchase signifies another milestone for a key project to transform a part of Redcar’s high street and Esplanade into a brand-new family attraction, known as the Culture and Leisure Anchor Attraction. Part of the site will also be transformed into a new outdoor events space.

The cost of the building will be met by the Redcar Town Deal fund – a £25million pot of money granted by the Government.

The board for the fund is led by a group of industry experts, business leaders, and community representatives, who have volunteered to support the regeneration of Redcar. Alongside Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council, they have helped develop large-scale regeneration plans on how to make Redcar a vibrant, sustainable town.

Subject to planning consent, the Goodwins building will be demolished along with the former M&S building, and the construction of the new attraction will begin in mid-2023. Goodwins will relocate to the former B&M building in the town.

New additional indoor cultural and leisure activities/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.

Darren Winter, Chair of Redcar Town Board, said: “We are delighted the purchase of the building has now been completed. The Culture and Leisure Anchor Attraction is a focal point of the Redcar Town Deal, designed to support the wider regeneration of Redcar’s High Street that we know residents, businesses, and visitors want now and in the future.

“We are also pleased that Goodwins will remain in the town, which is set to open in the former B&M building.”

Cllr Chris Gallacher, Cabinet Member for Economic Development at the council, said: “This exciting project is another step closer and if planning permission is granted, the development will offer activities for people from a whole range of ages – especially families – all year round. The attraction will also better connect the High Street with the seafront and open up the town.

“Working in partnership with the Redcar Town Deal Board, we have the opportunity to deliver a number of projects to boost the tourism and economic opportunities for Redcar and the wider borough.”