FAQs
Tidying up public spaces with planters, benches, and better lighting
Shopfront improvements in line with heritage standards
Better pedestrian access and movement at Chaloner Street
Why is money being spent on Westgate?
In 2022, the Council had the chance to bid for £15 million of Government funding to help regenerate Guisborough. Our goal is to make the town centre more attractive, accessible, and welcoming, while keeping its historic character.
Government officials visited Guisborough in January 2022 and recommended improvements to help revitalise the area. These included:
We developed plans based on these recommendations and discussions with local councillors. The aim is to improve the visitor experience, support local businesses, and promote Guisborough as a thriving market town. Our bid was approved and submitted to Government, and throughout the process we’ve kept the town’s history and character at the heart of our plans.
This awarded money is for a fixed set of projects – including investing in the town centre – and cannot be spent on other things.
Why not use the money to improve existing buildings?
We are doing that too. As part of the regeneration programme, the Council is offering grants to help businesses improve their shopfronts in line with heritage standards. More information can be found here; Town Centre Commercial Grant Scheme | YourVoiceMatters
Shouldn’t crime be sorted out first?
Improving safety is part of the plan. We are upgrading the town centre CCTV system to provide clearer, high-resolution images. We also work closely with Cleveland Police to tackle anti-social behaviour across the borough.
Has there been a public consultation?
Yes. We’ve engaged with local schools, businesses, and residents through Facebook, online sessions, and drop-in events. We also held accessibility group meetings and formed a regeneration group with councillors, business owners, the town council, and community representatives.
Public exhibitions were held in Guisborough Library and online from March to April 2024. Feedback from these sessions shaped the final designs. Updates were also shared in the August 2024 Di-Rectory magazine, which goes to over 8,500 residents and businesses.
Is the Market moving?
No. The market will stay where it is. We are adding infrastructure like electric power points to improve the current market offer. The Market Cross area will be available for future events or as an overflow space if needed.
Will the cobbles be kept?
Yes. The cobbles on Westgate are an important part of the town’s character. We plan to keep as many as possible. Some may need to be lifted to improve accessibility and widen footpaths, but they will be reused within the scheme. We will use heritage natural stone, not concrete.
Why not do something for young people instead?
We are. A separate project will improve play facilities at King George V Playing Field, including a new skate park and upgraded play equipment. This will encourage outdoor activity and support health and wellbeing for local families.
King George V is due to start in the Spring. More information can be found here; King George V Playing Fields public realm and landscaping improvements | YourVoiceMatters
Will parking be reduced?
No. We plan to maintain the current parking capacity and keep the two-hour free parking.
Why is a new crossing needed?
We want to make it safer and easier for everyone to cross the road, especially disabled people, wheelchair users, and families with prams. We plan to add a signalised crossing near Guisborough Library and western amenities. This will help people getting off buses and improve access across Westgate.
Does the project have planning permission?
Yes. Planning permission was granted by the Local Planning Authority. You can view the full application online at planning.redcar-cleveland.gov.uk using reference number R/2024/0422/F3M.
Who will carry out the works?
Esh Construction has been appointed following a competitive process. They offered good value for money and social benefits for the Redcar and Cleveland area.
When will the works start?
We are working with Esh Construction to finalise designs and agree a phased delivery plan to minimise disruption. We expect work to start in March and will share details with businesses and residents as soon as possible.
Where will the works start?
The phased delivery plan is being developed and will be shared with the community once confirmed.
Is this being paid for by council tax?
No. The project is funded by a Government grant, not by council tax. This funding comes with strict rules on how it can be used, and it cannot be spent on everyday council services.
When will construction be completed?
Completion of all works is estimated for August 2027.
Will all businesses be open as usual?
All businesses will be open as usual for the duration of the works.
Will the market continue?
Yes. We are working closely with the Market to ensure it will continue during the works.
Are you paving over and pedestrianising Chaloner Street?
No. We are not intending to make Chaloner Street a Pedestrian zone.