Conservation works to transform it from an empty, dilapidated building into a vibrant, more welcoming gateway to the town will begin Monday 20 May.
The building will function both as a leisure and retail hub as well as a key transport link, providing rail facilities including ticket machines, travel information and covered waiting areas as well as food and drink outlets throughout the day and evening.
The project, which is 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, will not be complete until 2025, but the public will start to see significant progress this year.
Robertson Construction North East is the principal 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.
Despite it being a listed Victorian building, there will be a focus on sustainability, using electricity only and installing renewable energy systems; solar panels will be positioned out of sight, in line with aims to preserve the traditional materials and aesthetic of the building.
Whilst there will unfortunately be some disruption around the station for the duration of the works, including some nighttime works on the trackside elevation, access to the railway platforms will remain open and signage will be in place to assist passengers getting to and from the trains.
Cllr Lynn Pallister, Cabinet Member for Growth and Enterprise at Redcar & Cleveland Borough 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.”
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said:
“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.
“The regeneration also complements the work we’re doing at stations across the region to improve communities and give local people the transport links they deserve.”
Neil Turner, Architect and Director for Howarth Litchfield, said:
“We were delighted to win the commission for the conversion of this beautiful building which had fallen into disrepair. 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, Regional Managing Director, Robertson Construction North East, said:
“As the principal contractor, we have great experience of delivering high quality projects within live environments and are delighted to be delivering for Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council. 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.”
