Stuart Arnold

Redcar and Cleveland Council has granted outline planning permission for Vista Estates’ redevelopment of Craigton House on West Terrace. The scheme will add two storeys containing 30 flats and penthouses, extend the rear car park into a 16-space underground facility, and introduce brighter colours and street-art elements. Although four objections focused mainly on parking and impacts on residents, planning officers found the prominent town-centre site suitable for the proposed height and scale, with no unacceptable effects on privacy, heritage assets or the surrounding area. Further conditions will address materials, cycle and bin storage, parking layout, pedestrian access and construction arrangements.

Redcar and Cleveland Council has revived plans to improve Station Road after the original project was dropped because of rising costs. Proposed works include new paving, seating, tree planting, wider pavements, traffic-calming measures, improved crossings, lighting, CCTV and outdoor areas for businesses. The council has appointed landscape architects Southern Green and hopes to secure up to £4.5 million through the Tees Valley Combined Authority, with £110,000 provisionally allocated for developing the business case. Construction could begin in spring next year, subject to funding and planning approval, while residents and businesses are being invited to comment on the preliminary designs.

The Kirkleatham Walled Garden has been placed on the market after operator Elior chose to exit its long‑term lease with Redcar and Cleveland Council. Commercial property consultants Thomas Stevenson are marketing the venue, which features a restaurant, events marquee, gardens, and ancillary facilities. The council says interest from potential operators is strong, despite event cancellations following Elior’s departure. The restored site remains a valued local attraction with nearly 60,000 visitors recorded in 2022–23.