Stuart Arnold

Councillors approved plans to convert the long‑closed Eston and California Social Club into ten flats after a planning inspector judged the impact acceptable. The resubmitted proposal addressed earlier concerns over parking, outdoor space and nitrate neutrality, though more than 70 fresh objections were lodged. Supporters argued the scheme would improve a derelict building and provide needed housing, while critics raised safety, amenity and deliverability issues, including disputed access for a fire escape. Planning officers concluded the development would not harm neighbour amenity, local character or ecological protections.

Routine testing found abnormally high levels of E. coli in water features on Redcar’s Esplanade, prompting their temporary closure while further sampling is carried out. The council reported that specialists are addressing the problem and the fountains will reopen once confirmed safe. A UV cleaning system was in place but was unable to handle the elevated bacterial levels, and cleanup efforts continue pending final clearance.

Several planning applications submitted to Redcar and Cleveland Council outline proposed changes across communities in North Yorkshire, including tree removal, new storage containers and a café at De Brus Playing Fields, construction of porches and extensions, demolition of a garage, and installation of garden structures. These applications span locations such as Marske, Guisborough, Skelton, Loftus and Redcar, reflecting a mix of residential alterations and community-site developments.

A damaged Northumbrian Water sewer main near the River Tees caused untreated sewage to be discharged into the sea, prompting precautionary ‘no swim’ warnings at several Yorkshire coast beaches. The Environment Agency reported no initial impact on bathing water quality but is awaiting further sampling before lifting advisories. Repairs are underway, with the water company removing deposited material, assessing pipe damage and preparing fixes. Local officials raised concerns about risks to both bathing water and marine life, while investigations continue into how the ‘third party’ damage occurred.

Residents at Redcar Beach Caravan Park report escalating anti-social behaviour by large groups of youths, including fires, vandalism and an exploded gas canister on the nearby Coatham Dunes. Carol and Wayne Henshaw describe repeated disturbances and property damage, urging improved security from operator Tingdene, which cites environmental restrictions on fencing. Cleveland Police implemented a dispersal order during recent incidents and continue monitoring the area. A new multi-agency steering group led by councillor Carl Quartermain aims to address safety concerns, with its first meeting scheduled for early July.