Redcar to become a “year-round destination” with new culture and leisure attraction

The former M&S and Goodwins buildings in Redcar town centre are set to become the location of a brand-new family attraction, to be known as the Culture and Leisure Anchor Attraction.

The project forms part of the Redcar Town Deal, a suite of projects contributing to the wider town centre transformation. It will include an approx. 960 sq m public events space within its 2,000 sq m site.

The council have now appointed a design team and plans are moving forward to create an indoor family activity centre with café, to relocate the central library and to enhance its offerings.

Indoor activities such as bowling, a climbing wall, laser tag and augmented reality entertainment may be in the pipeline for the family activity centre. All of the activities and features planned are designed to support Redcar in becoming a “year‐round destination”.

A new relocated library will help to create a new community focus, with access to digital technology, information, services and learning. It will include a children’s library with storytelling area, an immersive space, makerspace and the venue is set to be flexible for a “range of events and activities”.

A public events space adjacent to the building and attached to the high street will connect the seafront with the high street and create a focal point for hosting events and activities, which will be protected from any coastal weather conditions by the building itself.

Councillor Chris Gallacher, cabinet member for economic growth, said: “This is another exciting project which will support Redcar in its regeneration. The types of activities on offer will appeal to people from a whole range of ages - especially families – and the attraction will provide lots to do whatever the time of year.

“Having this facility in this location will help to connect the High Street with the seafront and open up the town, providing something aesthetically pleasing to look at in our aim to improve the appearance of the area as well. It is going to be a great addition to the town.”

Darren Winter, chair of the Redcar Town Deal Board, added: “The Town Deal Board are excited to reveal this project, which will transform the heart of Redcar town centre with a fresh offering of new and dynamic attractions and entertainment for locals and visitors throughout the year, and in all seasons.

“It will also support our growing number of independent retailers and businesses.”