Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council’s planning committee yesterday, Thursday 23 June, approved proposals to transform Duncan Place in Loftus.
The historic building, where the youth and community centre is currently located, will be renovated to create a facility for the town which will bring together several council services within one improved building.
This includes the relocation of Loftus library into a new extension of the building, with a small refreshment counter, alongside revitalised spaces for youth and family activities including a brand-new community hall.
This is to reflect the council’s commitment to ensure the community’s needs are better met.
Works are expected to begin September 2022 with a completion date of July 2023.
The plans are part of a series of exciting new proposals to regenerate and improve Loftus High Street.
The project will mostly be funded by the Government’s Future High Streets Fund, with the wider Loftus regeneration also being supported by Tees Valley Combined Authority. This means the council has a package of up to £10.3million for the Loftus Masterplan projects.
Other Loftus projects which are due to go to planning committee soon are the Coronation Park rejuvenation, which would see a new grassed events space and tree-lined boulevard, and more car parking to accommodate the increase in visitors to the area.
Cllr Chris Gallacher, Cabinet Member for Economic Development at Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council, said: “Our vision is to transform Loftus into a modern market town, providing facilities and attractions for residents as well as creating a memorable destination for our visitors.
“Duncan Place is in a prime location in Loftus, and this project will create a modern facility all under one roof for our residents to access key services. The appearance of the building will be improved, and we hope, if approved, the redevelopment of Coronation Park will create a new boulevard and space for people to spill out of the library and enjoy the improved surroundings.”
For more information about the Loftus Masterplan, please visit: https://loftusmasterplan.co.uk/