Work has started on the £2.2million scheme to transform Duncan Place in Loftus.
The historic building, where the youth and community centre is currently located, will be renovated and extended 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.
Middlesbrough firm WB Construction Ltd. will be carrying out the work, and preparations will start on site towards the end of August. Construction begins officially on 1 September, 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 be jointly funded by the Government’s Future High Streets Fund and through the Tees Valley Combined Authority Indigenous Growth Fund. Overall, the council has a package of £11 million for the Loftus Regeneration Masterplan projects.
The Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, Greg Clark MP visited Loftus last week to see the exciting progress made so far for the area. He was accompanied by Simon Clarke, MP for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland, Cllr Mary Lanigan, Leader of the council, Cllr Chris Gallacher, Cabinet Member for Economic Development at the council, and Tim Gray, ward member for Loftus.
Cllr Chris Gallacher 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. It was a privilege to welcome Greg Clark MP to the area, to show the real potential Loftus has to offer.
“Duncan Place is in a prime location, and this project will create a modern facility all under one roof for our residents to access key services, and residents will see much-improved appearance of the building.”
For more information about the Loftus Masterplan, please visit: https://loftusmasterplan.co.uk/