Esh Construction, a North of England contractor, has been selected by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council to undertake the Stockton Waterfront development project. This initiative reflects the Council’s determination to ensure that its town centres remain dynamic and economically vibrant, as well as attractive to investors and future generations. Councillors and Esh Construction representatives, along with Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen, recently attended the groundbreaking ceremony at the location of the former Castlegate Shopping Centre and Swallow Hotel, which had been demolished earlier this year.
Esh Construction’s CEO, Andy Radcliffe, stated that the development project is poised to become a key and groundbreaking asset for Stockton Town Centre, and that his company is proud to be the local contractor entrusted with delivering it. By adopting the ‘Constructing Local’ approach, Esh Construction aims to maximise socioeconomic benefits in the Tees Valley by creating employment opportunities, initiating school engagement programs, providing support for career development in the construction industry, and offering procurement opportunities.
Meanwhile, Councillor Nigel Cooke, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Housing at Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, optimistically said that the project marks “an iconic, nationally recognizable new public space,” and will serve as a key factor for change, investment, and external growth in this region.
The Stockton Waterfront development project will encompass an impressive range of unique play areas and flexible spaces throughout the urban park. It will link the high street to the River Tees via a land bridge that will span Riverside Road, allowing uninterrupted access to the riverside from the high street. The project is being financed through a combination of the Council’s own capital, a £20m investment from the Tees Valley Combined Authority, and £16.5m from the Government’s Future High Streets Fund.
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen predicted that the new public space would draw visitors to Stockton and help existing local businesses, while also encouraging new shops, eateries, and cafes to open up in the area.
In conclusion, the Stockton Waterfront development project appears to be a well-conceived initiative with broad-based support. Its geographic location and ambitious scope make it a strategic investment in the long-term future of this region, and one that is likely to generate results for the local community for many years to come.
