Plans for Stockton Waterfront development a step closer

Plans for Stockton's iconic new waterfront development as part of bold regeneration plans across the Borough's six town centres are another step closer.

Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council has submitted an outline planning application to enable the demolition and redevelopment of the Castlegate Shopping Centre and multi-storey carpark and the Swallow Hotel in order to create the new Stockton Waterfront site.

The site is located on Stockton's High Street and subject to planning approval, is to be demolished, making way for a new commercial development including the consolidation of the Council's offices and the creation of a new urban park, performance spaces, spaces for young people, public realm improvements and the re-alignment and bridging over Riverside Road (A1305).

The development, which is three times the size of Trafalgar Square, is set to include flexible spaces in the heart of the town centre, allowing direct access to the River Tees from the High Street.

The proposed demolition will take out surplus retail space, creating a compact and sustainable retail core in Wellington Square and the North section of the High Street.

Following the allocation of funding from the Tees Valley Combined Authority and the Government's Future High Streets Fund, Council Members approved a further £5million to support the delivery of this development when they met in February.

Councillor Nigel Cooke, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council's Cabinet Member for Housing and Regeneration, said: "We know that everyone is keen to know about the progress on the Stockton Waterfront site, there was a strong public support for the demolition of the Castlegate Centre and the Swallow Hotel and making the most of Stockton's riverside setting.

"I am so pleased we have reached this position to submit more detailed plans for this incredible site that is set to transform Stockton and open up the town to the river."

"Work is already underway to support the relocation of Castlegate's tenants, with a number of moves already agreed.

"Subject to approval, this is a huge step in the continuation of changes we've been making in recent years to make our town centres accessible for future generations."

Subject to planning permission, work is set to begin on the demolition of the site in early 2022.