Redcar Culture and Leisure Hub

Building in the heart of Redcar’s busy coastal town came with major challenges. Bound by the promenade and esplanade, both high-traffic zones, logistics required precise planning. We sequenced demolition and temporary works to protect nearby structures and the environment. Morning access restrictions and high winds demanded flexible scheduling and wind mitigation, including selective structure removal. With our team working closely with local authorities and the community to maintain safety and minimise disruption throughout.

To meet the client’s budget, we led a thorough value engineering process. We streamlined the roofscape for both visual harmony and cost savings, and future-proofed the building by adding extractors and vents for a potential kitchen. We reviewed and revised around 30 items, including finishes, paving, and event spaces, delivering savings without sacrificing design or function. The library, as the project's focal point, remained unchanged, while we adapted other areas to accommodate evolving uses. 

We prioritised sustainability throughout the project's design and delivery. At the rear of the site, we installed an attenuation system to manage surface water runoff, easing pressure on the local drainage network and reducing flood risk. To cut carbon emissions and limit fossil fuel use, we designed the facility with air source heat pumps, delivering energy-efficient heating and cooling while supporting long-term environmental goals. 

We designed the building to strengthen culture and leisure in the local community, placing the library at its heart. Located at the end of a planned cycle and pedestrian route through town, the development plays a key role in the broader regeneration masterplan. The library will serve as a vibrant hub for learning, engagement, and enjoyment across all ages. As tenants occupy the flexible spaces, the building will generate new jobs and boost the local economy, driving long-term growth and revitalisation. 

The project was funded through the Levelling Up Fund, applied for under the category of cultural improvements. This approach enabled the applicants to access funding streams across various disciplines, allowing central government to approve and allocate the necessary resources.