TWO significant Government funded projects will begin in Guisborough over the coming weeks, bringing safer travel routes and improvements to the town centre for residents, visitors and local businesses.
Both projects are being delivered by Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council and appointed contractor Esh Construction.
From 7 April, work will start on a new walking and cycling route linking Guisborough Town Centre with Guisborough Forest Visitor Centre at Pinchinthorpe.
Initial activity will include footpath widening works on the A173 Stokesley Road, Hutton Lane and Thames Avenue, along with the installation of new signs and pedestrian dropped crossings on The Avenue. These works will be carried out before progressing along Stokesley Road into the summer and then moving on to The Avenue.
To allow the improvements to be carried out safely, temporary traffic management will be installed around the working areas, including the use of barriers. Traffic management measures on the carriageway will be in place during off‑peak times only, with traffic lights operating between 09:30 and 15:30. Access for residents, pedestrians and cyclists will be maintained at all times, and clearly marked safe crossing points will be provided. A base for the works will be established just off Stokesley Road.
It forms the first step in improving active travel options, where people can walk, cycle, wheelchair or scoot, for families and those travelling in and around Guisborough. A future phase, delivered in partnership with Tees Valley Combined Authority, will later improve wider connectivity between Guisborough and Nunthorpe.
Later in April, town centre improvement works will begin on the north end of Chaloner Street. This early phase will widen the pavement on the Guisborough Bookshop side and replace paving. The wider set of improvements will include:
- upgraded pavements, including a wider pavement on the south side of Westgate,
- new street furniture to enhance the character of the town,
- a new pedestrian crossing near New Road,
- feature lighting and the replacement of tree lights to create a vibrant evening atmosphere.
These upgrades will improve Westgate and Chaloner Street, creating a more welcoming and accessible space for residents and visitors.
Phasing maps have been created for both projects to help residents and businesses understand the timeline and what to expect as works progress.
As part of wider investment, Guisborough Library will also be transformed into a more lively community hub where people can meet, learn, play and explore.
Cllr Lynn Pallister MBE, Cabinet Member for Growth and Enterprise, said: “This investment marks an important step forward for Guisborough. These projects will improve everyday journeys, enhance our town centre and create inviting spaces for our community to enjoy. We are grateful for the patience of residents and businesses as the work takes place and we are confident the improvements will deliver long lasting benefits for the town.”
Alan Croft, Construction Manager at Esh Construction said: “These improvement works mark a significant step forward for Guisborough. The scheme will deliver safer, more accessible routes whilst aiming to maintain the historic character of the High Street which is extremely important to the local community.
“Esh is pleased to be collaborating with Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council on these important improvements, applying our technical expertise and local knowledge to help deliver meaningful enhancements. Working closely with the Council, our focus will be on safe delivery, quality outcomes and keeping disruption to a minimum.”
To see more information, including the phasing maps for the projects, please visit: Guisborough Regeneration Programme | YourVoiceMatters