Teesside Live readers are weighing in on a £9.9 million plan to demolish and transform Eston town centre, funded by the Government’s “levelling up” initiative and the Tees Valley Combined Authority. The ambitious project promises a fresh retail hub, but opinions among locals are split.
A formal demolition notice has been issued for retail units at Eston Square, setting the stage for a revamp that will deliver about 30,000 square feet of new space, including seven or eight modern units and 100 parking spots. Redcar and Cleveland Council has finalized deals with all affected property owners in the precinct, securing the sites for demolition, with contracts now in motion. Esh will begin tearing down the largely vacant shops the week of May 5, according to Eston ward councillor David Taylor.
Last year’s public consultation showed backing for the long-overdue overhaul, with the council unveiling visuals of the potential new look. Yet, while some see it as a chance to breathe life into the area and draw investment, others question its worth.
Reader Yajokingarntya insisted, “It needs a Lidl or it’s pointless,” while Sausageboy quipped, “More likely Pound Stretcher or Heron.” Whistling predicted, “It’ll just turn into another pile of rubble like Redcar’s Woolworths.” Normanby1 slammed it as “a total waste of taxpayer cash—knock it down and plant grass!”
Sharkskinned offered a mixed take: “It’s not all bad. Move the fast food joints and barbers there, and it could free up the Square. Driving through Eston’s a mess now with takeaways and clippers everywhere—hide them away.” Reportit sarcastically envisioned, “Seven or eight units? So, three barbers, two vape shops, a takeaway, maybe a nail bar, plus 100 parking spaces. Can’t wait for King Charles to cut the ribbon!”
Geordiesmakemelaugh fired back: “You’re missing the point. You get barbers and vape shops because that’s what people want. Basic economics—businesses follow demand. Want different stores? Show there’s a market for them.” Gobbbygirl added a cynical twist: “Don’t get your hopes up. This is Eston—it’ll drag on forever.”
The £9.9 million scheme aims to reshape Eston’s retail scene, but whether it’s a game-changer or a gamble remains up for debate.
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