Plans to transform a cinema in Redcar, North Yorkshire, have been given the go-ahead.

Work has started on the site of the Regent Cinema, a beachfront landmark building that has been providing entertainment in Redcar for more than 100 years. Following its closure in 2018, Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council developed a plan to completely reimagine the single screen cinema to provide a new leisure facility with the help of TVCA funding.

The scheme includes three screens - offering 95, 54, and 35 spaces respectively – and a cafe as well as associated facilities. The two-storey building will feature a glass walled foyer and glazed terracotta tiles.

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The plan also includes the construction of a new sea defence structure from the beach to promenade level.

Suzanne Blair, associate director at GT3 Architects, said: "We're delighted that work has now started on this exciting and iconic project. The Regent Cinema has been continually reinvented throughout its lifetime and this new incarnation will give it a new lease of life and be of great value to the local community.

"The building is situated on a prominent seafront location, so we wanted the design to reflect that as well as respond to the monolithic stone, brick, and concrete of the town - but with a contemporary style. The design therefore draws inspiration from the rich history of the site and the art deco style of the existing building – which is due to be demolished following safety issues.

"As a result, following extensive consultations, the design provides a contemporary venue and meeting space for the whole community. It celebrates the history of the site in the style and elevation while also successfully capturing the wide views of the ocean and town centre, so we’re thrilled to see the project start on site."