The major regeneration of Eston Precinct has reached a new milestone, with the next phase of construction set to get underway.

Esh Construction, working in partnership with Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council, is leading the effort to modernise the retail centre and enhance Eston's appeal as a vibrant, welcoming destination.

Demolition of the existing buildings is now complete, making way for seven new retail units and an outdoor leisure area. In total, the scheme will deliver 14,600 square feet of high-quality retail space for residents and visitors.

The initial phase involved safely removing 18 retail units and six flats above them using remote demolition technology, alongside the removal of asbestos – including notifiable materials – to ensure the site's safety. The foundations are scheduled for removal as the construction phase progresses. Overall, the demolition phase processed 4,454 tonnes of type 1 and 230 tonnes of recycled 6F2 materials into a recycled product.

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Grant Watson, Construction Manager at Esh Construction, said: "We are proud to bring our expertise to the Eston Precinct redevelopment and to be moving onto the next stage in the project.

"Working collaboratively with our client, we are looking forward to seeing the positive impact that this scheme will have in Eston and we remain committed to bringing forward initiatives to maximise social and economic benefits throughout."

With the site cleared, bulk earthworks and engineering fill will be undertaken to enable installation of the new building's foundations. Next year, steel frames will start to be erected as the precinct takes shape.

Plans for the surrounding public realm include new paving, trees, benches, and upgraded lighting and power infrastructure to support events and markets, establishing Eston Precinct as a thriving community destination.

Cllr Lynn Pallister, Cabinet Member for Growth and Enterprise at Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council, said: "This next phase marks an exciting milestone, and it's fantastic to see such progress taking shape. Residents will soon notice significant improvements to the area, including the steel framework for seven new retail units and a beautifully landscaped outdoor space.

"The new precinct will offer high-quality retail opportunities for both residents and visitors, creating an inviting place to shop and spend time. I want to thank everyone for their patience and am delighted to see these plans becoming a reality. With demolition now complete and preparations underway to ready the site and resources, you can expect to see a lot of activity starting on site in January."

The project is funded by the UK Government and Tees Valley Combined Authority. Phase one is expected to complete by autumn 2026, with Esh working alongside Identity Consult, Space and Fairhurst to deliver the scheme.