Work set to begin on Town Deal waterfront project

The Waterfront Connectivity scheme, one of five projects being funded through the £25 million Hartlepool Town Deal, comprises improvements to public realm infrastructure and footpaths.

The works will benefit residents living in the marina and also make the area more accessible for visitors to the world famous Tall Ships Races which the town is hosting this summer from July 6th-9th.

Councillor Shane Moore, Leader of Hartlepool Borough Council and a member of the Hartlepool Town Deal Board, said: “It is really exciting news that the plans are progressing and that work on the ground will be starting next month.”

A first phase of works will comprise the resurfacing of a promenade footpath adjacent to the Tees and Hartlepool Yacht Club and measures to address steep ramps either side of a slipway which cuts through the promenade.

Councillor Moore added: “Anybody who uses this footpath knows what a beautiful walk it is, but the ramps are neither safe nor friendly for people in wheelchairs or who have mobility problems, cyclists and people with prams and pushchairs.”

A new footpath is also to be created along the water’s edge beside Slake Terrace which will connect the lock gates at the marina all the way around to the Old West Quay and beyond.

Councillor Moore added: “It is really important to get underway here because this area has never really had proper footpaths put in. Our intention is to take up the existing surface and lay all new footpaths with sufficient drainage in place so that the area is completely accessible and safe, not just for visitors but residents who regularly use this area.

“It is really important that we get all of this work underway and completed in time for the Tall Ships Races in July. There are going to be an awful lot of visitors coming to Hartlepool one of the main things we need to be able to do is ensure that while they are visiting Hartlepool they are able to get around safely and get the best possible impression of the town.”

Darren Hankey, interim Chair of the Town Deal Board, said: “It is great to see this work pressing ahead. This work will enhance the visitor experience to the Marina as well as benefit the town’s residents by making the area easier to navigate. The Tall Ships event, the largest free outdoor event in the country, is coming to the town and these developments are most timely.”

Following completion of the first phase of works, more improvements will follow.

More information about the Waterfront Connectivity project and other Hartlepool Town Deal schemes can be found at https://yoursay.hartlepool.gov.uk