Retailers struggling during construction work on town square improvements

Local businesses in Marske have suffered a financial blow after the town’s square was fenced off ahead of restoration work leaving them obscured from view. Some said takings had dropped by

as much as 70% prompting one local councillor to call on residents and visitors to continue supporting the traders affected. Councillor Dr Tristan Learoyd said he had raised concerns about

the timing of the works on the square on the corner of The Wynd and the High Street in Marske and the impact on seasonal trade in order to avoid such a situation. A redesign drawn up by

environmental charity Groundwork North East and Cumbria on behalf of owner Beyond Housing is adding new seating, along with resurfaced pedestrian walkways. A reconfigured layout will allow

for a large multi-functional space and there will be additional tree and shrub planting to enhance the square’s green character. The scheme was granted planning permission by Redcar and

Cleveland Council at a meeting in February with Beyond stating at the time work would start in the “coming months”. Cllr Learoyd claimed he had been assured the redevelopment would begin

earlier, during the quieter months of the year to minimise disruption. Instead, he said construction started during the Easter break and it was also happening on “sunny weekends”, critical

moments for the square’s independent businesses. ‘FOOTFALL HAS COLLAPSED’ Jon Maile, owner of The Cove bar, said: “This is normally one of our best times of year. We’ve had to remove all

outdoor seating and footfall has collapsed.” Clare Smith, who owns the Vintage-by-the-Sea shop, added: “We’re proud to be part of a vibrant local community, but we feel completely cut off.”

Helen Martin, who runs The Wynd Craft Beer bar and shop, said: “Our entrance is practically hidden behind fencing and a large green container. We’re doing everything we can to stay open, but

we’re struggling.” Beyond said the work had begun on April 14 and was due to be completed towards the end of June. A spokesman said: “We have consulted and communicated extensively ahead of

this project and are committed to keeping everyone informed and supported as we progress, revitalising Marske Square for the benefit of the whole community. “We are actively working with

local businesses and residents to address concerns, with new measures rolling out immediately, including direct communication channels, clear signage, and extended contractor hours.” The

Local Democracy Reporting Service asked the housing firm if it could somehow compensate affected business owners, but did not receive a response on this. Cllr Learoyd said the endeavours of

independent traders had transformed Marske into a “thriving destination and we must support them now more than ever”. He said: “I want to encourage people to come down and support our local

businesses - they are open and they need your custom. And I politely urge Beyond Housing and their contractors to do everything possible to speed up the work, out of respect for the

traders.” A council conservation officer said of the scheme during consultation on the planning application that it will “certainly preserve and hopefully enhance the character of this

featureless nucleus of Marske”. Richard Cooper, director of assets and sustainability at Beyond Housing, also said: “This project will breathe new life into the space, creating an attractive

and functional environment that enhances the community experience, while respecting the character of the area.” FOR THE LATEST REDCAR AND CLEVELAND NEWS DIRECT TO YOUR INBOX, GO HERE TO

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