Update
Date: 23rd August 2024
** Update on Bakehouse Square **
As people will know, I have been raising the concerns of residents regarding the issues with the Bakehouse Square regeneration project in Guisborough. The delays and the substandard quality of work, particularly with the cobblestones, the cuts to some of the stonework and the overall finish, are just not acceptable. I’ve made it clear that these issues must be resolved as quickly as possible and to the highest standard.
Following discussion with the council leader earlier in the week, I’ve now met with the relevant officers and been assured that they are actively working with the contractor, Seymours, to address outstanding defects. The contractor has now been brought back to visit the site, and a remediation plan is being drawn up to ensure that the remaining issues are fixed. I will be monitoring this closely and will not hesitate to hold them accountable.
Meanwhile, I want to put on record my appreciation for the efforts of the council’s Clean & Green team, who have been working hard to tidy up the area and the park this week. I thank them for their continued efforts, even as we push to resolve these larger issues.
The people of Guisborough deserve a project that reflects the pride we have in our town. I will continue to press for a high standard finish to Bakehouse Square, along with learning the lessons for future regeneration projects such as Chaloner Street and Westgate. I will keep everybody updated as we move forward, and thanks for your patience.
A great Bank Holiday weekend to you all.
Best Wishes,
Luke
Concerns over Bakehouse Square
Date: 21st August 2024
I am concerned about the issues that have arisen with the Bakehouse Square regeneration project in Guisborough. After hearing the frustrations expressed by local residents regarding the significant delays and substandard quality of the work, I reached out to key figures at Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council to seek answers and push for urgent action.
I have spoken with Council Leader Alec Brown, Cabinet Member Lynn Pallister, and key officers who have all expressed their dissatisfaction with the current state of the project. Cllr Lynn Pallister has assured me that she is aware of the issues that need to be addressed and will be taking this up with the contractor, Seymours. I will be joining a call with her and relevant officers today to get an urgent update, including the issues surrounding costs and project delays.
The council have assured me that they are not satisfied with the quality of work or the time it has taken to complete the project either. I have requested regular updates as they address these concerns with Seymours. The contractor will be obligated to return and address defects as part of their contract.
We have had too many promises about this project from politicians. I will not be making promises I can’t keep, but what I will do is continue to hold those responsible to account. The people of Guisborough deserve better, and I will do everything I can to ensure that the necessary improvements are made and that future projects meet the high standards that our community expects and deserves.
Thank you to all those who have been raising this issue, including local residents and councillors of all parties. Thank you too to the Clean & Green team who I spoke to first thing this morning, cleaning up the area.
I will keep residents updated on this. If you have any further concerns or would like to stay updated on this and other local issues, please get in touch at Luke.Myer.MP@parliament.uk