Urban Park Images for Stockton Waterfront Unveiled

MGL Demolition is working in partnership with Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council to enable the development of Stockton Waterfront. We are demolishing the Castlegate Shopping Centre and the Swallow Hotel to help deliver part of the Council’s bold regeneration plans across the Borough’s six town centres.

Striking images show the latest design for the bold urban park and riverside plaza, which includes exciting events spaces, unique play areas for all ages, heritage influences, and pop-up concession opportunities.

A Reserved Matters planning application was submitted showing how the concept masterplan has been developed to create a transformational public space for residents and visitors of Stockton-on-Tees.

The design, influenced by the findings of the Council’s public engagement sessions in the summer, incorporates event spaces, play areas, heritage influences and opportunities for pop-up concessions across a flexible, accessible urban park that will link the High Street to Stockton riverside.

The latest images of the emerging design offer insight into key locations across the urban park, including two large event spaces, an oval lawn space close to the High Street and an amphitheatre and large terraced area with accessible ramps and stepped routes linking down to the riverside.

The area close to Finkle Street, named ‘Finkle Square,’ creates an entry point to the urban park and can host events and markets, as well as seating and heritage opportunities. It will reflect Finkle Street’s character and include an intimate setting with tree planting.

A large-scale play area and a series of play and water features will be the centre of the park. A number of areas providing seating and shelter are incorporated, along with the ability to accommodate pop-up food and beverage units. The design also provides a toilet block in the heart of the park, close to the play areas.

A detailed design for the urban park will now take place. Finer details, such as street furniture, lighting, and specific play areas and features, will be developed. There will also be an opportunity to engage with specific groups to ensure the park is accessible and inclusive.

The detailed design will also develop the park’s heritage interpretation, which will include text, illustrations, and digital links into the paving and street furniture, where visitors can learn about the town’s prominent places, people, and events.

The planning process is expected to be determined in the spring, and the park’s finer design will be completed by the summer. Construction will then begin following the complete demolition of the Castlegate site.

This is an exciting time for Stockton, and we are proud to be part of the transformation.