Update on Redcar’s TunedIn refurb as funding is allocated

Redcar and Cleveland Council said in 2022 it was seeking external funding to turn TunedIn! into an arts and culture centre of excellence, maximising its potential and potentially drawing visitors from further afield

Then in 2024 Government ‘levelling up’ funds were allocated for alterations including a new bar/café and box office and a redesign of its studio theatre.

Council spending decision documents recently issued for cabinet approval show the contract term of an external project management and design consultancy providing a multi-disciplinary contribution to the project has been extended with additional levelling up contingency funds being identified to cover the shortfall in costs.

This increased the value of the contract issued to the private firm by £53,337 to £302,325.

A report said: “The council is committed to delivering the scheme, but cannot complete it without approval to vary the contract so that it can continue to project completion. 

“Failure to vary the contract will result in the multi-disciplinary team no longer being able to complete the development, and the outcomes and impacts afforded by the funding being lost.”

TunedIn!, which is located next to the boating lake at Redcar, is currently closed and due to re-open in April once the refurbishment is complete. 

A spokeswoman for the council said: “The project remains on schedule, with Esh Construction currently due to complete the works, including fit-out, by the end of April.

“No delays are being reported at this stage.

“The investment at Tuned In! is focused on upgrading the auditorium and stage, alongside supporting and back-of-house spaces, to enable a year-round programme of performances from grassroots activity through to ticketed shows. 

“This includes improved studio and green room facilities, as well as enhanced café/bar provision to support both daytime use and evening performances.

“Following construction, there will be a period of commissioning and programming ahead of reopening.”

TunedIn! originally cost £5m when it opened in 2011 and was a European Regional Development Fund scheme.

It failed to keep up with income targets and has continued to be subsidised by the council, providing office space for staff and also being utilised as a testing centre during the covid-19 pandemic among other uses.