THE future plans for Saltburn Valley Gardens will be the focus of a public meeting on Thursday night.

Residents are invited to the Spring Seminar as Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council aim to bring them up to speed on developments and to seek support for further work to be completed in the gardens.

A series of talks will be held, including a look in the Valley Gardens’ past by historians Tony and Cath Lynn and an update will also be given by council officers on the recent improvements to the Valley Gardens.

Cllr Helen McLuckie, the council's cabinet member for neighbourhoods, said: “This seminar will be a great way to communicate with residents to discuss future plans for the Valley Gardens.

“There are many features within the area including the Saltburn War Memorial, Woodland Centre, Albert Memorial, Italian Gardens, Marske Mill site, areas of open space and ancient woodland, so it will be great to see what ideas come from the seminar.”

In March, a planning application to turn a section of ancient woodland into a high rope adventure course in the Valley Gardens.

The scheme split opinion when members of Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council’s regulatory committee met to discuss the plan.

Concerns were raised that the project would lead to anti-social behaviour and cause damage to aged trees at the rear of the popular parkland.

However, the majority believed it would breathe life into the area and give young people the opportunity to learn new skills and develop a love for the great outdoors.

Cllr Philip Thomson, ward member for Saltburn, has been a long time advocate of investment and improvement in the tourist attraction.

He said: “We’re interested in discussing the land owned by the council which stretches from the Viaduct to Cat Nab.

“Whilst some progress has been made in reinstating features and making improvements at Saltburn Valley Gardens, there is still work to be done.

“I look forward to the presentations, which will take an interesting insight into the past, present and future of the Gardens, but I am particularly looking forward to speaking with residents for their thoughts and ideas.”

Entry to the seminar, from 6pm until 8pm at the Community Theatre in Saltburn is free, but residents are encouraged to register at Saltburn Library in advance.