MAJOR progress transforming the historic Grade II-listed walled garden at a North-East estate has been captured by drone footage.

The £8.32 million project at Kirkleatham Estate, Redcar, is transforming the site in to what will be one of the region’s finest gardens, with a restaurant and events venue, as well as a new training facility.

The drone footage shows a time-lapse of the progression at the site capturing the laid groundworks, the construction of the restaurant, and even the trees lining the central waterway.

Work by contractors Metnor Ltd started in April 2018 beginning with in-depth archaeological investigations and groundworks. Plans for the project have been designed to complement existing attractions including the neighbouring museum and owl centre.

A new road and car park is also planned for the estate, meaning visitors will be able to access the attraction via the A174.

The gardens, which have been closed for more than 30 years, are expected to be open to the public once again later this year.

It’s hoped at least an extra 30,000 visitors a year will be attracted to the borough and nearly 40 jobs and 160 training places are expected to be created in the first five years of operation.

Councillor Wayne Davies, Cabinet Member for Economic Development at Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council, said: “This is a very exciting project, and you can see by the impressive drone footage that significant progress has been made.

“Not only will this be a fantastic tourist attraction bringing visitors far and wide to the historic Kirkleatham Estate, but it will create jobs and training opportunities of which the impact will be felt right across the Tees Valley.”

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “It’s great to see the work that has been done so far to transform the garden and bring it back to life, undoubtedly drawing more people to Redcar and spending their money there.”

“This is another example of how we’re helping deliver real change on projects in every town and across many different sectors. The training and job opportunities will directly affect people’s lives and make our region an even better place to live.”

Funding has come from the Tees Valley Combined Authority, National Lottery Heritage Fund and the Coastal Communities Fund.