A WEEK-long exhibition of the controversial proposals for the £55m development of the Coatham Enclosure has opened to a mixed response.

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council's plans for the site include 250 new homes, a hotel, visitor tower and swimming pool.

But protestors have said green land will be unnecessarily lost.

Councillor Vera Moody, cabinet member for economic development, said the exhibition was a chance for residents to see what could be happening.

The exhibition at Redcar Bowl shows a revised masterplan, artist's impressions and a video showing how the public's views have helped shape the latest proposals.

The opening day attracted visitors eager to see the latest development plans.

Resident Bill Brennan said: "I know the town could do with some improved sports facilities but I'm still not sure whether there is the need for the housing."

Coun Moody, cabinet member for economic development, said: "We see this as another important opportunity to consult and communicate with the public. We want them to have their say and we want them to support it."

However, objector Chris McGlade would not be swayed by the revised plans.

He said: "It's just a rehash of everything we have seen before. They have taken old photographs, blown them up and put them in the small bar in the leisure centre - it tells us nothing new."

Redcar historian Vera Robinson backed the scheme, saying the development should not be blocked because the area is not common land.

The 90-year-old historian said: "I have a map from 1815 that shows Coatham Common between the Redcar town boundary and Coatham. The only name the Coatham Enclosure area has had before is the golf course and the sand dunes - never Coatham Common."

The exhibition will be open today from 9am to 9pm, Wednesday 9am to 10pm, Thursday 9am to 10pm, Friday 9am to 7pm.