Construction work is due to begin on a major new attraction in Redcar next month, which is to provide the centrepiece of a £30m local council-led project to revamp the town's seafront.

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council (RCBC) has appointed Willmott Dixon to build the 80ft (24.3m)-high tower, which will give visitors a 360-degree view of the coastline and surrounding landscape.

In addition to the viewing platform, the new attraction will also provide studios and galleries for local artists and creative businesses, as well as a café.

RCBC cabinet member for culture, leisure, tourism and rural affairs Sheelagh Clarke said: "The stunning 80ft tower will allow spectacular rooftop panoramic views of the dramatic coastline when it is finished next year."