Work has started on a £20m (US$26.2m, €23.3m) redevelopment of the waterfront of Hartlepool, UK, with the plans set to include a new visitor attraction, viewing deck and water activity centre.

The project at Hartlepool Marina also incorporates a 'Linear Park' around the boundary of the site, including new footpaths, planting, seating and lighting.

Also part of the development – funded by the Tees Valley Combined Authority – is the regeneration of the National Museum of the Royal Navy Hartlepool, which includes a new home for Rescue Motor Launch 497 – a ship that rescued fallen airmen in the Second World War.

"As the waterfront will be developed in phases over a period of time, it's important to deliver a series of initial projects to encourage the use of the site, change the perception of the area and attract investment," said councillor Kevin Cranney, chair of Hartlepool Council’s Regeneration Services Committee.

"The development of Hartlepool Waterfront as a landmark destination is seen as key to unlocking the full potential of the town’s visitor economy.

"The first phase of works will also attract more people which will, in turn, bring economic benefits and start to transform the visitor economy of the town."

Kevin Byrne, managing director at Hartlepool based Seymour Civil Engineering, added: "Securing this key waterfront contract is particularly important for us as we believe the area will play a crucial role in the regeneration of Hartlepool and future tourism opportunities for the town, paving the way to increase its profile as a major leisure and visitor destination.

"Our headquarters overlooks the development and it will be exciting to see the work unfold, working in close collaboration with the council to achieve the shared objective of improving Hartlepool for residents, investors and visitors alike."