From Roulette to Rubber Rings: Pool Plans Filed for Empty Teesside Casino

_{The former Rainbow Casino at Teesside Park empty since 2016. (Image: Google Maps)}

A long-vacant corner of Teesside Park may be heading for a comeback that swaps blackjack tables for backstroke. A planning application has been submitted to Middlesbrough Council to convert part of the former Rainbow Casino into a dedicated children’s swimming facility run by swim!.

The casino closed in 2016 and the relevant section of the building has been unused for almost a decade. The wider building now houses Ninja Warrior UK, which sits directly next to the area proposed for redevelopment.

The application argues the project would deliver a much-needed local facility for families and help children access an essential life skill. swim! specialises in lessons for children aged 0 to 11 and says its teaching is delivered in “premium and family friendly facilities”.

From Slots to Swimming Lanes

The planning documents explain that several alternative locations were assessed, including sites on Grange Road and inside the Dundas Shopping Centre. Both were deemed “not suitable” for the size and ventilation needs of a pool.

According to the agent, the proposal requires a “warehouse style premises” to allow for a linear pool, changing rooms and a parent viewing area. The application also states that placing the pool inside the town centre would not effectively serve the residential communities the facility aims to reach.

Swim! cites national data showing that one in four children in the UK leave primary school unable to swim, a figure the company says it is aiming to reduce by expanding access to “bespoke member only centres”.

A New Entrance and Local Concerns

Alongside the interior redevelopment, the application seeks permission for a glazed new entrance at the front of the property and removal of the rear access doors. The agent argues the updated frontage would “enhance” the appearance of the long-vacant unit.

The proposal sits within Middlesbrough’s Ayresome ward, despite Teesside Park’s retail zone falling under Stockton Council. Independent ward councillor Jackie Young posted her support on social media but noted the lack of proposed operating hours in the application.

She said the omission “could cause issues at a later date, especially if it’s open 24/7”.

Young also highlighted ongoing safety concerns about navigating the area from local estates. 

“In the background, I’m working very hard and pushing for a safe crossing, this application only helps the case in hand,” she said. 

Young is encouraging residents to respond to the consultation.

Casino  Morphed into Family Fun Venue if Scheme Approved

If approved, the scheme would revive a prominent vacant unit, bring a family-focused service to Teesside Park and potentially strengthen community access to safe routes across the area. It would also extend the leisure mix around Ninja Warrior UK and add another anchor activity for families visiting the park.

The plans are now with Middlesbrough Council for consideration.