Redcar 'vertical pier' may be named after Mo Mowlam

Mo Mowlam died in 2005

A multimillion-pound "vertical pier" being built on Teesside may be named after former Redcar MP Mo Mowlam.

Ms Mowlam represented Redcar for Labour from 1987 until 2001 and died in 2005 at the age of 55.

The 80ft (24m) high structure will be the centrepiece of a £30m regeneration of Redcar seafront.

Redcar and Cleveland Council has asked the public to vote on a shortlist of nine names, which include Mowlam's Beacon, Mo's Lookout and Jubilee Pier.

More than 500 possible names were submitted by the public and whittled down by council officials.

The exterior of the building has been completed and work has begun on the interior and the landscaping around the structure.

It is expected the free attraction will open to the public in early 2013.

Olwyn Peters, leisure, culture and tourism spokesman for the council, said: "The structure will be a new landmark for the North East and needs a stand-out name reflecting its significance, stature and one that will stand the test of time.

External work on the structure is now complete

"Along with the wider regeneration of the seafront it will have a role to play in helping us revitalise the area and attract more visitors, boosting tourism and business.

"We believe that the people of this area will pick a name that reflects the town's ambition and future and gives us a special feature to help us attract visitors to help the local economy."

The name is due to be announced in late September.

To vote, borough residents must complete an online form or call the council on 01642 495359 by 3 September.