BATS AND BIRDS NOT FORGOTTEN IN PROPOSED NEW LOOK FOR GRIMSBY'S ST JAMES SQUARE

A PROPOSED facelift for Grimsby’ St James Square has today been given the planning thumbs-up.



The revamp will include:



* Landscaping of the Grimsby Minster churchyard

* The installation of new paths across the churchyard grounds

* Provision of new seating areas and benches



All being well, the revamp should enhance  the quality of this historically-important open space and throw greater  focus on to the Grade I listed minster.



In advance of today’s decision, there were in-depth discussions involving North East Lincolnshire/engie planners, the council's conservation officer and trees officer and a representative of  Historic England.



A condition of the forthcoming works is that new trees shall be planted within 12 months of the commencement of the development.

Any that die or are removed during the first five years of planting shall be replaced in the next available planting season with the same type and standard as originally planted.



In order to enhance wildlife and provide biodiversity gain, bat boxes will be installed in line with the recommendation of a specialist consultant. 



Consideration will also be given to the installation of bird  nestboxes on those trees to be retained.



During groundwork’s, archaeologists will be on hand to collect and assess any historic finds that might be unearthed.