SALVATION ARMY EAGER TO RELAUNCH GRIMSBY PREMISES AS CAFE AND COMMUNITY HUB

                                             

Refurbishment in prospect for the citadel

THE  Salvation Army is set to relaunch a cafe and 'community hub' at its citadel on Duncombe Street, Grimsby.

North East Lincolnshire Council has this week granted planning consent for the proposal which will include the installation of new windows and revised access arrangements.

A report on the project states: "The existing building comprises of a main hall with upper auditorium and balcony which is annexed to a subservient side-building, set back which features open multi use areas, toilets and kitchen facilities.

"The building is in fair condition but has suffered from lead theft which has allowed water ingress and subsequent damp and decay to various areas.

"The basic structural form of the main hall comprises of load bearing masonry walls which are restrained by external piers at regular intervals. 

"The walls support a pitched roof covered with concrete tiles which replaced what was most likely a slate roof covering.

"The front of the building fronts Duncombe Street overlooking a public car park but the site features its own car park for around eight vehicles although this is not marked out.

"The building has previously been used as a traditional worship hall with a part-time café that has not been used since 2016."

The report continues: "The proposed works will bring the building back into use as a community hub.

"The current stepped approach at the front of the building is not fully inclusive and the proposal includes removing the steps and the floor inside the door and lowering to the same level as the rest of the building. 

"This will improve access and inclusivity for less able persons. 

"This will consequently require a new set of doors which are proposed to match the style of the existing windows, albeit in the more desirable and robust power coated aluminium.

"The design also includes provision for a platform lift to access services on the first floor of the secondary side hall.

"The side hall is to be divided up to include a training room and office and in order to bring natural light and provide a natural environment new windows are proposed. 

"These windows are purposely set at a higher level in order to obtain best natural light but maintain privacy on both sides of the boundary. 

"The glazing will also be opaque for maximum privacy and security purposes.

"All the above works are in keeping with the existing style of the building."

It is not yet known when work will start on the project, nor when it is likely to relaunch.

The Grimsby News says: This is terrific news. The Salvation Army is a much-cherished part of the fabric of Britain. It  brings people together and it radiates cheerfulness and hope. In its own way, it is as precious as the Royal Family. And isn't 'citadel' just the most wonderful word in the dictionary? Next time you see a Sally collector on a shopping street, remember to drop an extra coin or two into the tin - or, better still,  a note if you can afford it.