COULD RSPB SWOOP FOR SPACE AT PROPOSED NEW CLEETHORPES 'OBSERVATORY' BUILDING?

Artist's impression of the proposed new building

IT'S full steam ahead on a national marketing campaign to secure an 'operator' for the planned new multi-functional building on the corner of Sea Road and the Central Prom.

Planning permission has already been secured for a building on the high-profile site - formerly occupied by Waves pub - at the heart of the resort.

The aim is for it to be a showcase project - an estuary 'observatory' accommodating a variety of visitor amenities. 

Because of its location on one of the world's most important sites for migrating and over-wintering shorebirds, there has been speculation that the RSPB might be an interested party if it can see scope for attracting new members and selling its vast array of  binoculars, books, greeting cards and other products.                                         

Knot and other shorebirds over the ocean wave

However, the bird charity would probably want to share the nest with other partners. A few years ago, its  modest involvement at the Discovery Centre by the boating lake was not a conspicuous success.

The new-build project is  being managed by Engie on behalf of North East Lincolnshire Council.

Regional property agents PPH Commercial, which have offices in Grimsby, are spearheading the marketing drive. Sam Fallowfield is the man to contact.

Financial support has come in the form of  £1-million national funding via the Humber Local Enterprise Partnership as part of the Government’s stated commitment to the Northern Powerhouse.

Says North East Lincolnshire Council's deputy leader and cabinet member for regeneration, Cllr John Fenty: "We are actively looking at ways in which we can use the site to offer significant benefit to Cleethorpes.

"This is a prime area in the resort and one which we are sure will become even more popular."                                     

            

It's all-systems-go on the national  marketing campaign