COULD NEW CHAPTER SOON OPEN IN LIFE OF HANDSOME CLEETHORPES SEAFRONT BUILDING?

Stage shows could return to the Empire - former home of music hall and screen attractions

AN exciting makeover is in prospect for a landmark building on Cleethorpes seafront.

When it opened in 1896, the Empire, on Alexandra Road, was a theatre, and it later became a cinema.

A Grade II Listed Building since 1988, it is now an amusement arcade - but perhaps not for much longer.

An application has been submitted by John Armitage for partial conversion of the ground floor of this grand red-brick property to a shop and creation of a multi-function space - including bar and restaurant - on the first floor.

A report supporting the refurbishment states: "The new floor will enable the majority of the existing building to be used and given a new lease of life, allowing members of the public once again to see the building and all the character it has to offer. 

"The stage will also be brought back into use giving the opportunity to host shows and events once more."

The proposal is currently being assessed by planning and heritage officers at North East Lincolnshire Council with a decision not expected until the New Year.  

Above and below - the Empire in a bygone era