Humberston councillors welcome Pleasure Island revamp scheme - but with significant reservations

                                                  

Admittedly the former theme park has become somewhat scruffy, but there are many trees and shrubs worthy of retention

HUMBERSTON  Village Council says it would welcome redevelopment of the former Pleasure Island theme park - but only if certain conditions are met.

Following its February meeting, it issued a statement which begins: "The village council would welcome redevelopment of this site which currently is an eyesore and does not give a good impression to visitors to the area." 

However, the statement continues: "The council does have reservations on the impact of these proposals on residents in the area and concerns at some aspects of this particular scheme. 

"It would seem an over-intensification of the site to include the lodges and two hotels -  we would question the footfall to sustain this level of development at this site. 

"There is already considerable tourist accommodation in the immediate area, and we would prefer to see more sustainable activities for visitors included in the site rather than just accommodation. 

"We would also ask for a height restriction right across any development on this site so as to negate any impact upon neighbouring residential areas." 

The statement is also concerned at the impact upon the Humber Estuary area of more visitors.

It is seeking a stipulation that nothing north of the Buck Beck is included in any application to provide a bigger buffer zone between development and the estuary.

In the event of the application being approved, the village council is also asking for a planning condition that mature trees are planted on the site, both for the benefit of wildlife and to "assist with screening". 

The Grimsby News says: Along with others, the village council describes the site as an "eyesore", but surely this is so  only because of the  prison-style  perimeter fencing, redundant construction materials and accumulation of  litter. Look beyond, and there are numerous magnificent mature trees and shrubs, while  some of  the buildings have a quirky, medieval-style quaintness. If at least the existing trees and shrubs could be both retained and supplemented, it would surely make for a more attractive and more Nature-friendly redevelopment.