Former public conveniences on North Promenade, Cleethorpes, to be converted to cafe/bar

                                                       

Conversion works will have to be put on hold if roosting or breeding bats are discovered

AN abandoned public conveniences block on Cleethorpes seafront is to be converted to a cafe/bar.

Grimsby firm Premier Window Systems has this week secured planning permission from North East Lincolnshire Council to convert the disused building on North Promenade.

The proposal also involves creating manager's accommodation, with balconies,  on the first and second floors

A statement from Premier's agents says: "The existing public toilet block was closed by the local authority in 2006 and sold for redevelopment. 

"The application seeks permission for the site to be redeveloped which will include publicly accessible toilets being restored in this location again."

It continues:  "It is proposed that the cafe/bar will be open for extended hours to cater for the increased activity at this end of the resort.

"Leisure activity has increased over recent years to include early morning / late afternoon swimming, paddle boarding, beach exercise groups, running, walking and cycling."

The application did not go before the council's planning officer was determined under delegated powers by case officer Bethany Loring who comments: "The proposal will bring significant regeneration benefits and employment opportunities.

"Increased activity in this part of Cleethorpes will increase the footfall along North Promenade which, in turn, will benefit the vitality of existing businesses and the overall resort."

Because the site backs on to the railway, Network Rail have insisted on being updated on construction plans so as to safeguard their land and  infrastructure.

Following an ecology consultant's survey, no evidence of bat activity was recorded, but there is a cautionary note.

"Bats can occupy the smallest of spaces which cannot easily be inspected.

"It is recommended that all contractors are warned of the possibility of finding bats and informed that they must stop work at once if they see bats or suspect that they are present."

It is not yet known when work will start on the refurbishment nor what name will be chosen for the cafe/bar.