New setback for Pleasure Island project as Government body sounds alert on shorebirds threats

                                        

The beaches and saltmarsh are home to globally-threatened birds such as the curlew (above) and redshank

NATURAL England has warned that it may object to proposals to redevelop the former Pleasure Island theme park because of potential disturbance to globally-important  shorebirds that feed on the beaches and saltmarsh of Cleethorpes and Humberston.

The project envisages installation of no fewer than 272 holiday lodges, each capable of accommodating up to 10 visitors.

NE, which is a Government body, believes the influx of so many people - most with recreational aspirations - could spook the curlew, redshank, godwits, grey plover and other declining species which make the estuary their home.

In a letter, NE's James McGiveron states: "As submitted, the application could have  significant effects on the Humber Estuary Special Area of Conservation.

"We require further information in order to determine the significance of these impacts and the scope for mitigation." 

The following information is required:

• A full year of bird survey data;

• Further information on visual/noise disturbance to specially protected birds during construction and operation

• Further assessment on potential air quality impacts  from dust during construction and road traffic during operation

Mr McGiveron adds: "Without this information, Natural England may need to object to the proposal. 

"Please note we are not seeking further information on other aspects of the natural environment, although we may make comments on other issues in our final response. 

"Please re-consult Natural England once this information has been obtained. 

"On receipt of the information requested, we will aim to provide a full response within 21 days of receipt."

Natural England's comments will be a blow to the consortium seeking to redevelop Pleasure Island.

It could set back  the project for at least another year, with no certainty that, even with mitigation proposals, it will be approved. And all the while, the costs keep climbing.

However, the consortium - which is fronted by German discount supermarket chain Lidl - could take a risk by asking for North East Lincolnshire Council to determine the application without receiving prior Natural England endorsement.

* Grimsby, Cleethorpes & District Civic Society has this week also expressed misgivings about the proposal. In a note to NELC, it states: "We are concerned both about the loss of the public right of way from North Sea Lane roundabout area to the Meridian car park and the serious loss of wildlife habitats between the beck and Meridian Road. We cannot support this  application."