Revised plans for Pier Gardens rejig include installation of walling to 'segregate individual areas'

                                                              

NELC keen to see refurbishment start this September

CONTRACTORS have until August 26  to bid for the tender to carry out a much-delayed revamp of  Pier Gardens in Cleethorpes as proposed by North East Lincolnshire Council.

There has never been any conspicuous  clamour for redevelopment of the gardens but the council has almost £8-million to spend on the project, courtesy of aLevelling-up grant from Whitehall.

So far, the only works carried out - both controversial - have been the destruction of a hedge maze and the relocation to sites in Grimsby and Immingham of some of the shrubs.

At the boundary of the gardens at the rear of the proposed Sea Road amenity building, a row of whitebeam trees have been felled and removed.  

                                        

Anyone remember the hedge maze - an early casualty of regeneration works?

The project  has been revised since the original public consultation.

In its current form, it proposes the installation of  terraced walling "throughout the scheme in order to segregate individual areas within the site".

Also specified are the following:

* Introduction of hard and soft landscaping, with areas of paving, resin bound gravel, herbaceous planting, amenity planting and new trees. 

* Installation of  items of street furniture such as  benching, seating, children’s play and water play items, along with interactive public realm elements, bins and cycle stands. 

"There are a number of electrical and water services to be installed, with overhead and  low-level lighting, pop up power supplies, water feeds, drinking water points and footwash facilities."

NELC's briefing notes to potential bidders states: "The scheme for this 1.2-hectare linear park  is to  re-develop this area of land, in order to improve the space. 

"Once complete, Pier Gardens will provide a range of activities for all age groups, ranging from passive to interactive. 

"These activities are accessible for all abilities and at all times of the year and cater for the needs of the community in addition to attracting visitors."

Once bids have been evaluated and a contractor appointed, NELC wants works to start on October 13 this year and be completed by about the same date next year.

                                   

With hard surfacing proposed, an uncertain future beckons for some of the existing lawns and shrubs in Pier Gardens

Cleethorpes tree roots probe likely to bring five holiday weeks' worth of noise and disruption

 

                                                       

Some of the 13  trees whose roots are to due be assessed (photo: NELC)

FIVE weeks of disruption are in prospect on Cleethorpes' busiest shopping street.

Starting on Monday,  North East Lincolnshire Council will be undertaking highway maintenance work around 13 magnificent trees on St Peter's Avenue between High Street and Albert Road.

Local businesses have been informed of the project, and every effort will be made to minimise upheaval during the work.

The planned work is to investigate the extent of tree root growth around the trees ahead of proposed footway improvement in the future.

Says a council spokesperson: "Highway trees in paved surfaces are like any other highway element that requires maintenance or replacement over their life cycle. 

"However, the difference between highway trees and elements, such as street lights and bollards, is that they do not remain static.

"They grow both above and below ground.

"To enable a full assessment, exploratory trial holes will be excavated around the trunks in order to assess the root growth ahead of prospective pruning and footway resurfacing.

"The work will be localised around individual trees, and the footway around each  will be closed to ensure safety for both staff working for the contractor, CES Ltd, and for the public.  

"Temporary traffic signals will be used during the works to enable a temporary footway to be provided within the carriageway.

"Although every effort will be made to minimise disruption, some of the activity will be noisy."

The spokesperson adds: "The council and the contractor would like to apologise in advance for any inconvenience and to give assurance  that the work will be completed as quickly and safely as possible."

Cloud over Grimsby Library, but does brighter future beckon for its sisters in Cleethorpes and Waltham?

                      

Grimsby Central Library - its reopening hinges on how much repairs will cost

HOPE springs anew for the future of the library service in North East Lincolnshire.

Although a dark cloud still looms over the fate of the asbestos-riddled central library in Grimsby, it looks like the authority will scrap the option of downgrading its counterparts in Cleethorpes and Waltham.

The re-think by NELC's cabinet comes in response to a Save our Libraries petition which attracted an unprecedented number of signatures - more than 4,700 - in a matter of weeks.

At last night's meeting of the full North East Lincolnshire Council, the authority's Conservative leader, Cllr Philip Jackson declared: "We have listened to the electorate."

Earlier, his colleague, Cllr Hayden Dawkins, who is portfolio holder for culture and heritage, proposed a motion which was  backed by the council and will now go to the next cabinet meeting to be rubber-stamped.

It states: 

* Cleethorpes Library remains open and initiatives to better utilise the available space and facilities will be pursued;

* Waltham Library remains open and initiatives to better utilise the available space and facilities will be  pursued;

*In principle, the current Grimsby Central Library will  reopen subject to confirmation of the options and costs for refurbishment on which there will be full and transparent engagement.

During the temporary closure of Grimsby Library, a 'pop-up' facility will be provided in Freshney Place,

Although these arrangements are subject to the outcome - to be published shortly - of a recent public consultation exercise, they are almost certain to be adopted.

That means Cleethorpes will not be relocated to the leisure centre and that Waltham Library will continue to be managed by professionals rather than by volunteers.

However, although the stated intention is for Grimsby Library to reopen following extensive repairs and refurbishment, this may not happen if the costs are deemed prohibitive.

During last night's meeting, Independent member Cllr Paul Henderson proposed that the council should set up both a libraries board and a committee of inquiry, but this garnered little support.

Instead, the council approved a proposal by Labour member Cllr Karl Wilson for the setting up of a select committee with a wide-ranging brief - for instance, to explore best libraries practice at other local authorities and why those in North East Lincolnshire have been allowed to fall  structural and maintenance decline.

It may also explore the mysterious circumstances by which a Whitehall grant of £4.2-million to repair the central library - and reopen its upper floors - was reallocated to the Freshney Place leisure scheme (described by Cllr Henderson as a "vanity project").

Speaking after the meeting, Cllr Dawkins said  he and his cabinet colleagues fully understood the strength of feeling within the community, including those views expressed in the petition.

He commented: "I insist it was always our intention to be open-minded and transparent in our drive to improve the services and ensure the libraries become vibrant and well-used community spaces for all ages.

"We are therefore more than happy to look again, and to make these new recommendations. 

"This is about listening to the people and working with our communities to achieve positive change."

Meanwhile, one of the Save our Libraries campaigners, Angela Greenfield, has expressed optimism in the wake of yesterday's full  council meeting  

"While, it is too early to declare victory, it is  certainly a step in the right direction.

"Hopefully, we will see all three of our libraries protected and future-proofed and our beloved central library building fully operational in the not too distant future." 

She continued: "There is of course still the big hurdle of the cost of the essential repairs and renovation, but at least there is now hope. 

"Thank you to everyone, including councillors, who have supported the campaign." 

  

NELC' leader's upbeat note on proposed salmon-breeding unit: 'It will create well-paid jobs'

                                                         

Wildlife-rich - the grassy site earmarked for the proposed salmon-breeding unit.

OPTIMISM has been sounded on the controversial salmon-breeding unit proposed for the site of former railway sidings in Cleethorpes.

The project was temporarily delayed when a welfare charity, Animal Equality, secured  a judicial review into the validity of the process by which North East Lincolnshire Council granted planning consent in November 2023.

But early last month, the judge upheld the NELC decision, paving the way (almost) for work to start.

At last night’s full council meeting, NELC leader, Cllr Philip Jackson, welcomed the decision as "positive" for the area.

"It means the developer, Aquacultured Seafoods, can now proceed with the £120-million project which will create 100 well-paid jobs," he declared.

The leader concluded his observation with criticism of an unnamed Independent councillor on the planning committee whom he alleged had been party to the judicial review.

"That’s disappointing," he said.

Before work can start on the unit, Aquacultured Seafoods, which has maintained a low profile almost from the day the project was unveiled, still faces a huge challenge to raise the required financial capital.

Likewise, it is also required to produce detailed information on the entire breeding cycle of the Wall butterfly - the rarest of more than 20 butterflies which live on a wildlife-rich patch of land which sits on the edge of a Site of Special Scientific Interest. 

Pleasure Island consortium confident wildlife can be safeguarded if holiday park project goes ahead

Between August and March, Cleethorpes beach provides vital feeding and resting habitat for many shorebird species

                                        

THE consortium seeking to redevelop the former Pleasure Island theme park in Cleethorpes says it would be willing to fund a conservation ranger to  help safeguard wildlife if the holiday park project is granted planning consent.

It says it would chip with £22,264 per annum  to pay the salary of the ranger whose role would be overseen by the Humber Nature Partnership.

Agents for the Lidl-headed consortium state: "This will be a part-time time role, due to the limited opening season of the holiday park, around 2.5 days per week, 12 months of the year.  

"The role will be further supported by on-site holiday park staff who will  promote best practice measures.

"The role and responsibilities of the ranger would need  to be agreed with Natural England, Humber Nature Partnership and other appropriate stakeholders such as the RSPB.

                                        

Green and leafy - part of the Pleasure Island site

"Responsibilities are likely to include:

* Engagement with the public 

* Monitoring 

* Habitat and access management 

* Managing local volunteers 

* Providing ongoing advice and support to the council where there my be disturbance issues 

* Providing guided walks and social media support. 

According to the agents, the the role will be provided "for the life of the development" and will be in place prior to the occupation of the leisure element of the development. 

However, they state that "the role would be subject to ongoing assessment to confirm the effectiveness of the ranger programme".

In the past, Natural England has sounded serious caution about the proposed development because of fears that a huge influx of holidaymakers would cause disturbance to the coast which is of global importance as a haven for shorebirds, most of which are in decline."

But, as previously reported, the consortium has devised a scheme whereby holiday cabin occupants would re-routed away from the coast lines to  Cleethorpes Country Park via the footpath (which would be paved) that runs along the Buck Beck and past the back of the Premier Inn.

It says this will "encourage people away from more sensitive areas of the coast and reduce the overall recreational pressure on the coastal area".   

It goes on: "It is envisaged that this detail would be brought forward as a condition to any planning permission and implemented prior to the lodges becoming fully occupied." 

According to the planning application, there would be a ban on dogs (though, in the event of consent being granted, this might be difficult to enforce).

The holiday park part of the scheme (which also includes provision for two hotels, a Lidl supermarket and a garden centre) would be closed between November 1 and March 14 (exact dates dependent on school holidays).

The consortium has one other rabbit to pull out of its hat.

It proposes: "The use of a site mascot would  promote the importance of the shoreline bird population. 

"This could take the form of a Curlew and will be involved with the promotion and engagement of residents with habitats and species." 

It is thought North East Lincolnshire Council will determine the planning application later this year or early in 2026.

                                        

Curlew - consortium has volunteered declining shore bird as a 'site mascot'

New apart-hotel in prospect on approach road to Cleethorpes town centre

                                                                

Planners have approved change of use for the 'rundown' property

A THIRD property on Isaac's Hill in Cleethorpes is to become an apart-hotel.

North East Lincolnshire planners have given the green light for conversion of number 47 which was was formerly a private dwelling.

The applicant is Robertson Properties Ltd of Stoke-on-Trent. 

A single storey outbuilding will be erected at the rear for use as a  housekeeper's store.

NELC's planning consent document states: " The area itself is a mix of commercial and residential with a variety of uses in the vicinity.

"Currently the building is vacant and has been for some time. 

"It has a rundown appearance and  its intended use for a five bed apart-hotel would not be out of keeping in this location where a  range of uses, including residential and holiday rentals, are apparent."

The report continues: "Numbers 47- 51 Isaacs Hill are owned by the applicant, and all  have now been approved for the same use."

NELC faces likely bill of £6-million (and counting) to rid potentially dodgy concrete from shopping mall

                                                         

Demolition work at one end of Freshney Place - but required RAAC-removal works elsewhere will add to the bill

A BILL of at least £6-million could be in prospect for North East Lincolnshire Council following revelations earlier this year of potentially unsafe concrete used in the construction of the Freshney Place shopping mall.

The authority's assets manager, Queensbury, engaged the Black Cat Building Consultancy, a national organisation, to identify the extent of  Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete - and what should be done about it.

RAAC is a lightweight, aerated ‘bubbly’ form of concrete that was  used in the construction of public buildings from the 1950s to the early1990s, but which has a lifespan of sometimes as short as just 30 years. 

Because of what some claim to have been "a media-driven scare", this has led to the closure of 104 English schools, nurseries and colleges, though it is thought there have only been two instances of failure in localised parts of schools in recent years.

Black Cat have come up with the following remediation options:

* Complete removal

* Installation of steel supports

* Do nothing

The last will almost certainly be ruled out.  While incidents to date may have been rare, the council needs to discharge health and safety requirements.

The likelihood is that complete removal will be the path chosen as it should as it remove any further potential issues associated with the potential dodgy concrete.

The estimated cost of  £6.06-million is a highly unwelcome expense and will  probably have to be met  by external borrowing.

It may  also hold up the ongoing reconfiguration of Freshney Place.

According to the provisional timetable, detailed design work - even if it started now - would probably take until autumn before completion.

The contract for removal would be put out to tender during winter, with a proposed start on the project in spring next year.

Completion  is not scheduled until winter 2027.

A report to councillors states: "The main challenge would be not undertaking the works which could lead to challenges from tenants. 

"Naturally, there will be appropriate communications with tenants at the appropriate time."

Closed for a day - Register Office in Cleethorpes Town Hall will be shut to allow essential electrical works

 

Cleethorpes Town Hall will be closed all day tomorrow, Monday, to allow essential electrical works to be carried out. That means the services of  the Register Office will be unavailable as there will be no electricity supply, nor IT nor telephone communication. The building's owner, North East Lincolnshire, says Northern Power Grid will be carrying out works to disconnect the electrical supply between the Town Hall and Civic Office which is currently being prepared for sale. 

Plan for new children's home in New Waltham has not gone down at all well with some nearby residents

                                                                     

                                                      

Some neighbours are unhappy about change-of-use proposal for the property

A rumpus has blown up over plans to convert a five-bedroomed house in New Waltham to a care home for two young people even though they would be supervised around the clock

Several nearby residents are hostile to the proposal - fearful that the children who will be between the ages of seven and 17 might run amok.

Among those who have lodged objections with North East Lincolnshire Council is one who has written thus: "If this application were to be successful, the care home will cause nuisance and noise to the  surrounding properties. 

"Nearly all of the neighbours are elderly and are anxious of who will be  resident if the property becomes a care home. 

"Anti-social behaviour is evident from another  children's care home further down the road, and , this will increase to the detriment  of not just the neighbouring properties, but with the whole village."

Another writes: "I hate to be prejudiced but a  cul-de-sac nearby is full  of elderly residents who will get frightened easy.

"Is  it really worth upsetting the applecart?"

The house's spacious garden backs on to Crofters Grove where one resident protests: "This development could potentially affect the peaceful community atmosphere and overall safety  of the neighbourhood.

 "While we fully appreciate young vulnerable people require housing and appropriate care, we  strongly urge you to reconsider this proposal.

 "This development could potentially decrease property values and overall have a negative impact on the community with noise and  disruption." 

 The proposal has been submitted by agents for the Halesown-based Keys Group Ltd which has a portfolio of similar homes and works with  police liaison officers when assessing suitable locations and properties for young occupants.

It states: "The existing property is a large, detached dwelling and has the layout, facilities, services, and character of  a dwellinghouse. The proposed use would not change this. 

"The external appearance of the building would not change and no internal changes would be necessary. 

"The home would provide two  young people with an environment as close as possible to that of a traditional and would not be materially different to the existing use of the property as a family dwelling."

"Care workers would work on a shift basis to provide 24/7 cover. . During the day there would be either two or three carers present."

The company continues:" The preparation of meals would be principally undertaken by the carers, but the children would be encouraged to assist. 

"Carers and children would eat their meals together at the dining table and children would socialise together. "

Key Homes say the children would attend a local school or one that it runs.

The site is said to have  sufficient off-road parking with space for at least five cars.

A planning application for change of use is due to be determined later this summer by NELC.

Every drop counts - Anglian Water chief's go-steady-on-use-of- water plea to customers

                                     

Nothing drastic (so far) Water levels have been falling at Covenham Reservoir between Cleethorpes and Louth 

DOES a hosepipe ban (and/or  other restrictions on water use) beckon in North East Lincolnshire?

Despite yesterday's rainfall in many parts of the borough, Anglian Water said controls could yet be enforced not just here but throughout its regions which covers much of eastern England.

According to the company, this week's rain did boost reservoir levels but "uncertainty over the future forecast means a hosepipe ban could still be needed this summer".

Says AW's director of water services Ian Rule: "The East of England is the driest part of the country, so we’re used to seeing a lack of rainfall in our region and we plan accordingly. 

"Our focus on leakage, and the investment we’ve put in place to give us resilience in the face of climate change has helped to delay the need for restrictions.

"However, the last few months have been exceptionally dry, even by our standards." 

He continues: "River levels had been looking very low following the historically dry spring - the driest for 100 years -  but they have responded better than expected to recent rainfall. 

"There is also some rain in the forecast over the coming weeks which, if it materialises, could provide further welcome respite.

"However, the forecast is far from certain, so we are closely monitoring the situation.

"If the exceptionally dry weather does continue, then restrictions might still be needed this summer."

Mr Rule goes on: "We don’t want to put restrictions in place unnecessarily, but protecting the environment and the vital agricultural sector in the region in the face of such unusually dry conditions means leaving as much water in the environment as possible.

"We have to strike a careful balance." 

What is the state of play on leaks? 

Anglian claims it has the lowest level of leakage in the industry, but, because water pipes are at greater risk of shifting and rupturing in dry ground, there has been an increase in incidents.

According to Mr Rule, the company has  been working round the clock to fix leaks and bursts, with more than 250 people dedicated to managing and reducing leakage. 

He says: "We aim to out £10-million into reducing leakage this year.

"Over the next five years, we will be renewing more than1,000 km of pipes in our network - 170km of which will be renewed this year." 

The water chief concludes: "We are really grateful to everyone who has played their part by using a little less water.

"We are asking customers to continue to do their bit - even small changes can make a big difference." 

NELC issues appeal to drone enthusiasts: 'Don't get too close to roosting or feeding shorebirds'

 

Irresponsible use of a drone over the rock armour off North Promenade, Cleethorpes, a favourite roosting spot for gulls and other birds

DRONE enthusiasts are being urged not to fly the devices over areas of Cleethorpes and Humberston  beach and saltmarsh where they may disturb wildlife - particularly birds.

Between next month and March, our stretch of the northern Lincolnshire coastline will be feeding and roosting habitat for scores of thousands of  shorebirds, such as godwits, plovers and wild geese.

But they can be spooked by drones which they probably deem to be predators. 

North East Lincolnshire Council has today issued a statement which reads: "Forcing birds to take flight while  they are resting or  feeding is very disruptive - it can even affect breeding in the following season.

"Indeed, excessive disturbance can lead to exhaustion and death." 

Says NELC's portfolio holder for the environment, Cllr Henry Hudson: "Drones are becoming more and more popular as a means of getting literally a bird’s eye view of an event or a location.

"We have no objection to licensed drone use, but we do urge people to make sure they refrain from causing any unnecessary disturbance to our birds and wildlife., or accidents because of them."

NELC has published an advice leaflet at:  NELC-Use-of-Drones.docx

                                                        

Drone being flown over the fringes of the pools at Humberston Fitties 

Disused church in Humberston could be converted to a house if NELC planners give their blessing

           

A new future beckons for the former Wesleyan church on Humberston Avenue in Humberston. On behalf of a client, architect David Ettridge has submitted proposals to convert the attractive 1907-built property to a dwelling. As many of the original features as possible would be retained but the project would also include installation of solar panels and rooflights. Ahead of a decision by North East Lincolnshire Council on whether to grant planning consent, the village council has expressed support for the application subject to it being used by a single family and not as a house in multiple occupation. The property is understood to be in "very good" condition. (Photos: David Ettridge)                          

To spray or not to spray (with poisonous chemical Glyphosate)? That is the question for NELC's cabinet

Spraying in progress in Pier Gardens - the operator is wearing protective equipment, but not the members of the public 

                                                         

THE widespread but controversial use of a toxic herbicide within many North East Lincolnshire open spaces will come under the spotlight at this week's meeting of the council's cabinet.

Members will determine whether to cease applying Glyphosate (often sold under the name, Roundup) to certain green and leafy parts of the borough.

The discussion, scheduled for the meeting on Wednesday, has been prompted by a 21,268-signature  petition from a Cleethorpes resident.

She expressed concern that applications of the poison were not just killing wildflowers but causing loss of foraging habitat both for songbirds, such as Robins and Wrens, and for  bees, butterflies and other important pollinating insects.

The chemical, which has also been linked to cases of cancer in humans, will be banned within all EU countries at the end of this year, but its application will remain permissible in the UK up until December 15 next year.

A report to the meeting states: "It is recommended that cabinet  agrees the principle of carrying out  a range of low-cost or no-cost trials including the cessation of spraying altogether in identified locations in wards across North East Lincolnshire." 

However, this is a much-diluted version of the recommendation of a scrutiny panel which, in February, urged that the council should fully phase out Glyphosate in parks and open spaces but retain use on highways and paths until a cost-effective option is available.

It is understood that some NELC chiefs, both councillors and officers, are nervous about the recommended restrictions on use of poison for fear of public dissatisfaction - and a lot of flak -  about the extent of weed growth and the potential impact both on infrastructure and aesthetically. 

The report to cabinet continues:

"Weeds are controlled for the following reasons:   

• Appearance – weeds can detract from the overall appearance of an area.  

• Safety – weed growth can interfere with visibility for road users and obscure traffic. 

• Drainage – weeds in kerbs or around drains can prevent or slow down surface water drainage.  

• Damage – weed growth can affect paved surfaces and force kerbs apart increasing maintenance costs and impacting on pedestrian safety."

It continues: "At the current time, a change from the methodology for weed control is likely either to  increase costs significantly or reduce the impact of weed control methods. 

"It is envisaged that strimming would require an additional 30 staff at a revenue cost of £1.3-million per year.  

"The capital cost of additional mechanised sweeper vehicles is estimated at £950,000, with additional annual revenue costs of £260,00. 

"Foamstream, which may be suitable for play areas, will require equipment at an annual cost of £17,000 per item of kit.  

"A reduction in the effectiveness of weed control may present other financial challenges such as detrimental impacts on infrastructure." 

However, on the other side of the coin, the report's author notes: "Our environmental strategies aim to improve the environment for the benefit of both current and future generations. 

"Children and young people are especially concerned about our environment, and it is essential to engage with them on these matters."

Spray and go! The bases of the trees on Taylors Avenue, Cleethorpes, would provide habitat for wildflowers and foraging bees and butterflies were it not for the deadly chemical

Those were the days - a roadside verge in Grimsby before the council's spray-team got to work

The Grimsby News says: Chemical spraying is obviously harmful to nature - that’s its purpose after all. But it is understandable why council chiefs are seemingly reluctant to authorise a full ban on the use of Glyphosate. If unwanted flowers, however scarce, beautiful or butterfly-friendly, start sprouting on pavements and in roadside gutters, there will undoubtedly be protests from the public. Angry letters from residents will soon pour into the Grimsby Telegraph and flood social media. But, in the meantime, the practice of spraying under every highways tree or hedgerow should surely cease forthwith. Not only is it ecologically damaging but it is also expensive - not just the cost of the poison but also the wages of the operative who could be more usefully deployed elsewhere.

£800 hammer price for handsome painting by Sheffield-born former Grimsby Town footballer

 

This painting by former Grimsby Town footballer John Trickett  sold for £800 at a sale of British, European and Sporting Art conducted yesterday by Tennants of Leyburn in North Yorkshire. Sheffield-born Trickett (73) may not have hit the high spots as a footballer, but he is held in high regard as an artist. The hammer price was at the bottom end of the pre-sale estimate of £800 to £1,200. 

Big-name retailer poised to sign up for ground-floor of former House of Fraser store in Freshney Place

       

A new future beckons for the former House of Fraser store which closed six years ago

A NATIONALLY-known retailer is poised to take out a lease on most of the ground floor of the former  House of Fraser store in Grimsby's Freshney Place.

At next Wednesday's cabinet meeting, members will be recommended to approve the letting of the NELC-owned building  subject to terms being finalised.

This may involve the council, which acquired the property for £350,000 in 2023, making a hefty "contribution" towards refurbishment of the property.

This could be as much as  £3.8-million - a sum thought to have been diverted from the  Grimsby Library refurbishment scheme which has controversially been scrapped.

And it is likely to be another two years before the ground floor of the former department store reopens for business in its new guise.

Details of the proposed deal - including the identity of the "nationally recognised" retailer - are mostly  being kept under wraps on grounds of confidentiality, but some information is revealed in a report to councillors.

This states:  "Principal negotiations have now been concluded with a well-known retail tenant for the majority of the ground floor of the former HoF. 

"This includes for the council to undertake works to the property in advance of  July 15, 2027 in readiness for handover to the tenant.  

"The ground floor, which has frontages both to the shopping mall and to Victoria Street, is the key aspect of the building.

"The proposed letting will enhance a hitherto unoccupied building,  contribute to the wider regeneration of the town centre, complement ongoing projects and improve investor confidence."

Meanwhile, elsewhere in Freshney Place, NELC says principal negotiations have now been concluded for two further "well-known" leisure-based anchor tenants.

It says these will complement the previously signed deals with Parkway Cinemas and Starbucks,

Supermarket chain Lidl UK sees a bright future for Pleasure Island site if proposed revamp goes ahead

 

The former theme park for which Lidl UK has high hopes if redevelopment proceeds

DISCOUNT retailer Lidl UK has again banged the drum for its proposed store on part of the site of the former Pleasure Island in Cleethorpes.

Lidl is believed to be heading the three-party consortium  which is seeking to redevelop the long-abandoned former theme park.

In its latest submission to North East Lincolnshire Council planners, it states (through Lichfields, its agents): "The proposed new Lidl and other retail units would have a significant positive impact upon local consumer choice. 

"Currently, the only foodstore of any significant size in Cleethorpes is Tesco Extra superstore at Hewitts Circus.

"Whilst there are some clothing and footwear operators at Meridian Point, the majority of non-food provision in Cleethorpes Town Centre comprises smaller scale, independent stores. 

"The proposed new uses on the Pleasure Island site would therefore enhance the accessibility and availability of food and non-food retailing both to  local residents and to tourists/other visitors to the area - including those staying at the proposed holiday lodges and those at nearby Thorpe Park.

"In doing so, they would therefore help to ‘claw back’ expenditure which is currently leaking out of Cleethorpes to  stores in Grimsby. 

"Such stores include Lidl and Aldi foodstores at Ladysmith Road and Cleethorpes Road, and superstores operated by Asda, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s and Tesco. 

"In doing so, the proposals would help to relieve the pressure on existing discount foodstores in Grimsby, all of which are performing strongly, at levels significantly above their respective company averages. "

"The proposals would also claw-back spending from stores at Alexandra Dock, Victoria and High Point Retail Parks in Grimsby, and, to a lesser extent, those in Grimsby Town Centre itself."

Would a Lidl at Pleasure Island weaken trade at Cleethorpes Town Centre food outlets such as  the  Co-op and Sainsbury’s on St Peter's Avenue as well as those within local centres  such as those (including Spar stores) at Humberston, New Waltham, Trinity Road, Middlethorpe Road, Sandringham Road and Hardy’s Road?

Lidl doubts this, maintaining that these  shops are focused upon meeting day-to-day top-up and more specialist shopping needs, and would not face direct competition with those at the proposed new retail uses at Pleasure Island.   

It further states that the two  new hotels being proposed at Pleasure Island would enhance the range and choice of visitor accommodation in the Cleethorpes area, which, it states, "is currently focused upon smaller, independent hotels and caravan and chalet-style accommodation on holiday parks". 

Lidl continues: "In doing so, the development - including the proposed conference centre - would help to consolidate and enhance the town’s status 

"The scheme would have a positive impact in terms of enhancing local consumer choice, and the range and choice of retail, leisure and hotel provision accessible to residents of, and tourists/other visitors to, Cleethorpes."

The other three named parties in the consortium are  Liverpool-based YPG FAB 2 Ltd and locally-based Seaside Getaways Ltd and Church Lane Humberston Ltd, but  Lidl seems to be the one calling most of the shots.

It is thought NELC planners could determine the long  drawn-out application  before the end of this year. 

* German-owned Lidl Lidl has been developing stores throughout the UK since 1994 and currently operates almost 1,000 stores nationwide. It says it is able to offer "high-quality products at low prices as a result of cross-European bulk buying power, and an efficient approach to store format, staffing levels and management". A typical Lidl store will offer circa 3,000 product lines and, although this may increase slightly in future (up to about 4,000), this is still significantly lower than the typical range of 20,000-plus lines in a superstore operated by one of the big four convenience retailers. Subject to seasonal variation, Lidl stores dedicate around 20 per cent of retail floorspace to the sale of non-food items. A typical  Lidl store provides up to 40 (full time equivalent) jobs.

                                                     

MP renews her criticism of vape shops and 'fake' barbers - but does she risk inciting tensions?

                                      

Melanie Onn - 'Commons attack on 'fake' barbers

GRIMSBY & Cleethorpes MP Melanie Onn (Lab) has again spoken out against the brightly-coloured pop-up shops that have become  a feature in the constituency - and in many other towns and cities in the UK.

At yesterday's  Prime Ministers' Questions in the 'Commons, she demanded: "Tax evasion, money laundering,  illicit goods and illegal working all undermine our high  streets, including Freeman Street. 

"They undermine local business confidence and challenge community cohesion. 

"That is the reality  around the country because of the explosion of vape  shops, fake barbers, Harry Potter shops and American  candy stores. 

"Will the Prime Minister commit to  working with his Cabinet to bring in a national strategy  to tackle the scourges of the high street and restore  high street confidence?"

Sir Keir Starmer responded: "I thank the hon. Lady for raising  this issue. 

"I know it is of concern to her and to many  people across the House. 

"The system we have is broken;  it does not serve anyone well. 

"We have to reform it, and I hope  that we can get the greatest support possible for the reform that I think everybody here knows has to happen."

The Grimsby News says: An alternative perspective from the one adopted by Ms Onn and the Prime Minister is that these brightly-coloured premises brighten up shopping areas and are far preferable to stores that shuttered or permanently closed. And, contrary to what she suggests, many of these businesses, especially barbers, are legitimate and provide a valuable service. By her careless generalisation, the MP has not only maligned many good people but she has made them vulnerable to abuse (and maybe worse) from other members of the community.  

Mental health charity chooses St Peter's Avenue, Cleethorpes, for its latest shop opening

 

The new Cleethorpes shop - one of more than 160 branches in England and Wales

GOOD fortune to the mental health charity, Mind, which last month opened its latest shop on St Peter's Avenue, Cleethorpes. 

Mind now has more than 160 shops in England and Wales including one in Louth.

It says it welcomes donations of :

* Clothes

* Accessories

* Books

* Records

* DVDs

* CDs

* Homeware

* Linen

* Children's games and toys

It is also keen to encourage  shop volunteers and says: "There's no need for volunteering to be a big, time-consuming commitment - even an hour a week could make a huge difference."

"Mind charity shop volunteers are a dedicated bunch. 

"They help make sure that all of us with mental health problems have somewhere to turn. 

"Whether it's sorting and pricing clothes, making sales or getting creative on the shop floor, there's plenty you can do to help out."

It adds: "Charity shop volunteering at Mind is more than just giving back. 

"It's about meeting new people, building skills, making connections, and boosting your confidence."

 

Return of bumblebees to Grimsby town centre after many years' absence - now bring on the butterflies!

 

                                                     

The wildlife-friendly planting scheme at Grimsby's revamped Riverhead has brought back bumblebees to this patch of town  for what is thought to be the first time in many years. They particularly like feasting on the sea holly blooms (above). There is a good chance that other pollinating insects, including various butterfly species, will arrive later this summer.  

Councillor warns scrutiny panel meeting: Is this the 'creeping death' of Grimsby Central Library?

                                                       

Grimsby Central Library - so many unanswered questions

THE fate of Grimsby's Central Library could be determined by the end of next month.

By that time, NELC expects to have completed not just a comprehensive survey of the extent of asbestos in the building but also a full structural survey on its overall safety.

This sketchy information emerged during yesterday's  special North East Lincolnshire scrutiny panel meeting in Grimsby Town Hall.

But, as Cllr Paul Henderson (Ind, Yarborough) emphasised, vital questions remain unanswered about the building which closed until further notice on March 28 and has since been emptied of its precious stock of books, rare documents and furnishings.

Bemoaning the lack of urgency in carrying out repairs, he sought immediate  clarity from NELC's administration on costings and timelines.

Cllr Henderson queried whether there had even been a need to close the building at all.

"Who says it is unsafe?" he demanded. "If so, which part of it?

"Who made the closure decision? What are the credentials of the surveyors?

He continued: "The story does not stack up. Are we, as councillors, being steered down a pre-determined path by the administration?

"Are we witnessing, by increments, the creeping death of Grimsby Central Library and the 16 services it provides?"

Similar frustration was sounded by Malcolm Morland (Lab, Croft Baker) who described the library building as being of "national importance" and warned against "giving away our heritage".

A different perspective came from panel chairman Cllr Steve Holland (Ind, Freshney) who said he had heard it said that the whole of the building might be structurally unsafe.

He pinpointed a potential dilemma for the authority if any repair quote came in at £4-million.  

During the discussion, there were several references to a Levelling-up grant of £4.2-million to upgrade the library and re-open its upper floors for community or educational use, but almost all that money was diverted - by who knows whom? - to the proposed redevelopment of part of the town centre to incorporate leisure facilities such as a new cinema and a Nando's restaurant.

Cllr Morland, who described the leisure scheme as "over-promoted", declared a personal interest in the future of the library because he is a a member of Grimsby and District Civic Society which has been campaigning for the library service to be retained.

Perhaps surprisingly, Cllr Tim Mickleburgh (Lab, South) who has regularly used the central library as a place of work, decided not to declare a personal interest.

It was hoped that NELC's director of infrastructure, Carolina Borgstrom, might provide the meeting with important information on costs, timelines and the state of the library.

Much of what she said was inaudible to the public, but she made a general comment about the "complexity" of maintaining old  buildings, adding that decisions on the future Grimsby Library were the remit of councillors, not officers.

Part of the meeting was held behind closed doors, with public and Press excluded, on grounds of confidentiality.

*NELC agrees to 'temporary' pop-up library in Freshney Place shopping centre - see previous report. 

Green light for 'pop-up' library in Freshney Place - but how 'temporary' is 'temporary'?

                                     

Where will it be? Council has not divulged likely Freshney Place location of 'temporary' pop-up library

IT looks like a temporary 'pop-up' library will  open in Grimsby’s Freshney Place shopping arcade.

This was confirmed at a  special North East Lincolnshire Council scrutiny panel meeting held this afternoon.

But no details have been given of:

* The proposed date of its opening

* The location of the vacant retail  unit that has been selected

* The estimated costs of the initiative

Also undisclosed is the amount of rental income that is likely to be forfeited as a result of a lost retail space.

At the meeting, Cllr Matthew Patrick (Lab, Heneage) expressed dismay at what was was being proposed in the wake of  the indefinite closure of  Grimsby Central Library in March as a result of a perceived asbestos contamination issue.

He protested: "The administration has gone for the easy option.

"But the purpose of Freshney Place is to provide retail opportunities, not to be a storage dump for council services."

Similar exasperation was sounded  by Labour colleagues Cllr Sophia Farren (Sidney Sussex) and Cllr Malcolm Morland (Croft Baker), with Cllr Marian Boyd (Con, Park) also expressing disquiet.

Meanwhile,  Cllr Tim Mickleburgh (Lab, South) doubted  that the pop-up library would be "fit for purpose" given its limited book stock, with only two public computers and lack of space for other facilities such as small-scale community gatherings.

The meeting was attended by no fewer than 28 members of the public fearful that the borough's library service - specifically  the premises in Grimsby, Cleethorpes and Waltham - are at serious risk of being downgraded as NELC seeks way of cutting costs.

Two were wearing red tee-shirts carrying the message: "We shall not be moved."

The authority's portfolio holder  with responsibility for libraries, Cllr Hayden Dawkins (Con, Humberston & New Waltham), sought to reassure fellow-councillors and the public with what he called a "categorical assurance" that the Freshney Place move was "temporary only".

"I cannot stress that enough,"he insisted.

But Cllr Patrick was unconvinced. "Temporary is a dangerous word,"he declared.

What future the former Lloyds Bank branch on St Peter's Avenue, Cleethorpes? A restaurant perhaps?

The former Cleethorpes branch of  Lloyds. The bank wasted no time in 'de-branding' the property which, alas, has now become something  a blot on the street scene

COULD a deal  be cooking on the former bank property on St Peter's Avenue in Cleethorpes?

Back in December last year, Lloyds closed the premises as a result of reduced customer visits.

There is little doubt, however, that its presence has been missed by many who have now either had  to make the trip to its retained branch in Victoria Street, Grimsby or to make alternative banking arrangements.

Two other closed Cleethorpes banks - Barclays on High Street and HSBC on Sea View Street - have become restaurants, prompting speculation that this is what lies ahead for the former Loyds.

There has even been gossip that it might become another Turkish restaurant - the third in the town. 

Since its closure, the property has been on the books of property agents Scotts whose marketing material stated: "The premises are situated at the corner of St Peters Avenue and Elm Road.

"The property was extended many years ago and, in addition, to providing retail accommodation to the ground floor with ancillary space above, it  also benefits from a six-space car park accessed via Elm Road.

"Nearby occupiers include Costa, Superdrug, Boots, Sainsburys and Greggs.

"The premises are available for sale or to let at an asking price of £425,000 or a guide rent of £37,500 per annum for a lease on full repairing and insuring terms."

However, earlier today, the property details were not to be found on the Scotts website, perhaps indicating that moves are afoot.

As of today, it is understood there has been no planning application to North East Lincolnshire Council for change of use of the building.  

                                                  

The bank in its prime - Lloyds said the closure decision was made because it was only regularly being visited by 797 of its customers