Crunch planning decision expected next week on proposal for up to 300 homes on greenfield site between Waltham and New Waltham

                                                                  

The site off Louth Road which has been earmarked for the controversial development

There could be a setback for local property developer Cyden Homes' proposal to build up to 300 houses on agricultural land to the west of  Louth Road on the boundary of Waltham and  New Waltham.

At a meeting next Wednesday April 22, North East Lincolnshire Council's planning case officer, Bethany Loring,  will  recommend that councillors should refuse the application.

In her  report to the committee, she states: "The proposal would extend into the rural landscape between Grimsby, Waltham and New Waltham, resulting in a visual intrusion which would be detrimental to the character and value of this countryside location. 

"Due to this extension into the rural landscape, the housing and its extent would be more prominent and dominant when compared to the existing. 

"It is recognised that the indicative details include a landscaping buffer to the sites southern edge, but the loss of the field and its replacement with a housing estate would fail to have regard to the intrinsic character of this countryside location." 

The report continues: "It is a pleasant landscape with rural qualities and  a sensitivity to change. "

More than 60 nearby residents have lodged objections to the project as have both Waltham and New Waltham Parish Councils.

Meanwhile, another objector, Cllr Ron Shepherd (Con, Scartho), is expected to speak against the application at Wednesday's meeting.

On an ornithological note, winter bird surveys were conducted twice monthly from November 2025 to February 2026 - a total of eight visits. 

In total,  49 bird species - including Barn Owl, Green Sandpiper and Great Spotted Woodpecker - were recorded foraging for food or flying over the site. 

Even if the committee refuses the plan, it might not be the end of the story.

Cyden Homes could submit an appeal with the independent Planning Inspectorate, though this might not be heard until next year.                                            

Barn Owl and Great Spotted Woodpecker are among the bird species seen on periphery of  the field

Property in Grimsby's Lord Street could be converted to House in Multiple Occupation if planners approve

This property in Lord Street, Grimsby, could be converted into a 12-bedroom House in Multiple Occupation if North East Lincolnshire Council planners give the go-ahead at their meeting next Wednesday, April 22. Formerly used as religious meeting rooms, the building  was due to have been sold at auction with a guide price of £36,000 in January, but it was snapped up in advance of the sale by a London-based property development company. There have been several objections from neighbours, but the NELC case officer is recommending approval.

Developer unveils plans to build 234 homes on wildlife-rich site of redundant golf course

                                    

This could be the last Spring for many of the trees on the golf course

HOUSEBUILDER Vistry Homes Ltd has unveiled its plans to develop the recently-closed golf course behind Humberston Country  Club.

The Leeds-based company has earmarked the redundant course for no fewer than 234 two-storey homes.

If the venture goes ahead, these will consist of:

* 92 three-bedroom homes

* 77 four-bedroom homes

* 65 two-bedroom homes

What will happen to the 300-plus trees and 23 hedgerows that give the course its scenic park-like character?

The company says none of them are "ancient, veteran or notable".

Inevitably, many will need to be felled, but Vistry pledges: "Where removal is required to facilitate development, this will be mitigated through appropriate replacement planting to ensure no overall loss of arboricultural or visual amenity."

The trees provide habitat for songbirds, and the course is regularly foraged by buzzards and sparrowhawks, while the two ponds are home to breeding Moorhens, Canada Geese and possibly Mallard.

Of the risk of some of these species being lost, the company's ecologist says:  "Using professional judgement, it is considered likely the site would only support an assemblage of common species, typical of urban edge habitats and of less than local importance."

Vistry Homes concludes: "The proposed scale, layout and appearance of development have been designed to reflect the character of the surrounding area, using appropriate building types, massing and materials to create a cohesive and attractive place with a strong sense of identity. 

"Separation distances and dwelling orientation have been carefully considered to ensure high levels of residential amenity for future occupants."

The project is subject to planning consent from North East Lincolnshire Council which will consider representations from neighbours and others before making a decision. 

                                           

None  of the trees is 'notable', says the prospective  developer 

                    

Home to aquatic life - one of the ponds on the golf course

                                      

The proposed layout of the 234-house scheme

Some of the types of house that the developers have in mind

Full list of candidates - 87 in total - battling to be elected to serve on North East Lincolnshire Council

                                       

Where the big political decisions are made - Grimsby Town Hall

 

A TOTAL of 87 have thrown their hats into the ring for next month's local elections in North East Lincolnshire.

Among them are David De Freitas - son of former NELC leader the late Andrew De Freitas - who is one of six candidates in Grimsby's Park ward.

Also in the field - this time in the Humberston & New Waltham ward - is former councillor Steve Hocknell who is evident keen to make a return to frontline local politics.

The borough wide-up also includes three serving members of  NELC's cabinet - Stewart Swinburn, Ron Shepherd and Stephen Harness.

Given that the last two cut their political teeth as members of Ukip, there was speculation that they might switch their allegiances to Reform UK but they have decided to remain as Conservatives.

Polling is on May7.

The full line-up is below:

  

CROFT BAKER

EAST MARSH

FRESHNEY

HAVERSTOE

                                                

HENEAGE

HUMBERSTON & NEW WALTHAM

IMMINGHAM

PARK

SCARTHO

                                          

SIDNEY SUSSEX

SOUTH 

                  

WALTHAM

WEST MARSH

WOLDS

YARBOROUGH

                            

                                                 

A new chapter could soon open in the history of historic Grimsby building

                                                             

Read all about it - books galore?

THERE could soon be an independent bookshop in Grimsby.

An application has been submitted for change of use of premises at 17-19 Bethlehem Street which, in recent years, have served as an art gallery and studio.

The proposal has been submitted by gallery owners Our Big Picture Ltd on behalf of a prospective tenant.

It is not entirely clear from the plans whether any part of the Grade II Listed building will be retained for art displays and activities.

A decision is expected later this spring from North East Lincolnshire Council planners.

Application submitted for small-scale Travellers' site on outskirts of Immingham

                                           

The site earmarked for the caravans 

 A PLAN has been unveiled for a 0.85-hectare plot of grassland on Stallingborough Road in Immingham to be use as a residential Gypsy/Traveller site.

It is proposed for  each of two pitches to include one static caravan and two  touring caravans. 

There would also be two storage containers, parking and amenity areas plus a barn, stable and paddock for  horses.

An  existing hedgerow would be retained.

The proposal, which is currently being considered by North East Lincolnshire Council planners, has been submitted on behalf of clients by Vardo/ Mark Simmonds Planning Services Ltd.

                                              

Attractive - one of the photographs submitted to support the proposal

Success for objectors as council refuses plan for 20-metre high phone mast on High Street in Cleethorpes

    

The car park on High Street, Cleethorpes, where a telecommunications mast was proposed

RESIDENTS who objected to a telecommunications mast and base station being installed at a prominent location in Cleethorpes appear to have won the day.

There were numerous objections when a Berkshire-based company, Cornerstone, earmarked a plot adjacent to the car park in High Street for the proposed development.

The  project - intended to replace near-obsolete equipment on the roof of the nearby Sainsburys Local store - would have consisted of a 20-metre high mast with six antennae attached, plus three ground-based cabinets.

But the application has this week been refused by North East Lincolnshire Council.

Says the planning case officer: "It is considered that the proposed tower, with its width and height, would intrude and detract from the area and adversely impact on the character of the area. 

"The proposal would be highly visible from a multitude of street scenes including High Street , St Peter's Avenue, Isaac's Hill and Cross Street.

"The mast would  dominate the area and appear out of scale with its surroundings. 

"This will be accentuated by the openness caused by the car park on High Street."

The applicants will now consider the reasons for the council's refusal before deciding whether to lodge an appeal with the Planning Inspectorate.

Will shortage of public WCs prove a little inconvenient this Easter for holiday visitors (and for local traders)?

Trees  shrubs and lawns have been removed to make way for hard surfacing

WORD is awaited from North East Lincolnshire Council on what provision, if any, is to be made for public to access free-to-use WCs ahead of the start of the 2026 holiday season.

In previous years, there have been temporary relocatable conveniences in either Dolphin Gardens or Pier Gardens, but it may not necessarily be so this spring and summer.

If there is a shortage, there will be pressure - almost certainly unwelcome - on local cafes, pubs and even other traders to make their facilities available to allcomers.

In the meantime, tourism chiefs will be monitoring what  impact higher fuel prices might have on visitor numbers over Easter.  

Of note, too, will be the visitor response to the fact that the whole of  Pier Gardens is currently out of bounds while contractors Maylim crack on with converting  it to what NELC - somewhat unappealingly - say  will be a "multifunctional" area. 

It seems some Alexandra Road traders are very unhappy about the project - not least because it will take as long as 15 months to complete, and prior  consultation has, they say, been modest to non-existent.

In the past, their businesses have been boosted by pedestrians crossing from Central Promenade to their premises via the Gardens, but this is not possible while the works continue.

Temporary loos were in place during summer last year 

 

Engineering firm signs three-year deal to be front-of-shirt sponsor to Grimsby Town

                                                         

Executives of Blackrow Group with Grimsby Town's chief operating officer, Polly Bancroft

 

A NEW name will appear on the front of Grimsby Town's first team matchday kits next season.

The club has announced that The Blackrow Group, will be front-of-shirt sponsor on a three-year deal from the 2026–27 season.

Says a Mariners' spokesperson: "The agreement marks a significant expansion of the partnership between the Mariners and the Grimsby-based engineering business, who first joined the club as sleeve sponsor ahead of the 2024-25 campaign.

"Established for more than 45 years, Blackrow Group has grown from its local roots into a highly respected engineering and fabrication business operating across the UK and internationally. 

"The company provides specialist  solutions to a wide range of industries including Food and Beverage, Chemical, Petrochemical, Renewables and Oil & Gas."

The amount Blackrow will be paying the club has not been revealed. 

Blackrow succeeds Myenergi, though the latter will retain its links with the football club by sponsoring the training kits.

Warm wishes for a speedy recovery extended to two councillors who are on long-term sick leave

                                                           

Cllr Keith Brookes

WARM wishes have been extended to two North East Lincolnshire councillors who are on long-term sick leave.

Former council leader Cllr Keith Brookes (Con, Haverstoe), an authority veteran, has not attended a meeting since October 7 last year.

Meanwhile, Cllr Marion Jervis (Lab, Croft Baker), a relative newcomer to the authority, has not attended a meeting for at least 12 months.

At the March meeting of the full council, both Oliver Freeston (Reform, Croft Baker) and Cllr Tim Mickleburgh (Lab, South) expressed their hopes that the duo are on the mend and might return to their civic responsibilities before too long.

Under the terms of the Local Government Act, any member, who, for six months, fails to attend any meeting of the authority ceases to be a member unless within that period his/her absence is approved by the authority. 

At this week's NELC meeting, members approved a "dispensation", permitting Cllr Brookes and Cllr Jervis to remain councillors pending their recovery.

                                                                          

Cllr Marian Jervis

Gone to pot! Councillors ponder the woeful state of many of North East Lincolnshire's roads

                                                          

Cllr Steve Beasant: cyclists in peril

AN alert has been sounded on the risk posed to cyclists by the many potholes that exist on North East Lincolnshire's roads.

At a full meeting of the council, former mayor Cllr Steve Beasant (Lib-Dem, East Marsh) claimed that potholes close to road edges tended to be of lower repair priority than those nearer the centre.

Pinpointing one such hole on Durban Road, Grimsby, he said that  cyclists were likely to be  unaware of its existence when it filled with rain.

"We could have a death on our hands," he warned.

During the debate, Cllr Karl Wilson (Lab, West Marsh) revealed that he had faced a £100 repair bill to a car wheel following an unhappy encounter with a pothole while driving in the Park ward.

Cllr Malcolm Morland (Lab, Croft Baker) called for more flexibility in the authority's repairs schedule so that these could be carried out on an area or ward basis rather than a pothole-by-pothole basis.

Portfolio holder for transport Cllr Stewart Swinburn (Con, Immingham) agreed that it was "ridiculous" for teams to carry out three repairs on one side of a road, only to disregard two on the other side.

Revealing tensions with senior highways officers, he told the meeting: "I challenge them on a daily basis - and they know it." 

Earlier, the portfolio holder presented a report in which he said many of the potholes had occurred during the cold snap in early January when road surfaces had frozen, then thawed, in quick time, following which there had also been frequent rainfall.

This observation did not greatly impress Cllr  Kathryn Wheatley (Lab, West Marsh)  who said: "I don't think residents need a report telling them what the weather was like in winter - they live here."

During the debate, there was criticism of   the quality of some of the repairs and calls for an action plan outlining how NELC was spending the £3-million it had recently been funded by Whitehall for pothole repairs and resurfacing.

Cllr Swinburn said he intended for his officers to compile  a weekly update on repairs - both completed and proposed - for publication on the council's website. 

Former day nursery in Grimsby's Rutland Street could become a hot food takeaway

A FORMER day nursery in Grimsby could be converted to a hot food takeaway premises.

An application has been submitted for change of use of the property once occupied by the Leap Ahead pre-school organisation  at 226 Rutland Street.

If North East Lincolnshire Council planners give the green light, a flue would be installed to divert food smells from nearby homes.

Pending a decision, Anglian Water have called for information about proposed drainage arrangements.

Bring on the big acts! Green light for expansion of Meridian Showground's audience capacity

                                                      

CONFIRMATION has come that the maximum capacity of the Meridian Showground in Cleethorpes is likely to be increased from the present figure of 5,000 to almost 15,000.

North East Lincolnshire Council's portfolio for leisure, Cllr Hayden Dawkins, made the announcement at last night's full meeting of the authority.

The proposal has hinged on a  plan to manage traffic and parking arrangements in the case of huge crowds descending on Cleethorpes

to see big acts.

And, earlier this week, a Traffic Management Plan was formally rubber-stamped. 

NELC's leisure supremo Helen Thompson and colleagues believe larger capacity is essential to "cater to the demands of larger-scale events and unlock its true potential".

A report states: "Many event organisers are seeking venues capable of accommodating larger audiences, and increasing capacity would give the potential to attract and host these events successfully. 

"A larger capacity at the Meridian Showground could position the area as a premier destination capable of hosting major gatherings and concerts, thereby attracting more visitors and driving economic growth. 

"Major events often require venues with substantial capacity to accommodate attendees, participants, and vendors. 

"Expanding the maximum capacity to 15,000 would position the area to attract high-profile events that could significantly boost our resort’s visibility and reputation regionally and even nationally. 

"This could increase the revenue potential from hire bookings, concessions, and sponsorships. 

"Larger attendances translate to increased spending on accommodation, dining and local attractions, benefiting not only the resort but also the surrounding businesses and community." 

The report adds: "Larger events bring people together, fostering a sense of community and belonging. 

"Expanding the capacity of the Meridian Showground could  create more opportunities for residents and visitors to come together, celebrate and enjoy shared experiences, strengthening the fabric of our community."

Completed in 2009, the showground occupies four acres of mostly grassland.

No details have yet been published about how the showground will be expanded to accommodate larger gatherings.

Sharon Wroot tonight set to be confirmed as North East Lincolnshire Council's chief executive

                                                     

Sharon Wroot will provide continuity and stability

NORTH East Lincolnshire Council's interim chief executive, Sharon Wroot, will this evening be confirmed in the post on a permanent basis.

A report to tonight's full council meeting states: "Following a national recruitment campaign and robust assessment process, the appointments committee unanimously determined that Sharon Wroot was the strongest candidate following a full  interview-and-assessment process.

The Committee concluded unanimously that she:

* Demonstrated exceptional leadership capability,

* Provided a clear and compelling vision for the organisation,

* Showed strong understanding of the local context and future challenges

*Offered the most robust and credible evidence of readiness to lead the council

It is not known how many other candidates applied for the position, nor how many were invited to attend the final interview which was held recently at Grimsby Fishing Heritage Centre.

Cleethorpes' loss is Grimsby's gain - new home in Grimsby for uprooted Pier Gardens tropical trees

                                           

Aaron Goss with some of the soon-to-be-replanted trees

TROPICAL trees uprooted from Pier Gardens have been relocated to Grimsby's People Park.

The  Yucca and Palm trees have been deemed an inconvenience at the Cleethorpes site, much of which is being dug up to make way for a skatepark, climbing structures and other 'fun facilities'.

In People's Park, the trees will be in the care of Cleethorpes Wildlife Rescue.

The Grimsby News says: Assuming the trees survive the trauma of their transfer, they will hopefully flourish in their new home. However, it is sad that they have been lost to Cleethorpes. Could not a place have been found for them at some other seafront location - perhaps on a roundabout, a roadside verge or outside Meridian Park?

Hopes rise that Cleethorpes Country Park oil spill might prove less harmful than originally feared

                                                                  

Bearing up but missing its mate - one of the plumage-damaged swans 

THERE are rising hopes today that the  oil spill in Cleethorpes Country Park earlier this week will have less impact than at first feared.

An absorbent boom seems to be preventing the migration of the contaminant from the Buck Beck into the lake.

Tufted Ducks, Coots, Mallards, a Cormorant  and at least one  Great Crested Grebe were among the birds apparently unaffected and feeding normally at mid-morning.

Even one of the plumage-contaminated Mute Swans seemed to be feeding and drinking well  though the fate of its mate, unseen this morning, is unclear.  The hope is that has been taken in for treatment and temporary care by Cleethorpes Wildlife Rescue.

It is not known yet what sort of oil entered the water, nor who might have been responsible. 

                                             

The absorbent boom which is containing the oil slick

Threat to Mute Swans and other wildlife after oil spills into Cleethorpes Country Park

Important for wildlife - Cleethorpes Country Park

INQUIRIES are underway after an incident of of oil contamination was this morning reported at Cleethorpes Country Park.

At least two Mute Swan are said to have had their  plumage oiled, and other wildlife, including Great Crested Grebes and fish, are also likely to  have been affected.

It is understood the oil spilled into the Buck Beck but some may also have entered the lake.

To help control any spread, drainage officers  placed absorbent booms in the river to soak up the remaining oil.

A spokesperson for North East Lincolnshire Council  said: "Officers are also working with the Environment Agency to understand how best to remove as much oil as possible."

NELC's portfolio holder for the environment, Cllr Henry Hudson, says: "Not only is what has happened  disrespecting this beautiful open space, but it is also putting the creatures who live there in danger.

"If anyone has any information on this incident we would greatly appreciate their coming forward."

In the meantime, Cleethorpes Wildlife Rescue have been seeking to capture the swans  time for the nesting season.

                                 

One of the contaminated birds - photo Cleethorpes Wildlife Rescue

A Mute Swan with her brood on the country park's lake in a previous year

Work resumes on Cleethorpes seafront 'amenity' building but is council struggling to find tenants?

                                         

Above and below: artist's impressions of how the site might look once construction is completed 

 

AN assurance has been given that work is set to resume  in earnest on Cleethorpes' start-stop project to build a new amenity building on Sea Road opposite the pier. 

The work was halted last year after the previous contractor, JemBuild, had to pull out as a result of sad and unforeseen circumstances.

It was hoped that another local construction firm would take up the reins but instead the prestigious  contract has gone to the Lincoln-based Lindum Group.  

A new three-storey art deco-style building will be constructed on the brownfield site that was formerly occupied by a a pub.

It will accommodate WCs and changing facilities, but what else?

No one seems to know, not even the project's sponsors, North East Lincolnshire, which will  only say: "It will comprise retail or hospitality space."

This seems to suggest that it might be struggling to find a tenant. 

Access will be by both the first and ground floors.

Over the past couple of weeks, work has been ongoing  to complete some of the internal detailed designs and to remove spoil from the site.

Lindum Group co-chairman Freddie Chambers comments: "Lindum is a Lincolnshire-based company with strong links to this part of the county, and we are committed to supporting the local economy through the use of local subcontractors and suppliers wherever possible. 

"We look forward to engaging with local groups and stakeholders throughout the project, including opportunities for site visits where appropriate.

"We are pleased to be working with North East Lincolnshire Council once again -  previous projects together have included works to the Grade II listed Victoria Mill building and upgrades at Cleethorpes Leisure Centre."

The Grimsby News says: So far down the track  it seems surprising that NELC does not appear to know whether the anchor tenant will be a retailer or a hospitality-provider such as a restaurant or a pub. The internal requirements would be quite different, so what specifications will Lindum follow when it fits out the interior? While uncertainty prevails, the concern is that no anchor tenant will come forward in which case the new building might end up as no more than an empty shell - in effect a white elephant. NELC needs to provide some clarity.                                               

MP Melanie Onn calls for greater haste from council in tackling backlog of pothole repairs

                                                              

Melanie Onn: 'Proliferation of potholes is a big problem' (photo: Facebook)

GRIMSBY and Cleethorpes MP Melanie Onn has called on North East Lincolnshire Council to step up the pace of pothole repairs  in the constituency.

In her monthly half-hour surgery on social media, she declared: "Potholes are popping up all over the place because cold and weather has undermined the quality of asphalt on road surfaces.

"As a result, damage is being caused to vehicles and danger is being created for pedestrians, cyclists and those using mobility scooters.

"It's a big problem."

The MP acknowledged that NELC had a repairs schedule but maintained that the authority could act with greater haste given that it had recently received £1.1-million in funding from Whitehall.

"The schedule is not keeping up with the proliferation of potholes," she added. "Much more needs to be done - and can be done."

                                         

This Cleethorpes road junction pothole is particularly treacherous for cyclists

Planning green light for former cycle shop in Cleethorpes to become hot food takeaway business

                                            

This former cycle shop at 107 Grimsby Road in Cleethorpes is set to become a hot food takeaway premises. There have been no objections from neighbours, and the application has been approved by North East Lincolnshire Council planners. The proposal includes the installation of a 5.1-metre high extraction flue to the rear.

Property up for auction as bookmaking firm William Hill pulls out of Cleethorpes

The former betting shop and flat on Grimsby Road

BOOKMAKERS William Hill have vacated their only remaining shop in Cleethorpes.

The branch in Market Place closed several years ago, and now the long-establised firm has bid farewell to its premises at 249 Grimsby Road.

More and more betting shops are closing as punters switch to online betting.

The property, which includes a two-bedroom flat above, is due to go under the hammer at an online-only auction to be held on March 31-April 1.

Say the Auction Agent website: "This is a superb opportunity to purchase a vacant mixed-use premises. 

"The property occupies a prominent main road position in Cleethorpes and benefits from good transport links as well as convenient access to a wide range of local amenities with  Grimsby Town Football Club, Cleethorpes Beach and St Hugh’s Hospital all within walking distance. 

"A good selection of shops, pubs, restaurants and schools are all nearby, further enhancing the appeal of this mixed-use investment opportunity."

New use on the cards for Cleethorpes site that once housed exotic mammals, reptiles and birds

                                         

Until it closed, The Jungle Zoo was habitat of parrots, macaws and other colourful creatures

A NEW use is in prospect for  the site which was once home to The Jungle Zoo in Cleethorpes.

The zoo closed several years ago since when most of the buildings were destroyed by a fire

But now  planning application has been submitted for the cleared site to become a centre for padel - a fast-growing raquet sport sometimes compared to a cross between tennis and squash and usually played in doubles.

As well as outdoor courts, there would be a clubhouse.

Agents for the applicants, Hull-based East Coast Padel Ltd, say: "Overall, the proposed development represents a positive and beneficial reuse of the site for leisure purposes.

"It would reinstate an active recreational use, delivering modern, accessible, and much needed sports facilities for the local community, to be delivered by a padel operator with a proven track record. 

"It will make a valuable contribution to the health and wellbeing of residents while enhancing the recreational offer of Cleethorpes and more widely."             

Padel being played on a court in Hull

Most of the rubble remains of the aviaries and enclosures have now been cleared