Cloud over future of two charity shops as result of 'rising operating costs and changing customer habits'

                                   

The shop on St Peter's Avenue in Cleethorpes 

CLARITY is awaited on the future of two charity shops - one in Grimsby, the other in Cleethorpes.

Although it has not yet identified those at risk, the British Heart Foundation has announced proposals to close "around 150" of its  stores over the next two financial years.

It states: "The decision follows a detailed review of our retail estate amid rising operating costs and changing customer habits which mean some of our shops and stores are no longer financially sustainable.

"We have proposed closing around 90 stores by the end of March 2027, and the remainder by March 2028. 

"There is also a proposed reduction in the central teams and functions that support our retail operation. 

"The changes are designed to ensure our retail network remains strong and sustainable, contributing vital funds to power research into cardiovascular disease which causes around one death every three minutes in the UK.

"Our overall financial position remains healthy, with continuing strong performance across fundraising and legacy income."

The statement continues: "We will continue to operate a large national network of shops and online retail channels, including eBay and our website, and will continue to evolve retail operations to reflect changing customer shopping behaviours and donor habits in the years ahead."

Meanwhile, BHF's chief executive, Dr Charmaine Griffiths, comments : "Our shops mean much to our colleagues, volunteers and communities across the UK.  

"They are places where people come together to donate, shop and volunteer, helping to make a real difference to lives affected by cardiovascular disease

"We know this will be a difficult time for them and emphasise our deep appreciation and gratitude for all they have done for BHF and the communities they serve."

Supporters will still be able to shop as normal and donate items while affected shops remain open. 

After closures have taken take place, the charity says it will continue to take donations through , donation points, home collection services in some areas, and online post to donate options.

Locations of the shops and stores earmarked for the axe will be released after staff and volunteers have been personally notified.

Things might be a bit cramped this year but the great Armed Forces Day show must go on

                                        

NORTH  East Lincolnshire Council is urging people to plan their traffic and travel arrangements ahead of the Armed Forces Day celebrations in Cleethorpes at the end of this month.

The weekend will start with a 'community day' on Friday 26 June but most of the activities will be spread over the following two days. 

For instance, there will be the following:

* Armed Forces parade through town, from Knoll St to Brighton Slipway then returning up Central Prom on Saturday.

* Flying activity centred on Ross Castle, the service village and displays of military vehicles in Meridian Showground.

* Community Stage at  the Boating Lake to be  active across the weekend

* Big Wheel, will be in the leisure centre car park. 

* Traders will have their pitches on Kingsway, at the Boating Lake and within the Meridian Showground.

Road closures will be as follows: 

* Central Promenade will be closed to all traffic, except emergency vehicles, from Saturday 27 June to Sunday 28 June inclusive. Business access for loading and unloading will be permitted up to 10am, and RNLI / Coastguard access will be maintained at all times from the Brighton Street end.

* North Promenade - bays between Sea Road and Station Approach will be suspended from 0600hrs – 1400hrs on Saturday 27 June. There will be no access to the car park between 1030hrs – 1330hrs on Saturday 27 June.

* Civic Offices car parks will be closed all weekend (from Saturday 27 June to Sunday 28 June inclusive)

* Cleethorpes Town Hall car park will be closed on Saturday 27 June only

* Sea View Street plaza car park will be closed all weekend (from Saturday 27 June to Sunday 28 June inclusive)

* Cleethorpes Leisure Centre - parking will be by  Lincs Inspire permit and Blue badge holders only from Wednesday 24 June to Sunday 28 June.

* Cleethorpes Boating Lake car park will be closed fromFriday 26 June to Sunday 28 June

* Thrunscoe Land car park outside Oriental Express will be open open as normal, but all other areas (including motorhome parking) will be closed between Thursday 25 June and Sunday 28 June.

* Meridian Crafts car park will be closed between Friday 26 June and  Sunday 28 June.

* Marine Walk  will be cosed between 1000hrs – 1400hrs on Saturday 27 June.

All other car parks in and around the resort will be open as usual.

Road closures from  Saturday 27 June (0001hrs) to Sunday 28 June (2359hrs) will be as follows:

* Alexandra Road / High Cliff Road/Kingsway between the junction with Knoll St and the junction with Rowston St.

* Seaview Street – Alexandra Road to Cambridge Street (including New Road).

* No traffic exit from Humber Street or North Street to High Cliff Road for the weekend.

* No access to High Cliff Road/ Kingsway from North North Street, Brighton Street and Humber Street.

* High Cliff Road/ Kingsway from High Cliff Road/ Kingsway from North Street, Brighton Street and Humber Street. 

* Additional closures for the military veterans and vehicles parades between 10.30am and 1.30pm on Saturday June 27.

In addition, NELC says: 

* KNOLL STREET between CAMBRIDGE STREET and ALEXANDRA ROAD will be closed between 1145hrs and 1330hrs 

* SEA ROAD between ALEXANDRA ROAD and CENTRAL PROMENADE will be closed between 1030hrs and 1330hrs 

* NORTH PROMENADE between SEA ROAD and STATION APPROACH - parking will be suspended on both side of the road between 0600hrs and 1430hrs.  In addition, there will be no vehicle access to all of NORTH PROMENADE between 1030hrs and 1330hrs.

* ALEXANDRA ROAD between YARRA ROAD and KNOLL STREET will be closed between 1030hrs and 1330hrs.  Parking will be suspended on both sides of the road between 0600hrs and 1400hrs.

* KINGSWAY between ROWSTON STREET and KINGS ROAD will be closed between 1045hrs and 1245hrs.

* KINGS ROAD between KINGSWAY and CHICHESTER ROAD will be closed between 1045hrs and 1245hrs. 

During the Military vehicle parade there will be no access onto the route from QUEENS PARADE, BRADFORD AVENUE and CROMWELL ROAD between approximately 1045hrs and 1200hrs. Roads will re-open to traffic as soon as it is safe to do so. 

There will be tow away zones in operation over the weekend which will be clearly advertised.

Any vehicle left in the zone, which will be marked by yellow ‘TOW AWAY ZONE’ signs, is liable to be removed by a specialist towing company.

To support the safe passage of the parades and the movement of buses and general traffic around the area over the weekend the following areas of on street parking will be suspended between 0600hrs on Saturday 27 June until 2359hrs on Sunday 28 June:

* ST PETERS AVENUE (western kerb line, entire length between its junction with HIGHGATE and its junction with HIGH STREET)

* ST PETERS AVENUE (eastern kerb line between its junction with ALBERT ROAD and its junction with HIGHGATE)

* KNOLL STREET (northern kerb line between with junction with CAMBRIDGE STREET and its junction with ALEXANDRA ROAD)

* HIGHGATE (northern kerb line between its junction with THRUNSCOE ROAD and its junction with ST PETERS AVENUE)

* TRINITY ROAD (western kerb line between its junction with TAYLORS AVENUE and its junction with SANDRINGHAM ROAD)

* CHICHESTER ROAD (northern kerb line between its junction with ALDRICH ROAD and its junction with BISHOPTHORPE ROAD)

* KINGSWAY (both sides between its junction with CENTRAL PROMENADE and its junction with ROWSTON STREET)

* BRIGHTON STREET (between its junction with HIGH CLIFF ROAD and its junction with SOUTH STREET)

* HUMBER STREET (between its junction with HIGH CLIFF ROAD and its junction with NORTH STREET)

With so many road closures and parking restrictions, use of public transport - or walking - is being highly recommended.

Facelift on the cards for the 'grand old lady' of Grimsby town centre

                                                             

Work expected to start on proposed renovations at Grimsby Town Hall

A NEW roof is in prospect for Grimsby Town Hall.

This a part of a huge renovation project which will also include repairing or replacing drainpipes and guttering plus repointing of brickwork and stone masonry.

A report states: "The proposed works are intended to enhance, restore and maintain the original features of the building by carrying out repairs where possible and replacements of materials beyond repair.  

"The building is currently used as a base for the mayor and for most council meetings. 

"It is also available for special occasions and public events and can accommodate 300 people."  

The document continues: "Access to the roof will be improved as part of this works through the installation of external walkways, ladder systems and guardrail/edge protection systems.

"This will ensure that safe access can be maintained for future inspections or survey works at the rear of the building."

Before the work can start, North East Lincolnshire Council will need to grant itself Listed Building consent, but this is expected to be a formality.

It is hoped the contract will be awarded to a Grimsby-area firm assuming the work is not too specialised.

BBC-TV presenter startles viewers with unflattering remarks about Red Arrows and the King's fingers

                                                                   

The Red Arrows over Cleethorpes in June last year

WOULD it be reasonable to describe the Red Arrows as "a vanity project"?

This was the term used by the presenter, Pete Levy, on BBC TV's regional news programme, Look North on Friday evening.

His controversial assessment came during coverage of where financial cuts might need to made to free up funds for increased spending on defence of the nation.

The presenter must have been in a mood to be controversial that evening because, later in the show, he described the fingers of King Charles, who had visited Grimsby the previous day, as being "sausagey".                                                          

Courting controversy - Peter Levy

Royal Family takes to social media to showcase King Charles' happy visit to Grimsby on Thursday

These photographs are among those posted this week on the Facebook page of the Royal Family in the wake  of the King's visit to Grimsby and Cleethorpes on Thursday. They show how much he enjoyed meeting local people.

                                                                     

                                                          

                                                                       

Planning thumbs-up for redevelopment of former Jungle Zoo site to become padel courts

  

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

THE planning green light has been given for the site of the former Jungle Zoo site in Cleethorpes to be redeveloped as padel courts.

The zoo closed several years ago since when the buildings have been destroyed by a fire.

Padel is a fast-growing racquet sport sometimes compared to a cross between tennis and squash and usually played in doubles.

As well as outdoor courts, plus a rain canopy, there may be a clubhouse.

Agents for the applicants, Newcastle-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."  

The application was determined  by a senior  North East Lincolnshire Council case officer, Lauren Birkwood, without the need for it to be considered by the planning committee. 

Says she: "Although the canopy will be of a large scale, particularly in terms of height, it would be designed reasonably to ensure the impact on the character and appearance of the area would not be harmful. 

"Associated containers to accommodate a pay station and other facilities would be single storey in height and should not appear dominant.

"Residential properties are limited in the area, with the closest residents being on Bolingbroke Road approximately 165 metres away. 

"It is considered that there is a sufficient distance away to ensure issues such as dominance, overlooking and general noise and disturbance would be minimal. 

"There are commercial premises in the immediate vicinity, including the adjacent restaurant, but  this is detached from the site so general noise and disturbance should  be limited."

One of the conditions of consent is that all  activity areas and associated external lighting shall be restricted to the hours of between 06:00 and 23:00 daily.

Padel being played on a court in Hull

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

Has he become Grimsby Town FC's newest fan? King Charles III makes his debut trip to Blundell Park

Will he wear at Buckingham Palace? His Majesty receives his Mariners shirt

IT must have been a highlight for King Charles on today's visit to Grimsby and Cleethorpes - being presented with a Grimsby Town FC shirt bearing the words, 'King Charles', and the number, '3'.

The king was evidently  well briefed before his arrival because he made a point of commenting on The Mariners' Carabao Cup giant-killing triumph against Manchester United last August.

On a rainy day, it was noted that His Majesty did not have a royal flunky to carry his umbrella - he held it himself.

Throughout his spell here, which took in the Horizon Youth Centre and the CARE hub, the King was applauded and cheered by residents of all ages (including one 106-year-old) who were genuinely inspired and honoured to welcome him.                                                                        

Glad to be in Grimsby - the King prepares to meet residents

                                                                       

The Court Circular as published in the next day's edition of The Daily Telegraph

                                                                             

Frontline supermarket chain in bid to install solar panels on roof of its store in Grimsby

                                       

SAINSBURYS in Grimsby could be the next commercial premises to install solar panels on its roof.

The supermarket chain has submitted a planning application to North East Lincolnshire Council for the installation which would generate renewable energy for the store on Corporation Road.

A note from its agents, Ineco Energy, states: "So far as is practicable, the panels will be sited so as to minimise any effect on the external appearance of the building and the amenity of the area. 

"The proposal would not unacceptably harm the characteristics of the existing building or the character of its surroundings because the area is commercial in its appearance, set within a built-up area. 

"The proposal would not be prominently visible from the street scene as it is a tall building and, with the solar panels set clear from the external edges, it will not harmfully impact the design of the building and the area. 

"The  panels would be visible from certain heights, but they would not be prominently visible from the public realm or street level." 

The application is expected to be determined later this summer.

Five organisations to share in final £3,263 hand-out before NELC pulls plug on its Winsby Lottery

                                                   

Avocet - emblem of the RSPB whose Grimsby-area  group is one of the last beneficiaries of the Winsby Lottery 

 

FIVE  organisations have each been given a share of £3,263.36 from North East Lincolnshire Council's Winsby Lottery.

These are the last awards because the lottery is being wound up.

The awards are as follows: 

* £1500: 32nd Rainbow Guides

* £500: Harbour Place

* £500: Climb4

* £500: Waltham Windmill Preservation Trust

* £263.26: RSPB Grimsby Local Group

Says NELC: "The groups were randomly selected to help with running costs or ongoing projects."

Free short-term parking soon for Cleethorpes shoppers in market place and at two other sites

                                                       

Up to 12 free short-term parking spaces will be restored in Cleethorpes Market Place 

                                                       

IT looks like the controversial pedestrianisation of Cleethorpes Market Place will be watered down to make it less restrictive to motorists.

Following a review, the leader of North East Lincolnshire Council, Cllr Oliver Freeston (Reform UK, Croft Baker), has issued this statement: "We have taken a common sense approach to a project inherited from the previous administration.

"The contracts had already been signed, and cancelling the scheme would have come at a significant cost to taxpayers - although, for the record, it was not the £5 million figure previously claimed.

"The good news is that, subject to the necessary approvals and amendments to traffic regulations, we intend to move to a semi-pedestrianised scheme. 

"That means a more flexible approach that works for businesses, residents and visitors, rather than unnecessary restrictions all year round." 

The leader continues: "Our proposal will save 12 short-stay free parking spaces that would otherwise have been lost, ensuring they remain available whenever the road is open to traffic. 

"In addition, we intend to introduce a two-year trial of FREE one-hour parking at both the car park next to Boots and the Old Vic car park, which we intend to introduce within the next few months, subject to the necessary governance arrangements.

"This review has been well worth it. 

"We have listened, applied common sense, and improved a scheme we inherited. 

"My cabinet colleagues and I will continue to monitor progress closely to ensure it is delivered successfully and on time."

Trading Standards officers in surprise swoop on 25 jewellery premises in Grimsby and Cleethorpes

                                   

ONLY eight out of 25 jewellery shops in Grimsby and Clethorpes were found to be fully compliant with legislation when checks were carried out by North East Lincolnshire Council trading standards team.

During the operation, the local officers were joined by representatives of the Assay Office organisation which tests precious metals to ensure the hallmarks they carry are authentic.

During two days of inspections, they examined numerous items including gold chains, bracelets and  rings at 14 businesses in Grimsby and 11 in Cleethorpes. 

The aim of the project  was to determine how many jewellers in the area were following the correct laws and giving the customer a genuine piece of jewellery.

Their findings were as follows:

* 8 businesses not displaying dealer's notice - an official sign that is legally required  to give notice to customers about precious metals including its purity and the hallmarks

* 3 businesses displaying out-of-date dealer notices

*10 businesses displaying non-hallmarked items

* 2 businesses using scales not stamped for business use

Says NELC: "Only eight of the businesses were fully compliant, and a total of nine premises will be re-visited to ensure compliance with the Hallmarking Act 1973. 

"Information on these failures will be shared nationally to assist in building the intelligence picture – known as Operation Tudor Rose."

Graham Mogg, of Sheffield Assay Office, said: "Hallmarking of precious metals is the oldest form of consumer protection and it is vital that businesses selling gold, silver, platinum and palladium jewellery meet their legal obligations. 

"The hallmarking process provides independent verification of the purity, authenticity, and quality of precious metal items and it protects buyers from fraud." 

The council has not named the premises it visited, nor those where "issues" were detected.

It is not thought that any prosecutions will ensue.  

'Preventative' works now underway at Grimsby Central Library aimed at halting further rain damage

                                                                     

Works to repair roof now underway

WELL over a year after it was closed following a leak, works today started with the aim of stopping further rain ingress at Grimsby Central Library.

The contract for "initial preventative works" has been awarded to ABM Roofing.

The following statement has been issued by North East Lincolnshire Council: "Scaffolding is being put up on the pavement next to the rear loading doors of the building to allow the contractors to access the roof areas. 

"This will be protected by hoarding. There will be pavement diversions, but road closures are not anticipated at this time.

"The works will take approximately six weeks, with work happening on week days between approximately 8am to 4pm. 

"There should not be any significant noise."

The library closed in March last year over particular concerns that rain may have disturbed asbestos.

Most of the books  are currently in storage, though some are in the pop-up library in nearby Freshney Place.

Almost 600 toys confiscated from 'numerous' trading premises in Cleethorpes during council swoop

                                                    

Some of the items seized 

ALMOST 600 toys have been removed from "numerous" trading premises in Cleethorpes.

The confiscations came following a two-day swoop by North East Lincolnshire Council's trading standards team who said they were "unsafe and illegal.

In a statement, NELC says: "From potential choking hazards to a lack of trademarks, there were multiple reasons the near 600 toys were removed."

One item was a fake Labubu containing a  pack which secured batteries using gaffer tape.

The council has not identified the premises nor said if any prosecutions will ensue.

All the way from Africa - North East Lincolnshire gardens see population explosion of Painted Ladies

                                                                        

Unprecedented numbers of fast-flying Painted Lady butterflies are being seen in North East Lincolnshire gardens. The pale-coloured insects reach Britain after breeding in North Africa and the Mediterranean. According to the organisation, Butterfly Conservation, numbers this year - particularly along the East Coast - are the highest for 17 years.                                                            

Hearty pat on back for Cleethorpes restaurant that has long been a favourite with residents and visitors

              

It's good to see plaudits for a Cleethorpes fish restaurant in the national press. This enthusiastic write-up featured in the survey of the country's top fish and chips shops that appeared in a recent edition of The Daily Telegraph newspaper.    

                                 

                                                        

Independent inspector backs NELC's decision to refuse consent for 120 new homes in New Waltham

The paddock that had been earmarked for up to 120 homes 

A CONTROVERSIAL proposal for up to 120 homes to be built in New Waltham has been knocked on the head.

When North East Lincolnshire Council planners refused consent for the development off  Station Road, Snape Properties Ltd and Lydia Tyler appealed to the Planning Inspectorate for the decision to be overturned.

But after a hearing, the appeal inspector upheld NELC's decision and dismissed the appeal.

The site is a paddock on New Waltham's boundary with Waltham opposite Newgrove House care home.

In his report on the matter, the appeal inspector, Mr R. Sabu says: "The proposal would include a significant amount of  built development along with  domestic paraphernalia and hard landscaping."

                                        

How the development might have looked had it been granted planning consent

Eyeball to eyeball! Liam's stunning photograph of handsome Oystercatcher unveiled by NELC

 

                              

A STUNNING close-up photograph of an Oystercatcher on Cleethorpes beach is being used by North East Lincolnshire Council to publicise World Environment Day 2026 which is this Friday June 5.

The shot was captured by frontline birder-photographer Liam Smith as he lay on the sand  just inches from the bird.

This borough does not boast any RSPB or Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust reserves but it is home to a range of protected habitats, most notably the south bank of the Humber.

Cleethorpes has its own official coastal ranger, Josh Forrester, who organises regular nature walks.

Says he: "North East Lincolnshire is incredibly fortunate to have such a rich and diverse natural environment."                                        

                      

Cleethorpes saltmarsh is home to many specialist plants and birds

New mayor's priorities will include include helping special needs children and planting more trees

The new mayor can count on plenty of family support

SOME  54 years after first stepping through the council doors as a young employee, Cllr Marian Boyd has been elected new mayor of North East Lincolnshire, a milestone that reflects both a lifetime of public service and a deep-rooted connection to the borough.

The mayor began her career with the authority in 1972 as a clerk in the education department, going on to build a long and varied career in  local government. 

She later moved into finance, gaining professional qualifications and rising through the ranks to lead a team within the borough treasurer’s department. 

Her work then took her into housing where she supported residents facing homelessness, an experience that would shape her enduring commitment to helping those most in need.

Now, five decades later, she has stepped into one of the borough’s most historic civic roles.

While the mayoralty is ceremonial and politically neutral, the mayor will continue to serve as councillor for Grimsby's Park ward alongside her mayoral duties over the coming year, a role she took on after being elected in 2022.

Describing her mayoral appointment as "an honour",” she has already set out her priorities, placing community support and awareness firmly at the centre of her mayoral year.

She will champion, in particular, two charities close to her heart: Bob’s Brainwaves, which supports carers of people living with dementia; and RNLI Cleethorpes.

But she is also highlights other of her priorities including:

*  The need for  increased tree planting

*  The importance of supported housing provision

*  Improvements to bus services.

*  Better outcomes for children with special educational needs and disabilities. 

Says Cllr Mrs Boyd: "It will be exciting to meet new people - it's something I love doing.

"I look forward to opportunities to talk to people in business, in charities, in schools and in churches.

"Anybody in the community can ask for the mayor to come to an event - they only have to contact the civic office in Grimsby Town Hall.

"The calendar is already filling up already.  I have done several events and I think is it going to be a great year."

The new mayor also reflected on her personal life.

"I am very fortunate to have the support of a wonderful family. 

"I have a husband, three healthy children and eight wonderful grandchildren, and we meet often," she continues." 

Of  North East Lincolnshire, the new mayor says: "We are incredibly lucky here. 

"We have affordable housing, the beach on our doorstep and beautiful villages in the Wolds. We are part of a tremendous community, with industry on the Humber Bank, a major port and surrounding farmland. There is a lot to be thankful for."

However, she is clear that challenges remain for many residents and emphasises that her mayoral year will be focused on highlighting those needs.

Cllr Mrs Boyd concludes: "I hope my contribution will help support the council’s wider ambitions and reflect the pride we all share in our borough."

Council installs 16 new rubbish bins along length of promenade to help Cleethorpes stay neat and tidy

 

                                                              

Cllr Freeston with members of the waste services team and Gary Edwards, Head of Waste and Operational Services (second from right)

             

A TOTAL of  16 additional bins have been sited on Cleethorpes Promenade for the summer season.

North East Lincolnshire Council has acted promptly following grumbles from some residents and visitors about the heavy overspill of rubbish over the May bank holiday.

Of the new bins, 15 have a capacity of 240 litres and one has a capacity of 1100 litres.

The investment provided a photo-opportunity for council leader Cllr Oliver Freeston to pose with waste services personnel.

Party of Weelsby Wood's Travellers sent packing following joint initiative by NELC and police

                                                     

Weelsby Woods - Grimsby beauty spot where Travellers were made unwelcome  

TRAVELLERS have moved on from Weelsby Woods in Grimsby four days after setting up what North East Lincolnshire Council describes as having been  "a large unauthorised encampment".

They decided to move on following an initiative involving the council and Humberside police.

A clear-up team has today been on site to remove what NELC says was "a small amount of waste".

Barriers which the visitors damaged to gain access to the land have now been repaired.

In what is believed to be his first media release since becoming leader of the authority, Cllr Oliver Freeston  said: "This is a great piece of joint working with our local police force and a good outcome for the community. 

"It is also  a strong message that North East Lincolnshire is not the place for illegal encampments, and we have the arrangements in place to deal with these quickly."

Agreed Cllr James Sawkins, portfolio holder for safer and stronger communities, agreed: "We decided quickly what action would be reasonable and necessary to resolve this situation.

"Weelsby Woods is a lovely space, intended for public use, and we will continue to take any action necessary to protect the area."

It is not known where the Travellers had come from, nor their next port of call.

Shadow over future of Morrisons Daily convenience stores as company battles to reduce debt mountain

An uncertain future beckons for Morrisons Daily convenience stores such as this one near Cleethorpes country park. The Bradford-based supermarket chain, which has been owned since 2121 by private equity firm Clayton, Dubilier & Rice, has recently revealed its intention to close some 100 such outlets across the UK as it struggles to  balance its books. At the end of the last financial year, its net debt is reported to have stood at £3.1-billion. 

It is discount supermarket chain Lidl that now calls the shots on Pleasure Island revamp project

Up to 272 holiday lodges are proposed

AGENTS for the proposed redevelopment of the former Pleasure Island theme park have confirmed that they are now taking their instructions from discount supermarket chain Lidl.

It is possible that some local property entrepreneurs have retained a stake, but the exact percentage of shareholdings is not known

With Lidl paying the the piper, it is fair to assume  that construction of a store will probably represent the first phase of the development, with arrival of the two hotels, 272 holiday lodges and other features further down the track.

The scheme still has not received planning consent from North East Lincolnshire Council, but determination of the application  could come this summer.

Following various discussions, Lidl's agents, Lichfields, seem confident senior NELC planner Cheryl Jarvis  will recommend approval to the planning committee.

In his latest missive on the subject, Lichfields planning director James Cox  says "85 per cent of the site will be  dedicated to leisure and recreational uses". 

He writes: "These will include indoor leisure facilities, food and drink outlets, play parks and cycle hire.

"These facilities are intended to serve both local residents and visitors, ensuring the site is accessible and inclusive. 

"The on-site lake will be open to fishing use which provides a leisure-related water sport activity. 

"The proposed retail uses support the overall viability of the development, particularly in serving the needs of holiday lodge users, and are ancillary in nature to the more extensive leisure offering."

The original concept - as outlined by property developer Sze Ming Yeung - was for Pleasure Island to resemble Centre Parcs, with plenty of leisure attractions, but this dream has long faded, all the more so since he was declared bankrupt in September last year.

      Ski slope

Continues Mr Cox: "Although alternative concepts such as an indoor ski slope or ice rink have been suggested, the submitted commercial evidence confirms that there is no operator demand for such uses in Cleethorpes. 

"The proposed scheme delivers a diverse and realistic range of leisure opportunities which both meets market requirements and will be sustainable over the long term. 

"The lodges are intended to provide a mix of accommodation tenures and will be subject to seasonal occupancy - from March 15 to October 31 - preventing permanent year-round residential use. 

"In addition, no provision is proposed for camping or mobile homes. 

"These measures will help ensure that the development does not place undue pressure on local services or infrastructure." 

Lichfields say the scheme has "the potential to generate approximately 475 full-time equivalent jobs,  alongside additional opportunities linked to the holiday accommodation." 

"Public realm areas will also provide space for community events and initiatives, while the proposed food and drink hall will support start-up businesses through flexible, temporary kitchen spaces." 

                                                     Casino

The scheme also introduces a hotel offer distinct from existing provision, incorporating features such as a conference facility and casino, thereby broadening the type and range of accommodation currently available within the resort. 

"Importantly, the leisure and recreational facilities will be open to all, not solely lodge occupants, further enhancing community value. 

The scheme will be delivered on a phased basis, with Lidl acting as lead developer and providing enabling works to facilitate comprehensive redevelopment. 

"This co-ordinated approach avoids piecemeal delivery and ensures the site is brought forward in a cohesive and viable manner. " 

For obvious reasons, both Tesco and Aldi are opposed to Lidl establishing a major foothold store in Cleethorpes, but Lichfields claim  the proposed development "would not give rise to any significant adverse impact" on trading activity in the area.

What about pressure on highways and access, for instance along Meridian Way?

Lichfield says  these issues have ben satisfactorily addressed and that the proposed arrangements are "acceptable and would not result in any severe impacts on the local highway network". 

The agent notes that "compared with  the former theme park use, the proposed development is expected to generate lower visitor numbers overall, particularly as the holiday accommodation will operate on a seasonal basis". 

What about the loss of  hundreds of mature trees and shrubs which give the site its current parkland character?

Lichfields say: "New and existing tree and hedgerow planting along Kings Road will help soften the visual impact of the development and support ecological connectivity. 

"The proposed landscaping scheme will compensate for the loss of existing vegetation on site, whilst also providing new habitats for local wildlife."

 Lichfields acknowledges neighbours' concerns about the potential impact of the proposed development on their residential amenity, particularly in relation to noise and privacy. 

However, the firm says these concerns "should be considered in the context of the site’s former theme park use and designation within a resort area where uses - of the nature proposed - are actively encouraged".  

It says: "The proposed hotel and holiday lodges are set back approximately 100m from the nearest residential properties ensuring that an appropriate buffer is maintained and the amenity of nearby residents is respected. 

"The proposal is supported by a comprehensive lighting scheme designed to prevent unacceptable levels of light spill into neighbouring areas."

Mr Cox concludes: "Overall, the development would enhance the range of retail, leisure and hotel provision available to residents and visitors."

Charges may be introduced at leafy seafront car park long popular with residents and holidaymakers

                                                          

The current signage at the seaside car park

CHARGES could be introduced at a popular seafront car park.

It has emerged that holiday company Haven Leisure is intent on installing two pay machines, six bollards, a 2.1-metre height restriction barrier, a camera and associated signage at the site to the north of Anthony's Bank in Humberston.

The application has been submitted on behalf of Haven by Lichfields - the same agents that Lidl are using to progress their proposal to redevelop the former Pleasure Island theme park.

Says Naomi Parker of Lichfields: "The scheme has been proposed in response to ongoing issues associated with anti-social behaviour, unauthorised overnight parking, long term parking and the use of the area by camper vans for informal encampment."

The proposal will not go down well with residents and visitors who have long been used to parking free - up to 63 cars at a time - on the 0.68-hectare tree-bordered site.

However, before the project proceeds, both planning and advertisement display consent must be secured from North East Lincolnshire Council.

In her note to NELC planners, Ms Parker adds: "We ask that the proposal is positively determined."

Lichfields has paid the application fees to NELC - £309 for planning and £610 for advertisement consent. 

It has not yet been revealed what the scale of parking charges might be.

                                         

Entrance to the car park where charges are being sought

New leader of council poised to scupper proposed pedestrianisation of Cleethorpes Market Place

                                                     

Under threat - artist's impression of how proposed pedestrianisation might look on a summer's day  

THE plug may be pulled on the £4.5-million project to part-pedestrianise Cleethorpes Market Place.

The new leader of North East Lincolnshire Council, Cllr Oliver Freeston (Reform UK, Croft Baker), believes proposed restrictions on access and parking could suck the trading vitality out of this important part of town.

"Why fix something that doesn't need fixing?" he demands. "I'm all in favour of investment and improvements but not to the detriment of businesses." 

Now Cllr Freeston, who was elected  NELC leader yesterday evening, has asked officers to investigate whether it is permissible for the £4.5-million - monies allocated out of Whitehall's Levelling-up Fund - to be redirected elsewhere in the borough.

He also wants clarification on whether breach-of-contract compensation might need to be paid  to C..R Reynolds which has already closed off the market place ahead of works.

Cllr Freeston says he will consider calling an emergency meeting of his cabinet to discuss the way forward.                                   

Above and below: closed off - but work has not yet begun on revamping market place

You were dumped! New Reform UK leader of council puts boot in as Tories fail to cling on to power

                                                                     

Grimsby Town Hall where members of North East Lincolnshire Council this evening voted in favour of a change of leadership

THE Reform UK  leader of North East Lincolnshire Council, Cllr Oliver Freeston, has pledged a "bright new future" for the borough and its residents.

And, at this evening's meeting of the authority, he said he was willing to work with minority political parties.

By voting for Cllr Freeston to take the helm,  members called time on previous leader Cllr Philip Jackson and his Conservative administration.

The vote in favour of Cllr Freeston was 17, with 9 in favour of continuing with Cllr Jackson and 13 abstentions.

It is believed the Labour and Lib-Dem Group members abstained, so Cllr Freeston was helped over the line by the support of the four-strong Independent Group.

Acknowledging that Reform UK does not have enough members for overall control, Cllr Freeston, who has been on the council for eight years, said he would be willing to listen to ideas from those of other political persuasion and to compromise if felt appropriate.

But he was scathing in his criticism of the previous Conservative administration, accusing it of "arrogance" and of allowing projects - some of them unpopular - to run over time and above budget.    

When his claims were challenged by Conservatives Cllr Ian Lindley and Cllr Stan Shreeve, Cllr Freeston shot back: "You still don't get it.

"You were rejected by residents - you were dumped!"

It was an uncomfortable debate for Cllr Jackson who looked increasingly forlorn as it dawned on him that his leadership was drawing to a close.

But he had a dark message for Cllr Freeston who formerly sat as a Conservative for six years.

"I know where the bodies are buried," he warned.

Cllr Lindley argued that by voting for a Reform UK administration, the council was taking an "almighty risk".

He continued: "Ten of their members have never served on the council, and, of the four who have, none has ever held a cabinet position.

"The stability will be gone, and there will be a chaos of inexperience."

The new leader insisted  that what his colleagues lacked in political know-how they made up for  in experience in fields such as business and health.  

The new cabinet:

* Oliver Freeston: leader and portfolio holder for strategic renewal

* Samuel Grice: deputy leader and portfolio holder for children and education

* Nige Oliver: portfolio holder for health, wellbeing and adult social care

* Samuel Taylor: portfolio holder for finance, resources and assets

* Bob Callison: portfolio holder for the environment and energy security

* Paul Batson: portfolio holder for housing, infrastructure and transport

* James Sawkins: portfolio holder for stronger and safer communities

* Tanya Brasted:  portfolio holder for arts, heritage and the visitor economy