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

Sharon Wroot set to be appointed North East Lincolnshire Council chief executive

                                                                        

Sharon Wroot will provide continuity and stability

NINE months after she took over the helm of North East Lincolnshire Council, Sharon Wroot is set to be confirmed  as its permanent chief executive.

Following its meeting yesterday, the authority's appointments committee decided she was the most suitable candidate for the role.

However, Ms Wroot will not be able to crack open a celebration bottle of bubbly until the committee's  recommendation is rubber-stamped at the March 26 meeting of the full council.

A qualified accountant, Ms Wroot's career with the authority began in 2010 when she joined as finance director.

Subsequently, she held the roles of  executive director of environment, economy and resources plus deputy chief executive. 

It’s full speed ahead on transformation of Pier Gardens - but nature is the loser

                                                            

Uprooted. No future for this ornamental tree in Pier Gardens

WORK is now well underway on the clearance of lawns and shrubs in Pier Gardens to make the site more of a giant equipment-laden playground.

Sad to say, the activity is coinciding with the start of nesting season.

As a result, many birds - including robins, wrens, blue tits, house sparrows, goldfinches, blackbirds, pied wagtails and starlings - have suddenly lost a place where they always used to feed, roost and nest.

North East Lincolnshire Council believes that once completed, in spring next year, the scheme will be to the delight of residents and visitors like.                                                

                                          

Alas, precious songbird habitat is being lost to the chainsaw

 

Where once was a lawn is now a mountain of soil

Who will be NELC's next chief executive? Interviews to be held tomorrow at Fishing Heritage Centre

Interviews will be held here tomorrow

IT'S crunch time tomorrow for candidates seeking to become next (and possibly) last chief executive of North East Lincolnshire Council.

The future of the authority is uncertain pending a proposed reorganisation of local government in Lincolnshire and other parts of the country.

The top post at NELC has been  vacant since Rob Walsh left in May last year after 11 years in the hot seat.

Since then, Sharon Wroot has won quiet acclaim for the competence with which she has held the reins on an interim basis.

It is not known either if Ms Wroot has applied to take over on a permanent basis or  how many other candidates - whether internal or external - have thrown their hat into the ring.

The advantage of appointing an internal candidate is that it would most likely encourage continuity at a time when NELC has many capital projects at various states of progress, some of them not very fast.

Appointment of an outside candidate - assuming the post has been advertised externally - would be riskier, but might bring fresh thinking and imagination, plus much-needed dynamism in "getting things done".

The interviews are being held between 10am and 3pm in the Fishing Heritage Centre in Grimsby.

Firing the questions will be members of NELC's appointments committee which comprises chairman Philip Jackson (Con), deputy chairman Stan Shreeve (Con), Margaret Cracknell (Con), Emma Clough (Lab), Karl Wilson (Lab), Steve Beasant (Lib-Dem) and  Steve Holland (Ind).

Concern that family of Barn Owls could be displaced by plan for nine new homes near Waltham golf course

The field earmarked for new houses (Image: Google Earth)

NINE new homes  are in prospect for land off Cheapside in Waltham.

Utterby-based C J Wilkinson & Sons have earmarked a 6.7-hectare field almost opposite the village golf course's club house.

Their agents say the site can accommodate the proposed properties "without appearing or feeling cramped and, importantly, respecting the neighbours' residential amenities".

There are a number of trees to the site’s boundaries, all of which will  survive, say the applicants, if they are deemed "worthy of retention".

However, securing planning permission from North East Lincolnshire Council may be a challenge given that  the field is not identified as a development site in the Local Plan.

There is also concern for the welfare of a family of Barn Owls, a highly protected species, which forage for small rodents in the long grass and which are thought to nest in the vicinity.

                                                                

Barn Owl on the prowl

Don't worry be happy! House that resembles Mississippi paddle boat has come on market

                                    

HAPPINESS is a way of life!

That's the cheerful message inside a Mississippi-style Cleethorpes property that has just come on to the books of Croft estate agents with an asking price of £449,000.

"This is a landmark property in the heart of Cleethorpes yet hidden away on a privately-owned, gated avenue."say Crofts.

"It is a three storey, semi-detached town house with wraparound balconies on two of the floors offering stunning sea views. 

"This wonderful three-floor property was built in 1911 to resemble an Indian Tea Plantation house although got its current name because of its likeness to a Mississippi paddle boat. 

"The ground floor comprises entrance hall, kitchen leading into the dining room, downstairs sitting room/study, pantry and ground floor cloakroom with WC. 

"The first floor has a spacious sitting room stretching the length of the property, a snug/bedroom and bathroom. On the second floor, there are three bedrooms, a shower room and a laundry room. 

"The property has an easy to maintain front garden with parking for three cars and a large detached brick garage. 

"At the rear of the property, there is a south west facing private courtyard ideal for alfresco dining and entertaining."

Photos: Crofts estate agents                                      

 

Council poised to install advertisement banners and signage outside Meridian Showground

Above and below are examples of two of no fewer than 11 advertisement banners and structures that North East Lincolnshire Council is proposing to install on or near the railings outside the Meridian Centre in Cleethorpes. The hope is that this proliferation of signage will not make this part of the resort look cluttered or tacky.

Boost for Grimsby's Freshney Place shopping centre as two retailers renew their leases

                                                            

Trespass - outdoor wear specialist

TWO national retailers have renewed their leases at Freshney Place, signalling their ongoing commitment to Grimsby and local customers.

Trespass and The Perfume Shop have both secured their future position at the shopping centre as it undergoes a £50-million redevelopment scheme.

Says Freshney Place centre manager Elliot Andrews: "We are delighted that Trespass and The Perfume Shop have renewed their leases - as popular, national brands they add significant value to the centre."

Ahead of completion of the regeneration project, which is due next year, shop occupancy sats at 95 per cent.                                              

Firm trading has encouraged The Perfume Shop to renew its lease

Main contractor in appeal to local tradesmen to pitch for work on grand Pier Gardens revamp project

 

One of three new artists' impressions images released ahead of a Meet the Buyer day on March 23 

CONTRACTORS interested in pitching for work on the revamp of Pier Gardens  are being invited to attend a  Meet the Buyer event in Cleethorpes Town Hall between 11am and 3pm on March 23.

According to North East Lincolnshire Council, the event will give businesses and inviduals "a clear understanding of the work packages, materials, services and skills required for the project over the next 15 months"

Attendees will have the chance to meet the project team, discuss likely procurement needs and explore partnership opportunities.

The session will open with a short introduction from the Maylim team before attendees are invited to visit four themed stalls:

* Stall 1: About Maylim: An overview of the company, its experience delivering public realm projects, and the vision for Pier Gardens.

* Stall 2: Procurement (Local Suppliers): A breakdown of materials and service categories Maylim will be sourcing locally where possible, including general building products, aggregates, concrete, office supplies, plant, site equipment and maintenance, workwear and PPE, tools, printing, transport, accommodation and IT.

* Stall 3: Subcontractors: Information on upcoming subcontracting opportunities including bricklaying, soft maintenance, rendering, carpentry, electrical work, groundworks and paving.

* Stall 4: Work placements & careers: Guidance on skills, training routes and future opportunities across engineering, electrical work and soft landscaping.

Says a  spokesperson for the project:: "We are committed to supporting local businesses and ensuring the community benefits from this major investment in Cleethorpes. 

"This event is a chance for suppliers and trades to understand what’s coming up, ask questions directly and explore how we can work together as the project progresses."                                                         

Fun for the kiddies - artist's impression of the proposed play structures

                                                               

How the proposed water feature might look

NELC plans to increase capacity of Meridian Showground from 5,000 to 15,000

                                                                

Completed in 2009, the Meridian Showground has not yet quite fulfilled its potential

THE maximum capacity of the Meridian Showground in Cleethorpes could be increased from the present figure of 5,000 to almost 15,000.

North East Lincolnshire Council leisure chiefs think this is essential to "cater to the demands of larger-scale events and unlock its true potential".

A report states: "The site is already a key venue within our resort, playing a vital role in hosting a diverse range of events, from cultural festivals to sports event. 

"However, 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.

It has not yet been stated how any increased attendances would be accommodated, and some nearby residents might be fearful of increased traffic and parking congestion, though the authors of the report do not expect this to be an issue.

More details of the proposal are expected in the coming weeks.                                 

Kestrel's eye view of the site which is at the southern end of Cleethorpes

Electric buses unlikely to be coming to North East Lincolnshire after funding bid comes a cropper

It would take 240,000 trees to soak up the CO2 emissions from Stagecoach's 53-vehicle fleet services in North East Lincolnshire

A BID to make North East Lincolnshire an all electric bus borough has proved  unsuccessful.

The council pitched for funding to the value of £23.59-million to be put towards  the purchase of a replacement fleet for the existing 53 buses, operated by Stagecoach, plus associated infrastructure.

But to no avail.

A report on the initiative states: "Electric buses provide bus passengers with a number of benefits (in addition to the green credentials) including a smooth, quieter ride along with all the last technology for customer comfort and accessibility.   

"Stagecoach East Midlands is  the main provider of local bus services in North East Lincolnshire.

"Currently the fleet strategy involves transferring  vehicles from other areas of the Stagecoach Group. 

"It is anticipated that this policy will continue  in the medium to long term unless the council can make it more attractive to invest in newer, low emission vehicles, including electric buses.  

"For example, providing a new bus station may encourage investment in electric buses along with bus-friendly changes to transport strategy. 

"Investment in infrastructure including bus priority and parking policies (policies that discourage car use) may enable bus operators to build a strong business case for electric vehicle investment. 

"Investment is normally allocated to the strongest routes along with bus routes which benefit from supportive infrastructure measures.  

"If journey times increase due to congestion, then routes may become less commercially viable, and, in turn, this makes the business case for investment more challenging."  

The report continues: "Should electric buses be provided in North East Lincolnshire in the future, from an operational perspective it is vital they have a sufficient mileage range to ensure vehicles do not need to be changed mid service or charged halfway through a day. 

"Should this occur, it could lead to local bus services becoming unreliable, with short notice cancellations and/or services running late. 

"It would be important to work with local power providers such as Northern Powergrid to deliver a technical study in order to understand the impact of around 50 buses charging at any one time. 

"This would impact on electrical sub-tations, the electrical distribution network including electrical connections into bus depots."

Meanwhile, on the other side of the Humber, Hull is an example where Stagecoach  can demonstrate continued supportive infrastructure measures, such as bus priority lanes, which in turn has led to strong passenger levels. 

As a result, the company is in the process of  investing in  electric vehicles in the city.

Once these are in operation, Stagecoach has offered to host a visit for NELC members.

According to one estimate, converting the existing Stagecoach operations in North East Lincolnshire to zero-emission electric buses would save around 4,000,000 kg per year of CO2.

Approximately, 240,000 trees would have to grow in one year to absorb the current bus fleet emissions in the borough. 

Sunday-afternoon rainbow in Cleethorpes - but where is that pot of gold at the end of it?

                                                                           

This impressive rainbow brought colour in mid-afternoon yesterday to the sky over  the country park in Cleethorpes.                

People should stop scaremongering about 'miracle chemical', says NELC's environment porfolio holder

Cornflowers, poppies and  daisies used to be common on roadside verges and on the edges of playing fields, but now many, if not most, have fallen victim to NELC's application of Glyphosate

CONTROVERSY  has bubbled up anew over North East Lincolnshire Council's extensive use of  a poison that destroys the vegetation that provides habitat for bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects.

As well as in parks and on verges, NELC sprays Glyphosate on pavements and in road gutters in order  to eradicate any plants it deems to be 'weeds'.

But some residents fret that, as well as destroying plantlife (that, after all, is its purpose), the poison also poses a health risk to humans and their pets.

At a scrutiny panel meeting this week, the council's portfolio holder for the environment, Cllr Henry Hudson (Con, Wolds), banged the drum for continued use of the controversial chemical.

He said people had been "getting silly" about use of Glyphosate (also known as Roundup).

"There's been too much scaremongering," he declared. "Glyphosate is not dangerous - it is totally safe.

"It is a miracle chemical!"

Support for this view came from cabinet colleague, Cllr Ron Shepherd (Con, Scartho), who runs a popular market garden in Bradley, with produce sold to the public at the gate.

He revealed that, under licence, he buys a more potent version than that available in shops and garden centre.

He insisted it was invaluable in killing the wild plant, horsetail, which otherwise would grow as much as three foot in a single season.

"It is also effective against dandelions, nettles, brambles and, to a lesser exent, thistles."

However, misgivings were sounded by some panel members not just about Glyphosate but also about the adequacy of last year's consultation exercise with the public.

"The process was too complex,"claimed Cllr Kevin Shutt (Lab, Heneage).

Worries were also sounded by Cllr Kathryn Wheatley (Lab, West Marsh) who said there were parts of her ward - notably Duke of York Gardens in Grimsby - where she certainly would not wish to see poison applied,

"I don't want chemical run-off entering watercourses which are important for otters and swans," she said.

Following a debate, which was sometimes fractious, the panel voted in favour of a Glyphosate-free six-month pilot exercise in six of the borough's wards to assess both the impact and the response of the public.

Although Glyphosate will not be used, there will be nothing to prevent councillors or the public from removing weeds by hand or tool if, for instance, their growth is deemed to pose a hazard.

"What's the harm in that proposal?" commented panel chairperson Nicola Aisthorpe (Lib-Dem, East Marsh) who went on to remind colleagues: "Some weeds look quite nice".

Nowhere for wildlife - the base of trees could provide precious habitat for wildflowers and butterflies but it has been destroyed in favour of sterility in many parts of the borough including this verge on Taylors Avenue (above).

The Grimsby News says: If Glyphosate is "totally safe" why is is it a requirement for NELC operatives to wear protective clothing when applying it to open spaces? The portfolio holder is too gung-ho in his approach. There have been numerous examples, in previous years, of chemicals being deemed safe - only to be withdrawn later as their danger becomes apparent. And there is the wider question about the impact of the chemical on biodiversity - wildflowers and the bees, butterflies and birds that depend on them. Better for NELC - and for the community - to be safe than sorry.

Anxious time for Grimsby-area folk currently working or on holiday in Middle East

                                             

There are reckoned to be 300,000 UK citizens currently working or on holiday in the Gulf states (map: Wikimedia Commons)

THE flare-up in the Middle East has created worry for dozens of Grimsby-area folk currently working or on holiday in the region.

There are deadly missiles in the sky, and the situation will only get more dangerous if Iran and its allies continue to expand the conflict.

One member of Grimsby and Cleethorpes RSPB Group is on a fortnight’s birding holiday with a wildlife tour company in Oman.

There have only been reports of two drone strikes - both on Oman's commercial port of Duqm - but the UK Foreign Office is urging Britons not to go with 100km of the city of Salalah, the designated location of the last four days of the holiday.

Because airspace has been closed, many Britons wanting to fly home may have to wait longer than intended.

Meanwhile, in North East Lincolnshire  as elsewhere, consumers are waiting to ascertain the extent, if any, of the conflict on fuel prices and imported fruit, vegetables and other foodstuffs.