Council pledges to work with property's owners to secure 'bright future' for 4.4-acre site of former YMCA

                                                                                            

Likely to be demolished - the former YMCA building off Peaks Lane

DEMOLITION is on the cards for the long-empty  former YMCA building off Peaks Lane in Grimsby.

The building has been empty since the YMCAs moved to Freeman Street in 202.

The 4.4-acre site was subsequently bought but an  unidentified  property developer - thought to be Durham-based - for an undisclosed sum.

The Home Office is thought to have considered acquiring the site as accommodation for asylum-seekers, but it did not pursue its interest. 

There was also a proposal for its conversion to an 80-bedroom care home. 

In recent times, there has been increasing vandalism and arson attacks to the main concrete-constructed block, the  sports hall and a WC block.

In the wake of safety concerns, North East Lincolnshire Council has become involved, resulting in 24-hour security and new fencing.

Meanwhile,  a structural engineer’s report states: "In the professional opinion of the engineer, the safest and most appropriate course is controlled demolition of the entire building complex."

In an update today, the council says: "We have followed the legal process as quickly as possible, with the owner taking responsibility – organising for increased security as they take the necessary action and surveys to ensure safe demolition.

"This includes round-the-clock manned security and the new fencing. 

"Humberside police has also been informed, and trespassers are being warned of action if they seek to enter the buildings.

"Once demolition and clearance are complete, it is hoped a bright new future can be found for the site and again the council will support the owner  to progress suitable options.

NELC's portfolio for safer and stronger communities, Cllr James Sawkins, comments: "It is clear this building has been a target for all kinds of anti-social behaviour, and this has been a real concern for people and organisations nearby, for the emergency services and for the council. 

"I am pleased to say the owner is fully on board with what needs to be done to prevent the risk of a really serious incident here.

"We can now move forward and, of course, will support the owner in any way we are able to look for a bright future for this site."

What future the many  other derelict buildings in and around Grimsby?

Council leader Cllr Oliver Freeston, responds: "This is just one of many buildings we are looking into.

"We want owners to be held responsible for their upkeep, but w will also seek to work with them to identify issues and explore solutions."

Nature, including several butterflies species, has found a home in the overgrown grounds