June 25, 2020 3.01 pm This story is over 45 months old

Plans unveiled to put “heart and soul” back into Grimsby

It comes ahead of a bid for £25m funding
An artist's impression of the new design for Grimsby Town Centre. | Image: NELC

Grimsby leaders have revealed plans to “put the heart and soul back” into town as they look to bid for £25 million of government cash.

North East Lincolnshire Council and Freshney Place is looking to revamp the western side of Victoria Street, incorporating the former BHS building, Flottergate Mall, Grimsby Top Town Market and Old Market Square.

A formal bid for some of the government’s Future High Streets Fund, which looks to “renew and reshape town centres…to improve visitor experience, drive growth and ensure sustainability,” will be submitted next month.

The plans include a new cinema, and food and beverage and retail offer – together with a redeveloped market hall and new public square.

Council leader councillor Philip Jackson said the plan was robust and had the “strongest chance of success” if it was accepted by government.

North East Lincolnshire Council leader Councillor Philip Jackson and deputy leader Councillor John Fenty. Photo: Daniel Jaines

“Change is not just desirable to recreate our town centre, it is vital and this is Grimsby’s biggest and best chance to look at what is really required to create a new future.

“We appreciate that to some people it may seem like there have been a number of plans that have not progressed.”

“This is a very important element of a wider town centre improvements that we will be consulting on in the near future,” he added.

Consultation will take place with market traders, retailers and business premises’ owners if the bid is successful, said council bosses.

Director of Freshney Place Amanda Austin said the “exciting proposals” were a “huge opportunity to reshape, revive and harmonise Grimsby town centre and Freshney Place Shopping Centre for the benefit of all our customers and retailers as well as all the residents of Grimsby and the surrounding area.”