EAST MARSH NEIGHBOURHOOD PRIORITIES - ACTION TAKEN

Priority 1: Anti Social Behaviour - Stanley Street/ Weelsby Street and Duke Street.

Residents have reported that youths are congregating in the area causing criminal damage and anti social behaviour.

This priority was set by East Marsh Involve for the fifth month. Patrols have been carried out in this area; the problem has also been discussed with local residents together with landlords who have responsibility for premises which has attracted anti social behaviour. Two families have been referred to Support Agencies and support has commenced. The activities undertaken have already resulted in fewer problems. Patrols will continue to focus on the area to maintain this improvement.

This month there have been no calls for service!

Priority 2: Castle Street/ Harold Street - Anti Social Behaviour and Criminal Damage.

This priority was set by East Marsh Involve for the third month. Patrols have been deployed to this area to try and identify youths or families that are causing anti social behaviour and criminal damage.

The activities undertaken have already resulted in fewer problems. Patrols will continue to focus on the area to maintain this improvement.

Priority 3:Guildford Street- Arson

This priority has been raised by East Marsh Involve after having some large fires down the street in the empty properties. Patrols will continue in the area and checks are to be made on the properties together with Shoreline to make sure that they are secure. This is aimed at reducing the risk of arson attacks. There is a reduction in fly tipping in the area but arson still remains a risk.

The Local Authority is exploring options of CCTV to cover Guildford Street, Grimsby.

Priority 4: Parking Issues- Oxford Street, Grimsby

This has been raised by East Marsh Involve for the second month.

Oxford Street is a major carriageway which is heavily used by local traffic meaning that parking issues impact on road safety when cars are parking on double yellows. Cars are also parking on the footpaths which can result in people not been able to walk on the footpaths and having to go onto the road.

Patrols have been deployed in the area and tickets have been issued to divers committing parking offences. Road safety advice has been given to motorists and pedestrians.

Also a letter drop has been carried out on Oxford Street and local businesses have been warned and given a poster to display for customers.

“COUNTDOWN TO A NEW START”; AND A “FRESH START FOR THE EAST MARSH”

The Grimsby Evening Telegraph are reporting today, that the “Countdown to A New Start” for the East Marsh as now commenced; it is a positive step forward which will result in the demolition of one hundred houses on Guildford Street.

The remaining houses will be radically revamped, and it is hoped that as soon as the Guildford Street site is cleared new low density housing will be built which will radically transform the area; giving a “Fresh Start to the “East Marsh”. It is a one in life-time opportunity, in these difficult time and we need to make the best of the situation.

As reported in the Grimsby Evening Telegraph and on this website, the residents have been consulted on number proposals for the Guildford Street area, which would include a new street layout, home zone, and new low density housing to replace the existing housing; along with plans to revamp the housing that will not be part of the demolition.

The latest move in the development has been met with joy from councillors and the East Marsh Community Group, which wants to see new “aspirational” housing on the site.

Councillor Tony McCabe (Liberal Democrat, East Marsh) said the work is likely to begin in March, with work crews dismantling house interiors on half the closed off area.

He said: “We identified with the public just how far things had gone in terms of dereliction and boarded up properties and decided something practical needed doing. We got external funding from the Homes and Communities Agency, and we added money to that – which totalled £7.9 million. We used this to buy up the properties, and to cover the costs of people moving to new accommodation.”

Councillor Steve Beasant (Liberal Democrat, East Marsh) said: “It’s absolutely fantastic that we have moved a step closer to the demolition of Guildford Street.

“We are over the moon”

He said it would eliminate anti-social behaviour in the area. As reported, the boarded up homes had been a target of arsonist in recent months, which had been a cause of concern.

He added the next step would be the development of the site, full details of which have not yet been revealed.

“It’s a great opportunity to see what can then be developed on that area,” he added.

“This will be determined by what residents want to see put into place.

“But it will based on low density housing, aspirational housing – and build up people’s life chances – rather than a mish mash.”

John Harrison, Chair of East Marsh Involve said: “Everybody I have spoken to has seen the demolition as a way forward. It’s a start of a wider development of the East Marsh, which is definitely overdue.

“I have lived here since 1979, and back then it was quiet nice, respectable street, made up of families from the fishing industry.

“In the last in the last twenty years it has been in decline – although this will see the area climb back.

“I would like to see good affordable housing here; be it for the first-time buyer or the elderly.”

Alan Burley is the community development worker in the East Marsh. He said: “At the beginning of the process the residents didn’t trust anyone. They had heard it all before, and been consulted before, and had lost faith.

“Now residents are seeing things happen, they are happy to be part of the process.”

RESIDENTS HAVE HAD THEIR SAY; DURING THE ‘BIG CONVERSATION’ ON THE DEVELOPMENT BRIEF FOR GUILDFORD STREET

Residents were to today given the chance to shape of a multi-million pound regeneration of an area of Grimsby’s East Marsh; a consultation event was held at the Grimsby Neighbourhood Centre as part of the Community Engagement Week.

Local residents were asked to express their views on three options which have now been put forward for the future of Guildford Street.

As reported, 100 homes will be demolished as part of the £7.9-million revamp of one of Grimsby’s most deprived areas.

The redevelopment of Guildford Street is part of a 10-year plan to regenerate the area.

Members of North East Lincolnshire Council’s cabinet have now supported a draft development plan for the council-owned site, listing the three options.

Councillor Geoff Lowis, portfolio holder for regeneration and strategic housing, said: “We want our residents to be involved throughout each stage of the Guildford Street development and we are pleased that they have been giving feedback on this latest phase.”

All three options for Guildford Street propose demolition of 100 homes to be replaced with between 70 to 80 new ones.

Option One: Maintains the existing alignment of the street and includes a pedestrian access from Castle Street and amenity areas.

Option Two: Would see four and a half blocks of houses divided by pedestrian zones.

Option Three: Is similar and provides space to expand the SureStart community facility on the western side of Guildford Street.

Councillor Steve Beasant. (East Marsh Ward) who attended the event, said: “It is great that we are moving forward with this project; early in the New Year things should really begin to develop. However, there is still a long way to go, but hopefully in a few years time this area will be radically transformed.”

GUILDFORD STREET DEVELOPMENT BRIEF IS THE BEGINNING OF A FRESH START FOR THE EAST MARSH

A draft Development Brief has been prepared that considers the potential to redevelop the section of Guildford Street between Wellington Street and Cope Street. Following this consultation exercise, the Council intends to adopt the Brief as a Supplementary Planning Document that will form part of the North East Lincolnshire Local Development Framework. The Adopted Brief will then provide a basis for assessing future planning applications for the Guildford Street site. The Brief will not provide a prescriptive solution for the site’s redevelopment; it will set out a series of design principles which should be followed when more detailed proposals are being prepared.

This consultation invites comments on the content of the draft Brief. The preparation of the draft Brief has been informed by consultation, but the design principles and potential options have not been subject to public ocnsultation previously. This is your opportunity to shape the future development of the site by commenting on the draft Brief.

Consultation
Copies of the draft Brief are available for inspection at the following locations, during their normal opening hours:

• The Customer Access Reception, Civic Offices, Knoll Street, Cleethorpes
• The Customer Access Reception, Municipal Offices, Town Hall Square, Grimsby
• Grant Thorold Library, Durban Road, Grimsby
• Renaissance Shop, 33 Victoria Street, Grimsby

The Council will be holding a drop-in event where you can come along and see the draft Brief

The event will take place at:

The Grimsby Neighbourhood Centre, Weelsby Street, Grimsby on Thursday 10th December 2009 from 12 Noon to 7pm

The draft Brief can also be downloaded by clicking on the following link: Guildford Street Draft Development Brief (5820KB PDF file) (You will need Adobe Acrobat Viewer to view this document; this can be downloaded from the Downloads page.) You can also comment on the document via the online Consultation Portal. To find out more about the Consultation Portal click on the following link: Getting Involved To go directly to the Consultation Portal click on the following link:

Online Consultation Portal

Comments can also be sent to:

Donna Riley, Project Manager, Fresh Start East Marsh, St James House, St James Square, Grimsby, DN31 1EP, or via email to donna.riley@nelincs.gov.uk

All comments should be received by the Council by 5pm on Monday 18th January 2010.

EAST MARSH MUM’S MISSION IS TO SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT EMPLOYABILITY

Lisa Cox is the employability champion for the East Marsh.

The 34-year-old mother of two has been given the task of spreading the word about training and job opportunities to fellow parents at the East Marsh Children’s Centre.

Her main role will be to refer unemployed parents to the North East Lincolnshire Care Trust Plus (CTP) Employability Scheme, which offers work placements for up to 26 weeks.

The role of employability champion is the result of a new partnership between the East Marsh Children’s Centre and the CTP.

The partnership was forged during a meeting of the ward’s Worklessness Collaborative – a group of organisations and individuals aiming to improve employability within the area.

Lisa said: “I speak to parents and ask them if they want to get back into work, and if so I refer them to the CTP.

“A lot of people have been out of work for such a long time that they have got stuck in a rut. They have low self-esteem and are unsure about getting back into work.

“But I have referred four people already and one has got a job. I’ve really enjoyed it.”

Lisa is hoping to use her experience in her new role as a springboard to a career as a care worker.

She is currently taking her maths and English GCSEs at the children’s centre. The centre offers a range of learning opportunities, from courses such as aromatherapy and cooking, to GCSE maths and English and computer skills.

Another part of Lisa’s role will be to make parents aware of these opportunities.

Lisa Gregory, the co-ordinator of the East Marsh Children’s centre, said: “We have approached parents at the centre who have shown an interest in getting some education or getting back into work.

“What Lisa has really picked up on since she started her role is that there is already a lot of help and information out there – we just need to make people aware of it.”

For more information, call into the East Marsh Children’s Centre on Victor Street, Grimsby, or call (01472) 326860.

WHERE ARE YOUR KIDS TONIGHT? KEEP THEM SAFE, AND OUT OF TROUBLE

On June 4, this year Humberside Fire and Rescue Service wrote an article for this website, titled: ‘Where are Your Kids Tonight?’

The article had the desired outcome, because arson attacks in the Guildford Street area decreased dramatically; unfortunately there was an unfortunate incidence last Friday night which engulfed five derelict properties. The consequences could have been tragic, if anyone had been living next door.

It is important that you know where your children are playing tonight, tomorrow, and everyday. Guildford Street is not area for young people and children to be playing – it will soon be a demolition site.

Please take time to read the article below which was written by Humberside Fire Service on June 4, and look at the photograph to see the damage caused to the properties concerned.

In the past weeks (late May) there has been a massive increase in the number of fire calls to properties in and around the East Marsh area, which not only pose a danger to local residents and attending fire crews, but also to the perpetrators of this anti – social behaviour. Humberside Fire & Rescue Service are working with agencies throughout North East Lincolnshire in an effort to reduce the number of calls to arson attacks on derelict properties within East Marsh by engaging with youth groups, youth offending teams, police, Shoreline Housing and local ward councillors to reduce this anti social behaviour.

We need to do this before somebody is killed in an arson attack.

This area is without doubt one of the worse areas in the town.

The question I am asking you is:

Where are your kids tonight?

Are they out playing with matches and lighters? Having a laugh with their mates?

The question we need to ask is when does having a laugh with your mates become anti-social behaviour?

When your children arrive home in the evening do they smell of petrol, or do they have scorch marks on their clothes, do they smell of smoke? These are tell tale signs that you can spot. You can help us to bring down these figures and help make your community safer for all.

Your local fire station is on call 24 hours a day 365 days a year, they are ready to respond to any emergency call, and will arrive within minutes ready to put their lives in danger to save others. You can save a life quite easily by being aware of what your children are doing, and putting a stop to this.

You can contact us confidentially by calling or texting 07940 737141 and leaving us information relating to deliberately lit fires in your area.

LATEST CRIME FIGURES FOR THE EAST MARSH WARD SHOW MASSIVE REDUCTION IN REPORTED CRIME

The latest reported crime figures for the East Marsh Ward where released today by Humberside Police, and were posted on their website. The figures show that the average number of crimes in the ward has decreased (note: the figure are taken over a 3 month period and compared with the same 3 months last year).

It is worth noting that the figures over the last year have consistently improved, but this month they have showed a massive improvement on the previous period – this show that our partnership working is beginning to pay dividends. Well done everyone!

• Overall level of crime in the ward has decreased by 22.2% (Over the last 12 months)
• Burglary has decreased by 7.6%
• Robbery has decreased by 16.7%
• Vehicle crime has decreased by 20%
• Violence has decreased by 6%
• Anti-social behaviour has decreased by 22.2%

To view latest crime statistics for the North East Lincolnshire area >>>>CLICK HERE (as well as finding details of overall crime you can find crime level per ward, i.e.: East Marsh, Heneage, Yarborough, Croft Baker, etc.)

EAST MARSH INVOLVE WILL RECEIVE AN UPDATE ON THE OLD GRIMSBY TECHNICAL SCHOOL AT ITS MEETING THIS TUESDAY

Tomorrow night (Tuesday, 25 August), is the next meeting of East Marsh Involve; the meeting will take place at the Grimsby Neighbourhood Centre at the corner of Weelsby Street and Wellington Street, and will start at 6pm – all residents will be welcome to attend.

One of the issues that I will be reporting back on is the large derelict building which is situated on Eleanor Street; the old Grimsby Technical School and latterly the Art College.

I have since found out a little more about the building; it was originally granted a grade II listing by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport in 1995. Originally the young people of East Marsh Involve raised concerns about the poor condition of the building which has been empty since the mid 1990s, but it is rapidly deteriorating.

The school was designed by HC Scaping, and it was built by Hewins and Goodhand a well known local builder in 1894. Below the central bay window is a marble foundation plaque for the First Higher Grade School, dated 29 October 1894. To the left is a finely-inscribed C20 slate plaque by Philip Pape of Barton on Humber, a former Art College teacher, recording burials of former members. Above the window there is a 1894 marble plaque in carved ashlar surround naming the building as the Wintringham Higher Grade School, recording the School Board Members, architect and builders. At some point later it obviously became known as the Grimsby Technical School and then the Art College – unfortunately it is left abandon.

Last Friday, Compass FM asked me if I would take part in an interview about the building, which I gladly obliged.

I was able to tell them: “That in many respects if this building had been in a prime
location, it would never have been left to rot and decay – it is shame that someone has been allowed to get away with this, but that is history. If the old school had been in London; it would have been turned into flats before now, and they would be fully occupied.

“However, we are we are with this building, but the good thing is that we are moving on. Some months back young people and children; unbeknown to ourselves were getting into the old school, and placing themselves in danger. But we have now made this building safe – we have made sure that no one can gain access and it is patrolled regularly.

“We now hope sooner rather than later; that the old school will change ownership and this will help with the regeneration of this area. Many individuals have been working on this complex issue of building and land ownership and it is now coming to a conclusion – I would naturally like to thank them all.”

THE CURTAIN IS READY TO RISE AT FREEMAN STREET’S ICONIC CINEMA

A cinema that closed in the heart of Freeman Street in November, 2004 is nearly ready to raise the curtains for a new beginning.

New owners at the former Odeon site hope to call lights, camera, action on Friday, and are already advertising their first four films in the Grimsby Telegraph.

The three-screen, 700-seat theatre, which has been unused for nearly five years, will re-open under its original name, The Regal, with a touch of cinemagic from the latest Harry Potter film injecting some fresh hope for the future of what was once Grimsby’s busiest shopping street.

North East Lincolnshire Council has granted Shropshire-based businessman Trevor Harris, 70, and his son Anthony, 42, a licence to thrill movie-goers.

It follows much speculation about the site, which first opened as a cinema in 1937.

Mr Harris said: “We’ve been working behind the scenes for weeks. The building has been extensively refurbished and renovated.

“Both my son and I have been involved in the cinema industry for a long time.

“The ticket prices have been set low at £4 for under 12s and £5 for over 12s, on purpose and we are also going to be selling our sweets at very reasonable prices.“

Unlike many empty cinemas, it was fully equipped, and the work we had to do was simply finishing touches.

And Mr Harris hopes that the new cinema will make a difference to the area, which has suffered in the last two decades, since the loss of High Street chains such as Marks and Spencer and Woolworths.“I certainly think that it will help the area,” he said.

“A cinema is a good focal point and can certainly help to bring people into the area.”

And he is hoping that investment to improve security at the council-run Garibaldi Street car park behind the cinema will help to make it a successful venture.

NELC has installed two CCTV cameras in the public car park, which also benefits from a security attendant.

Mr Harris said: “I’m looking into the parking situation. I understand that this was a problem and I am in touch with the council.“

I want to make sure that our customers can be confident that their vehicle will be safe while they are in the cinema.”

Duncan Willey, a partner at PPH Commercial the agents who are dealing with the site, said: “We are very close to closing a deal on the lease. The cinema will then be able to open as soon as that is complete.”

The 700-seat capacity cinema was formerly called The Regal.

It first opened in 1937 with 1,966-seats, and was renamed the ABC in 1961.

The former stalls were then converted into a supermarket, with the cinema occupying the original balcony area.

By 1980, there were three screens, with 300 seats in Screen One, 225 in Screen Two and 125 in Screen Three, and it went through a number of operators following that, including Cannon, Classic, and MGM, and was then known again as ABC, before becoming an Odeon in 2001, following a £100,000 re-branding scheme.

TWO VICTORIES IN ONE DAY; I MUST BE ON A ROLE!

Following on from my previous post regarding “A New Library for the East Marsh”; this was not my only success at today’s Planning Committee. Unusually, I was able to claim a second success and this time I was able to persuade the committee to overturn an officer’s recommendation, and that is something that doesn’t happen too often.

The application was for modest housing development – of just 8 houses. But, in many ways it was crucial and very important development for the East Marsh. At present the site “Horseman Motors” (pictured) has fallen into disrepair, and is magnate for anti-social behaviour, fly-tipping and is in desperate need of regeneration.

Therefore, as a local councillor I was absolutely “over the moon” when I heard about this potential development, and naturally I thought it would go through on the nod. However, as usual it wasn’t to be, and I had to fight all the way; by taking to committee and arguing my case.

This is naturally great news for the East Marsh and the local residents who live close-by. And, can I personally thank the developers and wish them well with their future plans for the new development.

A NEW LIBRARY FOR THE EAST MARSH

Some time back North East Lincolnshire Council unveiled plans for a new Grant Thorold Branch Library and the plans were originally discussed at the Planning Committee on April 8; however elected member rejected the council’s proposals.

New amended plans were recently submitted by our local council for this much needed facility; which will be in the heart of the East Marsh Ward; as well as serving the needs of the East Marsh many residents from the adjoining wards use the facility.

On Wednesday, as a new member of the Planning Committee I was able to attend the meeting and use my vote wisely – I am pleased to say the plans were approved overwhelmingly.

In the Design and Access statement our council stated that “Grant Thorold Library is the third busiest in the borough. It has annual visits of 79,000 a year, and over the last 5 years has seen an increase of 56% in visits, the highest of all libraries. It serves an area of high deprivation with low literacy and low educational attainment and high levels of anti social behaviour. The library has been successful in engaging the community in activities related to literacy, numeracy, health, informal learning, and digital skills. It has become a popular venue for partners such as health trainers, study support, adult community learning, connexions, and the police. The library has been particularly successful in providing diversionary activities for young people to support reductions in anti social behaviour.

The proposed library has been designed to fit in with the existing park environment and to tackle the issues of anti social behaviour. The green walls, fronting Durban Road and Humberstone Road, are designed to reflect the hedge that will be removed as part of this proposal. There are sufficient differences to ensure the building is noticed and noted, but not too stark a contrast that the building will stand out as a structure that should not be there… There is a mural wall within the design that will be managed and looked after by library services. Evidence shows that by involving young people in the design and implementation of a mural, changing each season that they will come to take pride in the building and help to maintain its appearance.”

At Wednesday’s meeting, I was pleased to move approval of the officer’s recommendation, and said: “This is a much needed facility, a community facility that is in the heart of a deprived community were educational attainment is low. We need to raise the aspirations of our young people and the staff and the Library work hard with young people of the area; they help to motivate the young people, build up their confidence, and assist them in their learning.

“I am sure that this building will become a community hub for all residents - not just young. It will also benefit the wider area; I am naturally speaking up for the East Marsh, but the Library is well used by the residents of the Heneage and the Sidney Sussex Wards. I hope all members will support the recommendations.”

To view the plans in full

>>>>>>CLICK HERE

FOUR HOUSES DAMAGED BY FIRE ON THE EAST MARSH – WHERE ARE YOUR KIDS TONIGHT?

FOUR houses were damaged by fire in a suspected arson attack in Grimsby's Guildford Street.

The blaze, which tore through the unoccupied properties on Saturday evening, has prompted fire chiefs to warn about the dangers of entering vacant buildings.

Humberside Fire and Rescue watch manager Stuart Axcell believes the fire may have been started by youths who had entered one of the homes – prising their way in through boarded-up doors and windows.

He said: "It is only a matter of time before somebody is hurt. "I believe there has been a number of fires in unoccupied properties on this street and the message from us is clear, people shouldn't be entering them."

Four crews from Grimsby's Peaks Lane and Cromwell Road fire stations extinguished the blaze and used a hydraulic platform. Residents reported seeing smoke pouring through the roof of the four properties for more than an hour.

One homeowner, who was too afraid to be named in case her property is targeted, said: "The house where the fire started is empty now, but it was set on fire last year when there were people living in it.

"I've never seen so much smoke in my life. It was coming out of the roof and you couldn't see down the road."One of the window boards blew off one house and the firemen had to kick in a door to put it out."

The fire gutted one property, while the other three were damaged by smoke and heat. Watch manager Neil Knight confirmed the fire had started on the first floor of one of the properties. He said: "I came to a fire at one of the houses last year and two dogs died from smoke inhalation.

"We would discourage anybody from entering empty properties because they are in a state of disrepair. "As reported, a consultation is being carried out into the possible demolition of properties on Guildford Street for the redevelopment of the area.

Following a number of fires in the street – the last on May 18 – Humberside Fire and Rescue Service has been fitting smoke alarms to the homes that are still occupied.

Anybody with any information about the fires on Guildford Street should call Humberside Police on 0845 6060222 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

More information on smoke alarms can be found at www.fireservice.co.uk/safety/smokealarms.php

If you are a resident and would like a home fire safety check, call (01472) 372500

YOUR INVITED TO TOMORROW NIGHTS MEETING OF EAST MARSH INVOLVE; AND IF YOUR FRIGHTENED OF MISSING BRITAIN’S GOT TALENT – I GUARANTEE YOU’LL BE HOME ON

Tomorrow night is the next meeting of East Marsh Involve, and don’t worry if you want to be home for Britain’s Got Talent – I am pleased to say the meeting will be finished before 8pm.

The meeting will be held as usual at the Grimsby Neighbourhood Centre, which is on the corner of Wellington Street and Weelsby Street, and will start at 6pm.

Don’t forget it’s your chance to spend £20,000 of North East Lincolnshire Council’s money. Yes, you can spend it on what you want providing it improves East Marsh Area – in other words you cannot spend it on “booze” or “home improvement”.

Each year East Marsh Ward Councillors devolve their £20,000 of Ward Councillor’s Funding to you the local residents, they are the only local councillors within the whole of North East Lincolnshire to adopt this practice. The ward councillors believe the practice helps to: “inspire communities”; “empower communities”, and “assist community cohesion”.

The meeting as usual is open to all members of the East Marsh Community and the aim of this community meeting is to discuss community issues; with the purpose of overcoming ongoing problems, improve service and report regularly on all issues raised at previous meetings.

This month there is no guest speaker; however it is usual to have a speaker present. Prior to this meeting there will be an event held at Grimsby Neighbourhood Centre to promote European Neighbours Day, and it is hoped that members of the community will attend this event prior to the East Marsh Involve meeting.

AGENDA FOR EAST MARSH INVOLVE – Tuesday 26 May:

• Councillor’s Ward Funding
• Other Funding Requests
• East Marsh Environmental Improvements
• East Marsh Priority Setting (Crime Issues)
• Community Engagement Week
• Neighbourhood Development Worker’s Update
• Any Other Business

Please be aware that all local residents are eligible to attend this meeting, and have their say about local services - it’s your chance to be listened too.

TIME IS RUNNING OUT FOR GRIMSBY’S FAMOUS ICE HOUSE – CAN IT BE SAVED?

One of Grimsby’s most famous landmarks is at risk of collapse according to yesterday’s edition of the Grimsby Evening Telegraph – it is part of our fishing heritage. The Ice House is situated on the Grimsby Docks, and is also within the East Marsh Ward; and is seen by thousands of tourists who visit the area every as it is on the main road to Cleethorpes sea front.

The Ice House was the lifeline of Grimsby’s Docks, producing thousands of tonnes of ice per day; however the former Grimsby Exchange Ice Factory is now just a shell according to the Telegraph.
Since its closure on August 3, 1990, many have dreamt of redeveloping the iconic factory.

But for the past 19 years nothing has changed. Now the Grimsby, Cleethorpes and District Civic Society is taking up the issue, saying the issue has gone on too long.

As reported, in October last year the Grade II* listed building was placed on English Heritage’s At Risk register – the list of the UK’s most endangered sites, which features everything from battlefields to monuments to shipwrecks.

In their report, the conservationist specialists said the factory was at “immediate risk of further rapid deterioration”.

However, it is not the building English Heritage is keen to save, but what lies behind its deteriorating walls.

Inside – exposed to the elements – stands the last surviving examples of early 20th Century ice factory machinery.

Giles Proctor, English Heritage’s Team Leader and Historic Buildings Architect for South and East Yorkshire and Northern Lincolnshire, said: “The building was listed as Grade II* – which means that it is considered to be amongst the top six per cent of listed buildings in the country – principally because of the rarity of its ice-making machinery, combined with the decorative exterior.

“Our ambition is that the building should be repaired and converted to a sustainable new use – it is likely that such a use will involve the removal of some of the machinery, but given the importance of the machinery to the building’s special interest, we will seek to ensure that sufficient of the machinery is retained in situ, to aid understanding of the original purpose of the building.

“Given the considerable size of the building and that the triangular north block has been completely gutted at some time in the past, it should be possible to accommodate new uses and a significant portion of the machinery.”

So where does this leave the Ice Factory?

While many developers – including North East Lincolnshire Council – have spoken of regenerating the site, two things have always stood in their way.

Firstly, English Heritage’s decision to not allow the ice machines to be removed, and secondly, the factory sits on private land, owned by Associated British Ports (ABP).

But now the Grimsby, Cleethorpes and District Civic Society is trying to bring all of the interested parties together to see what can be done.

Chairman of the society, Paul Genney, said he hoped a consensus on the future of the factory could be found, whether that meant retaining it or knocking it down.

He said: “Somebody has got to make a decision, it has gone on for too long, it really has.”

Mr Genney has invited both English Heritage and ABP to the meeting, along with Tony Hunter, chief executive of North East Lincolnshire Council; Coun Andrew De Freitas, leader of NELC, and MPs Austin Mitchell and Shona McIsaac.

“Depending on the outcome of the meeting we (the Civic Society) would be prepared to have it de-listed,” he added.

Life was momentarily breathed back into the factory in 2006 when English film-maker Joe Wright transformed the building into a dilapidated church from 1940s war-torn France for his film Atonement.

Starring Keira Knightley and James McAvoy, the film featured other dock locations Gorton Street and Parker Street.

A public meeting will take place in the Grimsby Town Hall Assembly Room at 7.30pm on Thursday, September 24.

RIDE YOUR WAY TO HEALTHIER LIFE

A NORTH East Lincolnshire Councillor has caused a stir by whizzing around the area on an environmentally friendly bicycle – now he is urging more members of the public to follow suit.

Councillor Steve Beasant (Liberal Democrat, East Marsh) has been inundated with people commenting on his flashy new bike – which he uses to get from one important meeting to the other.

He believes that if more people follow his example by getting out their bicycle instead of their car, North East Lincolnshire would be a much safer and cleaner place.

It all started when he developed epilepsy in 1988, and was told he would have to give up driving and find an alternative method of transport.

He said: “Following a diagnosis of epilepsy; you have to be seizure free for one year before you are able to apply for a driving licence back.

“It has now been well over 18 months since I had my last seizure but no letter has gone off to the DVLA and why should it?

“There is no need when I have two wheels, and cycling is much more convenient than people think, not forgetting that Grimsby is only a small town and you can get from A to B within minutes on a bicycle.”

When his old bike started to look a bit outdated, Coun Beasant went for a newer model, purchasing a Dahon Curve foldaway bike from JC Cooks, in Pasture Street, for £300.

He said: “From that moment onwards I knew my life was going to change as all of a sudden I was being noticed.

“People were shouting out about my “cool” bike, and of course there were points and laughs too.
“It’s a great marketing ploy as everyone knows it’s Coun Beasant coming around the corner, and of course I can really whiz around the ward.

“I think we need to get local people back walking, cycling and using public transport and our borough will be a much safer place for children, young people, the elderly and other vulnerable groups – we need to reduce road accidents.

“It must be remembered that cycling is good for your health and wellbeing and you save money in the long run. It is also enjoyable.”

Photograph reproduced with permission of Grimsby Evening Telegraph

EAST MARSH INVOLVE – APRIL MEETING

The April Meeting of East Marsh Involve will be held tomorrow night, which is the last Tuesday of the month (as usual), April 28 and will be held at the Grimsby Neighbourhood Centre and will start at 6 pm.

The meeting as usual is open to all members of the East Marsh Community and the aim of this community meeting is to discuss community issues; with the purpose of overcoming ongoing problems, improve service and report regularly on all issues raised at previous meetings.

Guest speaker: Marcus Czarnecki will be present at this meeting to talk about the newly launched Community Payback Scheme.

AGENDA FOR EAST MARSH INVOLVE:

Councillors Ward Funding

Other Funding Requests

Neighbourhood Crime and Justice Co-ordinator Marcus Czarnecki

Priority Action Team Meeting

Ward Councillor’s Update

Neighbourhood Development Worker’s Update

Any Other Business

NEW ONLINE POLL – WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE A NEW LIBRARY BUILT IN GRANT THOROLD PARK?

Today, I am launching a online poll: you have a simple choice. Would you like to see a new Library built in Grant Thorold Park?

All three East Marsh Ward Councillors have campaigned for a new Library for the East Marsh Ward – the present Library is in urgent need of replacement – it is presently subsiding.

North East Lincolnshire Council is committed to rebuilding a new Library, but members of the Planning Committee voted against the Planning Officer’s recommendation, which appears a little unusual.

The present Library is well used by children, young people, adults, and the elderly – it is one of the most popular Community libraries in the whole of the Borough. Some residents have argued that the new Library would create anti-social behaviour; however many young people presently use the Library as a safe haven and a meeting place – they just meet to have a chat. What is wrong with that, they respect the building and we are sure that they will respect the new building.

The computers are well used, and they are a vital facility for the local residents; in particular local children who often do not have access to a home PC.

If you would like to view the proposed plans for the new and the reasons why the Councillors turned it down

>>>>CLICK HERE

Don’t forget to make sure you vote in this online poll; this poll will close on April 21, 2009.

Tonight’s Grimsby Evening Telegraph leads with a story on page four that North East Lincolnshire Council Planning Committee rejected the application from the council’s own library services – the committee voted eight to three against the proposals for the futuristic building. On this occasion elected members overturned the recommendations of the Planning Officers who believed that the proposals were perfectly acceptable.

Agents NELC architectural Consultancy, had hoped the state-of-the-art project on Durban Road would replace the current library facilities – which have been earmarked for demolition and were described as “out-of-date”.

Unfortunately, 16 residents who live opposite the proposed development had signed a petition objecting to the plans – which included nine parking spaces – saying they were concerned about the impact on their lives, access and potential anti-social behaviour.

In the days before the Planning Committee I worked closely with fellow ward Councillor; Jon-Paul Howarth with the aim of making sure the application was approved. Unfortunately, I was unable to speak at the meeting; therefore Jon-Paul spoke on behalf of all three East Marsh Ward Councillors, he said: the library would be monitored by CCTV.

He also said the building had green credentials thanks to its planned “living wall” which would have a hedge growing in it.

He said: “It is long overdue and the building is aspirational.”

In the last few hours I have heard from many residents that they are concerned that the Library may not built - they want action NOW!

They have called a meeting of local residents at Grant Thorold Library on Tuesday, 14 April at 12 noon; the local media have been invited along with local Councillors, East Marsh Action Group, Friends of Grant Thorold Park and members of East Marsh Involve.

If you want to make sure that Grant Thorold Library is re-built don’t forget to be in the park next Tuesday, 14 April.

At the North East Lincolnshire Council’s Community Consultation Event residents were asked whether they were in favour of 100 Guildford Street homes being razed to the ground as part of a proposed £7.9-million redevelopment.

Scores of East Marsh homeowners attended a consultation meeting at the Grimsby Neighbourhood Centre on Tuesday afternoon – just before the East Marsh Involve.

Local residents were shown a number of altenatives of how the street layout could be improved, suggestions included: demolition of 100 houses and building a new meandering road; creating open spaces; introducing pedestrianised areas and create thoroughfares to neighbouring Victor and Weelsby Streets.

As reported, North East Lincolnshire Council is in the process of purchasing the 100 run-down properties in the street – and residents are now being consulted on how the area should be redeveloped.

Mike Haynes, NELC’s interim program manager for the redevelopment, said: “We want to find out from the community how they think the street should be changed.

“We have come up with some suggestions of our own based upon the whole or partial demolition of the existing properties, and we hope these will stimulate some interesting views.”

John Harrison (59) lives in the area of Guildford Street where homes will be given improvement grants.

He said: “Our end of the street is pedestrianised already and it causes no end of problems with anti-social behaviour.

“To start with, I thought the only option was to knock all the other homes down, but after hearing some of the council’s ideas I think the regeneration may be a good thing.“

East Marsh Councillors hope the Guildford Street Conultation will inspire residents to provide the council with their vision for the street.

Councillor Jon-Paul Howarth said: “There are some exciting proposals already and this is just a start of the consultation.

“Once the community starts getting a feel for the project, I hope it will inspire them to say how we can make a change in the right direction.”

Councillor Steve Beasant added: ”I’ve always said that two thirds of the housing should be knocked down and the rest should remain – it needs a new lease of life!

“But the whole point of the consultation is that we have to listen to what residents want and find a solution.

“I like what I have seen so far, but I don’t think the right solution is yet on the drawing board. I have confidence in the local residents to come forward with an attractive and inspirational plan.”

The results of the initial consultation will be used to formulate a draft redevelopment brief.
FIND OUT MORE: Contact the redevelopment team on 0845 8492000.

£193 MILLION STATE OF THE ART LIBRARY PLANNED FOR BIRMINGHAM; AND NORTH EAST LINCOLNSHIRE COUNCIL PLANS A NEW COMMUNITY LIBRARY FOR THE EAST MARSH

I have read last week that plans have been unveiled for Britain’s biggest ever public library in Birmingham – this is the clearest sign yet of a national renaissance in the construction of grand civic libraries.

The £193m Library of Birmingham will tower over Centenary Square in the heart of the city with capacity to accommodate more than three million visitors a year, according to the city council, which is backing the project with £159m in public funds. Only the British Library, which operates by appointment only and does not lend, will be larger.

I am also pleased to say that

North East Lincolnshire Council have unveiled plans for their new Grant Thorold Branch Library which will be in the heart of the East Marsh Ward; as well as serving the needs of the East Marsh many residents from the adjoining wards use the facility.

It is a much needed facility, and will go before the full Planning Committee this Wednesday, April 8. It is an exciting new venture incorporating a new meeting and a study support room for use by the local community; even though the project is running behind schedule it is expected that the construction will be completed early next year.

The Library may not be as grand as the proposed the new Birmingham Library; however it will meet the needs of the local community – it will be single storey. And, the elevation to the road and car park will be a green wall - planted cladding system. The elevation on to the park will be mostly glazed, protected by a light tough mesh system to allow view out but to also protect the glazing from damage.

To view the plans for the new Grant Thorold Library click

>>>>>HERE