Major step forward for Grimsby cinema and leisure complicate plan

Grimsby town centre’s transformation has taken a major step forward with the appointment of the team to rule the project.

The £17.3 million Future High Streets-funded work will see a cinema and leisure space produced, with new market at the chief.

Queensbury, a nationally-recognised regeneration specialist has been brought on board to deliver.

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It will co-ordinate the whole project, from progressing planning applications, developing the business plans, by to the construction of the new facilities.

Queensberry has worked with local authority clients for more than a decade, and is described as a “proven market leader in unlocking development possible in regional towns and cities”.

It is currently working on a number of urban regeneration schemes, transforming places including Barnsley, Sheffield, Doncaster, Nuneaton in addition as several London boroughs.

Cllr Callum Procter, Cabinet member for economic growth at North East Lincolnshire Council, said: “I’m delighted to have Queensberry on board to help us really push on with our plans to transform the heart of the town and build on the great work that’s already been done at St James’ Square and Garth Lane.”

The local authority has partnered with Freshney Place to deliver the transformation, uniting for the original bid.

Charlotte Dunlop, asset manager at Capreon, the company behind the shopping centre, said: “With their vision, knowledge, and extensive credentials, we are confident Queensberry will excursion the successful delivery of this exciting town centre project.”

The scheme will be delivered by the removal of some of the Sixties and Seventies buildings and retail space at the western end of the precinct, with new units produced and enhanced food offerings – encouraging a vibrant evening economy in the town centre.

Paul Sargent, chief executive of Queensberry, said: “We can’t wait to get started on the scheme with Freshney Place and the council. We have a huge amount of experience of working with local authorities and understand the challenges that lay ahead. We recognise that Grimsby has its own personality and we will work closely with the council and the community to restore civic pride and deliver a sustainable long term future for the town.”

The project now progresses to the design and consultation phase, with plans to consult residents and businesses to be announced in the coming weeks.

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