By Unique St James’ Square pathway will be a walk through town’s history
Grimsby’s history is reflected in a unique pathway being installed in St James’ Square.
Youngsters swimming out to ‘peanut’ boats to pinch the cargo, 1pm Friday Fish Dock races and the day Queen Victoria visited are just some town memories that will be depicted.
Remembering Grimsby‘s past while looking forward to the things that are contributing to a successful future will be found in words, sayings, poetry and phrases being etched into two new stone pathways.
The walkways in which the artwork will be displayed run either side of the new central labyrinth from St James’ Hotel to Grimsby Minster.
Every step reveals something for the walker to look at and think about, with a hopscotch of historic dates encouraging children to engage with the town’s heritage and history.
A section of pathway is also devoted to the role that the Grade I listed Grimsby Minster has played in the town’s life – one feature reflects the time it was a temporary ‘garage’ for fire engines while continuing to function as a church. Another reminds people of a wartime bombing raid that damaged the building.
Over many weeks, artist Adrian Riley has explored a myriad of words and phrases to form his #LettersFromGrimsby creation.
Adrian was supported by a local steering group and the team at Our Big Picture Ltd, the social enterprise that has engaged both he and fellow artist Annabel McCourt for the Our Haven St James’ work.
“I wanted to create something that people found interesting, that was puzzling to them so they did not just look once and not return, but something that would intrigue them and encourage them to explore further. It will also become part of the Square’s fabric,” explained Adrian.
Work is now starting by a specialist company, etching Adrian’s designs into Scoutmoor Yorkstone. The pathway will be laid in the new year.
Meanwhile artist Annabel McCourt continues to work on her ‘Murmuration’ art piece, which will be displayed in the Square. Hundreds of Grimsby people have been photographed with their images used to create copper statuettes to represent the true people of the town.
As reported, the Square, part of the Heritage Action Zone, is undergoing a £1.8m overhaul to create a family-friendly space with new furniture, planting, lighting and CCTV.
