By Cleethorpes desires city status without Grimsby’s involvement
A former Cleethorpes councillor has expressed his desire for city status for the town, but only if Grimsby is not involved.
With dozens of towns throughout England bidding for city status for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee next year, Matthew Brown naturally saw an opportunity for his own local area.
He claimed that Cleethorpes was the ‘jewel of the East Coast’.
But his wish is for the town to not be made a joint city with Great Grimsby and to instead stand on its own.
Having city status would bring more attention from investors to Cleethorpes as well as higher-paid employment.
The town’s size would not affect the results of the bid.
The smallest town in the UK, St David’s, reportedly has a population of just 1,600.
According to the Lincolnite, Matthew said: “I know the people of Cleethorpes would be very proud to become a city and it would create a real buzz throughout the community in the short term with greater economic benefits in the long term.”
He added: “The area is the bridge between Lincolnshire and those visiting from Yorkshire through its historical links to the Manchester, Sheffield and Lincolnshire railway, which is responsible for much of the picturesque landscape and architecture of the area.
“In my view, the area deserves city status due to the historical role it plays in uniting these two areas and in recognition of its culture.”
Bashir Miah, chairman of the Cleethorpes Bangladeshi Cultural Society and Mosque, reportedly also supports the potential of a bid for city status.
He told the Lincolnite: “As an adopted Meggie, I can see Cleethorpes has such a uniqueness about it.
“This includes its picturesque seafront, welcoming people and amazing local architecture ranging from Ross Castle, Cleethorpes train station clock, Knoll House and St Peters Church.
“Granting city status would allow us to shine a light on all that is great about Cleethorpes and hopefully, through attracting investment to the area, give our children and grandchildren better life opportunities.”
(Image: Mat Fascione)
