By Future of former Grimsby Art College to be decided as talks continue
A month ago today, Eleanor Street closed to traffic as the former Grimsby Art College went up in flames in the latest arson attack.
On Sunday 19 June, nearly 30 firefighters and officers attended the blaze as three youngsters were arrested on suspicion of arson.
Since the fire, Eleanor Street has remained closed to traffic, with only the footpath remaining open.
Many locals have been left confused and even frustrated with the lack of certainty around the future of the building.
North East Lincolnshire Council has now provided updates, stating that the road will be reopened within the next two weeks and that talks are still underway to determine the future of the building.
A spokesperson for the council said: “North East Lincolnshire Council and the owners of the former art college on Eleanor Street continue to have talks, with the top priority being to make safe the structure following the most recent arson attack.
“Following the fire, a detailed and specialist structural survey was commissioned. The findings of the report stated that the basic structure was sound but recommended some additional urgent works to be carried out in order to provide additional reinforcement to the existing gable ends to avoid these being a danger to the public in the future. Until such time as this work is completed, the site remains in a state where traffic management procedures will still be required.
“Works have already been undertaken by the landlords to prevent any further access by vandals and to make the site secure.
“These fundamental and critical repairs are being carried out by the owners as a matter of urgency with work expected to be completed in the next two weeks, with the Council offering full support. Once that is complete Eleanor Street will be re-opened to traffic.
“As those repairs take place, talks will continue between the Council, the owners, Historic England and other relevant parties to determine the building’s long-term future. It is hoped that the best possible outcome can be reached for all parties, and importantly for the local community.
“The owners and the Council would like to take this opportunity to thank residents for their patience. All involved appreciate the negative impact on them of having to live near a structure which has been systematically targeted by anti-social behaviour, and subject to fires and vandalism.”
