By Council hits back at critics as Freshney Place regeneration costs increase
North East Lincolnshire Council’s leader Phillip Jackson has hit back at critics of the council’s decision to buy a Grimsby shopping centre.
The council leader said opposers “aren’t offering any alternatives apart from the decline of the town centre” following the announcement of the raised cost of the project.
The council formed the purchase on August 4 with plans to redevelop the western area and the bull ring to include a multi-screen cinema, eateries, and a new Top Town Market.
Cost estimates for the Freshney Place Leisure Scheme have risen by £3.6mn to £30.9mn, as Cllr Jackson added: “It is the next stage in the transformation of Grimsby Town Centre.”
The council leader introduced the latest report on the plans to the council’s Cabinet meeting, held on Wednesday evening.
“Unfortunately, of course, the whole process was derailed for a period of time because of Freshney Place going on the market,” he said.
Roughly two years ago, the council secured the funding of0 £17.3mn from the Future High Streets Fund. North East Lincolnshire Council decided in July this year to buy the shopping centre outright, using the High Streets Fund to help fund the purchase.
The new report recommended the project continue to the next stage.
Cllr Jackson said: “I would emphasise there is a fair amount of work to do on finalising the design. It is a very exciting opportunity for us to be able to move forward in the town centre.”
Cllr Jackson acknowledged there had been some criticism of the purchase of the shopping centre and proposed leisure scheme.
“For me, it’s the only way – along with the other projects we’re moving ahead with – we are going to improve the town centre.
“Those criticising aren’t offering any alternative apart from the decline of the town centre. We are making the right moves here in terms of promoting and regenerating it.” He said.
The council leader acknowledged the price has increased compared to its original cost estimate of £27.3m, citing inflationary pressures.
Queensberry Real Estate has estimated on the council’s behalf the leisure scheme will now cost £30.9mn and the increase is due to “well-documented challenges to construction costs brought about by the pandemic and which have since been exacerbated with general inflationary pressures”.
The report added: “Delivery of the leisure scheme resulting in an improved evening economy, increased income from car parks and an enhanced market hall offer would be a positive intervention to not only safeguard the centre but also for the viability and vitality of the town centre.”
Cllr Stan Shreeve, deputy leader and portfolio holder for health, wellbeing, and adult social care said: “It’s really important we move forward with pace.
“It shows we are committed to improving the state of the town centre through regeneration.”
The Freshney Place Leisure Scheme report was accepted unanimously by cabinet.
