Independent cinema chain owner Richard Parkes has spoken about what to expect from the headline act of Grimsby town centre’s proposed new leisure complex.
His Parkway Entertainment Group will be the anchor tenant of the redesigned western end of Freshney Place, the shopping centre acquired by North East Lincolnshire Council this summer. Plans were already in place to transform the retail-focused offer of the prime town centre location prior to the private sector partner being plunged into receivership.
The local authority is moving the plan on, with curtain up on the consultation programme, which will see a second multi-screen addition to the borough.
Read more: Freshney Place's proposed new look unveiled as plans firmed up to widen Grimsby town centre appeal
“Our Cleethorpes cinema is the biggest independent cinema in the country, and is a real fun, family-focussed seaside style offer,” Mr Parkes said, telling how he is excited by the venture. “What we’re planning for Grimsby is very different and we’re sure there’s an audience for a different choice and style,” he added. The family business was founded by his parents and is now run by himself, his brother and their ‘amazing team’, and includes screens in Beverley, Barnsley and Louth.
Three weeks of public consultation start today, ahead of plans being finalised for the relocated Market Hall and leisure development. People are asked to go online to view the initial artists’ impressions and give their feedback on the designs.
There will also be a physical display in the final week, from Monday, October 10 to Sunday, October 16, in a Freshney Place unit at Market Square, 1-3 Friargare, Grimsby - close to Starbucks. Between 10am and 3pm on the Monday, Thursday and Saturday, with members of the development team present to answer questions and provide feedback.
Cabinet members formally approved the scheme’s next stage last week, with actions supported to prepare for a full planning submission. The report again highlighted the need for the town centre to diversify and lessen its reliance on retail so it can survive and thrive.
The council, which now owns Freshney Place, has won significant grant monies for the transformation of its western end with the new cinema, more leisure opportunities, and a new Market Hall. A Levelling Up Fund Bid has been submitted to central Government to support the scheme.
Council leader, Cllr Philip Jackson, said: “We have a unique opportunity here to offer Grimsby Town Centre a new future and that is what we are driving to achieve. People need a good, healthy, and vibrant town centre, which offers day and evening attractions.
“If you look at this project alongside other schemes planned, including the business use of St James’ House, the Horizon OnSide Youth Zone project and new housing in the Alexandra Dock and Garth Lane areas, there is wholescale change planned. We are determined to do our best to create a better environment and future for all – especially our young people in order that they see opportunity here and want to stay and achieve,” he added.
Development manager for the project is Queensberry, a market-leader in urban regeneration schemes. The company's senior development manager, Mike Norris, said: “We are looking forward to engaging with residents and businesses during the consultation period. Each time we do these, we learn something new and it’s important we develop a scheme that is right for Grimsby that reflects the town’s personality. We will work closely with the council and the community to restore civic pride and deliver a sustainable long term future for the town.”
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