480 jobs to be created in North-East Lincs as leisure deal signed
A North-East Lincolnshire shopping centre gas a deal with North East Lincolnshire Council for a proposed new leisure development in Grimsby securing Cineworld as the cinema anchor tenant.
The project recently received detailed planning consent for the new complex that will include a nine-screen cinema and seven restaurants. The development is to be built as an extension to the Freshney Place Shopping Centre in the town’s Riverhead area which will be regenerated by the council.
“This is an exciting time for Freshney Place,” said development director, Maurice Fitzgerald on behalf of the Centre owners.
“The proposed new £20m scheme is an extension to the existing shopping centre, and will be known as Freshney Place Riverhead. The development will house a brand-new cinema, as well as seven new restaurant units which will be home to a host of leading national operators new to Grimsby.
“This is the culmination of nearly three years hard work and input by the owners on behalf of Freshney Place Shopping Centres where we have worked closely with the Council and its Officers. We have undertaken a Public Consultation exercise, produced a dedicated website, held discussions with local stakeholders & consultees as well as adjoining owners & occupiers.”
The development site includes a redundant ex-bus station area next to the Freshney Place Shopping Centre. In January 2018 the centre opened a 47,000 sq ft Primark store.
The development will also help create around 350 construction jobs and a further 130 long-term roles. The capital investment, which including tenants fit outs, will be between £18m and £20m.
The development team says it hopes to see work start within the next six months completed within 20 months.
Fitzgerald added: “As a regeneration project the site raises substantial challenges & the proposals rise to the challenge. We have worked closely with the Council and it is refreshing to work with a council who are committed to a shared vision.
Councillor Peter Wheatley, North East Lincolnshire Council’s Cabinet member for regeneration, said: “Everyone involved has been working hard for quite a while to turn this into reality and we’re delighted with the news that contracts have now been signed,’’ he said.
“We’re committed to regenerating the town centre and having a prestigious project like this, which we’re confident will bring people back into the area, is further evidence that North East Lincolnshire is very much open for business.”
