PLANS for the rebirth of Grimsby Docks’ historic Kasbah area have taken a further step forward, with a planning application submitted for the redevelopment of a redundant smokehouse.
North East Lincolnshire Council is to consider a proposal, submitted by the Great Grimsby Ice Factory Trust, (GGIFT), to restore the old Peterson’s building on Henderson Street as a smokehouse once again.
The application has requested listed building consent for the refurbishment of the existing building for re-use as a smokehouse, including the reinstatement of cowels and the installation of an internal staircase, office and mess facilities.
This coincides with another plan to renovate the internals of the empty ‘Fred’s Fish’ building, which sits opposite on Wharncliffe Road, for community/office use. When renovated, it is intended that both buildings will be let out and the revenue invested in future projects.
Earlier this year, the GGIFT, which has extended its remit from just the Ice Factory to support Kasbah renovation, received an initial grant of £60,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund and Architectural Heritage Fund to assist with this project. Trust chair, Vicky Hartung, explained how this had enabled her team to reach planning submission stage, and they were now looking at further grant awards towards the work itself, if permission was granted.
“We are keen to get started on developing this project, which will restore two historic buildings, dramatically expanding production capacity for Grimsby’s unique traditional smoked fish and establishing an anchor building in an area of the Kasbah now designated for commercial use.”
If successful, this project will give plans for the overall redevelopment of the Kasbah area a major boost and link in with the restoration being spearheaded by North East Lincolnshire Council and its regeneration partners ENGIE, which has the full support of landowners Associated British Ports, (ABP).
Dafydd Williams, Head of Communications and Corporate Affairs, at ABP Humber, said: “The Kasbah is full of heritage and is central to the commercial operations on Grimsby Docks. The potential that the area has for more businesses to join the docks, will help bring more jobs, and positive economy change.”
Last year, the Kasbah was awarded £1m PSiCA (Partnership Scheme in Conservation Areas) funding. Comprising of £500,000 from Historic England, match-funded by North East Lincolnshire Council, businesses can apply for funds towards Kasbah building renovation. For full details of how to apply for that, please go to www.investnel.co.uk.