Visionary plans for the former Waves nightclub in Cleethorpes have been approved by the council’s Cabinet at its meeting (16 December).
The key corner plot on the junction of Sea Road and Central Prom in the resort looks likely to be transformed with a new multi-functional building that will replace the existing empty public house, the adjacent toilet block and the small kiosk.
Preliminary designs have been approved for the new building, which will house commercial space as well as visitor facilities, modern toilets and changing facilities, beach safety and tourist information services.
To support the new development, changes would be made to the road layout, public spaces would be improved, and a small events space created within Pier Gardens.
Funding has already been secured from the Humber Local Enterprise Partnership’s Local Growth Fund as well as from the Council’s capital programme. However, additional funding still needs to be sought to implement the full scheme together with market testing in the new year.
Cllr John Fenty, Cabinet member for regeneration, said: “There has already been huge investment in Cleethorpes – more than £6.7m so far through the Coastal Communities Fund and National Lottery Heritage Fund – with a number of projects ongoing in the resort for the last year.
“We’re already seeing changes to the way that the resort is operating, with more space on the High Street, and the first element of the public art on the North Prom successfully installed earlier this month.
“This is a massively important spot in the resort, and one that could command significant business rates,” he continued. “But it’s also a space that needs to balance our ambitions with the needs of visitors to the resort. I look forward to seeing the final designs for the building and surrounding areas to make sure it’s something local residents and visitors alike will be proud of.”
Further detailed designs for both the buildings and the highways elements of the scheme will continue in the new year, with work to demolish the existing buildings expected in the spring.