As we say goodbye to 2025, North East Lincolnshire Council Leader, Cllr Philip Jackson, reflects on 12 months that has seen the authority’s plans to transform the borough taking shape.
“We can now see physical change around us – and with that will come opportunity for our businesses and our communities, as we move forward with a determination to improve our place.
For many years now, this council has led a charge for positive change. Driven by a need to re-invent large parts of our borough and raise aspirations amongst those who live and work here, we have united with partners to plan lasting transformation.
With millions of pounds in Government grants secured, and vital relationships nurtured and developed, schemes were drawn up to dramatically improve Grimsby Town Centre, and Cleethorpes. In 2025 I am delighted to say we have seen this happening.
The new OnSide Horizon Youth Zone is a scheme we should all be tremendously proud of. The derelict Grade II listed West Haven Maltings in our town centre looks fantastic and now houses this inspirational development, which will benefit so many young people – our adults of tomorrow.
Our Freshney Place Leisure, Food Hall & Market scheme is on schedule with a completion date of 2027. A five-screen cinema, with the new market and leisure units will bring diversity to the town centre – attracting people of all ages and complementing the retail offer. (Cllr Jackson is pictured in the main picture, centre, marking the start of construction at the site).
Then there’s the new St James’ E-Factor Business Hub, Riverhead Square, and soon, there will be 120 smart new homes at Alexandra Dock, along with the clearing of redundant buildings to create space for a transport hub – Grimsby’s urban heart is certainly changing.
Over in Cleethorpes we have positive news on our grant-supported schemes in Pier Gardens, Market Place and Sea Road. Work will start in 2026.
Immingham and Habrough too have not been left out, with up to £20m of Government Pride in Place programme monies secured for community and economic development over the next decade. Like in Grimsby, expect to see community-led schemes taking shape soon, supported when it is needed, by North East Lincolnshire Council.
In order that our communities make the most of these physical changes to ‘our place’, we must work in tandem to support people to achieve, to take employment opportunities, and to live healthier lives – hence our commitment to becoming a Marmot place. To achieve this, you will see this council working smarter and harder with others to create an environment that encourages and supports positive community change.
An ideal example of the above is the seismic improvement this council has made within Children’s Services. Our ‘Good’ Ofsted inspection judgement received this year is testament to the determination and hard work, which is being led by our Children’s team and supported by the whole council – with key partners by our side. We will strive to continue this journey together as we set our young people on a path of hope, and aspiration.
I would like to wish everyone within our Borough a Happy Christmas and New Year.”
Cllr Philip Jackson, Leader, North East Lincolnshire Council
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