New future set for Grimsby’s old YMCA building as owner prepares for demolition

Twenty-four-hour security and new fencing are in place to secure Grimsby’s old YMCA building as demolition plans are progressed ahead of a new future for the site.

North East Lincolnshire Council has been in talks with the owner of the Peaks Lane building, after continued arson attacks, vandalism and other anti-social behaviour.

As a result, a structural engineer’s report received late last week says: “In the professional opinion of the engineer, the safest and most appropriate course is controlled demolition of the entire building complex.”

The council has since followed the legal process as quickly as possible, with the owner taking responsibility – organising for increased security as they take the necessary action and surveys to ensure safe demolition.

This includes round-the-clock manned security and the new fencing. Humberside Police has also been informed and are supporting, and trespassers are warned of action if they try to enter the building.

Once demolition and clearance are complete, it is hoped a bright new future can be found for the 4.4-acre site and again the council will support the owner where possible to progress suitable options.

The building has been empty since the YMCA’s move to Freeman Street in 2021 when the organisation put the site up for sale and sold it a year later. It is made up of a main multi-storey concrete building, a sports hall and a toilet block with covered connections between them all.

Cllr James Sawkins, Portfolio for Safer and Stronger Communities, said: “It is clear this building has been a target for all kinds of anti-social behaviour, and this has been a real concern for people and organisations nearby, the emergency services, and the council. I am pleased to say the owner is fully on board with what needs to be done to prevent the risk of a really serious incident here.

“We can now move forward and of course will support the owner in any way we are able to look for a new and hopefully good future for this site. I would like to thank everyone involved for taking this action.”

Supporting the action, North East Lincolnshire Council Leader, Cllr Oliver Freeston, added: “I am really pleased the team has found a way to resolve this. This is one of many buildings we are looking into across the town, and what we want to see is owners held responsible – but also how, as in this case, we can work with them to identify issues and look at solutions.”