Work has begun to install new windows and doors at the former Consolidated Fisheries building on the Port of Grimsby, now occupied by The Great Escape run by Creative Start CIC.
It’s part of the Partnership Scheme in Conservation Areas (PSiCA) grant work in the port known affectionately as the Kasbah. The work will see all PVC windows being replaced with wooden ones, as it would have been when originally built. Other PSiCA funded works include new and repaired bull nose windowsills, roof repairs, masonry repairs including re-pointing, and reinstatement of cast iron rainwater goods.
Other interior work funded through sponsors, includes creation of ground floor wheelchair accessibility, and a remodel on the lower floor to form a recovery community kitchen and social area.
Simon Bird, Director of the Humber ports, said: “The improvement of buildings in the Kasbah is really progressing and it’s great that this well-known building is being revamped for such a great purpose.”
The Great Escape is a venue where creativity and peer support inspire people to achieve their dreams. Sam Delaney, who developed the concept added: “We have been based on the docks for five years now and very passionate about its future.
“We have a strong connection to the building, having restored the interior ourselves. We’re delighted to see the building now being fully restored, turning it into a more accessible place that will provide hope and inspiration to many.”
North East Lincolnshire Council Cabinet member for Tourism, Heritage and Culture, Cllr Tom Furneaux, said: “The work that the Great Escape supports is incredibly important to help people on their recovery journeys, and I’m pleased that the next stage of their project is progressing to develop the community kitchen.
“The Kasbah is a unique place, and we must continue to look at how to make it safe and welcoming to work in. Some of that change will come if we can find ways of working with people and businesses who can help support that change.”
David Walsh, Historic England Lead for Grimsby HAZ, said: ““We are delighted that work has started at The Great Escape that will transform the exterior of the building to match the amazing work done by Creative Start on the interior. We are especially pleased to be supporting Creative Start who do such valuable work in the community. Heritage led regeneration in the historic docks is now gathering pace with both public and private investment helping to create a really special place.”
In addition, Creative Start CIC has also signed a lease for neighbouring Building 7, which is to become their workshop. Initial works will focus on making good Building 7’s gable end, which will be used to create a billboard style ‘Welcome to the Docks’ mural as part of the Paint the Town Proud project (Grimsby Creates).
The grants are from the current heritage fund called “PSiCA” (Partnership Scheme in Conservation Areas) being delivered as part of the Greater Grimsby Heritage Action Zone. The PSiCA scheme has a total pot of £1m and is a joint project between Historic England and North East Lincolnshire Council, with support from ABP. To find out more about The Great Escape visit www.creativestartcic.org/escape-the-ordinary.
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