Street art adds colour to Grimsby’s town centre revival

April Lara
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Street art adds colour to Grimsby’s town centre revival

Grimsby’s town centre continues to transform, with a vibrant new street art piece joining a wave of regeneration efforts reshaping the area. The mural, titled Migration, was recently completed by local artist Dogma Art on Victoria Street and features a flock of birds flying over a cherry blossom tree.

The artwork is part of a broader push to bring life and beauty back to the high street. Recent changes include colourful planters, living walls, and decorative plaques created by school children, all contributing to a more inviting public space. Riverhead Square has also been revitalised, now serving as a relaxing spot for residents to unwind and socialise.

Dogma Art’s mural was created in just a few days but took weeks of preparation, including stencil design and coordination with local stakeholders. The goal was to create something that not only brightened the streetscape but also aligned with the town’s evolving identity.

This creative addition sits alongside several larger developments, including the Horizon Youth Zone, Alexandra Dock housing plans, and the upcoming E-Factor Business Hub. Together, these projects are helping to secure the future of Freshney Place and support more than 1,700 local jobs, part of a broader strategy to breathe new life into Grimsby’s urban centre.

Image credit: North Lincolnshire Council

Grimsby ice rink secures £150k for essential infrastructure upgrade

Tess Egginton
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Grimsby ice rink secures £150k for essential infrastructure upgrade

Grimsby Ice Rink is undergoing a major refurbishment thanks to a £150,000 investment secured by the community group managing the facility. The funds, raised through a combination of local fundraising efforts and financial reserves, will cover critical infrastructure upgrades to keep the 50-year-old venue operational.

The refurbishment project, due to begin on 31 July and expected to last around a month, includes a full replacement of the rink’s ageing barrier system and the installation of a more energy-efficient chiller unit. The work aims to extend the lifespan of the facility, ensuring continued access to ice sports in the region.

The project is led by Grimsby Ice Rink Community Group, which took over operations in 2017 after the site faced closure. In addition to structural repairs and general maintenance, the group has ambitions to eventually develop a new ice rink, thereby future-proofing skating and ice sports locally.

  Image credit: Google maps

Hydrotherapy pool saved following council funding

Tess Egginton
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Hydrotherapy pool saved following council funding
The future of the last hydrotherapy pool in North East Lincolnshire has been secured thanks to Public Health funding from North East Lincolnshire Council. Located at Humberston Park School in Grimsby, the pool provides relief to students with conditions and symptoms that cause chronic pain; relieving pain, relaxing and strengthening muscles, and increasing circulation. A public appeal for funding to secure the future of the facility had been issued in April after trustees said that their funding was running out. Now, thanks to funding from North East Lincolnshire Council’s Public Health team, the future of the pool has been secured. Councillor Stan Shreeve, deputy leader of North East Lincolnshire Council and portfolio holder for health, wellbeing and adult social care, said: “After a recent visit to the school with our Director for Public Health, it was clear that this hydrotherapy pool is a fantastic resource, and one that we cannot afford to lose. “It’s not often that we are able to step-in in this way to support things like this, but we agreed that the benefit to the community from this pool, and in particular to the children in our area who struggle with very complex needs, means that this is much needed. “I’m really pleased that we’ve been able to secure its immediate future.” Gemma Rylatt, Trustee of The Pool, said: “I am amazed by the over whelming support we have received from the local community and to be able to partner with Public Health is something that we have always wanted to do. For them to support our fundraising campaign is fantastic. “We are also grateful for Councillor Shreeve who brought our campaign to the attention Public Health. The fundraising efforts will continue as we need the pool to be a sustainable resource for the community for many years to come.”  
Image credit: North East Lincolnshire Council

First beaver kit born in Lincolnshire for over 400 years

Tess Egginton
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First beaver kit born in Lincolnshire for over 400 years
The first beaver kit to be born in the county for over 400 years has been welcomed in North Lincolnshire. Wildlife illustrator Hannah Dale has excitedly announced the arrival of the beaver kit born on her and her husband’s farm, which they have been rewilding since 2019. A pair of beavers were released into a 70 acre enclosure on the farm in December 2023, to supercharge the development of wetland habitat. “We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome the newest arrival to our rewilding project — the first beaver kit to be born in Lincolnshire in over 400 years,” says Hannah. “We caught our first glimpse on 12th June, and so far we’ve only seen one, but beavers often have more than one kit, so we’re keeping our eyes peeled.”
Beavers are a native species that were hunted to extinction in the UK. They play a major role in boosting biodiversity and managing water flow, which can help reduce flooding. Hannah added: “Since we introduced a pair back in December 2023, it’s amazing to see how much they’ve already transformed the landscape. We’re so excited that their family is growing and can’t wait to watch them shape this habitat in the years to come.” To learn more about her rewilding journey, read Lincolnshire Today’s interview with Hannah Dale, here.

Grange pupils honoured for making a difference beyond the classroom

April Lara
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Grange pupils honoured for making a difference beyond the classroom

Six pupils from Grange Primary School have been recognised for two years of exceptional community service as the school celebrated its key stage two Community Ambassadors.

At a special assembly attended by parents, teachers, and local officials, the school reflected on a year of outreach, with a spotlight on pupils who have helped strengthen ties between the school and its wider community.

The Year Six ambassadors, now preparing for secondary school, were celebrated for their long-standing efforts with Edmund House Care Home, where they’ve built intergenerational friendships and taken part in creative projects, including a winning entry in the Easter Bunny Trail.

The celebration also marked a handover, as the outgoing ambassadors introduced a new cohort of pupils set to continue their work. The event underscored Grange Primary’s core values—being reflective, resilient, and respectful—while reinforcing the importance of giving back.

Throughout the year, pupils have been involved in charity initiatives and family engagement activities, all designed to build confidence, empathy, and connection.

The event closed with a sense of shared pride and optimism, as the school community looks forward to what the next generation of ambassadors will achieve.

Image credit: North Lincolnshire Council

Grantham leisure centre turns up the heat on sustainability

April Lara
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Grantham leisure centre turns up the heat on sustainability

Grantham Meres Leisure Centre is setting a new standard for eco-friendly public amenities with the rollout of a £4 million low-carbon heating system designed to slash emissions and energy bills. The project introduces a purpose-built Net Zero Pod, powered by air source heat pump technology, to replace the site’s ageing gas boilers.

The innovative system, built off-site and transported to the centre, uses CO₂ as a natural refrigerant and promises efficiency levels four times higher than traditional gas boilers. It’s expected to reduce carbon emissions by over 550 tonnes annually—helping South Kesteven District Council progress towards its goal of cutting emissions by 30% by 2030.

This latest upgrade follows the recent addition of 574 rooftop solar panels, funded in part by a £399,000 grant from Sport England. Combined, these efforts mark a major push to modernise Grantham’s leisure infrastructure and futureproof community facilities with cleaner, smarter energy systems. Completion is scheduled for spring 2026.

  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Seadog81

Book club provides vital support to cancer patients thanks to charitable funding

Tess Egginton
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Book club provides vital support to cancer patients thanks to charitable funding
When Joe was diagnosed with prostate cancer in November 2020, little did he know that a book club would provide him with a lifeline to help cope with living with the disease. Joe, a retired headteacher from Lincoln was not prepared for the effects hormone therapy would have on his body as he tried to cope with hot flushes, emotional turmoil, sleeplessness and reduction of masculine parts. He found the book club, run by Annie Theed, a Macmillan breast cancer care co-ordinator at the Breast Cancer Clinic in Boston Pilgrim Hospital, a wonderful way to talk about coping with cancer. Joe said: “I was undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy and then two of my brothers died in 2022 from cancer, one very unexpectedly and it became an emotional time for me. “I soon realised that reading offered a welcome distraction from the stress and anxiety of living with cancer even if for a short time. It also gave me the chance to talk to others going through similar circumstance as myself. “It is something to look forward to when the book drops through the letterbox. Some books I enjoy and other less so. It’s a subjective thing – we are unique individuals with different likes, dislikes and hobbies but with one thing in common – cancer.” The book club was started in 2020 by Annie to keep in touch with patients diagnosed with cancer during the COVID pandemic. Annie said: “We quickly realised that many of our patients were isolated, with no contact from anyone. So, with the help of funding from United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity, we started the book club. “Five years later and the club has grown to become a vital online meeting place for cancer patients providing up-to-date information and support for its members. Annie has created a family atmosphere where people feel relaxed and can talk openly.” Charity manager, Ben Petts is delighted in the Book Club’s success. He said: “As the club meets online, it means anyone in Lincolnshire with a cancer diagnosis can join. The cost of a book could be a lot for some families to find each month; yet by providing this funding, we have ensured the book club is inclusive to everyone. “The book club is just one project supported by United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity. Thanks to the generosity of people living and working in Lincolnshire, we can support the county’s hospitals to deliver outstanding care to patients and their families by funding those extras that cannot be provided by the NHS alone.” For more information, please visit their website: www.ulhcharity.org.uk

Cleethorpes set for revival with new investment and renewed charm

April Lara
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Cleethorpes set for revival with new investment and renewed charm

Once overlooked in favour of sunnier European spots, the seaside town of Cleethorpes is experiencing a long-awaited resurgence, thanks to an £18.4 million investment from the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund.

The North East Lincolnshire resort, perched on the Humber estuary, is undergoing major regeneration works aimed at refreshing its appeal for locals and tourists alike. The funds are being used to redesign key public areas, including the Pier Gardens, which will be transformed into a vibrant recreational zone with a new playground, water features, performance space, and reflective gardens.

Cleethorpes’ Market Place is also getting a makeover, with plans to create a flexible area for markets and pop-up events, enhanced lighting for safety, and a new green corridor connecting St Peters Avenue to the seafront. Restaurants will be able to expand their dining areas outdoors, while landscaping will help soften the town’s coastal winds.

One of the most ambitious elements is a new three-storey landmark building at the former Waves site, offering modern public facilities and commercial space just opposite the town’s iconic pier.

This latest funding builds on earlier local improvements to Sea View Street and Cleethorpes Beach. The town also draws significant crowds for events like Armed Forces Weekend, which last year attracted over 350,000 visitors, solidifying its growing reputation as a destination on the rise.

  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/simon

Campus for Future Living officially launches in Mablethorpe

Tess Egginton
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Campus for Future Living officially launches in Mablethorpe
Over 400 people gathered in Mablethorpe on Thursday 12 June to celebrate the official launch of the Campus for Future Living – a new development designed to boost health, wellbeing, skills, and innovation across the region. Located on Stanley Avenue, the Campus is owned by East Lindsey District Council, is operated by Acis Group, and represents a multi-million-pound investment in the area’s future. The building, made possible following £8.6m Town’s Fund Government funding secured in August 2022, spans over 1,400 square metres and houses state-of-the-art facilities, training spaces, consultation rooms, and a community café. The launch event drew hundreds of local residents, families, and stakeholders from across the region. Visitors were treated to a day packed with free activities, including health checks, healthcare demos, food tastings, interactive stalls, and taster sessions showcasing the courses and support services available at the site. A key moment of the day was the ceremonial ribbon cutting, led by Victoria Atkins, MP for Louth and Horncastle, and local resident Luke. Councillor William Gray, portfolio holder of communities and better ageing at East Lindsey District Council, said: “The Campus for Future Living is a game-changer for Mablethorpe. To see so many people turn out, curious and excited about what’s ahead, is exactly why this space was funded by the Government following a successful bid from East Lindsey District Council and Connected Coast. “It’s more than a building – it’s a hub of opportunity, learning and support that will make a lasting difference to people’s lives. I’m really excited for the possibilities the Campus will bring to Mablethorpe, the partnerships it will create and the opportunities it will open for local people.” Claire Woodward, director of community development at Acis Group, added: “We’re absolutely thrilled to see the Campus launch so positively and to welcome hundreds of people through the doors. This is a place designed with the community at its heart – and whether it’s for a course, a coffee, or a conversation, everyone is welcome. The level of engagement we saw on launch day proves how vital this space will be for the local area.”   Image credit: East Lindsey District Council / Acis Group

New watch station to bring extra pair of eyes to Cleethorpes seafront

Tess Egginton
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New watch station to bring extra pair of eyes to Cleethorpes seafront
National Coastwatch, the maritime charity dedicated to the preservation and protection of life at sea and around our coastline, is establishing a presence on Cleethorpes seafront for at least the next 12 months. The daylight surveillance organisation has re-purposed its NCI Exhibition trailer into a fully-equipped, mobile surveillance station that will be sited in the car park at Cleethorpes Leisure Centre, operating as a watch station over the beach and the estuary. Established in 1994 in Cornwall, the organisation has 61 permanent stations around the UK coastline manned by over 2,800 fully trained volunteer watchkeepers, reporting to the Coastguard. There are East Coast stations in Chapel-St-Leonards, Mablethorpe and Skegness, but this will be the first time there has been a prolonged presence at Cleethorpes. Twenty four new volunteers have already been recruited and have been attending training sessions at the Black Gull on Grimsby Docks since November last year, conducted by training officers from NCI stations at Mablethorpe and Skegness. The Cleethorpes station will be fully operational in time for Armed Forces Day. The re-purposing of the trailer into a fully-equipped, surveillance operation has been made possible by a donation from the Stelios Foundation (EasyJet founder). Local suppliers have been used for the work and watchkeepers from the two stations have also contributed time and skills to the Cleethorpes project. It will be led by Ian Whalley MBE, NCI trustee and station manager at Skegness, and his colleague NCI sector manager Rob Druce, who will be the interim station manager. Ian Whalley said: “Cleethorpes is a very popular resort with high footfall. There is clear evidence of a need for an extra pair of hands as this area is acknowledged as a dangerous shoreline. “The resort is adjacent to busy shipping lanes and there is also a yacht club and an RNLI station, so it is an ideal location for Coastwatch to offer a helping hand. “We have chosen a location in the car park at Cleethorpes Leisure Centre that gives us a clear sightline along the beach and out into the estuary. During the summer months especially, thousands of people use the beach and, with fast incoming and outgoing tides, some people find themselves in trouble. “As the station comes up to full complement, surveillance cameras will be deployed to expand and extend the safety surveillance capability. “Watchkeepers act as an extra pair of eyes and we have close relationships with His Majesty’s Coastguard, the RNLI, the Border Force and the emergency services so that we can alert them to vulnerable situations. “This can be anything from children and adults who get into trouble in the water to vessels in distress, water pollution or hazards to mariners, such as trees or pallets in the water. “A presence in Cleethorpes is something we have been working towards for some years and we are very happy to be in the resort in time for Armed Forces Day, which will undoubtedly be an extremely busy time, but will also give us the opportunity for vital fundraising and recruitment.” Cllr Hayden Dawkins, portfolio holder for culture, heritage and the visitor economy, North East Lincolnshire Council, said: “It is a pleasure to welcome National Coastwatch to Cleethorpes. As a busy tourist resort we welcome their presence in providing extra assistance to the coastguard, RNLI and emergency services in keeping our residents and visitors safe as they enjoy our coastline.”  
Image credit: North East Lincolnshire Council
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