Work on the long awaited multi-million-pound redevelopment of Sutton on Sea’s Colonnade and Pleasure Gardens project is to start in September, with a view to completion in summer 2025.
The first phase of work will provide a state-of-the-art pavilion, including a café and restaurant, a Changing Places toilet and exhibition space, as well as new beach huts and enhancements to the Pleasure Gardens to create additional seating areas, and space for pop-up events and markets.
There will also be planting and community gardens and a new dunes landscape, whilst retaining popular existing features including the anchor water feature and paddling pool areas. The second phase of the planned project will include six seasonal overnight lodges for holiday rentals and visitors to the town.
The development is part of the Mablethorpe Connected Coast Town Deal and has been approved by the Government to receive £4.2m of Town Deal funding, with the remaining costs funded by East Lindsey District Council.
Alongside other nearby projects, including the Campus for Future Living and Learning and Leisure Hub, the Colonnade will provide new inward investment, tourism and opportunities for businesses and residents along the Lincolnshire coast.
Councillor Martin Foster, the Council’s champion for the project, said: “A huge amount of work has gone into ensuring that we are able to offer the best possible facilities and value for the public, whilst respecting and recognising the environment, community spirit and heritage that matter so much in the local area. I want to thank everyone for their patience and hope they are as excited as I am that work will be getting underway soon.”
Councillor Steve Kirk, portfolio holder for the coastal economy, said: “The Colonnade is a truly transformational project for Sutton on Sea and whole of the Lincolnshire coast, that will bring economic growth and tourism, create jobs and opportunities, and provide residents and visitors with some of the best facilities in the country to enjoy our stunning Eastern coastline.
“I hope that we can continue to work with local businesses and residents to support the redevelopment, to help make sure it brings as much benefit to us all as possible and creates a cultural, tourist and local attraction that can be enjoyed for many generations to come.”
Chris Baron, Chair of Connected Coast said: “The redevelopment of the Colonnade and Pleasure Gardens offers a unique opportunity to bring new facilities and opportunities to Sutton on Sea, and this important and exciting project is a priority for us.
“It is great news that we are moving towards the start on site, and work beginning on the ground to deliver the improvements that will create a new future for the Colonnade and Pleasure Gardens, building on its heritage.
“I am grateful for people’s patience and I would like to apologise for the delay as we’ve worked towards this significant milestone. I look forward to seeing the build progress in the coming months.”
