Controversy as council launch Cleethorpes masterplan

Controversy as council launch Cleethorpes masterplan

A draft of the Cleethorpes Masterplan has been released outlining concepts for ideas across the resort.

More than 2700 people took part in a survey to help develop the plans which have reimagined the town with outdoor gyms, a visitors centre and rentable beach huts.

In a draft outlined on the North East Lincolnshire Council website, a spokesperson wrote:

“The beauty of Cleethorpes is the town’s varied seafront offer and its independent traders,” said Wayne Hemingway MBE, who is leading the design team.

“With more than 4 miles of beautiful beaches, there’s so much you can do. There’s something for everyone, but what we’ve designed has to fit in the natural environment.

“The draft plan, which includes a range of concept ideas, is relevant for the next 10 years, and shows how Cleethorpes could change to appeal to people living in the resort, and those visiting with development opportunities and visitor attraction at its heart.”

“The Victorian Heritage is at the heart of this wonderful resort, but with the Site of Special Scientific Interest and the different spaces, we’ve been able to incorporate several different elements into our thinking.

“But none of this could have been done without the amazing amount of time that people took to think about Cleethorpes and give us their views.

“Although the draft Masterplan covers concept ideas and options for development, the projects aren’t set in stone.

“This is a framework with identified projects that will help Cleethorpes become more attractive to a wider population, alongside recommendations for infrastructure development to support the projects.”

But the plans have already resulted in controversy and mixed reviews.

Many responded to the plans with optimism about the future of the area.

One local said: “Brilliant! The area will look lovely with all of these new improvements!”

“Exciting! Bring it on!” added another.

Others were less enthusiastic.

Responding to the plans via Facebook, one local resident wrote: “These plans will mean that parking and the lack of toilets in the resort remain a huge issue! There is plenty of space for this but without basic facilities it is meaningless!”

Another said: “Theres a big opportunity to build something really special, but these plans just don’t cut it. The resort is crying out for things that people can come on holiday and do, not come in their cars for the day and go home again.”

In a joint statement Councillor Debbie Rodwell and Councillor Marie Green, Sidney Sussex Labour councillors, added:

“The Cleethorpes Masterplan stops at the Wonderland area.

“The area of the sea wall from Wonderland and to Fuller Street bridge area has been neglected for a long time now.”

“Residents in Sidney Sussex work hard to keep the area clean and have developed proposals to further improve the area with the help from funding from Biglocal and Labour ward Councillors have got a plan drawn up to improve the area and wildlife.”

“I hope the council will look at extending their Cleethorpes masterplan to include the whole of Cleethorpes and not just part of it.”

A draft plan is reported to be heading to a panel on 10th March.

What do you think of the plans? Let us know!