I’m thrilled to see that Councillor David Hasthorpe, the new civic had for North East Lincolnshire, led the first official walk through the newly transformed St James’ Square. The hoardings previously surrounding the area are now removed and the public can return to enjoying the space.
Work began on redeveloping the area just over a year ago and consists of new paving, landscaping, trees and a unique light system that incorporates a sound system for events. New art installations also form part of the renovation, thanks to Grimsby Creates. Grimsby-based Our Big Picture Ltd commissioned artist Adrian Riley to create two etched pathways that contain words and phrases capturing Grimsby’s past, present and future.
This will be followed by the Human Murmuration, another art installation that consists of tiny copper silhouettes of Grimsby people. Funding for these artistic features is being made possible thanks to the Cultural Development Fund (CDF) which is funded by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport and administered by Arts Council England.
Funding for the regeneration of the St James area itself has been thanks to the Government’s Local Growth Fund. £3.4 million has been allocated to Grimsby to regenerate the town centre and forms part of Grimsby being classified as one of the Government’s Heritage Action Zones. This money was secured by the former Humber Local Enterprise Partnership (Humber LEP) as part of the Government’s commitment to the Northern Powerhouse.
Having this area of Grimsby regenerated for all to enjoy is fantastic to see, combining modernised accessibility with fresh, contemporary and welcoming artwork.
