The next step towards the transformation of Cleethorpes’ Pier Gardens is underway, as main contractors are asked to give their views on the scheme.
Called ‘Preliminary Market Consultation’, this is normal practice for public sector organisations and is part of the process ahead of full tenders being released for large contracts.
It allows for interested businesses to look at the detail of the project and comment and takes the form of online questionnaires and a physical event, which will be held on Thursday 12 September from 1pm at The Knoll in Cleethorpes.
Following this, officers will look at the responses, opinions and views before finalising details and releasing the main tender for the work of principal contractor, which is expected to be done later this year.
The scheme for Pier Gardens is supported by £18.4m, which was awarded to Cleethorpes from the Levelling Up Fund (LUF).
The designs were finalised after the views of hundreds of people were gathered during public events, meetings and consultations. This feedback supported more modern and wildlife friendly planting schemes, along with areas for children’s and adults’ social activities, and an area that could enable pop up events, performances and group exercise. Additionally, people wanted to make sure that the gardens had improved lighting, sympathetic to the surroundings.
As a result, specific zoned areas have been designed by landscape architects, WSP, that feature water play, terraced play features, play structures for both junior and older children, along with a flexible event space towards the Sea Road end and a quieter area for reflective contemplation at the Memorial Gate end.
Welcoming this next step in Pier Gardens’ development journey, North East Lincolnshire Council’s Portfolio Holder for Culture, Heritage and the Visitor Economy, Cllr Hayden Dawkins, said: “Cleethorpes has been evolving and improving over the years and this a further step in growing our resort, which is fast becoming a jewel in the crown of our country’s East coast.
“This transformation of Pier Gardens is going to create wonderful spaces for both visitors and local people to visit and enjoy – spending time together as families and we all look forward to this work starting, and more importantly completing.”
