Regenration of Feeman St.

 Wednesday 01.02.12  REGENERATION OF FREEMAN STREET

The lunch time speaker on Wednesday 1^st February was Stephen Savage (Clerk to the Enrolled Freeman of Grimsby) aided by Chris Wilson.Richard Bellamy was in the audience.

Stephen explained that the post of clerk has always been held by Grange and Winteringham solicitors since the 18^th century.He explained the working partnership with Shoreline and the Council.

Historically the population of Grimsby increased dramatically between 1850 and 1900 by 65,000 and was due to the railway,docks and fishing.Freeman St market was established in 1873 in the East Marsh and the street had been extremely vibrant up and until the decline of the fishing industry. It is a shadow of its former self.

Stephen explained the problems with The East Marsh,not only the unemployment but also in health .There is a high incidence of deprivation with 40% of parents having no qualifications and 60 % are unemployed.They are now  seeing  the 5^th generation in families where nobody has worked.In some instances people are refusing to go hospital for treatment! (a health clinic is planned for the area). 73% of those in work travel no more than 3 miles to a job whereas the national average is 40%(the local industries nearby are so important).In Freeman St 33% of shops are vacant and they also see short term lets on premises.

The Council commissioned a report from E.C.Harris .The objectives are-

. More affordable housing.

.Revitalise the housing stock(the tower blocks are to be clad to improve insulation).

.Improve the market square.

.Build offices in the market for enterprises(to encourage people back to work).

.Regenerate Freeman St(the council has committed