Homes at Welholme Galleries would be ‘exciting’

Welholme Galleries could be transformed into residential accommodation and is an “exciting” opportunity.

The site in central Grimsby has for many years been derelict. The Grade II listed building was a former church and for many years housed artefacts relating to the area’s history.

In April 2018, NELC’s Cabinet agreed to sell off the property with the aim of it being restored and put to community use.

At the recent full council meeting at Grimsby Town Hall, Labour leader Matthew Patrick asked Councillor John Fenty, the portfolio holder for regeneration, what opportunities there are for the site.

“Welhome Galleries is a fantastic building in Heneage ward that should be brought back into use,” said Councillor Patrick. “Recently, work started to protect the building from further degradation; then the authority would seek third parties interested in finding positive uses for the building, such as a community group in my ward who look at the galleries as a potential hub. I arranged for a site visit for the group, but at the last moment was denied the visit by a decision of the portfolio holder, as he was looking at opportunities for the site. What was it he meant by ‘opportunities’?

“I agree with Councillor Patrick that Welhome Galleries is a great building,” Councillor Fenty replied. “What puzzles me though is why it was so wilfully neglected on his watch. It seems Councillor Patrick shoots himself in the foot by shining a light on his poor record in this chamber. He points to the urgent work I have commissioned to ensure the building is watertight.

“I would never discount any sustainable community use of the building. However, knowing the sums of money required to return the building back to its former glory will be substantial, due to years of Labour’s neglect.

“In an effort to do things differently, and not just expect council taxpayers to foot the bill, I have asked officers to give consideration to a range of different uses for the building that could see it converted into really nice residential accommodation.

“This is an exciting opportunity which could turn a liability into a viable scheme and secure this wonderful building without the council the taxpayer footing the bill. There are such conversations around the country and I hope that the chamber supports this direction of travel.”