Plans to transform the abandoned Pleasure Island theme park in Cleethorpes into a £70 million holiday resort featuring a Lidl supermarket, hotels, and 272 lodges have been recommended for approval by North East Lincolnshire Council officers. The proposal, dubbed "Center Parcs-by-the-sea," is expected to create approximately 400 permanent jobs and another 400 during construction.
Background of the Site
Pleasure Island opened in 1993 and was a popular attraction with 50 rides, live shows, and family entertainment. It closed in October 2016, after which most rides were sold off, leaving the site abandoned with rotting buildings and rusting structures. The 60-acre site changed hands six years ago, and developers submitted an application in January 2023 to overhaul the disused theme park.
Details of the Proposed Development
The plan includes a large Lidl superstore with a garden centre, two hotels (one with 58 rooms and another with 148 rooms, both five storeys tall), a drive-thru coffee shop widely expected to be Costa, and a reception area serving 272 lodges offering two- to four-bedroom holiday accommodation. Retail units, a cycle hire centre, and an anglers' hub with toilets, lockers, and changing facilities around a lake are also part of the scheme. The lake remains at the heart of the site.
Council and Public Response
Councillors will consider the plan on Wednesday, July 8, at Grimsby Town Hall. Objections have been raised by rival retailers Tesco and Aldi, as well as local residents concerned about traffic and wildlife impact. However, many support the development for job creation, tourism boost, and removal of an eyesore. The agent, Lichfields, stated that the proposal is "an effective use of the land" and would "contribute to the local economy and the vitality of the resort."
Adrian Smith, Director of Church Lane Humberston Limited, said: "We're delighted that the proposal has been recommended for approval and has reached Committee stage. Together with our partners Lidl UK, and with great thanks to planning consultants Lichfields and to Cheryl Jarvis who heads NELC's planning team, we are thrilled that the recommendation for approval of this £70m project, which will create nearly 400 jobs in the local market and provide an unprecedented boost to the local economy is nearer to delivery."
Environmental and Traffic Assessments
Environmental assessments, flood risk evaluations, and ecological impact studies have been completed. The comprehensive planning application report found no serious or harmful effects on ecology, access, or traffic. The noise assessment determined no adverse impact on lodge or hotel residents. Additionally, the nearby Meridian Showground may expand to accommodate up to 15,000 people for larger musical acts.
