Former bank set for dockside revival

A historic former bank on the Port of Grimsby is set to be transformed into modern office space as part of an ongoing programme to breathe new life into the area’s heritage buildings.

The former Midland Bank, on Fish Dock Road, will undergo restoration through the Partnership Scheme in Conservation Areas (PSiCA), which is supporting the regeneration of historic properties across the port.

Also previously known as Ice and Ocean and Ocean House, the building once served businesses operating around Grimsby’s docks and sits between Solly’s Café and Tom Taylor’s.

Work funded through the heritage scheme will include restoring the shopfront to its 1934 appearance, alongside repairs to windows, brickwork, roofing and rainwater goods, as well as repointing.

The tenant will separately carry out a programme of internal improvements, including new floors, a kitchenette and toilets.

Plans will create a ground-floor office and an architect’s studio on the first floor, giving the historic building a new commercial purpose.

The project follows a series of restorations delivered with PSiCA support across the Port of Grimsby.

They include improvements to The Great Escape, operated by Creative Start CIC, and work by Alfred Enderby to restore the former Marconi building as part of an expansion of its smoked fish business.

The wider scheme aims to protect the distinctive heritage of Grimsby’s docks while bringing historic buildings back into productive use.

Councillor Oliver Freeston, leader and portfolio holder for strategic renewal, delivery and place leadership at North East Lincolnshire Council, said: “It’s great to see more investment in the Port of Grimsby.

“It is hugely important to our history and those buildings should be restored and protected wherever possible. 

“It’s also great to see businesses operating from these spaces, their continued support shows what a successful area we are.”

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