Grimsby Library Gets £10M Boost for Permanent Home

North East Lincolnshire Council has committed £10 million towards establishing a permanent library in Grimsby town centre. This significant capital investment was approved as part of the council's wider budget. The funds are planned for allocation across three fiscal years: £1 million in 2026/27, £5 million in 2027/28, and £4 million in 2028/29. This initiative does not affect the council's revenue or day-to-day spending, utilizing flexibility within the capital budget.

The decision addresses the ongoing closure of Grimsby Central Library, which has been shut since March of last year due to water damage and potential asbestos-related issues. While the approved funding earmarks a permanent facility, it does not guarantee the restoration of the original building, as the council awaits a detailed cost assessment. The current temporary library, located in Freshney Place shopping centre since November, will eventually be replaced by the new permanent structure.

Councillors emphasized the importance of a permanent library as a vital civic asset. Discussions revealed that previous estimates for refurbishing the central library ranged between £12.3 million and £13.6 million. Independent Councillor Steve Holland, who introduced the budget amendment, stressed the need to explore external funding opportunities to ensure the future library is fully fit for purpose.