‘Building has been target for all kinds of antisocial behaviour’

THE former YMCA building off Peaks Lane, Grimsby, is to be demolished.

- By IVAN MORRIS POXTON

It follows council talks with the site owner after repeated arson attacks as well as incidents of vandalism and antisocial behaviour at the site.

As a consequence of these, a structural engineer's report received late last week advocated demolition as the best course of action.

“In the professional opinion of the engineer, the safest and most appropriate course is controlled demolition of the entire building complex.”

Following this, the council has pursued the legal process as quickly as possible, enacting Section 78 of the Building Act to compel demolition.

The owner has taken responsibility and organised extra security as they take the necessary action and surveys prior to safe demolition.

The building has been vacant since the YMCA moved to Freeman Street in 2021, with the organisation putting it up for sale the following year.

Measures taken by the owner include round-the-clock manned security and new fencing.

Humberside Police has also been informed and are supporting, and trespassers are warned of action if they try to enter the building.