As part of the Towns Fund, one of the most talked about projects has to be the transformation being made to the Colonnade at Sutton-On-Sea. A crumbling, concrete structure first built in the 1950s, the iconic building has sadly come to the end of its operational life.
Work to remove the existing failing structure has already started and will be complete by the end of April 2021.
Demolition has been made possible due to an accelerated fund grant of £500,000 from the Government through the Towns Fund. However, the costs for a rebuild have been factored into the bid currently being considered. It is hoped that new visitor and community facilities will now be provided to increase engagement and enjoyment of a wide range of leisure and cultural pursuits throughout the year for all ages.
The new build scheme includes new café and restaurant space with external seating, a new visitor centre, beach huts and enhanced facilities for community leisure, events, year-round recreation and sheltered seating. The plans also include the preservation and enhancing of existing and much-loved features within the Colonnade area such as the water feature, children’s play area and rose garden.
To ensure the Colonnade reaches its full potential, the Connected Coast Board is also working with other funding partners to enhance local cycling links and facilities and new arts and cultural activity for all ages.
Although face-to face consultation is not possible at the moment, more than 1,200 community comments on the new Colonnade design were heard following a February 2020 consultation event at the Bacchus Hotel in Sutton-on-Sea.
The redevelopment scheme is currently being considered as part of the Mablethorpe Area Town Investment Plan submitted to Government by East Lindsey District Council on behalf of the Connected Cast Board.
“We hope that the transformation of the Colonnade will act as a catalyst for more investment and opportunities. Projects as diverse as cycling routes and more cultural events centered around Sutton-On-Sea’s seafront are just two suggestions that have been expressed. The Colonnade is such an integral part of the area’s offer but the new development will attract more visitors throughout the year as part of an improved visitor offer for the Lincolnshire Coast.”
Martin KayStrategic Funding Manager - East Lindsey District Council
The Council will also be working with local partners to enhance the Pleasure Gardens and Promenade setting for the 2021 season following removal of the Colonnade, ahead of any new major construction works starting on site.