Following the recent completion of the £2.7m restoration of People’s Park, on the outskirts of Grimsby, where leading architects and historic building consultants, Purcell Miller Tritton, provided full architectual services, the park was officially opened to the public on 29th July after an ‘end of project’ celebration opening.
The project to restore the park back to its former Victorian glory was made possible through a £1.93m grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund, with further funding from North East Lincolnshire Council and the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister Liveability Fund as well as a large amount of local community participation. Work has included conservation, repair and new additions, running alongside extensive refurbishment and enhancements to the lake.
Purcell Miller Tritton created a focal point in the centre of the park by designing a new pavillion for all park users which is situated on the edge of the lake. This new building contains a cafe, toilets and park ranger facilities which forms a striking profile in the park with various shapes and roof pitches.
Clad in larch with cedar shingles to the roof, the pavillion is highly insulated with sheepswool and is heated by means of a ground source heat pump. Security is achieved by a system of timber shutters integral to the design of the building.
Other work to the park includes the installation of two feature fountains to the lake area, the restoration of the Smethurst Monument, improvements to pathways and the bandstand area in addition to the new furniture provided and a new terrace built in front of the Floral Hall.
Geoffrey Holland, Senior Principal at the York office said “We are delighted to have been involved in such a landmark restoration scheme for the city. People’s Park is a wonderful example of what can be achieved and is an ideal place for local communities to come together and appreciate their surroundings. It has been a pleasure to be involved in such a significant project for North East Lincolnshire Council.”