Plans submitted for conversion of historic Grimsby hall

Plans have been lodged to convert a grade II-listed hall in Grimsby to provide new training facilities and accommodation.Linkage Community Trust Charity has submitted planning and listed building applications to North East Lincolnshire Council for the conversion and refurbishment of Weelsby Hall and the Stables on the Weelsby Estate.Weelsby Hall was built as a country house for fishing trawler pioneer George Sleight in 1890. It remained in the ownership of the Sleight family until 2003 when Linkage purchased the site.Linkage Community Trust supports individuals with learning difficulties and disabilities, providing services including care, a specialist further education college, employment support and day services.The charity is currently based across a number of buildings on the Weelsby Hall site. It has recently secured funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to explore opportunities to bring Weelsby Hall and the associated heritage assets back into use.The plans cover the refurbishment of Weelsby Hall for use as a training centre, together with office facilities for the charity on the first floor.The Stables to the north would be converted to provide residential care accommodation for people with learning difficulties and autism.A design and access statement submitted as part of the application said: “The proposed change of use is required to create a vibrant range of new flexible spaces, and will contribute to a long-term, sustainable vision for Linkage and their continued use and enjoyment of these important buildings.”The careful refurbishment and repairs will enhance the appearance of the building, and its setting at the heart of Weelsby Estate, whilst promoting the heritage of the site.”