Campaigners start Ice Factory's renaissance

Local campaigners formed the Great Grimsby Ice Factory Trust last summer with the aim of bringing Grimsby Ice Factory back to life.

The group is promoting a number of ideas for the building – a familiar part of Grimsby's skyline which is still owned by port operator Associated British Ports – including becoming an international visual arts venue, a renewable energy educational hub and an American-style micro-brewery.

The vast brick building is grade two star listed and still contains its ice-making machinery.

The group needs as much as 20,000 for an options appraisal before they can seek sources of funding.

Great Grimsby Ice Factory Trust Chair Vicky Hartung said: "We will be inviting people to become members of GGIFT.

"The Ice Factory is a grand old building which has the potential to become a spectacular venue on this part of the East Coast."

Photographs taken in the 1980s of the factory when it was churning out ice for Grimsby's fishing fleet and ideas for its future can be seen at the Gate Gallery, on Brighowgate, Grimsby, from next Thursday until February 12, on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, from 10am to 4pm.