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Image above: The front entrance to Horizon Youth Zone. Credit: Horizon Youth Zone.
The Grade II-listed West Haven Maltings and Migar House in Grimsby have been saved from dereliction and transformed into a youth zone, providing this landmark historic site with an inspiring new community purpose supporting children and young people across North East Lincolnshire.
Located in Grimsby town centre, the West Haven Maltings and Migar House site consists of the main body of the 19th-century maltings and the former grain store.
The development of the West Haven Maltings first began in 1821. The company Sandars and Co were its longest residents, occupying the space from 1829 until 1922. It later became part of Pauls and Sandars, a major name in British malt, until the economic decline of the 1990s led to several maltings closures, including the Grimsby premises. Initially known as “Number 2 Grain Warehouse”, Migar House sits to the right of the maltings; over the years, it has been home to a glove factory, a tea warehouse, a mineral water factory, and a billiards saloon.
The site was used for a variety of light industrial uses in the 20th century, and part of the complex was badly damaged by a fire in 2009. It was subsequently left abandoned, falling further into a state of disrepair. However, being the last industrial landmark connecting the historic waterfront to the town, it remained a significant part of Grimsby’s history.
Now, thanks to the Horizon Youth Zone charity, the West Haven Maltings and Migar House have been restored, refurbished and repurposed to create Horizon - a safe, inspiring place for young people to discover their passion and purpose.
Built on the successful OnSide Youth Zones model, Horizon offers state-of-the-art facilities available at the cost of just £5 annual membership and 50p per visit, alongside access to nutritious hot meals for £1.
Inside the building, young people aged 8-19 (and up to 25 for those with additional needs) will have access to an indoor climbing wall, a music room with a built-in recording studio, a performing arts space, arts and crafts activities, a maker zone with 3D printing equipment, and sports amenities - including a 3G kick pitch, boxing gym, sports hall and a fully equipped gym. A dedicated team of youth workers, support staff and volunteers will also be on hand to support, inspire, and empower young people to thrive.
The Architectural Heritage Fund (AHF) is delighted to have supported Horizon Youth Zone with a Project Development Grant through the Transforming Places through Heritage programme, which was made possible by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. Awarded in 2020, the grant contributed towards professional fees for a design team, Project Manager, Cost Consultant and Heritage Consultant, as well as engagement through marketing and communications, to help develop plans for this project.
Following the completion of the restoration last Autumn and months of taster sessions, the multi-million pound facility is now ready to officially welcome young people from across North East Lincolnshire through its doors, introducing them to a range of fresh opportunities.
Lucy Ottewell-Key, CEO of Horizon Youth Zone, said: "Being so close to officially opening our doors is a milestone that has been over five years in the making. Over the course of this project, we've seen an area of Grimsby totally transformed and its heritage restored - which would not have been possible without our incredible network of supporters. Our Grand Opening marks the beginning of our next chapter and opens a new door for children and young people across North East Lincolnshire."
Matthew Mckeague, CEO of the Architectural Heritage Fund, said: “The opening of the Horizon Youth Zone will unlock new opportunities and experiences for many young people across North East Lincolnshire, enabling them to thrive in a safe and supportive environment, while also interacting with a significant part of Grimsby’s heritage. We are delighted to have been able to provide support and grant funding to the Horizon Youth Zone charity, and to have played a part in helping this project to become a reality!”
The Grand Opening of Horizon Youth Zone will take place on Saturday 14th February, with fun sessions for all the family. It will also offer the community an opportunity to meet the team and have a look at the new state-of-the-art facilities.
To learn more, please visit the Horizon Youth Zone website.
