The Dolphin Hotel in Cleethorpes, a historic landmark built nearly 250 years ago, is set to undergo an extensive makeover that promises to restore its former glory. Situated at the prominent corner of Market Place and Alexandra Road, this iconic building has served various roles over the centuries, from a hotel and restaurant to a nightclub, and now it is embarking on an ambitious refurbishment project.
This restoration effort is being significantly supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, which is channeled through the Cleethorpes Townscape Heritage Programme. This initiative aims to enhance and preserve the architectural integrity of several buildings within the popular seaside resort, with the Dolphin Hotel being one of the flagship projects.
The refurbishment will involve critical renovations, including roof repairs, the demolition of non-original and harmful extensions that have marred the building’s façade, and the restoration of original windows and doors. Additional improvements such as stone detailing, leadwork, and a complete exterior redecoration in authentic Victorian colours will help return the hotel to its 19th-century roots.
North East Lincolnshire Council’s leader, Councillor Philip Jackson, has expressed his enthusiasm for this initiative. “This is one of the really prominent buildings in Cleethorpes that’s been here for hundreds of years. The work planned will really transform this building, and it will be great to see it done. I’d like to thank the building owners for coming forward and being part of this scheme,” he noted, highlighting the significance of the hotel to the local community.
The freeholder of the Dolphin Hotel, Darren Lince, echoed Jackson's sentiments, stating, “We’re really pleased to be able to crack on with this project. We’ve got some great plans for the building, and this is the first stage of them – making the building watertight and creating a fantastic exterior, which is much more fitting to the resort.” His comments reflect both excitement and a sense of responsibility towards maintaining the heritage of Cleethorpes.
In an effort to ensure the project is executed to the highest standards, Lince has appointed Hodson Architects to lead the design and implementation. The actual construction will be carried out by CAG Builders, a firm that has completed similar heritage projects funded by the National Lottery within the area.
Carol Heidschuster, Townscape Heritage project manager, added: “The Townscape Heritage Programme has been a fantastic programme to work on. The key for me is seeing the buildings transformed through the works, and the owners develop a new respect for the architecture and the history of their building.”
She specifically noted the importance of this project, stating, “The Dolphin, in particular, is one of the older buildings in the resort, and to see it returned to its Victorian roots will be fantastic.” Such sentiment underscores the collaborative community effort aimed at revitalizing Cleethorpes while preserving its rich history.
The Dolphin Hotel's makeover is more than just a refurbishing of bricks and mortar; it is a testament to the community's commitment to honoring its past while paving the way for future generations to enjoy the rich history the building represents. As renovations begin, anticipation will build not only for the hotel's transformation but also for how this initiative will help restore the community's pride and the allure of Cleethorpes as a premier destination.
With the support of the National Lottery Heritage Fund and a dedicated team of local stakeholders, Cleethorpes is poised to witness a remarkable rebound of its historic treasures. As the project unfolds, it promises to breathe new life into the Dolphin Hotel, setting the stage for perhaps another 250 years of memories and stories yet to unfold.
