The East Marsh, once a bustling hub of Grimsby’s fishing industry, had fallen into a state of decline. The departure of the trawling fleet left behind a community ravaged by deprivation and plagued by social and economic issues. County lines drug gangs had seized control of the streets, bringing violence, intimidation and fear to an already vulnerable neighbourhood.
In 2017, a public meeting was held at which Billy Dasein, now CEO of East Marsh United (EMU), gave an impassioned speech. Billy, an educationalist, was born on the East Marsh and had recently returned to care for his father. He offered to deliver a workshop for interested residents keen to explore and understand the root causes of the issues the community was facing – and how to effect lasting change. Fifteen people attended Billy’s workshop and East Marsh United was born. Concerned residents realised that if things were to change, they would have to be the ones leading the charge.
Over the course of the following year EMU members went out every Saturday and began cleaning the streets and engaging in open dialogue about the challenges facing their neighbourhood. Every Thursday evening the group sat together at St John’s and St Stephen’s Church for two hours, discussing possible solutions to the problems before them. With a focus on empathy, openness and trust, EMU embarked on a journey to revitalise the East Marsh.
Their efforts gradually fostered a sense of unity and hope among the residents. Over time, EMU expanded its initiatives to include housing, environmental improvements, and community engagement.
East Marsh United’s commitment to community engagement has been instrumental in its success
Recognising the critical role of affordable housing in stabilising the community, EMU partnered with the local council to purchase and refurbish three properties with funding from Homes England. In 2022, we formed a community benefit society, which enabled EMU to run a community share offer, raising £500,000, which has enabled us to buy and refurbish seven more homes, providing affordable rents and essential support services to tenants. This is helping to reduce housing instability and create a more welcoming environment for residents.
Beyond housing, EMU has also focused on environmental improvements. By planting trees and greening the Marsh, we are enhancing air quality and creating accessible green spaces. These efforts contribute to the overall well-being of the community and improve its aesthetic appeal.
EMU’s commitment to community engagement has been instrumental in its success. We have involved hundreds of local residents in various activities and worked with partners to overcome barriers to participation. By fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment, EMU has created a safer and more inclusive community.
As EMU continues its work, it remains dedicated to addressing the systemic issues that have plagued the East Marsh. By providing affordable housing, improving the environment and fostering community engagement, it is building a brighter future for this long-neglected area.
From derelict to dream home
In the heart of the East Marsh, a forgotten property stood as a stark reminder of the area’s challenges. Abandoned for 15 years, this house was a shell of its former self, a victim of neglect and time.
In March 2023, East Marsh United took on the daunting task of transforming this eyesore into a home. What we found was a scene straight out of a horror movie: a building stripped bare to its brickwork, a gaping hole in the roof, and a buddleia bush thriving where a ceiling should be. Rats living in the drains had been feasting on the electrical cables.
East Marsh United had ambitious plans to transform this eyesore into an eco exemplar home. A local organisation had generously donated an air source heat pump, and solar panels and external wall insulation were on the agenda. This project held the promise of demonstrating that existing homes, not just new builds, can be retrofitted to be environmentally friendly and energy efficient. It was to be EMU’s show home.
The initial dream of an eco-home was dashed when a partnership fell through with a funder, leaving EMU to shoulder the entire financial burden. The house was in a far worse condition than anticipated, with structural issues that consumed the £15,000 grant from North East Lincolnshire Council and the rest of the money from our own funds. The dream of an eco exemplar had to be scaled back, a painful decision given the potential benefits to the environment and the future residents.
This project highlights a critical issue: the urgent need for increased investment in the retrofitting of older homes. Properties built in the early 1900s, often home to low-income families, are energy guzzlers. Soaring energy costs place an immense burden on these households, trapping them in a cycle of poverty.
Despite the challenges, we persevered. The house was reborn as a three-bedroom haven with modern amenities. Eco-friendly features like lime render, ‘A’-rated appliances, and top-notch insulation were incorporated to create a sustainable and comfortable living space.
However, the reality is that bringing an empty property back to life is a costly and time consuming endeavour. The property was purchased for £31,500 and refurbishment costs then soared to over £100,000. To put this in perspective, the average house price in East Marsh is just £64,000.
While we have successfully transformed this derelict house into a home for a deserving tenant, our experience highlights the urgent need for increased support from local authorities and funders. Empty properties are a blight on communities and a wasted resource. To properly address the issues of empty homes and energy poverty, we need a multifaceted approach. This includes increased funding for property renovation, support for community-led initiatives, and policies that incentivise the retrofitting of older homes.
