Locals fight to protect a 1977 mosaic in Freshney Place, celebrating Queen Elizabeth’s Silver Jubilee against demolition plans.
This “forgotten” mosaic is behind old shops, one of which was a Eurochange. It’s a large mural for Queen Elizabeth II. Workers will tear down the building to make space for a new cinema.
Mik Boon from Grimsby started a petition to stop the art from being destroyed. He saw the unveiling as a teen. The mosaic marks a key historic moment and has been a symbol of local heritage since 1977.
The mosaic has historical value that the council had forgotten, but locals didn’t. It shows the Silver Jubilee, where the Queen marked 25 years ruling. The mosaic is in danger because of a cinema project.
The petition aims to preserve local history and defines local identity. Development shouldn’t erase history. The petition asks the council to rethink demolition and instead preserve or carefully move the mosaic.
The mosaic is more than tiles and mortar; it represents pride, nostalgia, and shared memory. It has been part of the community for over 40 years and reminds people of their roots and growth.
Mik stated that preserving aspects of the past can coexist with progress. He encourages everyone to support the initiative to help save the Queen’s Silver Jubilee Mosaic from 1977.
A council spokesperson addressed the topic, stating they don’t know if it was damaged earlier. They will check if it’s salvageable when removing shops.
Mik remembers the mosaic’s construction when he was around 19. It was a popular spot for young people. He feels it’s crucial to protect it because it represents town history.
A council spokesperson acknowledged the mosaic, which is behind units slated for demolition. The leisure scheme will move forward, and assessing the mosaic’s condition is their eventual goal.