Regeneration isn’t just about retail in a town centre. It’s about people, place — and purpose.
We recently caught up with Paula Denton, CEO of Our Big Picture, to talk about one of the most exciting cultural regeneration projects happening right now in Grimsby town centre: the transformation of a historic building into a new Arts and Heritage Centre.
For Paula, bringing this space back to life is about more than bricks and mortar. It’s about creating a visible, accessible, and welcoming place where everyone — from children to emerging creatives — can connect with local culture, history, and each other
For years, arts organisations have often been seen as nice to have rather than essential — sometimes dismissed as soft, “fluffy,” or less important than business or infrastructure projects.
But by securing a permanent home in the heart of town, Our Big Picture is helping to shift that perception.
You’re no longer seen as delivering just ‘nice-to-have’ arts” said Paula Denton, CEO of Our Big Picture. “You’re seen as rooted in place—with a clear role in cultural regeneration. It’s a real shift in perception. Funders, partners, and local people view you differently when you invest in a permanent presence that delivers real benefit for the whole community, right in the heart of the town.”
Having a building changes everything. It offers stability, inclusion through accessibility, and visibility — allowing Our Big Picture to not only plan ambitious programmes, but also to listen and respond to the community in ways that aren't always possible without a dedicated space.
This project is about unlocking opportunity. For young people. For artists. For Grimsby.
And like all good regeneration, it’s people-powered.
Paula and her team are calling on the community — individuals, businesses, and funders — to get involved, help unlock further investment, and shape what this vibrant new space becomes.
here
The town centre is changing. Yes, retail matters — but so do arts, heritage, and culture. And this project is proof that creative regeneration can spark connection, pride, and real momentum.
If you’re a business, funder or individual who’s passionate about the future of our town centre — and wants to support the role of culture, arts, and heritage in regeneration — Our Big Picture would love to hear from you.
Whether it’s through partnership, philanthropy, or a financial contribution, your support could help unlock even more impact.
To connect with Paula and the team, visit the Our Big Picture page on Facebook or visit the website here