January – April 2017
www.n-kesteven.gov.uk
news nk
The newspaper for all North Kesteven residents
@NorthKestevenDC
Jason Bradbury fronts a video promoting road safety – Page 15
/NorthKestevenDC
First Passivhauses in Lincolnshire have been completed – Page 16
For different ways to read your News NK see page 2
Test your idea for a business in Sleaford – Page 19
More chance to get swimming at ONE NK Not only are more people than ever using the newlytransformed ONE NK, but there is now chance for the public to enjoy swimming sessions during the day for the first time. An additional 12 hours have been allocated in the timetable for community swimming in a schedule that also includes time planned for NK School, clubs and fitness classes. Figures show that swimming is up 68% due to NKDC’s recent £3.6million investment in the centre, including the country’s first interactive V-Flume and Magna Carta-inspired splash for toddlers. Previously around 100 children were using the pool at weekends, but it is such a hit now that more than 1,000 youngsters are diving in. The rest of the centre has proved to be equally popular, with user numbers up significantly across all areas.
Now, to enable more people to lead more active lives, daytime swimming has been introduced. This has created a timetable that not only meets the needs of the school, but also creates additional hours of general swimming opportunities during the day, as seen in the panel on the right. Alongside this, new spaces have been created at the centre for the school to use, enabling it to provide much more varied activity for its students. At the official opening of ONE NK, Olympic medallist Sharron Davies said ‘what the Council has achieved with £3.6 million is extraordinary’ and praised the partnership between the school, Council and community. It is expected that the new centre will attract 250,000 uses over a year, with class occupancy doubled to 92% – the highest rate across contractor 1Life’s estate.
See the full timetable for all facilities at
Newly-added swimming sessions: Mondays Early bird swim
until 9.50am
General swim
1.30 – 3.30pm
Adult & child lessons
9 – 9.30am and 9.45 – 10.15am
Adult & child swim
1.30 – 4.30pm
Magna Carta Splash
9 – 10.15am and 1.30 – 4.30pm
Wednesdays Early bird swim
2.15 – 3.15pm
Thursdays Aqua Fit
10.15 – 11am
Lane & general swim
11am – 1pm
Adult & child swim
11am – 1pm
Magna Carta Splash
10.15am – 1pm
www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/leisure
Welcome
“We are committed to carrying forward our NK Plan for the benefit of residents, businesses and visitors.”
Welcome to NewsNK – the newspaper for all North Kesteven District Council residents. Below is a quick guide to the sections inside your issue.
3–6
News Focus
7, 8, 13, 14
Community Champion Awards
9 – 12
What’s on pull-out
15
Our Communities
16 – 17
Our Homes
18 – 19
Our Economy
20
What you can do on our website
Council Leader Cllr Mrs Marion Brighton OBE While 2017 presents itself with a range of exciting opportunities for the Council, which we will pursue with vigour and enthusiasm, I am saddened not to be in a position to fulfil all of the hopes we held. This is because, after more than a year of close-co-operation and coordination between the principle councils of Lincolnshire, at the 11th hour the possibility of drawing down hundreds of millions of pounds in additional funding and opportunities for more growth, skills, and jobs locally were lost to Greater Lincolnshire. Because two of the ten partner councils ultimately rejected it, the devolution deal we all worked on throughout 2016 has now been lost and there is no scope to revisit it. Consequently the initial £450m for spending in Lincolnshire over 30 years on jobs, roads, infrastructure and education and subsequent hundreds of millions for housing, healthcare and criminal justice to name but a few high-level opportunities are lost and so too the potential for Lincolnshire to raise its profile on a national stage. But here in North Kesteven we are committed to carrying forward our own plan, the NK Plan, which is a three-year strategic vision for service delivery for the benefit of residents, businesses and visitors in support of our flourishing communities.
One of the first things we will be doing is appointing a contractor and beginning work on a new waste services depot in Metheringham, which will also include provision of a further 10,000 sq ft of industrial space arranged over seven business units. In this edition of News NK you will see details of ongoing work on many of our projects, including the regeneration of Newfield Road in Sleaford; Lincolnshire’s first ever Passivhauses; and updates on progress of the International Bomber Command Centre and Mrs Smith’s Cottage restoration. We are stepping up measures to encourage inward investment and job creation within our programme of economic development in the LN6 area. The same can be said for Sleaford as we redouble our efforts in encouraging and enabling regeneration under the established Masterplan to allow the community to prosper, grow and flourish to meet existing and emerging needs. As a responsive and reactive Council I assure you that everything we do is done in the best interests of the entire District. And with the on-going support and participation of the community we remain committed to continuous improvement, innovation, investment and growth that benefits us all.
The Council in numbers This newspaper is edited by the Council’s Communications Team. Each copy costs 5.6p to print and 9.3p to deliver direct to your door. Email: communications@n-kesteven.gov.uk Phone: 01529 308167 To assist those with impaired sight, it is recorded in audio form and circulated via the Sleaford & District and Lincoln & District talking newspapers. To subscribe to these free services call Barbara on 01529 488488 or Janet on 01522 539721. NewsNK is also available online at: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/news NKDC has an Infolink at ONE NK, North Hykeham, and works with parishes to provide Local Access Points at Bassingham, Billinghay, Heckington, Metheringham, Navenby, Skellingthorpe, Waddington and Washingborough. Page 2
NKDC provides affordable housing across the District. Figures from the last year have shown that:
94%
937
households were prevented from becoming homeless
92%
£26k
was saved collectively by tenants following Energy Assessments by our Affordable Warmth Officer
of tenants are satisfied with the quality of their home
For more information
of tenants were satisfied with their neighbourhood as a place to live – up from 91% the year before
99% Customer satisfaction with repairs
www.n-kesteven.gov.uk
News Focus
Decisions due on Council Tax
North Kesteven’s share of Council Tax looks set to stay among the lowest in the county, allowing the authority to continue to provide value for money services for its residents at low cost. NKDC’s Executive Board is considering a rise of £5 at Band D - equivalent to an increase of less than 10p per week. As three-quarters of households are in Bands A to C this would be a Sorry if some of the news in this edition of News NK seems old or you may have seen before. We were required to hold November’s edition back because of the Sleaford
potential rise of between six and eight pence per week. Initial feedback from residents indicates broad support for the proposal. Although NKDC collects Council Tax it ultimately only takes around 9% of the overall bill, with the rest divided between Lincolnshire County Council, the Police and Crime Commissioner and parish and town councils. A decision on Council Tax is due in February. and North Hykeham Parliamentary by-election, however some did slip through the net so a small number of people may have already seen some of the content included.
For the latest news from NKDC visit
Sign-up to service For more information visit
Work starts on centre’s ‘hub’ Construction is well under way on the new ‘hub’ being built at the International Bomber Command Centre. NKDC recently awarded £200,000 to the IBCC, which will help visitors navigate their way around other aviation heritage attractions in the county. This was the final piece in a funding jigsaw that unlocked significant Heritage Lottery Funding, but even still the project needs a further £3m to achieve its full potential. Planned for completion in the summer, the
Chadwick Centre – named after the designer of the Lancaster Bomber and other significant military aircraft – will tell the stories of Bomber Command from all perspectives: those who returned from operations; those who never returned; the Prisoners of War; ground crew, support crew and aircrew; builders and designers of the aircraft; the civilians of Lincolnshire and Eastern England whose lives were turned upside down by the arrival of the airfields; and the effects of the bombing on both sides.
Work will begin this year on the long-awaited Lincoln Eastern Bypass after the Government has given final sign-off on the funding. The £99m road will take three years to complete and will run from the end of the current Lincoln Bypass at the A158, across the River Witham, running between Washingborough and Canwick and sweeping around the back of Bracebridge Heath to join the A15 south of the village. It could substantially reduce traffic at Canwick Hill, Cross O’Cliff Hill and Pelham Bridge. Network Rail has started work on a railway bridge adjacent to Washingborough Road to replace a small cattle creep with a new bridge that will allow the bypass to run under the railway. This is expected to be completed in April 2018. NKDC has supported the bypass and the broader economic and social benefits it will bring to the District and its residents. For updates visit www. lincolnshire.gov.uk/leb
www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/news Soon you can join or renew your subscription for NKDC’s garden waste collection service, with prices frozen for the coming year. The low-cost, hasslefree service enables subscribers to have their brown bins emptied every other week, except during the winter months of December and January. It costs £30 to have one garden waste bin collected, and £12 for each additional bin – and for the first time anyone joining the scheme can opt to pay by direct debit alongside other methods of payment. Subscription opens online on February 1 and
by phone on March 1, details alongside. Once you’ve joined up, you’ll be sent a sticker to display on each bin to show that you’re part of the service, running for a year from April 1. These need to be positioned correctly to ensure your bins are emptied. Residents who do not want to join the service can take their garden waste to Household Waste Recycling Centres or could have a composter in their garden. You can check your bin collection dates on NKDC’s website: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/ findmybinday
www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/gardenwaste or call 01529 414155
Save yourself the hassle Sign up and let us collect your garden waste
£30 for the year
A full year’s collection of garden waste from your home, starting April 1, for just £30 www.n-kesteven.gov.uk 01529 414155
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News Focus
For the first time, the Sleaford & North Hykeham Constituency is to be served by a female MP. Following her victory in holding the seat for the Conservatives at the December 8 by-election, Dr Caroline Johnson becomes the first woman to represent the broader area in parliament. Some northern parts of the current constituency have historically been within the Lincoln Constituency which has had women MPs in the past. Dr Johnson, a consultant paediatrician who lives at Sudbrooke, almost matched her predecessor Stephen Phillips’ share of the vote as she took 17,570 of the 32,891 votes cast on a 37.08% turnout. Her’s was 54% majority against Mr Phillips’ 56% at 2015’s General Election. The main part of North Kesteven has been served consistently by one Conservative MP or another – four in total – since winning the seat back in 1950 following eight years under an Independent.
Dedication recognised
North Kesteven District Council Leader Councillor Marion Brighton OBE has been awarded for her lifetime achievement in local government. A councillor for a continuous 43 and a half years – more than half of her age – Cllr Brighton was named as winner of the Local Government Information Unit’s Lifetime Achievement Award for 2016. Although unable to attend the London Guildhall ceremony and accept the award herself, she said she was ‘very humbled and honoured to have been selected from among a field of outstanding and inspirational councillors’. Her service to North Kesteven District Council and the wellbeing of its residents extends back to April 1973. Along the way she has successfully defended 12 elections, enjoyed 15 years of continuous leadership and been chairman of the Council twice, spanning a total of three years.
For the latest Council news North Kesteven District Council is now accredited as a Living Wage employer. The Living Wage Foundation has formally recognised the authority for its socially-responsible attitude towards lower paid workers as it joins a group of around 2,500 employers who pay the
Visit online
Living Wage across the country. The Council began paying staff the increment over and above the Minimum Wage in April 2013 – the first authority in the county to do so – and in October 2014 it was agreed to automatically apply increments in the Living Wage rate year-on-year.
www.n-kesteven.gov.uk
Public service has been a constant in her life, even through recent illness and bereavement while in office as the Council’s first woman chairman in the early 80s; insisting that it was her Council work and the chance ‘to get things done’ that carried her through. In that time her zeal and desire to do things differently has seen her pioneer a range of initiatives and partnerships: being one of the first to champion wheeled bins; a new era of council house building; significant leisure investment when others were cutting back; a vast community arts outreach; and shaping and leading on a number of national policy initiatives for the benefit of rural areas. Her nomination reflected on her ‘guidance’, her determination ‘to provide the best service of any Lincolnshire authority to its taxpayers’, her ‘vision, relentless resolve and advocacy, delivered with good grace and clarity’.
www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/news
New District Councillor Councillor Cat Mills has been elected to NKDC, winning the Cliff Villages seat in a by-election for the Lincolnshire Independents. She took 721 of the 1,146 votes. Her predecessor, Laura Conway, resigned in August last year due to work commitments.
YOU CAN’T VOTE UNLESS YOU ARE REGISTERED Registering online is quick and easy at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote or you can call 01529 414155 You will need to provide your National Insurance Number and date of birth.
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For more information
www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/registertovote
News Focus
Walk to remember loved ones lost Families will have the chance to remember loved ones they’ve lost at a poignant Snowdrop Walk. The event will take place at Whisby Nature Park on Sunday, February 12 from noon to 3pm. Attendees will be able to plant a snowdrop to remember their loved ones who are no longer with us. Lubbe & Sons (bulbs) Ltd have kindly sponsored
Visit
Here are some useful numbers and links
Lincolnshire County Council (24/7) number to report flooding:
Police non-emergency call:
101
01522 782082 Lincolnshire County Council proactive flooding advice go to
www.lincolnshire.gov.uk and search “ flooding ”
the event by donating 5,000 snowdrops in the green for the event. Donations to plant these will be taken on the day. Snowdrop Walks are held in aid of Child Bereavement UK, a charity that supports families and educates professionals when a baby or child of any age dies or is dying, or when a child is facing bereavement. The charity also trains 7,000 people a year to help them better
understand the needs of grieving families. The Snowdrop Walk was brought to NKDC’s attention by a resident who has recently moved to Cranwell from Buckinghamshire and used to participate in an annual event in February to plant snow drops. For more information about the event, email community initiatives: community_initiatives@ n-kesteven.gov.uk
www.facebook.com/snowdropwalk !
Could you be a ‘Voice of the Customer’ and work with NKDC to let us know the things we get right and what we can improve? This could include you telling us about your experiences with the Council, giving feedback on our website and other ways we get in touch, or getting involved in re-designing the way we do things. The Voice of the Customer role can be done from home, from your computer or by popping into our offices and taking part in workshops. The important thing is you get to choose how you want to be involved as any feedback you give is really appreciated by the Council. If you would like to know more about being a Voice of the Customer, please email customerfeedback@ n-kesteven.gov.uk or call 01529 414155 for further details.
All electricity suppliers and network providers to report power cuts or dangerous situations involving electricity call:
105
Environment Agency Floodline phone number
0845 988 1188
and to find out if your home is at risk of flooding
www.gov.uk/environment-agency
For the third year running North Kesteven has been found to be the safest place to live in England and Wales. Figures for the 12 months up to last April show that as a proportion of population size not only were fewer crimes committed locally than anywhere else in the country, but that there were fewer than the year before. This represents a continual fall in crime locally from 7th lowest in 2013 to maintaining the lowest levels over the last three consecutive years. National Crime Statistics show that during the year 2015/16 there were 24.3 crimes per 1,000 people in NK, down from 25.2 the year before. These include thefts, criminal damage, violence and public order offences but excludes fraud.
01529 414155
Be prepared in case of flooding Floods are devastating and preparation is key if you live or work in an area that could be under threat. In winter, it’s important to be ready for anything that may happen as time will be of the essence. Here are a few tips for what you can do to make sure you, your family and friends stay safe: • Check you are insured • Be aware of weather reports and warnings • Create a flood plan • Prepare children’s essentials • Safely store family medication • If flooding is imminent, turn off gas, electricity and water at the mains • Move electrical and sentimental items upstairs if you can • Use sandbags and/or flood boards to block external doors; cover up air bricks • Put sandbags on top of manholes • Plug sinks/baths and put a sandbag in the toilet bowl to prevent back flow • Ensure the safety of pets and animals
Did you know that hate and mate crimes can be reported confidentially? Hate crimes and incidents are those motivated by hostility or prejudice based on a person’s actual or perceived social group or groups. These include disability, race, religion and belief, sexual orientation and gender identification. A mate crime is when someone has been harmed or taken advantage of by someone they thought was their friend. To report a hate or mate crime contact Stop Hate UK in confidence on 0800 138 1625 or Lincolnshire Police on 101. In any emergency situation 999 should be called.
Please cut-out-and-keep the image on the left as it has all of the information you need of who to contact in the event of a flood.
To report flooding to Lincolnshire County Council call
01522 782082
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News Focus Changes to the benefit cap are now being introduced. The 2015 summer budget confirmed it would be reduced from £26,000 per household to £20,000. This is now being rolled out. Working age households with a resident receiving Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Personal Independence Payments (PIP) are exempt from the cap, along with households working enough hours to be eligible to claim Working Tax Credit (WTC). Visit: www.gov.uk/benefitcap/benefits-includedin-the-cap for a full breakdown of benefits included www.n-kesteven .gov.uk/ucan for financial or general advice. Alternatively, call 01529 414155.
Chairman to collect bins in aid of charity
The Chairman of NKDC will be walking around ten miles and carrying out 500 bin collections in a day all for a good cause. Councillor John Money will be joining the authority’s refuse team to raise money for his charity for the year, Lincolnshire’s St Barnabas Hospice. He will be emptying bins, delivering and repairing them, collecting fly-tipping and dealing
Please donate at Did you know there are lots of places you can go to in NK to use computers or pick up skills on finding your way around the internet? These include: • Libraries • Local Access Points • Parish Offices • NKDC office in Sleaford • Community groups in Heckington (Wednesdays) and Ruskington (Thursdays) 2-4pm at their Methodist Churches. Free to drop in. You can find free access points at www.lincs2advice.org.uk and clicking on the ‘Free Computer Access’ tab. Many of NKDC’s services are accessible online at www.nkesteven.gov.uk including paying your Council Tax, checking your bin collection days and looking at planning documents.
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with bulky waste. Every day NKDC’s bin collectors handle between 1,000 and 1,200 bins each. Over and above that there are the drivers and the broader waste and street scene team who do so much to deliver a critical service and keep our District clean, green and pleasant. Councillor Money said: “Always keen to learn tricks and muck in, I’m training hard for a full day
of work: determined to do my best. “St Barnabas Hospice is a terrific cause that touches on so many people’s lives and helps them through at the most critical and important times. “Please support me along the way...” Anyone wanting to donate money can do so online through Justgiving or by calling 01529 414155.
www.justgiving.com/chairmans-bin-day
PSPO signs are in place
Signs have been put in place at Metheringham Airfield warning drivers of the penalties they face if they are caught breaking the rules of an order in force on the site. NKDC approved a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) for the area after the authority and Lincolnshire Police received numerous complaints about ‘boy racers’ using the airfield as a race track and drivers carrying out stunts, sometimes putting themselves and others at risk of serious injury. As many as 100 cars had been reported on the airfield – which is a public highway – at one time; in addition, there had been reports of
More tools in the fight against fly-tipping have been added to North Kesteven District Council’s armoury. A Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) charge of £400 has been approved and can be served as a penalty for small-scale fly-tipping offences in lieu of prosecution for a criminal offence. The Council has also given the green light to mobile CCTV cameras being deployed at flytipping hotspots. Alongside these measures, signs have been put up in places where perpetrators have been successfully prosecuted. NKDC investigates every instance of flytipping and will, where possible, take action against offenders. You can report flytipping via the website: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk off-road bikes using the area as a practice site. The PSPO will prevent motor vehicle gatherings; speeding or racing; obstruction of the highway; racing, convoys or stunts; causing risk or harm to people or property; and causing undue annoyance from amplified music. All of these measures aim to give the space back to the majority of the general public who want to be able to use it in a responsible manner. Anyone found to be breaking the order faces a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) which can be given out by Council Officers, Police and PCSOs, or court action.
If you see anti-social behaviour or fly-tipping, please report it www.n-kesteven.gov.uk
01529 414155
Champions honoured for work in the community A record number of awards were made in 2016 in recognition of the extraordinary levels of community spirit shown throughout North Kesteven – and you can now submit your nominations for this year’s honours. Awards and applause were heaped on more communityspirited individuals, groups and businesses from across the District than ever before, for the difference they make through their extensive voluntary endeavours. There were 26 finalists across eight categories, recognising the talents and contributions of North Kesteven residents in making the District a great place to live. Ten Community Champion Awards were made plus another, new award, in recognition of the
life-saving actions of four Sleaford teenagers. These were all based on the 120-odd nominations made by people within the area’s communities in appreciation of what they do to touch lives through their outstanding endeavours and achievements. Collectively they account for the good works of hundreds of people and contribute significantly to the on going success of the District in being highlighted as one of the best places to live in the country based on quality of life criteria – currently best in England for ‘life satisfaction, high up for happiness and low anxiety and, for a third year running, with the lowest levels of crime. If you would like to make a nomination for this year email champions@n-kesteven.gov.uk
The winners are... Community Spirit: Keven & Barbara Roberts, South Rauceby; and Ian Kendrick, Waddington Councillor Mike Gallagher, Deputy Leader of NKDC “So very many people in North Kesteven work tirelessly, selflessly and voluntarily to improve the lives of others and enrich our communities and I thank you all. “We are always very proud to make these awards for people living and working in the District whose endeavours are carried out quietly, tirelessly, selflessly and unstintingly in order to make a difference to the lives of others, and this year especially to celebrate the heroic actions of communityminded teenagers. “They all display that elusive characteristic of community spirit which is so hard to define but which runs deep through the daily endeavours of so many North Kesteven residents.”
A big thank you to the 2016 NK Community Champion Awards Sponsors
Young Achiever: Christina Creedon, Silk Willoughby Community Business: Hill Holt Wood, Norton Disney; and Branston Ltd, Branston Contribution to Sport: Angela Morley, Dunston Contribution to Arts & Culture: John Crouch, North Hykeham Contribution to a Better Environment: The Friends of Mareham Pastures, Sleaford Contribution to Health & Wellbeing: Debbie Jones, Sleaford Contribution to Sustainable Transport: Charlie Kinloch, North Hykeham Chairman’s Award: Connor Robson, Luke Callow, George Brickles and Oliver Self
The NK Community Awards are only possible through the thoughtful nominations made by residents and the generous sponsorship of businesses and organisations:
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Community Spirit: Ian Kendrick Few people could exemplify the enormous range of expressions of community support Ian does, from low-key acts of thoughtful neighbourliness like clearing snow to playing Santa and leading walks across the District. Overcoming grief and depression following his wife’s death in 2010, Ian has been active in his support of others; filling his life with fighting for what he believes and helping people. An infectious sense of humour, caring nature and contagious smile make him
Compère Rod Whiting from BBC Radio Lincolnshire said it was ‘great to give people a pat on the back.’ “Others would say why do they need an award, they just do what they do. But it’s nice to give people recognition for what they do, giving to the community without financial reward or maybe even thanks. “That’s why these awards are so special and it was good to see so many happy smiling faces. “I say congratulations to everyone who was identified as worthy of praise, whether they took home the trophy or not; they are all winners and our lives are all the richer for their actions. Thank you.”
This award is sponsored by Lindum Group. Other finalists were Terry Audis, Timberland – for getting stuck into improving comm Jean Straw, Canwick – primarily for organising a community coffe Jenny Wright, Norton Disney – for commitment to a range of villa
Young Achiever: Christina Creedon
Held at The Venue, Navenby, the event was attended by more than 150 guests, including the sponsors who make it all possible. They were entertained by The Lost Property All Stars and, through a raffle and donations for drinks, raised £572 for the St Barnabas Hospice. They also heard from District Paralympian Kieran Tscherniawsky about his experiences at Rio 2016 and his work towards Tokyo 2020.
a popular leader of seven or more walks to encourage others to get out and be active. And with his dog Maggie at his side they bring joy into nursing homes, motivate other volunteers and raise money for charities. Ian also carries out fun runs at the age of 74; crafts walking sticks and wears odd socks just to make people laugh. Despite a dislike of bingo he sets up the weekly sessions. “I’ve been down and people have helped me to get back up, so I dedicate myself to helping others have a good life,” he said.
Arts & Culture: John Crouch
Eight separate nominations described how Christina always takes the role of ‘People’s Champion’. Aged 17, she is a young carer who, beyond her essential role within her family, is applauded for her advocacy for anyone with learning disabilities, ensuring they are treated fairly and with respect; fighting their corner with compassion. Alongside her studies and drive to work in mental health, she is a valued member of her school community and a hard working individual. Praised for standing up to bullies who created a potentially fatal situation through their torment of a boy with autism, supporters say the community needs more people like her, willing to act and stand up against ignorance and unkindness. Hers is an example to inspire others.
For more than 30 years John has led the group Jazz Vehicle from the front. A big band made up of 13 to 19 years olds, he invests time into the weekly rehearsals and packed performance programme. Where he says that if it weren’t for the children Jazz Vehicle wouldn’t happen, the children say that it wouldn’t even exist without John. Regarded as ‘a kind, passionate and dedicated person’ who clearly thrives on encouraging children to progress their musical talents, his care and consideration is borne out in the respect each of the children have for him. He says it is a great privilege to be able to work with ‘such an incredible bunch of students’ and support charities through their endeavours.
Award sponsor: DPS Digital Other finalists were: Keira Beeson, Sleaford – for raising funds and awareness of Chrons Disease Lee Croker, Sleaford – for determination to engage in normal school life and sport despite physical disabilities.
Award sponsor: Ringrose Law Other finalists were: Joan Dalton, Branston Booths – for increasing creative opportunities and participation in arts projects. Eddie Double, Sleaford – for contribution to art and culture in Sleaford.
You can download photographs from the event at
Chairman’s Awa Connor Robson, Luke George Brickles and O
New this year was a Chairman’ given to four Sleaford teenager for their life-saving actions. While hanging around on a str corner Connor Robson, Luke Ca George Brickles and Oliver Self aware of a woman who was unw in a nearby car, drifting in and o consciousness and barely able t Through their quick actions, help was summoned and medic assistance quickly followed. She has thanked them for thei and as their nomination for an a crossed the criteria for Young A and Community Spirit the judge to institute a special commenda “We just knew we had to do something,” said Connor. Compère Rod Whiting, from B Lincolnshire, said their actions s us all to ‘think twice before dism teenagers hanging around on a corner as being nothing but trou “One day they might just be th when you need them most!”
www.chrisvaughan.photography/archive (password: NKChampions)
what’s on
January – April 2017
See the beauty of 3D printing at the NCCD – Page 10
Get your boots on and join Whisby’s Welly Walk – Page 11
Whisby’s Little Darters has undergone a transformation – Page 11
When in Sleaford follow the roundels! A unique urban art trail comprising 18 distinctive bronze roundels has been installed in Sleaford. When in Sleaford has been commissioned by North Kesteven District Council, through artsNK, working in partnership with William Alvey School and is part funded by the Sleaford Renewable Energy Plant. The incredibly detailed pieces of art act as way-markers, mapping out pathways through and around the town and linking existing pieces of public art. The roundels were designed
by David Mackie, who worked with children from William Alvey Church of England Primary School and residents on the proposals, including themes of local heritage, archaeology, architecture and natural history. Early inspiration for the project came from two sources: a collection of Coritani coin moulds that had been found at Sleaford Old Place indicating the presence of an important Iron Age mint, and from the Cragg map of Sleaford of around 1770. The children worked with the shapes and symbols on similar
Coritani coins and developed designs by working on copies of the map. They drew imagery from visits to St Denys’ Church, Sleaford Museum, important and historical buildings in the town, Sleaford’s public art collection and walks along the river. Workshops with textile artist Becky Adams for pupils at Carre’s Grammar School and St George’s Academy as well as sessions with local families and voluntary groups resulted in designs that represent Sleaford’s seed industry and local folklore – including the tale of the circus that used to set up on Lollycock’s Field.
Discover 2017
Start making the most of your days out in the district this year
Pick up your FREE copy of the North Kesteven Leisure and Events Guide
What’s on New Walking Football sessions are being set up for the over 55s in Sleaford and North Hykeham. Organised by the NK Outreach Team, the events will be the perfect opportunity for those looking to enjoy the beautiful game but at a more manageable pace. Taster sessions will be available at the following venues: • Wednesday, February 1: 10.30 to 11.30am, 1Life at Sleaford, East Road, Sleaford • Thursday, February 2: 11.15am to 12.15pm at ONE NK, Moor Lane, North Hykeham Both sessions will include a short introduction and refreshments. Sessions cost £2 each. For more information please contact Benjamin Rowe, Sports and Physical Activity Manager on 07572 080716 or email benjamin.rowe @1life.co.uk
The North Kesteven Social Strollers won a UK Active Flame award, winning the ‘Go Outdoors’ category for demonstrating a significant and positive impact on people’s lives, and engaging new audiences through physical activity. The scheme is a free initiative designed to get people enjoying the outdoors. Open to everyone, there are 18 walks available across the district ranging from 30 to 90 minutes. For more information contact Carly Togher on 01522 870272 or email carly.togher@1life.co.uk
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Little Darters has been extended
The National Centre for Craft and Design Navigation Wharf, Sleaford 20:20 Visions Roof Gallery January 14 to March 12 20:20 Visions shows the best of contemporary jewellery while celebrating 20 years of the Association for Contemporary Jewellery. (ACJ). Twenty of its most prominent members will exhibit work from 1997 alongside a new piece. Alys Power, One and Many From January 14 Roof Gallery Project Space This collection is the culmination of a two-year MA in Contemporary Craft at Nottingham Trent University by Alys Power. It is a personal exploration of family history, people
3D Printing
www.nationalcraftanddesign.org.uk
and memories combining elements of modern digital manufacture with hand making. 3D Printing: The Good, The Bad and The Beautiful Main Gallery From January 28 The NCCD will host its first innovative and tactile exhibition in partnership with the University of Lincoln: exploring 3D printing, encouraging audiences to discover the technology and production processes that opens up new creative possibilities. Works highlight the innovative, political, social and environmental aspects of 3D printing, showing that
01529 308710
while the process is opening up new creative possibilities for makers, the technology also raises other complex questions. Syann Van Niftrik:Dropped March 18 to May 14 Roof Gallery Exchange Space Dropped is a time-based collaboration between Syaan Van Niftrik, a filmmaker, potter and archeologist. The potter makes two bowls, one is dramatically broken and re-assembled by the archeologist. The potter and the archaeologist are filmed, speaking about their thoughts as they work and
Syann Van Niftrik
the words from the film are then written on the pristine and reconstructed pots. One Year on at New Designers 2016 Until June 25 Roof Gallery Exchange Space Two award winners will be displaying their work in this exhibition. Rachel Howarth utilises digital print to combine tonal blends and patterns to create complex surface designs. Hannah Tounsend is a ceramicist and printmaker and has been growing her business and raising her profile as a designer, maker and artist.
20:20 Visions
What’s on
If you’re looking for something to do with the kids this half-term, why not pay a visit to the award-winning Little Darters outdoor play area at the Whisby Natural World Centre? It has recently undergone a transformation as part of the second phase of a £250,000 investment by owners North Kesteven District Council in facilities at the popular attraction. The Wildlife Adventure Area has been re-modelled to increase the potential for more physically demanding thrills and challenges. There is now a new look-out tower,
assault course, balance beam, climbing net, fireman’s pole and scramble board, extending Little Darters’ appeal to older children. This adds to the existing attractions which include water chutes and sand pits, super-sized wooden creatures to climb on, rope bridges and towers to clamber over and an underground cave giving a mole’s eye view of the world. Through the refresh, Little Darters now inspires children of all ages to be more active, more often. Inside the centre, the new Otters’ Reach play area continues to be a real
Whisby Natural World Centre Whisby Nature Park, Whisby
www.naturalworldcentre.co.uk
hit, bringing adventurous play to those too small to fully explore the outdoor wonders of Little Darters. The Nature Park is open dawn to dusk every day and the Natural World Centre from 10am to 5pm. Both are entirely free apart from a £2 day-long parking fee – proceeds of which finance the ongoing improvements and investment. Repeatedly awarded the Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence, the Natural World Centre remains popular with the public as approximately 200,000 people visit the facility each year.
The Years – A History of Whisby Until February 26 Wander through Whisby Nature Reserve’s changing
landscape through the years. The site has a long history from the agricultural fields to gravel pits through to its current standing as a Nature Reserve. See the reserve through the years in pictures, maps, artefacts and memories from those involved in the development and management. There will be a children’s area to sit and draw and be inspired by a Mammoth’s tusk! Whisby Welly Walk February 15, 1.30–2.30pm
A range of youth dance classes take place at ONE NK for ages 7-19. They enable participants to develop their techniques and performance skills in a fun and friendly atmosphere.
01522 688868
A History of Whisby exhibition National Farmhouse Breakfast Week January 23 to 29 Join in and celebrate breakfast – the most important meal of the day. A selection of new and old favourites on offer within the Boardwalk Bistro all week. Go for the wholegrain healthy options or the Lincolnshire favourite fry up!
ArtsNK Dance has set up a new dance and disabilities programme for young people aged 8-18 with disabilities. These inclusive sessions are open to all with learning and physical disabilities. The classes cover a variety of styles, genres and movement explorations to encourage and develop co-ordination, mobility and fun. Sessions take place at 6pm on Thursdays during term time at ONE NK, £2.
Whisby Welly Walk Enjoy a seasonal stroll around the reserve and raise money for North Hykeham Lions at the same time. Wear your wellies whatever the weather! There is no set price but donations will be welcome. ‘Birds On The Wing’ Featuring ‘All About Swans’ by Photographer Anne Waterfield March 3 to June 25 An exhibition that explores the life and beauty of both garden and wetland birds through a range
of media, craft, art and photography created by local practitioners, with all work on display available to buy. ‘Birds on the Wing’ features photography by wildlife and swan photographer Anne Waterfield whose body of work ‘All about Swans’ has previously exhibited at the Discovery Centre at Clumber Park. There will also be a Swan Facts section which is informative and a mini-me exhibition and trail aimed at young children.
ArtsNK’s aerial dance classes teach ‘dance in the air’ to adults and young people in bespoke studios at ONE NK. Participants learn new techniques on aerial silks and hoop. Classes improve physical fitness, strength and flexibility. For information on any of the events above email amy.osullivan@litc.org.uk Here are some dates for your diary for later in 2017! North Kesteven Walking Festival will take place from Saturday, July 8 to Saturday, July 22 and Spires and Steeples returns for its tenth year on Sunday, October 15. Watch this space for more information on these events.
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What’s on
Terry O’Toole Theatre, ONE NK, Moor Lane, North Hykeham. www.terryotooletheatre. org.uk 01522 883311 Heads South February 3, 7.30pm Music, rom cool, laid-back rhythms, to a cha cha cha vibe. Tickets £14, £12, under 16s £7.50 Spring Primary Schools’ Dance Showcase February 9, 6pm and 7.15pm Schools have created dance pieces especially for this festival. Tickets £3.50, £2.50 artsNK Youth Dance Showcase February 10, 7.30pm Annual showcase featuring Lincolnshire’s top youth dance groups. Tickets: £3.50, £2.50 Better When I’m Dancing February 11, 2pm & 6pm An extravaganza of dance from ballet to jazz and tap to street dance. Tickets £8, £7.50 & £6. Carers Free Move Your Feet February 24 and 25, 7pm A lively evening of dance by Rhythm in Movement Dance Company. Tickets £8, Concessions £6 Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre has been awarded Accredited Status by Arts Council England. The accreditation enables museums to assess their current performance, as well as supporting them to plan and develop their services to benefit visitors. The Centre, owned by North Kesteven District Council, portrays the fascinating story of Royal Air Force College Cranwell.
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Heritage sites in North Kesteven
Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre, Navigation House, Cogglesford Mill
Family Fun Day…Exploring Sleaford’s Riverside February 16, 11am to 3pm. From a working watermill to a wetland meadow, explore this historic riverside. Join Countrysidenk and Discovernk to discover rural crafts, nature trails and much more! Entry is free however there may be charges for some activities. Discover Lincolnshire Weekend March 18 & 19, 11am–4.30pm Cogglesford Watermill, Navigation House and Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre Venues will be celebrating Discover Lincolnshire Weekend showcasing everything that’s great about Lincolnshire. Pop along and taste Lincolnshire plum bread for free!
Exhibition - High Flying Women – Pioneering Aviators Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre April 1 to September 24 Discover the incredible stories of women who fought against adversity to achieve aviation history. From world famous Amy Johnson to the Episcopal Priest’s wife who became a world class stunt pilot – go along and be inspired!
Molly & Floyd’s Easter Eggstravaganza! Cogglesford Watermill and Navigation House April 1 to 17 Cogglesford Watermill’s Molly the Mill Mouse is visiting Navigation House’s Floyd the Fish with Easter eggs but she has lost some along the way! Visit both locations to collect your trail sheet and
help Molly to find them before claiming your own Easter prize. 50p per trail.
Discover
2017 Have you got your new calendar yet?
Chocks away for Charlie’s Chocolate Delivery! Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre April 1 to 17 Charlie the Crane has been asked to deliver Easter eggs to the pioneering aviators in the exhibition but has mixed them all up! Go along and help Charlie to deliver his eggs before collecting your own chocolatey prize! 50p per trail. Milling Day Cogglesford Watermill, April 9, 11am to 4pm See this historic watermill in operation producing organic wholemeal flour as it has done for more than 200 years!
You can pick up your calendar at Cogglesford Mill, Navigation House or Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre.
Made a new year’s resolution to keep fit and active? Then why not try the Stepping Out Walks, which are not only free to do but give you the perfect opportunity to discover some of the district’s delights. The network covers more than 130 miles and range from less than three miles to nine miles, meaning there’s something for everyone. Maps can be downloaded from www.visitlincolnshire.com/content/go-stepping-out or by calling NKDC’s Tourism Team on 01529 414155.
k and Barbara & Keven Roberts Uniquely a joint award was made this year for a couple, reflecting continued dedication to charitable endeavours and community wellbeing over 52 years of marriage. Keven and Barbara were just as dedicated to supporting each other in their respective acts as they were in carrying out those activities individually and while going their own ways with their own charities, they each motivated and enabled the other. Keven died in September, leaving a significant legacy as a consequence of
unfaltering enthusiasm, unstinting service and selfless determination. His key achievement was in founding, chairing, fundraising and expanding Sailability in North Hykeham to ‘make disability plain sailing’. Barbara has dedicated decades of service to raising funds and awareness for Multiple Sclerosis and championed Sleaford & District Talking Newspaper for the sight-impaired over many years. She dedicated the award to everyone in the broader teams behind the projects’ success.
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Health & Wellbeing: Debbie Jones, Sleaford In the six years she has run the Beyond the Blues mental health wellbeing group and its subsidiaries, Debbie has undoubtedly changed many lives. Although a volunteer, the unpaid status has not restricted her investing everything she has in the group – boundless energy, time, creativity and passion; all from a warm and caring heart. She provides a welcoming and nonjudgemental place for people to establish a sense of purpose, friendships, chat, or just sit and be quiet; she secured funding for mini vegetable plots and craft workshops; arranged trips, parties and outings; cooked Sunday lunches and campaigned tirelessly. Always pushing forward for the sake of those she works for; seeing their humanity and potential and never giving up on them. Award sponsor: Your Local Lincs Mag. Other finalists were: Evergreen, Sleaford – a group that offers a befriending outreach. Volunteers of CAB Mid Lincolnshire – for helping the most vulnerable to access information, funds and support.
Better Environment: Friends of Mareham Pastures Over 13 years the small volunteer group have transformed an old tip into a much-valued nature reserve through sheer hard work and effort. It is now a popular community facility and managed natural habitat, stretching to 14 hectares used for dog walking, relaxation, exercise and events. More than 4,000 indigenous trees have been planted to create new woodland, bird boxes built by scores of children and wildflower meadow created. There are now rich ecosystems for insects, birds and other wildlife. This summer the reserve won two Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust environmental awards. The current team of eight stalwarts is always keen to welcome more volunteer supporters. Award sponsor: Sleaford REP Other finalists were: Chestnut Street CE Primary School, Ruskington – raising awareness of the environment and energy efficiency. Pauline Dobson, Sleaford – for measures to brighten up Sleaford.
If you’d like to sponsor next year’s event please email
Contribution to Sport winner: Angela Morley Living to the word of the Special Olympics motto: “Let me win, but if I cannot win let me be brave in the attempt’, Angela has devoted 23 years to helping others in their sporting endeavours. From first watching the Games, she realised how important the Special Olympics are in fulfilling disabled athletes’ hopes and dreams in their chosen sport. As secretary for the East Midlands region and chairperson of Special Olympics: Lincolnshire Angela is a springboard to broader competitions and international success through the Paralympics. She was recognised for the hours and hours of endless tasks invested in inspiring, enabling and facilitating sporting opportunities for people with learning disabilities. Award sponsor: 1Life ONE NK Other finalists were: Jackie Creedon, Sleaford – for helping local sports over 40 years. Hykeham Sailing Club, North Hykeham – in recognition of club volunteers’ work to maintain and run the facility.
communications@n-kesteven.gov.uk
Community Business: Hill Holt Wood & Branston Ltd
Sustainable Transport: Charlie Kinloch With a total of ten nominations behind him, all extolling his tireless encouragement to switch from the car to other modes of transport, there really was only one man for this award this year. And this is a man on a mission! A champion of sustainable transport and its benefits over many years, this year Charlie’s efforts reached new heights when he lobbied East Midlands Trains to adjust its timetable in order to give colleagues a real option that fitted around work patterns. A noticeable increase in passenger use is testament to his enthusiasm and hard work. Charlie has encouraged use of bus, bike and car share; gives tips on cycle choice and routes; keeps everyone up to speed on public transport initiatives locally; taken to the saddle himself; set up a cycle to work scheme and generally inspired a change in habits among many colleagues who used to drive.
A significant force in the broader economy and a major player in the national vegetable field, Branston Ltd never loses sight of its local roots. Rooted in the village since 1968, the business invests heavily in its local community: most recently through sponsorship of the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust awards and Lincs Show’s educational zone. Beyond local projects where staff volunteered to help keep Metheringham Pool open, installed fencing at Potterhanworth pre-school, supported seven local schools and added further enhancements to the village Astroturf five years after part-funding it, Branston has helped 19,000 children learn more about potatoes in the last two years through a bus-based
Community Spirit Kathryn Locke, Billinghay Frank Cheffins, Dorrington Jason Bowring, Digby Carl Bradley, Metheringham Gerald Garton, Digby Marjorie Atkinson, Great Hale Branston Community Library Volunteers Robert Rowlatt, South Kyme Mark Reynolds, North Hykeham Cate Daniels, Aimee Ferrier-Curt, Roxy Coupland & Olivia Halhead, Sleaford Mandy Harsley & St John Ambulance volunteers, Sleaford Richard & Wendy Dann, Ruskington
As a social enterprise there is no end to the extent of Hill Holt Wood’s community outreach, with all profits put back into environmental activities and personal development outreach. Through education and training of difficult and excluded youngsters, over the last 15 years
they have equipped hundreds of people with the practical life skills, qualifications and confidence to improve their chances of work and active participation. Ceaselessly pioneering new initiatives and programmes, the latest engages 4,000 children through nature-based activities on site and in schools such as the renovation of Brant Broughton’s school garden. Learners are gainfully employed as rangers across the District, clearing fly-tipping and maintaining countryside walks; they maintain a valuable chunk of woodland free to access all year, host innumerable school visits to inspire a new generation of nature enthusiasts, and help to operate a community cafe, green burials and ecological meeting space.
This award is sponsored by Duncan & Toplis. Other finalists were: Elite Fish & Chips, Sleaford & Ruskington – for extensive charity fundraising initiatives. Heckington Pre-school, Heckington – for the way it encourages children and parents to engage in the community and involves local businesses within its core operations.
Sponsor: Listers Toyota, Lincoln
Over and above the finalists listed here, further nominations were received:
mobile classroom; a third of them in Lincolnshire. Good neighbours throughout, they choose an annual charity to support too and last year the Billy Branston mascot even turned on the village Christmas lights. Managing director James Truscott said the firm ‘always felt that being involved in the local community is a really important aspect of how we go about business.’
Nigel Gresham, Sleaford Keith Dolby, Sleaford Yvonne Beven, Heckington Barbara Footitt, Norton Disney Len & Marion Seviour, Skellingthorpe Helen Zealand, Sleaford Julia Newton, Dorrington Community Business Patsy Shields, Sleaford Sylvia Matson, Heckington Manor Farm Fish & Chips, North Hykeham Young Achiever
Arts and Culture
Thomas Talbot, Metheringham James Robshaw, Ruskington Jack Tucker, Sleaford Maddison Bulleyment, North Hykeham
Contribution to Sport Natalie Byrne & Tony Marflitt, Skellingthorpe Sleaford Striders Athletics Club Julie Norman, Leasingham Kim Bray, North Kesteven Sammi Elmsley, Sleaford Gary Walters, North Hykeham Sleaford Wheelers Cycle Club Kieran Tscherniawsky, Heckington Jack Bell, Cranwell Patsy Shields, Sleaford Contribution to Health & Wellbeing Branston Short Mat Bowls Elisabeth Freeston, Leasingham Nick Grimshaw, Lincoln Mary Thomas, Heckington Bill Rayner, Sleaford Carol Collinson, Sleaford
Tom Oakley, Sleaford CANadda support group, Lincoln Sue la Roche, Sleaford Contribution to a Better Environment Cllr E White & team, Great Hale Keith Dolby, Sleaford John Watson, North Hykeham Mervin Head, South Kyme Contribution to Sustainable Transport Yvonne’s Taxis, Sleaford Jack Bell, Cranwell Contribution to Arts & Culture Vanessa Marshall, Heckington Sally Wilson, Metheringham Alison Duncombe, Lincoln
You can watch videos of all the finalists on our YouTube channel – search for North Kesteven District Council
Our Communities – to promote the sustainability, wellbeing, safety and health of North Kesteven’s growing communities.
Scheme helps when cold weather hits When the temperatures drop and the weather gets colder a scheme will spring into action to ensure the most isolated and vulnerable people in our communities have food to eat. This winter, where people are unable to get out of their homes to replenish the food in their cupboards, they can call and request a parcel of essential groceries to be delivered to their door. Co-ordinated by NKDC’s Community Initiatives Team, the Winter Wellbeing Scheme is delivered by community volunteers and Lincolnshire Co-operative stores locally. The project runs on weekdays and is supported by
Sleaford’s Riverside Church and New Life Church Ministries. The main focus is on supporting those who are running out of food, have no-one locally they can call upon for assistance and can’t easily get to the shops because of lying snow, persistent cold and limited mobility. In some cases volunteers will collect prescriptions, clear snow and ice from paths and ensure that vulnerable people have what they need. There are triggers on the severity of cold but there isn’t age or disability criteria to be eligible to use the scheme. Parcels start from under £16 and
To request a Winter Wellbeing parcel please call
will contain toilet rolls, white bread, UHT milk, eggs, tinned beans and soup, fresh sausages, cheese, jam, potatoes, biscuits and tea of coffee. Other packs suited to vegetarian, gluten-free and diabetic needs will be available. Recipients of a food parcel can also request a cat or dog pet pack, which are priced under £4. Anyone wanting to use the service needs to call NKDC during working hours to request a delivery, explain their need and arrange to make a payment. Their request will be passed on to a community volunteer who will pick up a parcel and take it where it’s needed.
01529 414155
2,200 The Wellbeing Service has visited 2,200 people in their own homes to provide support so they can remain independent and in their own home.
Referrals for Adult Social Care have halved since the Wellbeing Service started. The aim is to help people remain independent and in their own home. The service can also provide Lifelines or small aids for daily living. For more information email NKWellbeingService@ n-kesteven.gov.uk
Key activities A video – Share the Road – has been launched to raise awareness of road safety for both motorists and cyclists. Supported by NKDC, it has been put together by photographer, film maker and cyclist Phil Crow and features interviews from the Police, Ambulance Service, Sustrans, and driving schools. It is hosted by Jason Bradbury, presenter of Channel 5’s The Gadget Show and keen cyclist. The video is on Youtube by searching Share the Road.
A high number of Lincolnshire bus passes are set to expire in 2017 and people are being advised to apply for their new one in good time. The passes allow all eligible older and disabled people to travel free on off-peak scheduled bus services anywhere in England, which is handy while on holiday. Application forms can be downloaded by visiting www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/ concessionaryfares or you can call 01522 873700 to request a form by post.
For more news and information please visit
Drivers need to make sure they’re prepared for bad weather. The RAC recommends carrying these items in your vehicles: ice scraper and de-icer; torch and spare batteries; warm clothes and blankets for all passengers; boots; a first aid kit; jump start cables; food and a warm drink in a flask; shovel; reflective warning sign; road atlas; sunglasses; mobile phone charger. Gritting the District’s roads is the responsibility of Lincolnshire County Council. To keep up to date follow @LincsCC_roads on Twitter.
www.n-kesteven.gov.uk
• Launching the newlyrefurbished ONE NK centre, achieving increased use, participation and day-time swimming • Launching our new five-year community plan • Investing in the ongoing roll out of high speed broadband in support of home-working • Hitting the Corporate carbon reduction ambitions four years ahead of target
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Our Homes – to promote housing growth that meets the current and emerging needs of North Kesteven
150
homes built by North Kesteven District Council in six years
North Kesteven District Council has a strong commitment to meeting demand for quality affordable housing in the area. The recent completions at Charlotte Street, Sleaford, and Princess Square, Billinghay, have taken the number of properties built by the Council to more than 150. Other schemes under way are detailed on these pages.
Heckington hero honoured A war hero has been remembered in the naming of a new street in Heckington – NKDC’s latest development of affordable housing in the District. The Parish Council was asked to name the street, off Kyme Road, and, continuing their tradition of honouring war heroes, they chose Welchman Way. Captain Edward Theodore Welchman D.S.O of 1st Battalion West Yorkshire Regiment was the second son of Edward Welchman of Carshalton, formerly of Heckington. He was educated at Sleaford Grammar School and Sandhurst and served in the South African War, and the First World War
where he died in Boulogne from wounds received at Le Paradis of 20 October 1914. Captain Welchman is buried in Boulogne Hospital cemetery, and his name is listed in Heckington’s War Memorial on the Village Green. The development of 22 homes named in his honour includes a range of one, two and three bedroom houses, and also introduces a new type of home to the District – the Passivhaus, which requires very little heat other than that generated by the sun, occupants and appliances. The homes, unveiled this month, will make a significant contribution to meeting an identified need for affordable housing in the village.
For more information
Heckington Parish Chairman, Councillor Jan Palmer said: “Heckington Village is steeped in history, and we like to be able to honour those who made it what it is, and who served this country to enable future generations to have the freedom we do. “The Parish Council will long continue this tradition in honour of the fallen, and are proud on this occasion to name this street, Welchman Way.”
www.n-kesteven.gov.uk
Key activities • Begin construction of at least 57 new council properties • Complete the adoption of the Local Plan • Bring at least a further 20 homes back into use • Complete the remodelling of the Newfield Road estate in Sleaford • Engage and involve residents more fully in the vision for 100 Flourishing Communities
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Two former garage sites have been transformed into muchneeded new homes. Three of the two-bedroom properties are on land off George Street, Sleaford. The new homes form their own development, named Charlotte Street. The final pair of properties, on Princess Square, Billinghay, are also two-bedroom homes. All are now part of the Council’s housing stock.
The first phase of work to regenerate Newfield Road in Sleaford is nearing completion. All of the street’s homes will be overhauled and extended in the £8.9 million project. Alongside this, the road will be reshaped, a new community green area will be created and 18 new homes will be built. Work on the first phase began in April last year and should be completed in the spring. Work on phase two is ongoing.
For more information
A former land-locked site has been transformed into new homes for the over 60s following a £1.25 million investment by North Kesteven District Council. The land, off Kesteven Court in North Hykeham, was previously a plant nursery and the development, named Holland Court has enabled NKDC to meet a new for homes for older people in the area. The scheme comprises seven one-bedroom and five two-bedroom properties.
www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/residents/housing
Housing company ‘unlocks more choice’
There is potential to build and retain more than 180 homes for the rental market during the first eight years alone.
More rental options will be unlocked for NK residents through an innovative new venture designed to stimulate the local housing market. Lafford Homes Ltd, a new housing company wholly owned by the Council, is poised to begin work on its first scheme – the creation of 27 new rental flats at Station Road, North Hykeham. This is a fresh approach towards meeting local housing demand. Lafford Homes will unlock more housing choice locally by building more homes for let at a market level rent. While wholly owned by the Council, Lafford Homes will
operate through its own board of directors in the open market, using existing building firms to fulfil its projects. Not only will the company help to meet local housing demand, it will also benefit District residents more broadly by generating income. It will also seek to raise the bar as an exemplar landlord, in terms of rental standards across the board.
27
new flats to rent for private tenants
More information coming soon
Conservation Areas reviewed
Changes have been made to Conservation Areas in Navenby and Bassingham following a public consultation in the summer of 2016. There has been a Conservation Area designation in place in Bassingham since June 1991 and since October 1975 in Navenby. However, a detailed appraisal and management plan has not, until now, been developed. Some areas of modern development have been removed from within the boundaries, while others have been added where special character warranted their inclusion – notably along Water Lane in Bassingham. Positive factors – such as the
For more information
high levels of survival of original features such as timber windows and doors and the contribution of domestic and public green space – have been identified. Negative factors such as the loss of original windows and doors and shopfronts which are not in keeping with the character and appearance of the conservation areas have also been discovered. A Management Plan sets out positive strategies to enhance the character and appearance of the conservation areas, such as the potential to preserve and reinstate original features by removing certain permitted development rights. This will be the subject of a separate consultation.
Call 01529 414155
Private rental tenants and landlords We’re here to help When the power goes out, it can leave people feeling unsure about what to do. Research by the Energy Networks Association found that 72% of people don’t know who to contact during a power cut, with many wrongly thinking they should call the electricity supplier they pay their bill to. To solve this problem, calling 105 will now connect callers to their local electricity network operator. Visit www.powercut105.com
Lincolnshire Energy Switch scheme is now open for residents and businesses to potentially save money on their energy bills. All you need to do is register at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/switch by Tuesday, February 14. After this time, energy suppliers will be invited to send their best offers at an auction, with the results emailed to you. There is no obligation to accept your offer, but if you do your new provider will take care of the process.
Check out our website for more housing information
Drop-in sessions are taking place in the north of the District for private rented tenants to talk to officers about their property. A member of the Safe as Houses Team will be available at the InfoLinks office at ONE NK, North Hykeham, between 9am and 1pm on the last Friday of each month. Safe as Houses aims to raise the standard of private rented homes, helping tenants and landlords to make sure their properties are warm, safe and healthy.
www.n-kesteven.gov.uk
Raising the standard of private rented homes A North Kesteven District Council service
Call: 01529 414155 or email: SafeAsHouses@n-kesteven.gov.uk www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/safeashouses
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Our Economy – to promote the economic and employment growth of North Kesteven
98.3% of food businesses in the District are rated three stars or above.
Of the 842 ratings issued by NKDC to businesses on the quality of their hygiene and food handling, 660 (78.3%) scored five stars and 787 (93.5%) scored four or five stars. Of all the authorities achieving 100% of their planned interventions, North Kesteven District Council has the eighth best ‘broadly compliant’ figure out of 389 authorities in the UK.
Scaffolding to go up for Cottage restoration 2017 is shaping up to be a busy year for Mrs Smith’s Cottage following NKDC’s successful application for Heritage Lottery Funding for its restoration. Scaffolding will be put up during February to allow a full examination of the roof and its timbers and enable a plan to be formulated to ensure that all repairs are undertaken. Work is also under way on awarding contracts for other parts of the project, having had three sets of tenders live in December 2016. Alongside the architect NKDC is working with consultants to help formulate how the Cottage will be operated once re-opened as well as establishing what heritage should
be focussed on and promoted to get people involved in the project. Over the coming months, Project Officer, Gina Johnson-Hirt, will be seeking to engage with people – both local and further afield – to unearth new memories of Mrs Smith and new material that can then be used when the Cottage reopens. As well as this she will be promoting the project locally. Connections have been made with schools to get them involved in recording and documenting stories and community activities are being planned throughout the year, with regular meetings due to be held to keep people updated on the project’s progress.
For more information please email
• Mrs Smith’s Cottage in Navenby is a preserved example of a simple, early Victorian, Lincolnshire cottage • External walls are only a single brick thick • The only modern innovations are an inside toilet, cold water tap and electricity • The museum is named after its last resident who lived there happily and independently for some 75 years until 1995, when she was 102 years old
MSC@n-kesteven.gov.uk or call 01529 414155
Key activities • Work with partners to drive forward regeneration projects in Sleaford and North Hykeham • Further develop businesses opportunities at Teal Park/LN6 • Support the next phase of the International Bomber Command Memorial development at Canwick Hill, which will include a hub to guide visitors towards other aviation heritage sites
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All 19 business units at Blackwood Court were let within seven months of opening. NKDC invested £2 million in the development at Teal Park, North Hykeham, the region’s premier employment location and one of only three key strategic employment sites in the district, to respond to a need for small, flexible, start-up units within the increasingly popular LN6 area. More than 80 per cent of businesses in North Kesteven are small or micro.
Around 120 jobs will be sustained at RAF Waddington over the next five years after Minister for Defence Procurement, Harriett Baldwin announced a £131.5 million support contract for the RAF’s long-range Sentinel surveillance aircraft. The deal with Raytheon UK will provide the aircraft with in-service support and maintenance. The fleet provides an ‘eye in the sky’ airborne mission management system that gives troops widearea, all-weather surveillance.
For the latest news from Our Economy visit
A new car park has opened at Swinderby Station, enabling commuters to leave their cars and take the train to North Hykeham, Lincoln, Nottingham and beyond. The 8.45am train arrives at Hykeham Station at 8.51am and then Lincoln at 9.02am. Orange hirebike stations are available at Hykeham and Lincoln Stations and Skellingthorpe Community Centre. Visit www.accesslincoln.co.uk for more information.
www.n-kesteven.gov.uk
Test your idea for a business
Could you build on the success of the first NK Pop Up shop in Sleaford and run your own business? If you’ve got an idea for a shop but need help getting it off the ground or you’d like to test the marketplace before making a long-term commitment to running a store, Partnership NK wants to hear from you. The organisation is running Pop Up NK, giving people the chance to try out their business idea. Wendy Nuccoll, from Heckington, was the first to take part in the project, running her Vintage59 business from the store, specialising in vintage, shabby chic and make-do-and-mend.
To apply online
Apply for fund cash
A much-anticipated fund to support rural tourism, increased farm productivity and increased cultural activity within the District is open for applications. The European LEADER fund is delivered through the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) as a bottom-up approach to improve the fortunes of rural enterprise in North and South Kesteven. This is the first time that The Kestevens area has been eligible for this funding to support growth in the rural economy, in businesses involved in tourism, heritage,
For details on the LEADER fund visit
She said: “Throughout the last few months I’ve learned so much, not only what my customers want to see but even down to the finer details of the layout of my shop. “It’s this type of information that’s so important when you’re thinking about running your own shop full-time.” The initiative is being run in a unit at Navigation Yard – in the heart of the town and right next to the National Centre for Craft and Design. All you need to do is go online to the web address below and fill out an expression of interest form. Once this is submitted, a member of the Team will be in touch to find out more and about any support you may need.
www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/popup
business and community initiatives. So if you’re a rural business, farmer, forester, or involved in tourism, organisers of the fund would like to hear from you. Projects should be ready to go, but not yet started. In the first instance you should discuss your project with NK business adviser Phil Means on 01529 308135. If you decide to apply, there is a two stage application process. Firstly you must fill out an outline application. Once this is submitted you will hear whether the proposal fits with the fund. If it does, you will be invited to apply.
The funding is split into six priorities: • Support to increase farm productivity • Support for micro and small businesses (non-agricultural) and farm diversification • Support for rural tourism • Provision of rural services • Support for cultural and heritage activity • Support for increasing forestry productivity
www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/kestevens or email kestevens@lincolnshire.gov.uk
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Car Park
£2 All Day
Grantham Road, Sleaford A task force is being created to help revitalise Sleaford’s market as part of wider regeneration plans for the town centre. NKDC agreed to create a group, including Sleaford Town Council, to look at how the market operates and how it can be improved in the future, considering the role it might play in increasing footfall and encouraging shoppers to spend more time in the town centre. The Town Council has agreed to continue to run the market while this work is carried out.
North Kesteven District Council is co-funding a grant-fund to enable the regeneration of historic shop fronts. It is also developing closer relationships with traders and landlords and urging developers and landlords to introduce more large units which would suit incoming retail opportunities, especially for national retailers and support growing enterprises. For more information visit www.n-kesteven.gov.uk or call 01529 414155.
• 100 spaces • £2 all day • Free on Sundays • Low cost, easy access parking • Ideal for shoppers and commuters • Open from 7am • Secure barrier controlled • Exit barrier operates by sensor after 6pm
www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/carparks for more information
www.n-kesteven.gov.uk and click on the ‘business’ tab for more information
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