Get on your bicycle and go explore picturesque North Kesteven – Page 4
Street’s redevelopment reaches its final stages – Page 16
Two NK businesses scoop first healthy awards in Lincolnshire – Page 18
NEWS NK
The newspaper for all North Kesteven residents
MARCH – JUNE 2019
North Kesteven will pioneer voter ID at May’s elections On Thursday May 2, there will be elections across North Kesteven to elect District and parish councillors and to vote at a Polling Station you will need to have identification (ID) with you. This is new and different and within Lincolnshire only applies to North Kesteven as local voters test ways to make voting more secure against potential fraud. The Council is one of a number selected by the Cabinet Office to pilot Voter ID trials in order to test the principle of eventually requiring all electors to present some form of ID to vote. The aim is to safeguard against electoral fraud and
misrepresentation, which is not known to be a problem within North Kesteven, but the area’s characteristics as a sparselypopulated rural area with a growing, but ageing population, make it an ideal test-bed for the principles of Voter ID. To raise awareness of this the Council is carrying out its biggestever awareness campaign, to ensure all 89,000 North Kesteven electors are aware of the change and the detail of which types of ID are acceptable. All associated costs met by the Cabinet Office. On May 2 all electors using a polling station will need to present either: • One type of photographic ID (such as a passport or photo driver’s licence): or • Two types of nonphotographic ID (such as a utility bill, bank card or poll card) In total there are almost 30 to chose from, all listed inside and at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/VoterID
If you want to vote at a Polling Station on May 2, you need to: • Make sure you’re registered to vote. It’s quick and easy at www.gov.uk/ register-to-vote • Check out the proposed list of IDs inside and at www.n.kesteven.gov.uk/ VoterID • Make sure you have one type of photo ID or two types of non-photo ID from the list • Hold on to your Poll Card and Council Tax Bill as they arrive, and keep them handy. They can be used as ID • If you have none of the listed IDs, you can apply for a Local Elector ID. • On May 2, take what you need to the Polling Station. Without the right ID you won’t be able to vote. You can go home, collect it and return before 10pm • Or consider a postal vote. Details inside on page 9
See our centre pull-out for more on Voter ID and elections in North Kesteven
www.n-kesteven.gov.uk
@NorthKestevenDC
/NorthKestevenDC
Welcome
Our bold ambitions are consistent with our vision for resilient and flourishing communities
Welcome to NewsNK – the newspaper for all North Kesteven District Council residents. Below is a quick guide to the sections inside your issue.
3–5 6 7, 8, 13, 14
News Our Environment What’s On
9 – 12
Voter ID and elections pull-out
15
Our Communities
16 – 17
Our Homes
18 – 19
Our Economy
20
Garden waste collections
Ian Fytche Chief Executive The NK Plan is our strategic vision for the delivery of our priorities, purpose and services, as we seek to develop and enrich our District of Flourishing Communities. The new plan, for 2019 to 2021, builds on its predecessors in establishing the foundations on which we scope our ambitions and actions for North Kesteven’s communities and encapsulate our partnership contributions further afield. It also sets the scene for a broader tenyear vision, where our aspirations are fullyfunded and grounded in consensus for the realisation of a £200m capital investment across our priorities over the decade. In line with our established priorities, the headline 10-year plan is for: • £40m to unlock 37 acres of strategic growth land at Sleaford Moor Enterprise Park. • £10m to bring forward further opportunities for start-up and growing businesses in Sleaford, North Hykeham, within the wider LN6 and across the District. • £3m to fulfil cultural and environmental regeneration at the Heart of Sleaford and the National Centre for Craft & Design. • £5m to modernise the refuse fleet to serve growing communities and respond to the joint county waste strategy. • £60m to significantly expand the Council’s social housing portfolio by
300-plus homes, including extra care provision. • £50m to enable Lafford Homes to unlock more housing choice in the private rental sector, bringing forward 250 units in the next five years alone. • £40m to invest in the Council’s housing stock. Although bold in scale, such ambition is costed, entirely within our competencies and consistent within our vision to ensure our communities are resilient, safe and flourishing. This vision has seen – in recent times - £75m of capital investment; 200 new council homes built; a new £4.2m depot to futureproof waste services; a £7m investment in leisure infrastructure; Lafford Homes’ establishment with 48 homes; £4m invested into business workshop units; and the reprocurement of leisure services that achieves savings of £10m for the Council and enhanced provision for the public. As you see, we do not shy from taking our responsibilities and initiatives seriously, but equally we value the strong partnerships that we form, with agencies, organisations, enterprises and individuals who share our progressive, pragmatic, pioneering and principled approach. Many of the strengths and successes we enjoy within North Kesteven are founded on such alliances and together we can celebrate what we have achieved in partnership and commit to what we can bring forward in fulfilling the NK Plan.
The District in numbers North Kesteven District Council, Kesteven Street, Sleaford, Lincolnshire, NG34 7EF. Main telephone number: 01529 414155 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
Here are some facts about the District Council as a whole:
£200m
£21.7m
- capital investment plan to 2029
- capital investment plan for 2019/20 alone
£164.70
9%
£88m
- to spend on services and projects in 2019/20
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
- Band D Council Tax charge in NK this year
- portion of total Council Tax charge retained by NK for local service delivery
For more information
40%
- of contracts awarded to local suppliers
www.n-kesteven.gov.uk
News Focus
NK Plan gets huge support Residents have backed the priorities NKDC is focussing on, which form the backbone to the NK Plan. In a recent survey, 87% were supportive of where the Council is putting its efforts, while 90% of partners were in agreement. NKDC’s commitment to the District includes a £200 million investment
strategy in the local economy, homes, environment and communities. Some of these are complete, some are under way and some are planned. You can read more about NKDC’s investments throughout this edition of NewsNK. The Financial Plan for 2019-20 also shows a gross expenditure budget of almost £50 million
and a further £25 million allocated for housing. As part of the Council’s budget for the forthcoming year, Council Tax is set to rise by £4.95 at Band D, an increase equivalent to less than 10p per week. As three-quarters of households are in Bands A to C this would be a rise of between six and eight pence per week.
Council news and information is available online It has barely been six months since we celebrated the 2018 North Kesteven Community Champion Awards but we are already on the lookout for the unsung heroes of 2019 – because we know there are so many of them! Last year, we discovered the first of our Good Neighbour finalists who went above and beyond for their neighbours in time of need, celebrated the work of a lady who tirelessly cares for the hedgehog community and honoured the longstanding commitment of a gentleman who for 28-years kept St Andrew’s Church in Heckington running for its community. For 2019, we are looking for nominations across our ten categories; Community Spirit, Community Business, Arts & Culture,
Although NKDC collects the entirety of the Council Tax it keeps 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. Letters will be sent to all households confirming their Council Tax requirement in mid March.
www.n-kesteven.gov.uk
Nominations are open now Health & Wellbeing, Sport, Young Achiever, Longstanding Commitment, Better Environment, Good Neighbour and a new award relating to community safety. There are hundreds of people who volunteer their time to help others in North Kesteven, and we want to hear about them! In October time we will
be celebrating those who work quietly, tirelessly and voluntarily in the District, at an awards event at the International Bomber Command Centre. So, if you know someone in your local area who does good deeds or has made great strides in support of the environment, arts, sport or community you can nominate them for an
Nominate your Community Champions now at
People can now sign-up to the District Council’s garden waste collection service for the next year. This seamless service is cheaper, easier, cleaner and quicker than taking hedge trimmings, grass clippings and garden waste to a tip, and continues to represent great value for money. Prices have been frozen at £30 for a single brown bin. The collection period will runs between March 31 and March 27. During this time brown bins are emptied every other week, except during December and January when the frequency reduces, or when other factors such as very bad weather prevent collections taking place. The alternatives are to compost at home, take the materials to a household recycling centre, or arrange for a licenced handler to collect them. One of the simplest and most convenient ways to pay for your garden waste service is to set up an ongoing subscription by Direct Debit. This can be done online at your convenience by visiting www.n-kesteven. gov.uk/gardenwaste If you signed up to the service last year by Direct Debit you don’t need to worry about it this year as renewal will happen automatically. You can also pay for the service by calling 01529 414155.
award now. The awards would not be possible without the support of the communityfocused businesses who are on board this year who are just as keen as NKDC to ensure the huge amount of community-centred endeavours which goes on within the District are celebrated, applauded and awarded.
www.nkawards.org
Page 3
Health news Healthwise run a successful physical activity referral scheme (PARS) operating from ONE NK in North Hykeham, Better Gym Sleaford and Sleaford Leisure Centre. Anyone over the age of 16 can be referred by their doctor or health care practitioner to a low cost physical activity programme. It is designed for people with existing health conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, depression and anxiety, arthritis, circulatory and respiratory disease. An individually designed physical activity programme is given to every client, with regular reviews and body stats taken in the first 12 weeks. For more information contact healthwise. northkesteven@gll.org or call 01522 883311 to speak to a member of the Healthwise Team. Health walks and NK Social Strollers are two ways of enjoying walking throughout NK. There are 17 short health walks of up to three miles on offer from most of the villages within the District. They are purposeful, brisk walks undertaken on a regular basis and can include any walk which has been designed and carried out for a purpose of improving an individual’s health. NK Social Strollers is a free health walk scheme open to everyone. All walks are between 30-90 minutes, at your own pace, and led by friendly and qualified volunteers. NK Social Strollers has introduced longer walks of up to six miles with the option of a pub lunch after. For information on health walks visit www. walkingforhealth.co.uk For the longer walks contact Bev Dawson at NKHealth@gll.org for the timetable or call ONE NK on 01522 883311.
Page 4
Get on your bikes and head over to a new, free family Cycle Fest. Organised by Access Lincoln, NKDC, Lincoln BIG and Lincolnshire County Council, the event takes place on Saturday, June 1 at Doddington Hall - the day before the Giant Lincoln Sportive. Included in the festival will be a mountain bike track, mountain bike taster sessions, a focus ride for eight to 16 year olds, led routes throughout the day and a treasure hunt around Skellingthorpe Old Wood. Giant will have demonstration bikes, there will be food marquees to grab a bite to eat and lots of other entertainment for the family to have a great day out at the end of the half-term week.
Cycle Fest is a great family day out Keep an eye on social media for more details
Go explore the District
www.facebook.com/NorthKestevenDC If you’re looking for some low cost ways to keep your new year fitness on track, make sure you download the free GoExplore Lincolnshire app, featuring cycle routes around the District. North Kesteven District Council is the first authority to have cycle routes on the app, run by Active Lincolnshire. Cycle NK is a collection of routes through the District; there are easy distances for beginners, such as 4.1km from Sleaford to Leasingham, intermediate routes, including 21.4km from Skellingthorpe to Swinethorpe, and harder
journeys, such as 50.4km from Doddington to Coleby. Llara Munn, from Active Lincolnshire, said: “Lots of people are looking to make positive changes to their health and wellbeing, the GoExplore Lincolnshire app is an easy-to-use, free app, that is full of ways to get out and active with friends and family while discovering the great outdoors in Lincolnshire.” Last year NKDC adopted a Cycling Strategy, aiming to increase participation, promote safer cycling and provide more opportunities for people to get on their bicycle.
You can download the Go Explore app from the app store on your smartphone
Take a stroll and discover more of picturesque North Kesteven If you’re looking to increase your number of steps each day then look no further than the Stepping Out network of free mapped walks. Covering more than 130 miles in total, there are routes to suit either starting steppers or seasoned strollers, taking in some of the most picturesque parts of the District.
The Stepping Out network captures distinct landscape types that characterise North Kesteven: • Enjoy the drama of the Lincoln Cliff escarpment, with its breathtaking views over the Trent and Witham Vales to the west • Discover lost villages and the forgotten history of the Knights
Download the Stepping Out maps
Templar among the fertile fields and Roman byways of the Dip Slope as it falls to the east • Explore the edge of the fens along the Car Dyke and the River Witham, with spectacular views of Lincoln Cathedral dominating the skyline to the north; • Take a stroll through the undulating Kesteven Uplands of the south
with its stone built manors, villages and farms bounded by thorny hedges and connected by wideverged lanes. The Stepping Out network is managed by Hill Holt Wood, which also co-ordinates the NK Walking Festival as part of its CountrysideNK function. Watch this space for details.
www.hillholtwood.co.uk/stepping-out
News
Feedback to shape centre’s future
More than 600 people have given their feedback on what they’d like to see at The National Centre for Craft and Design in the future. NKDC, which owns the facility, ran the consultation at the end of last year
to gather views before a planned £1.2 million investment takes place. The feedback will now be used to inform plans for the centre’s future. More details will be revealed in spring and summer this year. The NCCD is the largest
Give the NCCD a ‘like’
venue in England entirely dedicated to the exhibition, celebration, support and promotion of national and international contemporary craft and design. Under one roof, five gallery spaces showcase up to 20 world-class
exhibitions every year. Its learning programme inspires people of all ages, skills and interest levels. Over the past eight years there has been a 42% increase in visitors and public engagement has escalated.
www.facebook.com/NationalCraftandDesign
Service heads to its first birthday Projects get FundNK cash Five projects have been awarded money from FundNK to support their community efforts. Sleaford Academicals Walking Football (pictured above) has been awarded £1,000 towards their start-up costs - pitch fees, kits, coaching course and training equipment. Hale Magna Village Hall was granted £2,500 towards the refurbishment of the hall and the purchase of a new cooker.
Visit
Sleaford and District Civic Trust has been given £1,000 for their Bristol water fountain project and Beckingham Village Hall was awarded £1,200 for a ceiling and lighting project. Wilsford Village Hall was given funding to replace eight PVCu windows. FundNK aims to support community projects which correspond to the vision of a district of flourishing communities. Applications are considered quarterly.
www.-kesteven.gov.uk/FundNK
As Wellbeing Lincs approaches its first anniversary of operation, ore than 5,000 people have so far requested its support, advice and guidance in helping them through life’s changes. Since April 2018, all of Lincolnshire’s district councils have been working together to jointly deliver the county councilfunded service, universally and consistently across the whole county. This means that everyone gets the same level of excellence and expertise wherever they live. Subject to eligibility, many elements can be accessed, free of charge, by anyone aged 18 and over.
Go to
Every customer’s needs are assessed and a bespoke package of support put together to help them over a series of weeks to achieve more confident, fulfilled independent living. It could make a world of difference to you, or your friends, relations and neighbours, at times of ill health, disability, bereavement and change in family, social and financial circumstances. For details see www. wellbeinglincs.org and to refer call on 01522 782140. The partnership is in line for a national award based on the way all councils have come together to deliver such a unique service.
www.wellbeinglincs.org
Youth NK’s first meeting of the year went off with a bang – full of ideas and debate. The group focused their attention on three main topics; a careers fair, the sustainability policy and how to extend their reach to the public on social media. The careers fair was an idea brought to the Youth Council to help young people across the District who are struggling to decide on their future. Unanimously the group thought that workshops from various professions such as dance, bricklaying, plumbing and acting would be as beneficial as having the option to talk to a range of employers and find out about the different pathways open to them. The sustainability policy considers how an approach is taken in getting rid of single use plastics. Youth Council members are supporting this through their schools and are backing the initiative by convincing them to use alternative resources instead. They want to make sure that there is less rubbish going through the landfill and make a small but meaningful contribution to the world. Finally, the discussion about social media led to the creation of their new Instagram account @youthnk1. The majority of their target audience are likely to have an Instagram account, and Youth Council members agreed it would allow them to reach out to them. They also talked about revamping their website, updating it to fit their new members. The Youth Council is really looking forward to the year ahead.
Page 5
Our Environment
To promote a sustainable natural and built environment, where our heritage is preserved and celebrated.
67.2% reduction in emissions by NKDC between 2008-09 and 2017-18, ahead of the target of 40% by 2020
NKDC has joined councils across the county in a pledge to fight fly-tipping. Across Lincolnshire, authorities are cleaning up 20 incidents of fly tipping a day - demonstrating the rising tide of illegal rubbish dumping that is blighting communities and countryside. For many years North Kesteven has been one of the most proactive of all the councils in taking a tough and active approach to the detection and prosecution of fly-tippers. Lincolnshire Police and Crime Commissioner Marc Jones recently called a special summit to investigate what can be done to tackle the growing menace. Representative from all seven of the county’s district and city authorities, the county council, Lincolnshire Police, the Environment Agency, several drainage boards, the NFU and the County Land and Business Association attended. Delegates were told that waste crime has been described as “the
NKDC joins fly-tipping fight new narcotics” by Environment Agency chief James Bevan – and now costs England £1 billion a year. Farmers, often the victims of illegal fly tipping, now pay an average of £850 a year cleaning up rubbish on their land – with many paying thousands of pounds. The meeting included an assessment from each council and
drainage board about the current levels of fly-tipping and how they are addressing the problem. Representatives from all agencies, including NKDC, have also signed a pledge to seek ways to work together to tackle flytipping. In the last three months of 2018 14 cases of fly-tipping were reported to NKDC.
www.n-kesteven.gov.uk to report fly-tipping in your area
Wider District emissions are also ahead of target, down by 25.06%, against a target of 20% reduction by 2020 The aim is a 80% cut by 2050. NKDC’s Low Carbon NK Charter asks local organisations to sign and commit to doing whatever they can to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, from their operations. The Charter is supported by the Low Carbon NK Plan. It pulls together all projects and activities, from national down to local level, which will have a positive effect on emissions within the District.
• Fully develop our new Our Environment priority
Nominate someone for their Contribution to a Better Environment
• Conclude and implement the Open Spaces Strategy
www.nkawards.org
Key activities
• Champion further sustainability and reduction in emissions across NK
Page 6
#NKChampions
Following the approval by Heritage Lottery Fund of the second stage application, NKDC is currently in the process of commissioning the works to Mrs Smith’s Cottage in Navenby. The first project involves the replacement of the roof and the removal of the scaffolding. This will dramatically enhance the visual nature of the site as well as making the building watertight and allowing the works to start across the site in tandem. The replacement of the roof will also allow the Council to timetable the remaining work, at which point a public meeting will be held in Navenby to give people a thorough update on the programme of works as well as a glimpse of what is in store when it reopens. Information will appear on the website charting the works – www.mrssmithscottage.com – none of which would have been possible without the support of Lottery players. There will also be the chance for behind the scenes tours so watch out for these.
Business Lincolnshire still has grant funding and free support available to help small businesses save money through improving the efficiency with which their business is operating. According to DEFRA, in 2014 there was up to an estimated £7.2billion saving to be made to the UK economy, just through helping businesses to become more efficient. Being efficient with resources can be realised through simple changes like reducing wastage, such as food or fuel, which can make the business much more environmentally friendly and help them save money. As well as business advisor support, the programme also offers grant funding towards the cost of making a business more efficient, supporting projects up to the value of £10,000 or 30% of the cost of any projects that are helping to improve business efficiency in some way. To find out more visit www. businesslincolnshire.com or email businesslincolnshire@ lincolnshire.gov.uk
www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/sustainnk for information about the environment
Take a look at new textile exhibition – Page 11
Plenty for spring at the Terry O’Toole – Page 13
Popular exhibition flies back to museum – Page 14
MARCH – JUNE 2019
WHAT’S ON
Up with Birds © Quentin Blake
Iconic illustrations to go on display Quentin Blake and John Yeoman, 50 Years of Children’s Books May 4 to July 7 Main Gallery, NCCD The NCCD is presenting Quentin Blake & John Yeoman: 50 Years of Children’ Books this spring - a touring exhibition from The House of Illustration, curated by Quentin Blake. The show celebrates the illustrator’s 50 year partnership with author, John Yeoman. Quentin Blake and John Yeoman have created more
books together than Blake has with any other author, including Roald Dahl. This exhibition will include his very first illustrations for children’s literature, which Yeoman persuaded him to draw in 1960, as well as work from their latest collaboration and ten projects in between. To celebrate the exhibition, NCCD is launching an illustrated short story competition in April. Children and young people will be encouraged
All the Year Round © Quentin Blake
to take inspiration from the works of Quentin Blake and John Yeoman and pen
their own illustrated short story. See www.nccd.org. uk for more details.
Arts and heritage trail guides you around North Hykeham A heritage trail for North Hykeham has launched this year as part of the larger Ridges & Furrows Arts & Heritage Trail project. The 30-mile trail runs along the Lincoln Edge in North Kesteven between Sleaford and Whisby Nature Park. The North Hykeham Heritage Trail, written by Ridges &
Furrows historian Dave Reeves describes a circular route around North Hykeham starting at ONE NK and providing interesting facts and historical information about the town. The trail guide is the culmination of the Ridges & Furrows Heritage Trail project in the town, which began with a residency with writer Hannah
Nicklin in 2015. The new trail guide can soon be picked up from various locations in North Hykeham. A guide can be downloaded from www.ridgesandfurrowstrail.org. Heritage Trail guides for the villages of Welbourn and Waddington are also available. For further information contact artsNK@Lincsinspire.com
What’s on
Following the success of their mosaic bench on Eastgate Green, the members of Sleaford mosaic group MosArt have been busy working on their latest project with artists Janet Schooley and Mark Steadman. The eight group members have been involved with the final stages of ‘Picturing the Past’, an exciting arts engagement programme centred around the Heritage Open Days Art Commission for Cogglesford Mill, funded by Lincolnshire County Council through an Arts Council England grant and managed by artsNK and The National Centre for Craft and Design. Members of MosArt worked with Lincoln artist Janet Schooley to develop ideas for the artistic collaboration with Mark Steadman, who won the Heritage Open Days commission in 2018. For this commission Mark created a series of wayfarer posts inspired by Cogglesford Watermill in Sleaford. These wayfarers are carved images, embellished with rope and metalwork on oak posts and installed adjacent to the footpath leading towards the historic Mill on the northern bank of The River Slea. MosArt and Mark are now working together to create two more wayfarers also to be located along the Riverwalk.
Page 8
The National Centre for Craft & Design Navigation Wharf, Sleaford Ctrl / Shift: New Directions in Textile Art Until April 22 Main Gallery The creative tension between accomplished skill, experimentation and the development of new ideas, provides the starting point for Ctrl/Shift, the latest exhibition from The 62 Group of Textile Artists. The exhibition comprises more than 30 artworks by 25 artists, including carefully selected outcomes from a collaboration between three artists who reflected on and were inspired by each other’s work. Jilly Edwards: Glimpses and Memories Until March 17 Jilly Edwards’ beautiful tapestries use combinations of cotton, wool and linen yarns. She is particularly known for her upbeat use of yellow. Many of the tapestries in this exhibition are inspired by glimpses and memories of journeys from Exeter to Edinburgh and to East Anglia, through diverse terrain and especially the colours of the oilseed rape. One Year In: Lucy Grainge and Majeda Clarke Until March 17 Project Space & Exchange Space Showcasing the work of the ‘One Year In’ winners at New Designers, 2018; Lucy Grainge, whose work is shaped by her experience of living with dyslexia as both educational resource and support for others; and Majeda Clarke, a weaver who combines dual heritage aspects of her family to create textiles showing both Bengali and Welsh influences. Woolly Spires Until April 22 Throughout the building knitted versions of six Lincolnshire churches, including Sleaford’s St Denys, displayed as scaled down models, which
www.nationalcraftanddesign.org.uk
01529 308710
Ctrl / Shift: New Directions in Textile Art were created by local community groups as part of an artsNK project. The project took inspiration from the fact that many of Lincolnshire’s churches were funded by wealthy landowners who made their fortune on the backs of the Lincoln Longwool sheep. Theo Wright: When Waves Collide March 23 to May 12 Roof Gallery When Waves Collide is a project by Coventry-based textile artist and weaver Theo Wright, that explores a range of interactions between two wave-forms through a collection of handwoven textiles. Friendship Hub March 21, April 18 & May 16 These inclusive, free, dropin sessions are aimed at people looking for a warm, welcoming afternoon of relaxed creative activities linked to NCCD’s exhibitions and projects. Disrupting Printed Cloth March 30, 10.30am–4pm £45, 18yrs+ Taking inspiration from stitched handkerchiefs in the exhibition Ctrl/Shift, work with textiles tutor Jane Mckeating to experiment with hand stitch and embroidery to create new
Woolly Spires details on printed cloth. Personalise something treasured and give it a whole new meaning. White Rabbits or Mad March Hares! March 16, 1-3pm Join artist Nigel Cheney to embellish a printed hare - inspired by Alice in Wonderland. Learn a variety of hand stitch and decorative techniques to create a small brooch, pincushion or artwork for your wall. £10 for adults, £5 for children. All materials supplied. Suitable for all abilities. Please book by calling 01522 308710. Maker Demonstration with Karen Atherley March 16, 11am–3pm
Maker Karen Atherley will show visitors how she decorates her beautifully colourful ceramics. Free, drop-in session. Colour from the Landscape April 6, 1.30–4pm Working with Debbie Lyddon, create natural pigments from chalk, rock and clay to make three different paints (watercolour, acrylic and printing ink). The paints will then be explored with a series of different mark making on watercolour paper. £35, 18yrs+, basic materials included, participants must bring their own pestle and mortar. Please book by calling 01529 308710.
IN NORTH KESTEVEN
I D BRING BRING 22 MAY MAY 2019 2019
TO VOTE
VOTER ID
SPECIAL PULL-OUT
Elections will be held in North Kesteven on May 2 to choose district and parish councillors. To vote you will need ID with you On May 2, for the first time, anyone wanting to vote at a polling station will need to take some kind of identification (ID) with them. This is to prove that they are who they say they are.
Elections Returning Officer, Council Chief Executive Ian Fytche is overseeing the pilot. He said:
It is part of a national Electoral Integrity Pilot looking into ways to ensure the security of the voting process and reduce the risk of voter fraud.
“We have opted to trial the ‘Mixed ID’ model which gives the broadest range of possible forms of identification to ensure no-one is disenfranchised.
Locally, the requirement to bring ID only applies to North Kesteven – no where else in Lincolnshire and only for the local elections on May 2.
“Most people will have one of the accepted forms of photo ID already, and that is all they need.
And it only affects people voting in person at polling stations. Postal voters have their identification verified in other ways.
“Where they don’t, they have the opportunity to choose two other forms of ID, one of which must have their address on. This could be the Poll Card we issue to everyone in advance, or a Council
See inside for details.
Tax Bill which every household will receive in March. “There will be lots of options presented, and if someone doesn’t have the required ID they can apply for a form of electoral identity created especially for this election to ensure no-one misses out. “Being a part of 2019’s trials presents a valuable opportunity for a progressive and forward-thinking Council such as ours to explore the challenges and possibilities presented by Voter ID and to assess its implications for areas similar to our own in terms of the demographic profile of the local electorate”.
You can’t vote unless you are registered - see back page of this pull-out for details
How will I find out more? There is an extensive plan to ensure that every elector in every household within North Kesteven is aware of the requirement to have ID with them at the polling station on May 2; and how to access the Local Elector ID if they need one. This will include direct inserts of leaflets within the Council Tax Bill, a letter advising householders who is registered to vote at their address, information on the poll card for each registered elector and further correspondence, materials, engagement events and media reports across the District to promote the use of ID at these elections.
Key dates • Wednesday 14 March – 4pm on Wednesday 3 April 2019: Nomination period during which prospective candidates must submit nomination papers. • From Thursday 4 April 2019: Candidates’ details published and contested elections announced. • Friday 12 April 2019: Last day to apply to register to vote (by midnight). • Monday 15 April 2019: Last day to apply to vote by post (by 5pm). • Wednesday 24 April 2019: Last day to apply to vote by proxy (by 5pm). • Thursday 2 May 2019: Polling Day for any contested areas, with polling stations open from 7am - 10pm. • Friday 3 May 2019: Count and election results published at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk and on th Council’s Social Media accounts.
Some frequently asked questions: What will I need?
Who can vote?
Either one type of photo ID – such as a driving licence, passport or bus pass – or two other kinds of non-photo ID, such as a bank card, statement, council tax bill or poll card. One of the non-photo IDs will need to include your electorregistered address.
You can only vote if you are registered to. You must be aged 18 or older on Election Day For these elections, you have to be British, Irish, a national of a Commonwealth country or a national of an EU Member state. You can find out how to register to vote on the back of this pull-out. You can apply for a postal or proxy vote by emailing elections@n-kesteven.gov.uk or calling on 01529 414155. Deadline for this is 5pm on Monday, April 15. If you have moved house in the last year it is especially important to ensure you are registered at your current address.
Which IDs will be accepted? The full and final list of accepted forms of ID will be sent to every registered elector to ensure they are aware of the range of IDs to choose from on the Poll Card. There will be between 25 and 30 kinds of ID that will be accepted, some of which will be photo type and some non-photo types (see table opposite.) Although this list may still be subject to change – before it becomes part of a legal order - it indicates the breadth of IDs which are likely. The eventual list will certainly include a passport and driving licence (both photo and non-photo types) and so if you have either, your need for ID is already met. It will also include the Poll Card. The Council will send an individually named and addressed Poll Card to every elector in late March, around five to six weeks before the election. With this you would only need to find one other approved non-photo ID.
What if I don’t have any ID? In North Kesteven there will be a wide range of ID options to choose from, which should be easily accessible for most people. This mixed ID model has been selected for trial locally to ensure the broadest possible access, but we appreciate that some people might struggle to produce the specified ID. Where you don’t have any of these forms of ID, you will be able to apply for a verified Local Elector ID, specifically for this election. This will be free and ensure everyone eligible has the opportunity to vote if they want to. An aplication form will be available, which will need to be countersigned in a similar way to a passport application. Detail of this will be available on the website and by calling the Council in the ways detailed alongside.
What about postal voters? If you choose to vote by post nothing will change. You won’t need to present any ID as your identification is verified by your signature and date of birth on the postal vote statement. Voter ID has no impact on postal voting, only voting at polling stations. You can apply for a postal vote by emailing elections@n-kesteven. gov.uk or calling on 01529 414155. Deadline for this is 5pm on Monday, April 15.
What about a proxy vote? In some cases people make arrangements for someone else to vote on their behalf, by proxy. Those people acting as proxies will also need to bring their own ID with them to the polling station. (They do not need to take ID for the elector that they proxy for).
What happens on the day? Elections will take place as usual. Your Poll Card will advise you which Polling Station you should go to in order to cast your vote, on the day, between 7am and 10pm. Because of the need to check ID and make a note of what types of ID are used, you should anticipate the process of receiving your ballot paper taking a little longer than usual and the possibility of short queues forming at busy times. No details will be taken from the ID you use, only a note of what type you use in order to inform Cabinet Office on which are the most popular types. Ballots will only take place for the district and parish council wards which are contested by there being more candidates than the number
of available seats. If you arrive at the polling station without the necessary ID, you will be offered the chance to go and get it and to return to vote before 10pm.
Why in North Kesteven? North Kesteven is one of the areas across the country selected to take part in the Voter ID pilot scheme. The Pilots will provide insight into how best to ensure the security of the voting process and reduce the risk of voter fraud. Given the District’s rural nature and specific circumstances there are significant ways through which a local trial can better inform the Cabinet Office as it explores options for any national rollout of Voter ID at future elections.
Is electoral fraud a big problem? We are not aware of any complaints, allegations or actual incidents of electoral fraud within North Kesteven, but we want to enhance voters’ confidence that their vote is safe and will be counted. At present no one needs to prove who they say they are to get a ballot paper and it is possible – although rare – for someone else to imitate you at the polling station and steal your vote. Electoral fraud undermines democracy and takes away a person’s right to vote as they would like. The Voter ID pilot focuses specifically on polling stations where, in the absence of the need to provide ID, someone else could pretend to be you and secure your ballot (known as ‘personation’). ID is needed to pick up a parcel at the post office or rent a car, and has been required in Northern Ireland for decades without adverse effect on turnout or participation.
Will it affect all elections? It is a trial that affects only the local parish and district elections on Thursday, May 2.
Who is paying for this? This trial is being carried out on behalf of the Cabinet Office to test systems of voter ID for enhancing electoral integrity. All additional costs incurred directly by the exercise will be met by the Cabinet Office not by the Council.
All you need to know about types of ID When you go to vote on 2 May you’ll need to bring either one type of photo ID or two types of non-photo ID to the polling station. Without them you won’t be issued a ballot paper for the May elections. The most common photo ID types will be a passport, driving licence or bus pass. Common non-photo IDs include your poll card or bank card or a utility bill or financial statement. The list below may be subject to change. The full and final list will be promoted by the Council, including on the Poll Card sent to all registered electors in late March - well ahead of Polling Day.
Photo ID
Non-photo ID
If using photo ID, you only need to bring just one of these with you to the polling station:
If you don’t have one of the photo IDs listed above, you’ll need to bring two types of ID from the list below. At least one of the must contain your name and address (the address at which you are registered to vote)
Passport issued by a Commonwealth country or a country within the European Economic Area
Poll Card for the election
Photocard driving licence (including a provisional licence)
Valid bank or building society debit card or credit card
Photocard parking permit issued as part of the Blue Badge scheme Concessionary travel pass funded by HM Government Ministry of Defence Identity Card PASS scheme card (national proof of age standards scheme) Identity card issued in the European Economic Area which bears a photograph of the voter Biometric immigration document issued in the United Kingdom
Driving licence (including a provisional licence) which is not in the form of a photocard
Mortgage statement dated within 12 months of election day Bank or building society statement, or a letter from the bank or building society confirming the opening of an account, dated within 3 months of election day Bank or building society cheque book or building society passbook Credit card statement dated within 3 months of election day Council Tax demand letter or statement dated within 12 months of election day Utility bill dated within 3 months of election day Form P45 or Form P60 issued within 12 months of election day Birth certificate
Oyster 60+ pass
Marriage certificate or civil partnership certificate
Electoral identity card issued in Northern Ireland
Adoption certificate Firearms certificate granted under the Firearms Act 1968 Record of a decision on bail made in respect of the voter
If you have NONE of the types of ID listed in these two columns, you will be able to apply for a Local Elector ID to ensure you are able to vote if you wish to
Statement of benefits or entitlement to benefits, or a letter confirming entitlement to housing benefit Student loan statement issued by the Student Loan Company dated within 12 months of election day National Insurance card or letter issuing your NI number
Go online and visit www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/VoterID Email: VoterID@n-kesteven.gov.uk Call: 01529 414155
Nominations Anyone wanting to stand for District or Parish elections needs to complete a nomination pack. These can be submitted between 10am on Thursday, March 14, and 4pm on Wednesday, April 3. It is strongly advised that an appointment is made to submit nomination papers by emailing BusinessSupportTeam@ n-kesteven.gov.uk or by calling 01529 308024. Nomination papers should be hand delivered for both District and Parish elections on the following dates and locations. • Meeting Room 1 at North Kesteven District Council, Kesteven Street, Sleaford NG34 7EF. Between 10am and 4pm on any working day between Thursday 14 March and 4pm Wednesday April. • The Training Room at Metheringham Depot, Scoley Court, Moorlands Trading Estate, Metheringham, LN4 3BS On Thursday 14 and Friday 15, March only, between 10am and 4pm; • Info Links at One NK, Moor Lane, North Hykeham, LN6 9AX • On Thursday 21 and Friday 22, 10am to 4pm both days and Saturday 23rd March, 10am to 2pm. An informal check of papers can be carried out before they are formally accepted, but please ensure you make an appointment; details above.
Polling Locations Some changes have been made to Polling Districts and Polling Places following a recent review. The changes affect the Wards of Billinghay, Martin and North Kyme; Kirkby la Thorpe and South Kyme; Metheringham; North Hykeham Mill; Ruskington; and Sleaford Holdingham. Your Poll Card will have the address of your Polling Station on it, so please check this when it arrives. You can also search for your Polling Station at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk
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.
Terry O’Toole Theatre ONE NK, North Hykeham
www.terryotooletheatre.org.uk
What’s on
01522 883311
The Poozies March 14, 7.30pm Sarah McFadyen and Tia Files join founding members Mary McMaster and Eilidh Shaw to play a dazzling, joyfully eclectic mix of contemporary and traditional tunes. Perfectly executed harmonies and instrumentals create a spellbinding and lyrical, performance. Snow White: The Return of the Little Things March 16, 3pm Far, far away lies a curiously mechanical kingdom in which everything ticks but nothing laughs; a land ruled by The-Queen-Who-NeverSmiles. The cold-hearted Queen is determined to control everyone and everything – even time itself! A timeless fairy tale, retold in Angel Heart Theatre’s visually striking, innovative style, with beautifully crafted puppets. An Evening of Country Music March 23, 7.30pm Emma Jade Garbutt, who caught Tom Jones’ vote when she appeared on ‘The Voice’, is a soulful artist with a killer voice. She performs heartfelt, classic country originals and a range of well-selected covers and has played in venues all across the UK. Jen Atkin, supported here by her Band, released her debut single “Unboyfriendable” to huge success, hitting the top 3 in the UK country charts in August last year. Special guest, Stevie
The Poozies O’Connor, will be joining Emma and Jen for this performance. The Man Without a Past April 25, 7.30pm One minute you know who you are. The next minute your mind’s a blank slate. The lives of an eclectic community living in abandoned shipping containers are thrown upside down when a mysterious man arrives. With no memory of his name or former life, they begin to help him to find his feet. Zebra Express Presents… ‘A Night to Remember’ April 27, 7.30pm A fantastic, feel-good evening of Motown, Disco and Soul music from through the decades, featuring hit tracks from artists including Diana Ross, Chic and Gladys Knight. The band warmly invite you to step back in time as they
With the Womens World Cup kicking off in June 2019 Womens and Girls Football is one of the UKs fastest growing sports. ONE NK hosts Girls’ Football sessions on Tuesday evenings from 3.45-4.45pm for young women aged 11–16. Sessions cost £2. From April 2019 the centre has aspirations to become a FA accredited Wildcats Centre to offer Girls’ Football sessions for under 11s to take part. Please contact NKactivities@gll.org or call 01522 883311.
perform timeless classics for your enjoyment! This show is going to be super-popular, so book your tickets and put on your dancing shoes, or simply come along, sit back, relax and enjoy the music! FEVER: Jo Harrop sings Peggy Lee May 9 at 7.30pm In this narrated show, created by pianist Alex Webb, Jo Harrop interprets the songs Peggy Lee made her own. Described by Bebop Spoken Here as a ‘…singing sensation…her voice is amazing – think Islay whisky, dark porter wine…this lissom lady is a class act’. This concert is part of Lincolnshire Jazz Week. The Music of ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat’ May 11, 7.30pm Join North Hykeham & District Choral Society for a musical treat of an evening,
as they return to the theatre with a concert performance of the music from Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s hit musical.
Working with artsNK dance team, The National Centre for Craft & Design is running a regular free Dance for Parkinson’s class for people living with Parkinson’s, their family and carers on Monday mornings in term times. The class has been a huge success since it started in September last year. Focusing on posture, strength co-ordination and balance, the classes provide real physical mental and social benefits for participants. For more info call 07730 014165 or to book email dance@nccd.org.uk
Broadway to the West End! May 17, 7.30pm An evening of your favourite songs from the musicals, including numbers from Lion King, 42nd Street, Oliver, Les Miserables, Cats, Mamma Mia, Phantom of the Opera and many more… Sung by the Lincoln Male Voice Choir and guests, accompanied by the City of Lincoln Male Voice Choir Band. Jacqueline Wilson’s Hetty Feather May 31, 7pm, and June 1 at 2.30pm and 7pm From best-selling children’s author Jacqueline Wilson, the tale of plucky Hetty Feather is brought thrillingly to life on stage by awardwinning script writer, Emma Reeves.
artsNK dance team runs youth dance classes at ONE NK in North Hykeham. There are classes in a various styles for young people aged 11 -19 years to develop their dance technique and performance skills in a fun and friendly atmosphere. The programme includes a dance and disability class for young people aged 8+ with a physical or learning disability. The class covers a variety of styles, genres and movement explorations to encourage and develop coordination, mobility and fun! All classes run in term-time only, for more information visit www. artsnk.org/take-part
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What’s on
Did you know you can hire the NK Outreach mobile climbing wall for your local school, village fayre, events or even birthday parties. The wall is six metres high, with four automatic belays, and lots of routes, including the hardest (no hold) route. Ideal for all abilities, including bouldering challenges for the little ones aged three or under, as they can be given climbing games to try. Harnesses require all climbers to be at least four years old. Up to four climbers only on the wall at any one time and suitable clothing must be worn. All climbing kit is included, along with two or three instructors, depending on the event size. In 2019 the team is also developing an exciting new obstacle course challenge for all your young aspiring tough mudder or ninja warrior contestants – contact NKactivities@gll.org for more information or call the Community and Health Team on 01522 883311.
Heritage sites in North Kesteven
Cranwell Aviation Heritage Museum, Navigation House, Cogglesford Mill Discover Lincolnshire Weekend – FREE March 30-31, 11am to 4.30pm Cogglesford Watermill, Navigation House and Cranwell Aviation Heritage Museum The venues will be celebrating Discover Lincolnshire Weekend and showcasing everything that’s great about the area. Pop along and try plum bread at Cogglesford, make a Lincolnshire flag at Navigation House and create a Red Arrow at Cranwell.
High Flying Women April 1 to September 30 Cranwell Aviation Heritage Museum Back by popular demand, CAHM’s exhibition featuring the incredible stories of women who fought against adversity to achieve aviation history returns. Go along and be inspired!
Molly, Dora and Charlie’s Easter Trails April 6-21 Cogglesford Watermill, Navigation House and Cranwell Aviation Heritage Museum Celebrate Easter with the site mascots Dora the Duck and Molly the Mill Mouse team up to buy their friends Easter eggs this year, help them out at Navigation House and Cogglesford Watermill. Cranwell’s Charlie the Crane also needs a hand to crack his trail, and don’t forget to claim your Easter prize when you’re done.
Try some delicious baked goods baked on site for free! Discovering the History of Sleaford June 23, 11am Navigation House Join local historian Simon
National Mills Weekend May 12, 11am to 4.30pm Cogglesford Watermill Cogglesford joins in with this national celebration as the mill rumbles into action, grinding its own stoneground flour.
Welcome to the Heart of Lincolnshire A guide to North Kesteven and the surrounding area Visit heartoflincs.com or pick-up your free guide at one of NKDC’s heritage sites listed above Page 14
Pawley on his walk, ‘The Plague Spot of the Town: How the Victorians ReInvented Northgate’. Find out more about the inns and pubs, the Manor House, the Savings Bank and Carre’s Grammar School.
Get digital here in NK
Here in North Kesteven, we want to help residents to have the confidence, skills, support and access to use digital technology so as to be able to live their lives with the benefit from the digital world. According to research in 2018, 11.3 million adults lack one or more of the basic digital skills for life and work here in the UK. At current rates, by 2028, there will still be 6.9 million people without these skills. Since April 2017, we’ve been running free Digital Hubs across the District to support residents
take steps to become both more confident with their online journey and experience and helping to reduce the number of people in the UK without those skills. Digital Hubs can open up a range of opportunities for residents to do something online they’ve never done before which could range from booking an online shop, setting up online banking, claiming benefits, or just sending an email – the possibilities are endless! If you could volunteer at one of our hubs please contact Clare using the number below.
Call Clare for more information on the Digital Hubs
Armed Forces Week will be marked in the traditional way starting with a flag raising ceremony at 10.30am on Monday, June 24 in Navigation Yard. A Veterans’ Lunch will be held following this, and will include the presentation of Veterans’ badges. The theme for the children’s poster design competition is D Day. Shops will also be encouraged to take part in the shop window decorating competition. Anyone who has served in the three Services and who does not yet have a Veterans’ Badge is welcome to request a badge presentation by emailing partnerships@n-kesteven.gov.uk or calling 01529 414155.
A new study from Co-op Insurance and Neighbourhood Watch shows that more than half of UK homeowners (54%) know most of their neighbours by name. The report also shows what people think are traits of a good neighbour: • Good neighbours look out for each other, for example keeping an eye on the house • Good neighbours are sociable and friendly - happy for a chat or a party invitation • They’re practically helpful - from taking in parcels to offering help with the plumbing • They’re kind, caring and respectful - more specifically thinking about the impact they have on neighbours.
For more news and information please visit
Supported by volunteers, hubs run in the following locations, across the District on a weekly basis (with the exception of Christmas and Easter holidays): • Heckington Methodist Church, Wednesdays from 2-4pm • Osbournby Village Hall, Wednesdays from 11am12.30pm • Ruskington Methodist Church, Thursdays from 2-4pm • Skellingthorpe Youth Centre, Thursdays from 10-11.30am
Our Communities
To promote the sustainability, wellbeing, safety and health of North Kesteven’s growing communities.
451,068 Visitors to cultural venues and ArtsNK programmes in 2017-18
07816 294739
Lincolnshire Alert is a community messaging system that sends information straight to your inbox. The messaging system acts a tool for the police to give information to the registered members on crime reduction and community safety issues. Members are also able to provide information to the police. To receive alerts, visit www.lincolnshirealert.co.uk, click ‘join’ and enter your postcode. From there you’ll be able to select the alerts you receive, whether they’re by email, phone, or text. You can also view crime statistics for your local area.
www.n-kesteven.gov.uk
In recognition of the success and clear impact of the NK Arts Partnership over the last 26 years and, specifically during the last four years, the Council has again been successful in an Arts Council England bid to remain a National Portfolio Organisation for a further four years, which brings significant investment and artistic opportunities to the District.
Key activities • Implement our new leisure partnership arrangements • Implement with partner authorities the waste management strategy for Lincolnshire • Continue to implement key strategies for homelessness and Welfare Reform
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Our Homes
A big year for Newfield Road
To promote housing growth that meets the current and emerging needs of North Kesteven
98%
of tenants satisfied with the quality of their new build Council Homes
NKDC is committed to providing high quality affordable housing across the District. All homes are built to NK’s own Fabric First Standard that goes above building regulation requirements. New homes on Daisyfield – part of the Newfield Road redevelopment – were completed in early 2018.
Big changes are ahead for Newfield Road in 2019, as the £8.65 million regeneration project comes to its conclusion. The fourth and final phase of works taking place on this street in Sleaford is well under way and due to be finished in the spring, resulting in 68 homes being fully renovated, making them modern and larger together with additional insulation to improve
their energy efficiency. The entrance to the road will be cleaner and greener with a new play area created for the younger residents to enjoy, and 18 new homes will have been built during North Kesteven District Council’s biggest ever capital investment project, providing more affordable housing in the town. Tenants have been delighted with the improvements to their
Looking for more homes information?
• Begin construction of at least 19 new council properties
• Complete the Newfield Road regeneration scheme • Continue to invest in accordance with the Lafford Homes business plan to acquire further properties for the local rental market • Bring at least 20 more homes back into use
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www.n-kesteven.gov.uk
Advice regarding the use of bird scarers
Key activities
• Work with developers to deliver more homes, including affordable homes, in the District
homes, with comments such as “It’s nice to be home, even though we don’t really recognise it now as it’s so different. We’re all so pleased with the improvements, the rooms are bigger and warmer and it’s like they’ve found more room from somewhere.” Work is expected to be completed in the spring, and an official opening event will take place soon afterwards.
Nominate someone who’s been a Good Neighbour www.nkawards.org #NKChampions
For more information
Bird scarers are deemed essential in protecting certain crops and their use is not illegal, however, if a farmer of landowner is using such devices, they must ensure that they are not causing a statutory nuisance to others. While there are no specific laws surrounding audible bird scaring, The National Farmers Union (NFU) has produced guidance documents for farmers giving advice on how to reduce the risk of nuisance. The NFU advises that bird scarers should: • Only be used when justified • Not sound on more than four times an hour • Not be used before sunrise or after sunset • Be positioned carefully
to ensure that they are not pointing towards or too close to residential properties. To avoid using scarers within at least 200m of sensitive buildings before 7am or before 6am elsewhere, when sunrise is earlier. However, if the noise from the scarers is significantly interfering with the use and enjoyment of someone’s home, and/or not operating in accordance with the above, let North Kesteven District Council’s Environmental Protection team know. Please ensure that you communicate the location of the audible scarer, as this will be essential to the investigation. The Team can be contacted on 01529 414155 or by emailing EHTeam@n-kesteven.gov.uk
www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/residents/housing
The winners are... Best Extension or Alteration to an Existing Home Phase 1 Newfield Road, Sleaford Builder/Developer - D Brown Building Contractors Ltd Best Extension or Alteration to an Existing Home Architect/Designer - North Kesteven District Council
Building excellence in the District Building excellence in North Kesteven has been recognised in the District Council’s annual awards. This year, there were 18 winners, all selected by a panel of judges and given their trophies at a special celebration held in February. The winners’ list can be seen in the panel on the right. The District Council’s
commitment for excellence extends to ensuring the highest levels of safety and quality within the built environment. Through the Building Control Unit, it works to ensure health and safety of all people in and around buildings, their welfare and convenience, and promotes energy efficiency and full accessibility to all.
Best Individual New Home Land at Brookside, Paddock Lane, Branston Builder/Developer - Boss Construction Ltd Architect/Designer - Robin Bradley Building Design Best New Housing Development Land adjacent 16 Wellhead Lane, Nocton Builder/Developer - Stonewell Homes Ltd Architect/Designer - Clive Wicks Associates Best Change of Use of an Existing Building or Conversion Plot 3 Grange Farm, Church Lane, Kirkby La Thorpe Builder/Developer - Everett Construction Ltd Architect/Designer - Robert Doughty Consultancy Ltd Best Commercial Project Depot, Land off Moor Lane, Metheringham Builder/Developer - Lindum Construction
Visit
Architect/Designer - John Roberts Architects Best Educational Building Witham St Hughs Acadamy, Muntjac Way, Witham St Hughs Builder/Developer - Woodhead Construction Best Educational Building Architect/Designer - T.A.D. Architects Construction Professional of the Year Paul Goy – Stonewell Homes Best Local Builder or Traditional Craftsperson Bob Mungall Best Public Service Building Builder/Developer - Lindum Construction Best Public Service Building Depot, Land off Moor Lane, Metheringham Architect/Designer John Roberts Architects Best Social or Affordable Housing Phase 1 new build Newfield Road Sleaford Builder/Developer - D Brown Building Contractors Ltd Best Social or Affordable Housing Architect/Designer Oglesby & Limb Ltd
www.-kesteven.gov.uk/bcservices for more about Building Control
Garages for rent We have a number of garages at various locations in the District available to rent
Rent ranges from
£6.91 to £12.96 per week depending on location and circumstances
The locations are:
Proposals to adopt a detailed appraisal and management plan for Metheringham Conservation area have been approved by NKDC. During last year, residents were consulted on the proposals, which would make some changes to the conservation area boundary. Now adopted, it will be used to develop a robust framework for planning decision-making. Metheringham’s conservation area review is part of a rolling programme of reviews.
Approval has been given to review the Central Lincolnshire Local Plan, which gives shape to inclusive, healthy, prosperous and sustainable communities. The Plan covers the authority areas of North Kesteven, City of Lincoln and West Lindsey, and sets the parameters for homes, jobs and infrastructure needed up to 2036. A consultation will take place in the summer. More details will be confirmed at www.facebook. com/CentralLincolnshire and www.twitter.com/centrallincs
Check out our website for more housing information
• Billinghay • Bracebridge Heath • Branston • Cranwell • Dorrington • Great Hale • Heckington • Kirkby la Thorpe • Leadenham • Metheringham • Nocton
• Rowston • Ruskington • Scopwick • Scredington • Skellingthorpe • Sleaford • South Rauceby • Thorpe on the Hill • Waddington • Washingborough
Available for tenants and non-tenants. If you’d like to rent a garage, please visit www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/garages or call 01529 308160/308254 If one isn’t currently available in your preferred location you will be placed on a waiting list.
www.n-kesteven.gov.uk
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Our Economy
To promote the economic and employment growth of North Kesteven
50
Identified growth companies
The Economic Development Team works closely with its top 50 identified growth companies to support their employment and investment growth decisions.
Progress made on enterprise park site Work is continuing to bring forward Sleaford Moor Enterprise Park after NKDC bought 37 acres of land at the site. A procurement exercise is under way to acquire the necessary skills and expertise to assist with the delivery of the site and a utility expert has been appointed to advise on power options. While the detail of what sort of businesses are suitable for the site, and in what combination, is yet to be established the acquisition opens up significant
Photo: Sleaford Standard
growth potential and is one of the many ways NKDC is investing in the District. It is one of a range of projects central to a new strategy that enables the Council to take direct action where it can to respond to need and local circumstance in a way that delivers new opportunities, unlocks potential and derives an income that ultimately supports the broader operations of the Council and the ongoing excellence of its daily operations.
Did you know NKDC has a portfolio of business units around the District? Varying in size and in locations around North Kesteven, they’re ideal for small and start-up organisations, with an occupancy rate of around 97 per cent each year. If you’re looking for a business unit or want more details, contact lettings agent Lambert Smith Hampton on 01522 698888.
Our Economy news and information is available online
www.n-kesteven.gov.uk
For example, RH Displays and Exhibitions moved into 10,000 sq ft in Sleaford, an example of genuine inward investment into the District.
Key activities • Complete the Masterplan for Sleaford Moor Enterprise Park • Take a proactive approach to the opportunities and challenges that Brexit will pose for our local economy • Work closely with businesses across the District and facilitate business investment
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Business NK visited Tilly’s Tea Shop in Metheringham to illustrate the Council’s support for local businesses. Owner Amelia Bailey has been delighted with the level of advice and support given in setting up her new business Small and medium-sized businesses are the lifeblood of the NK economy, and the authority is committed to helping them to develop and flourish. It does this through a range of measures: www.businessnk.co.uk
Are you making handmade goods but looking for somewhere to sell them? Pop Up NK might have the answer! Following on from the successful Pop Up Shop trials in Navigation Yard in Sleaford, NKDC is launching a Pop Up stand in Navigation House for those who make items for sale locally – the ideal solution for producers that might not necessarily be able to fill a shop unit on their own. Visit www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/ popup or call 01529 308177.
If you’re looking for more business news visit
A new website has been launched to support existing or potential businesses in North Kesteven. Developed by NKDC’s Economic Development Team, www.businessnk.co.uk contains information about business support, strategic sites in the District, case studies, key sectors and current projects. It also has the locations of the Council’s business units and where there are vacancies currently.
www.n-kesteven.gov.uk
Two scoop first healthy awards Two food outlets in North Kesteven are the first in the county to be rewarded for offering ‘Healthier Options’ for their customers. Launched this year ‘Healthier Options’ is a collaboration between Lincolnshire County Council – Public Health and District Councils. The initiative aims to help local small and medium-sized food outlets and businesses across Lincolnshire to make healthier
Businesses wanting further details can visit Seats, planters and a bike port are being installed in Sleaford in a bid to improve the vibrancy of the town centre. A serpentine and cube seats have been placed in Riverside, three large planters are on display in Market Place and a bicycle rack in the shape of a car as first installed in Southgate to encourage people to cycle to the town and have somewhere safe to lock up their bikes. The aim is to create some movable focal points, spaces for people to chat and sit and create new experiences in the town
centre. All can be moved around and public feedback will help to shape where they are located. The public realm project has been an aspiration for NKDC and the Sleaford Masterplan identified that there was a need to focus on improvements within the town to create better links for pedestrians and improved settings for key attractions and heritage assets. A Pop Up Landscape Design Guide builds on this by identifying specific projects and innovative design ideas that could be trialled in the town to change perceptions
changes to their menu and food preparation. Elite Fish and Chip Company and The Agra – both Sleafordbased – have been presented with their certificates. The Agra offers customers a skinny curry menu, and Elite has portion control, baked, salad and other healthy options on its menu. The Healthier Options initiative is free to join and is open to takeaways and food outlets with a food hygiene rating of three or above.
www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/healthieroptions and kick start regeneration and investment. The items currently bought are purposely low cost to ensure the trial is a success before significant sums could be invested in any permanent installations. NKDC is also joining with other authorities to share items so further trials can be held at little additional cost. Good public realm is proven to have a positive impact on the local economy – the environment improves the vitality of the town centre.
Popping up in town
Where would you like to see the planters and seats moved to? Tweet us using #PopUpSleaford
Updated animal licensing laws come in New licensing laws are now in force covering an expanded range of animal activities and affecting more operations engaged in the boarding, breeding, sale and training of animals. The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018 require businesses to comply with a more robust set of conditions. Cat and dog boarding businesses (including home boarders and the day care of dogs); dog breeders; pet shops; riding establishments; anyone selling animals as pets; and people that keep or train animals for exhibition, are all now covered under a single type of licence, known as an
New parking machines in town
‘animal activity licence’. Those businesses operating under current, existing licences will be able to continue to do so until their licence expires, at which point they will be assessed under the new regulations. Further information is available at www.n-kesteven. gov.uk/business/licensing
New car parking machines will be installed in Sleaford, giving people more ways to pay for their parking than ever before. NKDC has approved a car parking strategy that has a number of aims to benefit people shopping, visiting and working in the town centre, including encouraging people to park in the most appropriate place for their stay and reduce congestion in the town centre. From April 1, new, modern, machines will enable people to have more options when paying with card, coin and contactless. Charges for parking will change in April, including tariffs for blue badge holders. The cheapest option for all day parking is Grantham Road car park, which remains £2 all day.
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Up to 20 jobs will be created at the new Co-Op store being built as part of the Handley Chase development in Sleaford. NKDC gave permission for the store, along with a community centre and four retail units with offices above, last year. The site is part of the Sleaford South Sustainable Urban Extension allocated in the Local Plan. The Co-Op store will have a sales area of 3,000 sq ft, and represents an investment of around £600,000.
Sign up to have your garden waste collected Prices frozen for another year -
ÂŁ30 for a brown bin to be collected
Quick and easy payment by direct debit go online at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk To sign up by phone call 01529 414155. Brown bins are good for hedge clippings, flowers, plants, grass, leaves, twigs, and weeds but should not be used for soil, grass sods and kitchen or general waste. Garden waste cannot be placed into black general waste bins. Alternatives include composting at home or taking to your local household waste recycling centre.
Need help with filling in a direct debit form online? Visit one of our Digital Hubs. See page 15 for details