News NK January - July 2025 North Kesteven District Council by North Kesteven District Council

newspaper for all North Kesteven residents

Warm packs available to those in need – page 5

Meet our NK Community Champions – pages 16 to 19

Free tool to help stop the fly-tippers – page 20

Significant investments aim to boost life across North Kesteven

Communities are seeing significant investment aimed at boosting pride of place, new and continued funding for community projects, support for business growth and more – all targeted at making life better for people across North Kesteven.

A raft of projects using £3 million of Government funding through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund are either complete or close to being complete, ahead of a March 2025 deadline.

So far, it's included several schemes to improve Sleaford town centre including the refreshed Market Place – now an attractive space better-suited to hosting community events and markets and with the war memorial better highlighted, plus dedicated Blue Badge holder only parking for the first time – and improved public realm at the Handley Monument and Monument Gardens, both on Southgate and helping to welcome people along that arterial route into the town centre.

Shopfronts in Sleaford's conservation area are also getting their historic features repaired

and restored, together with owner contributions, to help protect our built heritage locally.

All of this significant investment in the town is aimed at supporting the longevity and long-term future of Sleaford, as well as building pride of place, so it can continue to compete with other locations and encourage both residents and visitors to regularly utilise it and the wider area and make use of shops, leisure, attractions and hospitality businesses as they do.

Across the District, also through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, there's been grant support for small rural businesses to expand and diversify, plus expert social media support for business owners. See pages 12-13 for more.

Almost £300,000 of linked money has also been made available to local communities for a range of improvements to village halls and other important community spaces, funding vital repairs to keep them functioning and improvements to lower their energy bills, through to improved green spaces and provision of outdoor equipment to support

people's active wellbeing.

Teamed with a further £125,000 from the extension of the Sleaford Renewable Energy Plant Community Fund for five more years, following successful support for a wide range of local projects since 2020, there is more to come for our communities and the projects which are important to them locally.

North Kesteven District Council continues to invest record sums in the District too, aligning this investment with its work to act on climate and its economic, health, homes, community-focussed and wider priorities.

See page 6 to see how solar panels will cut carbon at two District venues – One NK in North Hykeham and Whisby Natural World Centre – an investment totalling £203,000 plus other improvements at Whisby.

Wherever you live in North Kesteven, you can be assured that the Council's vision, values and plans to support a District of Flourishing Communities include a range of priorities all aimed at improving life for everyone.

Whichever way you look at it, 2025 heralds an era of change for North Kesteven: the Council, its communities and the partnerships through which it operates, innovates and delivers.

During this year the new Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Mayoral Authority will emerge, bringing more devolved decision making and investment opportunities, in support of more and better jobs, skills, infrastructure and advancements in climate action locally.

This will facilitate more ambitious aspirations and joint working across councils, and build advantage through the additional powers and resources devolved from national government.

On May 1 you will have the chance to vote for the person you think will best undertake the new Mayoral position, liaise directly with government, advocate for Lincolnshire and work with council, community and police leaders to direct the millions of pounds of new opportunities destined to enhance lives across Lincolnshire.

In recent weeks you may have heard about the Government’s ideas to shake up the structural roles and responsibilities of district and county councils in favour of fewer authorities covering larger areas as unitary authorities which account for a broader range of services delivered by single organisations.

There’s still a long way to go

on squaring this circle. We will watch developments closely and contribute positively, always championing the ‘local’ in local government and emphasising the value in local connectivity as evidenced at district level.

I’m firmly of the view that local government works best when it is close to communities, when it champions the local and gives a democratic voice to the places it represents.

That’s the principle behind the passing down from Whitehall of opportunities for local determination of the Mayoral Authority for Greater Lincolnshire.

I will also argue that any reorganisation needs a whole-systems approach, building on opportunities for the integration of health, care and police services in new models of governance locally.

The whole point of local government is that it is governed locally. It’s about making a difference that positively impacts on local place, local lives and outcomes and it should all be delivered as close to the action as possible.

From its 50 years of relating to and responding to the community’s needs, directly as the area’s District Council and through partnerships that influence outcomes on a county-wide, regional and even national level, North Kesteven has a lot of experience and exemplary showcasing to assist in framing the debate.

Within days of this edition

The positive impacts of retired Chief Executive Ian Fytche will be felt in the quality of services and initiatives in the District for a long time to come.

After 19 years leading on the scope and scale of projects, policies and partnerships with the Council, across the area and on a wider basis, his contributions have been

of NewsNK landing with you a new Chief Executive will join the Council, working alongside the Council’s Executive Board, the full Membership of Councillors and all colleagues within the organisation to lead, shape, innovate and deliver services that make a positive difference across our District of Flourishing Communities.

While on one level this represents significant change for the organisation and the relationships we enjoy across many spheres and sectors – after 19 years with Ian Fytche informing North Kesteven’s unique approach in championing excellence – there’s also continuity as our new Chief Executive Kath Marriott is equally committed to ensuring best outcomes for our residents, businesses and partners.

Regardless of what happens with the White Paper and the shape that any reorganisation of local government locally means for you, for us and for our communities here in North Kesteven, we’ll remain consistent in our focus on supporting and serving all communities – delivering better homes; building opportunities for inclusive and sustainable economic development; leading on climate action locally; promoting better wellbeing; transforming lives through health, leisure and cultural enrichment; and providing excellence across a range of services relied upon daily.

recognised and thanked.

"The legacy Ian has left behind will live on for a long time. He has made a massive contribution that we will be feeling the effects of for many years to come, through championing arts and leisure, climate action and investments," said Council Leader Cllr Wright.

Vibrant weekend in the refreshed Market Place

A fun weekend of free festive activities has welcomed people back into Sleaford's refreshed Market Place.

A synthetic ice rink was enjoyed by all, along with a lantern procession.

Walkabout entertainers, free face painting, music from the Sleaford Concert Band and singing from Chelsey Bamford, a Go Dance performance and even a magical light projection onto St Denys' Church also formed part of the proceedings on Saturday December 21, while on the Sunday the ice rink continued plus a drumming performance.

Throughout the weekend there were also offers at Market Place businesses and further fun including a treasure hunt and family disco.

It was combined with free parking at District Council-owned car parks in Sleaford each Saturday in December.

See @northkestevendc for more events, and firsttime events in the District using UKSPF monies.

Being free of cars –besides time-limited Blue Badge only parking on set days – it's now an attractive space for events, activities and markets in the heart of Sleaford.

customer access info

You can pay for your parking in Sleaford in a flash thanks to an app.

The APCOA Connect app allows you to pay for parking at Council car parks in the town via your phone, or you can also call a new number (displayed on signage).

Why not download it now, from the App Store or Google Play, before your next trip to Sleaford?

You can even extend a ticket on the go using it.

The Council will also be installing new cash and card machines, as the existing ones are almost at end of life.

Here's a date for your diary already – RiverLight Festival 2025 is coming! It’ll be taking place from Saturday June 14, with a range of fringe activities and then a finale day on Saturday June 21.

There’ll be a colourful community parade again; and the theme is circles, cycles and the summer solstice which takes inspiration from the area’s rural heritage, water milling and local folklore. Events and activities will take place at the Hub and Market Place, as well as across the town. Follow @RiverLight Festival for updates.

Getting in touch with us

From paying bills securely and applying for help, to reporting litter or fly-tipping, lots can be done 24 hours a day at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk including:

• Reporting problems in your area

• Finding bin collection days

• Managing Council Tax

• Checking eligibility for help

If you can’t complete a transaction online, you can still call us on 01529 414155 during office hours.

Our Customer Services Team are available over the phone on weekdays, except Bank Holidays. You can request an appointment at our Sleaford office by calling us. Emergency assistance is in place too, including the out of hours number 01529 308308.

Daily checks are made on all of the Council’s parking machines in Sleaford; any issues such as a machine not taking cash can also be reported on 01529 414155. There are many options throughout Sleaford town centre for parking, including the Grantham Road, Station Road and Eastbank Car Parks which tend to have good availability for spaces. Plans have been submitted to resurface Grantham Road Car Park, to ensure it can remain useable for parking, and repairs are also being made at Money's Yard Car Park which you may see.

There's time-limited Blue Badge parking on set days at Sleaford's Market Place (see page 12) in addition to marked Blue Badge spaces across town and an extra disabled space to come next to Sleaford Library, making three there.

Our Building Control Team’s surveyors inspected 1,827 sites from April to September 2024, ensuring building compliance and looking after people’s safety. DID YOU KNOW?

www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/ planning-building/buildingcontrol/

Longstanding District Councillor Peter Burley has been remembered as a loyal contributor to the Council and his community, serving both with dedication.

He had represented Bracebridge Heath, and formerly Waddington East, for almost 18 years after first being elected as a district councillor in 2007.

He had also been a Bracebridge Heath parish councillor since 1999.

He has died, aged 80, following a serious fall at his home.

At the District Council he was an Executive Board Member with special interest for Environment & Public Protection and held several committee positions, including current vice-chairman of the planning committee.

Council Leader Cllr Richard Wright said: “Peter Burley was a much respected and popular councillor, committed to improving lives."

Interim Chief Executive Russell Stone said he would be remembered ‘as a dedicated councillor.’

The Ward continues to be represented by Cllr Lindsey Cawrey. Arrangements to fill the vacancy after the funeral will be shared locally and at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk

Do you know an Armed Forces veteran – of any service length, reservist or full-time – yet to receive a Veteran’s Badge?

Encourage them to apply to receive it at our annual Veteran’s Lunch in June, or apply on their behalf.

For how to apply, email armedforces@nkesteven.gov.uk or call on 01529 414155.

Visions of robot butlers, houses on stilts and water-borne transport are filling the minds of the next generation in North Kesteven.

To help mark the Council's 50th year, Key Stage 2 students were invited to describe “What North Kesteven might look like in 50 years”. They foresaw things that the Council is prioritising already – such as boosting nature –but were also futuristic with ideas like virtual reality headsets to talk to animals and moon trips.

Young minds imagine our future in 50 years

Topics such as reducing NHS waiting lists, the suitability of nuclear energy as a green fuel, the scarcity of affordable housing and the impact of the US election on life in the UK, were discussed by students at the Council’s QuestionTimeNK event.

The agenda of the annual panel debate in November was – as always – set by the students; generally from secondary school years 10 to 13 in North Kesteven.

Being just a year or two away from voting age, they said being heard by – and hearing from – a panel across education, health, green energy and local government helped them in forming rounded views and respectfully discussing them.

We also operate a Student Council (inset).

We invite up to four students from all District secondary schools to each Student Council meeting, typically three times a year, and starting this year students of local colleges are also invited.

There are usually three sessions per meeting, with subjects covered last year including safer streets, climate action and more.

The next meeting is March 1 – if you are a student and wish to attend, email your details including name, age and the school or college you attend to partnershipsteam@nkesteven.gov.uk

There will be elections on May 1, 2025, to elect county councillors and a mayor for The Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority.

In order to vote in any election you must be registered and, if voting at a polling station, show an approved type of photo ID.

For the May 1 elections:

» Register to vote by midnight on April 11;

» Apply for a new postal vote (or cancel or change an existing postal or proxy vote) by 5pm on April 14;

» Apply for a new proxy vote by 5pm on April 23;

» Apply for a Voter Authority Certificate if you don’t have photo ID by 5pm on April 23;

» Election Day is taking place 7am-10pm Thursday May 1.

Do check your poll card when it arrives, as polling stations can change. Voters at a polling station must show one form of photo ID – see the full list of accepted ID at www.n-kesteven.gov. uk/voterID which from May 1 includes The Armed Forces Veterans Card.

Postal voters are not affected by Voter ID, as ID

The year group winners and runners-up were invited to the Council Chamber, the centre of local democracy in North Kesteven, to receive their prizes from Chairman Cllr Andrew Hagues.

is checked by signatures and dates of birth.

Only original IDs can be accepted; scans or copies will not, nor any shown on a mobile phone or device. Expired ID can still be used provided the photo still looks like you.

If you are a registered elector but have no accepted ID type, you no longer look like the photo or names are significantly different you can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate at www.gov.uk/ apply-for-photo-id-voterauthority-certificate or to discuss your options contact the Elections Team at elections@nkesteven.gov.uk or by calling 01529 414155. Remember, you need to be registered to vote before you apply for a certificate – see www. gov.uk/registertovote or contact the Elections Team for a paper form. Registered electors will be sent a poll card around the end of March. To check you are registered, call 01529 414155. If you’ll be away on May 1, arrange a postal or proxy vote. See www. electoralcommission. org/waystovote or call on 0800 328 0280

A warm pack could keep you or someone you know warm this winter, and for winters to come. They are items handed out as packs to those who are older, vulnerable or otherwise will struggle to keep themselves warm. They are distributed through a network of local referral partners, who get the packs directly to those in need, supported by a number of organisations including the District Council. The packs are tailored to what will help you.

In fact, almost 7,000 items were distributed to over 1,600 residents across Lincolnshire last winter (between December 2023 and March 2024) under a brand new distribution scheme that year.

You can ask for a referral for a warm pack at your nearest warm space, which offer people a place to go for warmth.

If you're not sure where your nearest is, check at www.warmwelcome.uk where you can find contact details and their

Almost 1,340 people in the county, including residents in North Kesteven, benefitted from the warm packs given to them as part of the Warm Packs scheme between October and December 2024.

The scheme is jointly funded by Lincolnshire County Council, all seven district councils and other third sector groups, and North Kesteven District Council has taken the lead on the distribution of warm packs together with referral partners and organisations.

Scan the QR code below to see a video showing distribution.

opening times. Alternatively, if you are a North Kesteven District Council housing tenant your Housing Officer can facilitate a referral for you. Depending on your location, the items available include:

• Blankets (double)

• Carbon monoxide monitors

• Draught excluders

• Draught excluder tape

• Electric blankets

• Foot warmers

• Hand warmers

• Heated insoles

• Hot water bottles

• Radiator foil and valve keys

• Self-heating foil blankets

• Sim cards

• Slipper socks

• Thermal gloves, hats, scarves and socks

• Torches

• Water saving brochures and devices

• Wearable blankets

• Window insulation film

If you're a local group or organisation interested in supporting the distribution of warm packs in future, please contact Ben_Theaker@nkesteven.gov.uk

For cost of living advice, see www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/costofliving

Do you know that North Kesteven has a community lottery?

At least 60p of each £1 ticket sold goes to local causes, and you can choose which one you'd like to recieve each 50p. Every week you could win prizes including free tickets, £250 cash or the £25,000 jackpot! Visit www.nklottery. co.uk to buy a ticket. If you're a local good cause wanting to benefit, visit www.nklottery. co.uk/good-causes

From 98 separate nominations, 31 people, groups and businesses have been celebrated as community champions within North Kesteven. Each one was a finalist within the NK Community Champion Awards 2024 and represents the actions of hundreds more who improve outcomes for people and places locally through an immense collective expression of thoughtful concern. See pages 16-19 to meet them and be inspired.

If you are struggling with the cost of living, there is still help available.

You can use the Council's benefits calculator online to make sure you're not missing out on any help that's available, such as Council Tax support. Find it at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/ benefits-support/newclaims

You can also get confidential advice regarding your money, welfare, and benefitsvisit www.lincoln.gov. uk/benefits/benefitsmoney-advice or call 01522 873382 to speak to our friendly Welfare Team. Could you, or someone you know, be missing out on Pension Credit?

If you’re a veteran or part of a veteran’s family, there’s an open day on February 26 to showcase support and services. The free one-stop-shop for local and national agencies will be held at the North Kesteven District Council offices in Sleaford, taking place from 10am to 2pm. Alongside the open day are two free hourlong seminars for people working with veterans or wanting to understand veterans’ needs more.

See www.vsscic.org. uk/upcoming-events for information and booking.

Did you know that missed appointments cause big problems for GP surgeries and other local healthcare providers?

To check if you are eligible, visit www.gov. uk/pension-credit or call 0800 99 1234. You can also contact our Welfare Team on the same 01522 873382 number.

Pension Credit can unlock help including the Winter Fuel Payment, Housing Benefit, support for mortgage interest, Council Tax discount, the Warm Home Discount Scheme and more.

The Government has awarded Lincolnshire £5.5m for the sixth round of the Household Support Fund, for the period from October 1 2024 to March 31 2025. See more at www. lincolnshire.gov.uk/ householdsupportfund

If you can't make your appointment, it's crucial that you cancel so that it can potentially be offered to someone else and help reduce waiting times. In the first three months of 2024, more than 42,000 missed appointments had to be marked as 'did not attend' at GP surgeries across Lincolnshire.

Last April alone, almost 14,800 appointments had to be marked as 'did not attend'.

See details at your healthcare provider for how best to cancel an appointment if you need.

DID YOU KNOW?

Each of our refuse crews empties more than 1,000 bins every day on their rounds!

www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/waste

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99% of survey respondents are already taking climate action

We’re grateful to the 734 local residents who took the time to respond to our climate survey last year, which we’re using to inform the forthcoming refresh of our Climate Emergency Strategy.

99% of people were already taking some action to help the environment, with recycling coming top of the chart.

On average, respondents were already taking eight actions from a list of 17 options, and encouragingly most people would consider trying an extra two or three measures.

88% of people who responded were worried about the impact of climate change on food costs and farming, while 87% were also worried about the impact of rising energy bills.

Air pollution, impacts on nature and extreme weather came close behind in the list of concerns.

This reinforces our determination to tackle climate change, help residents make a positive difference and find ways to adapt to our changing world. You can discover actions that we can all take to tackle climate change on our website at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/ climate-change

Saving more energy with new solar panels installed

Whisby Natural World Centre and the One NK leisure centre in North Hykeham have both been fitted with new solar panel arrays in order to reduce their carbon dioxide consumption.

The 400 panels fitted at One NK will save 29,170kg of carbon dioxide per year, generating over 150,000kWh of electricity per year. Meanwhile the 71 solar panels fitted at Whisby are designed to generate 27,670kWh of electricity every year, saving 5,350kg of carbon dioxide from reduced energy use.

North Kesteven’s leisure facilities are a major consumer of energy with One NK’s usage in recent years responsible for around 26% of the Council’s carbon emissions,

The Lower River Witham Fens catchment is an area of fenland between Lincoln and Boston. The embanked channels are of significant age (many in excess of 200 years old) and climate change, which is causing increased flood risk, is testing them more than ever before according to the Environment Agency.

Its Lower Witham Flood Resilience Project aims to work with others to provide a resilient catchment and reduce the harm

so ‘decarbonising’ this site is a key priority.

Whisby Natural World Centre accounts for just under 3% of the Council’s recent emissions.

This work has cost £203,200 which was partly taken from the Council’s Climate Action Reserve, a fund established to pay for work like this as part of our ongoing commitment to climate action, and partly funded through the Government’s Swimming Pool Support Fund.

Alongside the solar installation at Whisby, a new system of LED lighting has been fitted to further reduce the energy consumption of the centre. It’s anticipated that the new lighting will save 59% of the electricity currently used.

caused by flooding where possible in the Lower Witham Fens.

The first phase is repairing and reinstating the embankments and the team is holding a drop-in event for residents:

• Friday February 7, 12pm-4pm at Tattershall Village Hall, 16 Lodge Road, Tattershall, LN4 4LL

In preparation, initial ecological screening surveys have been carried out.

The works will include vegetation removal, topping up low spots on embankments, access improvements, protected species exclusion and relocation, and restoring banks that have eroded in channel.

The tree and shrub works are to reduce flood risk and/or to enable access for flood risk maintenance works.

Scan the QR code (inset), or for questions and e-updates email: Lowerwitham.Floodresilience@ environment-agency.gov.uk

Also coming up at Whisby is a refurbishment of the Boardwalk Café outdoor seating area, which will feature a durable composite decking that is made of 90% recycled materials and has a lower carbon footprint than wood.

Compared to the existing wooden surface, which is reaching the end of its lifespan, the new space will be safer and more accessible for visitors.

The sand play area will also undergo a full refurbishment thanks to a grant from Tarmac Community Landfill Trust, making it a more inclusive experience for people of all ages and abilities.

Keep an eye on our social media and news outlets for more information in the coming weeks.

Did you know that you can get free trees for your community? We have dozens of trees to give away, as orchards or individual commemorative trees, and can also offer you advice on planting the right trees in the right place. It's open to groups, charities, businesses, schools and more. Apply before noon on January 31 (orchards) or February 17 (individual trees) at: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/ communitytrees

Kyme Eau: The bank here has settled and formed a natural low spot. Photo: Environment Agency.

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improve access to nature Upgraded walkway will

People who use Millennium Green, one of North Hykeham’s biggest green spaces, can soon enjoy a mile of upgraded walkways on their visits.

The old footpath (part of which is pictured above and inset) which circumnavigated the former gravel pit was popular with local walkers and nature lovers but unsurfaced.

The scheme to surface it with a hard-wearing material enables better year-round access for a wider range of visitors, ensuring that more people can enjoy time outdoors.

Once completed, the path will be better for walkers, wheelchair users, cyclists and other visitors.

In order to carry out the project safely and swiftly, Millennium Green closed to the public during the work which, at publication of this NewsNK, was scheduled to last up to late January 2025.

The closure has meant it can all happen quickly, so that the inconvenience is for the shortest possible time.

This closure includes the associated parking area on Station

The Council is joining Sleaford Climate Action Network in March for E-Waste Action Week – and you can get involved too! E-Waste describes the unwanted electronics and technology that so many of us have, perhaps in that one drawer we try not to look in or a shoebox under the bed.

It can include actual devices like defunct laptops or tablets and out-of-date phones; as well as the accessories that go with them, like chargers and cables.

It’s such a big problem that the organisation Material Focus estimates there are around 880 million items of e-waste in UK homes alone.

Many people are unsure where

and how to best dispose of items, or feel they shouldn’t just throw out items which had such value.

That leaves items that could be reused languishing in tech-limbo, and a so-called ‘urban mine’ of materials like copper wasted.

We’ll be supporting SleafordCAN to draw attention to the reuse, repair or proper disposal of such items, with drop-off points in the community for those items which could be donated to good causes.

There’ll also be a repair café where you can bring devices that need attention, get information and even share and swap cables. Sign up for climate newsletters at www.nkesteven.gov.uk/stayconnected to get the details when available.

Road, which is providing storage.

Once the path is finished there'll be a chance to join us for a collective walk to celebrate.

The new path is being created by Lindum Group using crushed granite, which provides a consistent surface with minimal eco-impact.

This project was funded by contributions under Section 106 from developments in the locality – where developers contribute funding to deliver infrastructure in the local area required to support new development.

We have relaunched our climate change webpages at www.nkesteven.gov.uk/climatechange with lots of content on how to take climate action.

Why not see if there's something you could apply to your home or business?

The pages include tips and where to find advice on topics including saving energy, nature, electric cars and charge points.

There is also information on funding for households and the community (including groups).

We're always open to feedback on the pages and where more would be helpful.

Let us know at climateaction@nkesteven.gov.uk

You're invited to plant a snowdrop with us, in remembrance.

The North Kesteven Snowdrop Walk on February 22, 12-3pm, at Whisby Nature Park is in aid of charity Child Bereavement UK which supports families and educates professionals when a baby or child dies, is dying, or is facing bereavement.

A small donation will give you a snowdrop to plant in a specified area. See www.facebook.com/ SnowdropWalk

Around a quarter of the waste in black bins in North Kesteven is made up of wasted food.

Food waste from the District is currently collected in the black bin general waste stream and taken to the Energy from Waste plant in North Hykeham where it is made into electricity.

It's better to stop it going in the bin in the first place - saving your money and cutting down the 18 million tonnes of CO2 generated by UK homes from wasted consumable food and drink. That's because growing, processing and distributing food all needs resources and produces greenhouse gas emissions. Here are some tips from Love Food Hate Waste:

• Keep your fridge temperature below 5C.

• Most fruit, except bananas and uncut pineapples, can be kept in the fridge and last longer there.

• Create a realistic meal plan based on who will be at home throughout the week.

• See the Love Food Hate Waste website for tips on how to freeze different leftovers safely. It's also important to keep putting the right thing in each of your bins - look out for helpful #RightThingRightBin videos from the Lincolnshire Waste Partnership which show what to do with different items, from batteries (which should never go in your bins) to seasonal waste.

To enhance the health and wellbeing, safety and resilience of all our communities; inspiring and supporting a sustainable and flourishing future.

£9,000

North Kesteven Lottery Grant fund opens soon for local groups over

Last year almost £6,300 was awarded to local groups and good causes from the fund, and it's back this year with more.

Lincolnshire Community Foundation and North Kesteven District Council are inviting local charitable organisations to apply for grants of up to £500.

The fund's aim is to support smaller, volunteer-led and non-profit organisations operating in North Kesteven for the benefit of residents.

Applications are expected to open before the end of January and close at the end of February - details will be available at www. lincolnshirecf.co.uk/grants

Funds should be used to ensure the good health and mental wellbeing of residents; to promote connectivity (digital/peer support); to host community or cultural activities and events that bring communities together; or to support youth activities including uniformed groups.

The fund is generated directly by ticket sales in the North Kesteven Lottery, which itself supports local groups (as seen on page 5).

DID YOU KNOW?

The Council delivered 85 affordable homes in North Kesteven between April and September 2024.

www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/

From village hall and chapel improvements to support for community facilities and new wellness and therapy spaces, a whole range of local causes have been awarded grant money.

Grants of up to £25,000 from the Rural England Prosperity Fund – now fully allocated – were awarded towards capital costs for schemes that strengthen communities, build pride in place, and bring people together.

Charities, groups, social enterprises and parish and town councils operating in the District were all eligible to apply.

In fact, a number of applicants requested grants to help with energy including adding solar panels, replacing boilers and improving insulation.

These were Carlton Le Moorland

Parish Council for extra solar panels at the village hall; Canwick Village Hall Trustees for a new and more efficient boiler; battery storage for existing solar panels from the Coleby Village Hall Committee; Nocton Parish Council to install solar panels, battery storage and more insulation at the village hall there; and Scredington Village Hall (pictured inset, bottom) and Playing Fields to install solar panels, battery storage and an EV charging point at the local community centre.

A total of almost £300,000 made up the fund, with applications managed on the Council's behalf by the Lincolnshire Community Foundation.

The Rural England Prosperity Fund is funded by Government, running alongside UKSPF monies.

Anwick Parish Council, for roof repairs.

Aubourn Parish Council, to repair some of the floor in the Clock Tower.

Voluntary Centre Services, for better flexibility at its Sleaford offices.

Greylees Engagement Network, extra equipment to a play area.

Dorrington Parish Council, to enhance outdoor exercise equipment (main image).

Bracebridge Heath Parish Council, for a village hall projector system.

Brant Broughton Playing Field Association, for outdoor equipment.

Church of Saint Peter Ad Vincula, for a roof covering with insulation.

Metheringham Swimming Pool, for extra changing facilities and disabled changing. Cranwell, Brauncewell and Byards Leap, to clad two new portacabins.

Helpringham Community Café, for a commercial coffee machine.

Fairfield Links CIC, seating and learning materials to complete an outdoor wellness area.

Hope Meadows Equine Assisted Recovery CIC, for a new indoor therapy space.

Welbourn Parish Council, improved access to outdoor and green spaces.

Penfold Players, Washingborough, to purchase curtains and spotlights.

Osbournby Village Hall, for new maintenance and decoration.

Little Hale Methodist Chapel, for window repairs and redecoration.

Eagle and Swinesthorpe Parish Council, to install play equipment.

Martin and Martin Dales Parish Council, for outdoor exercise equipment.

Hale Magna Village Hall, to refurbish and install a drainage system in the car park. Heckington Angling Syndicate, for fencing around the main match lake.

See www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/ukspf for more

Holding an event can be great fun for you and your community, however it is important to understand your legal responsibilities as organiser. You should consider licensing, fire safety arrangements, first aid provision, highway rules and public safety, welfare and protection legislation early on.

The Safety Advisory Group is a multi-agency group which looks at health, safety and licensing for events held across the District.

The group works in advance with event organisers to help them ensure public safety and protection, which in turn minimises impact on emergency services particularly over busy times like Easter and summer.

If you’re planning a public event this year, please notify the group here: www.nkesteven.gov.uk/businessservices-support-licensing/ licensing/business-licencesconditions/communityevents

The Safety Advisory Group can then use their expertise and experience to guide you on any requirements that are outstanding, and to give advice if you are unsure of something.

The Lincolnshire Event Safety Partnership also has lots of useful information available on its webpage at www. lincolnshireresilienceforum. org/events and is a good first step when planning your event.

Do you know any local young athletes who deserve funding to help them grow their talent?

The GLL Sport Foundation is accepting applications to support athletes across the UK. Apply for the 2025 programme at www.gllsportfoundation.org before February 20.

Athletes need to live, be educated or train within the North Kesteven area, or somewhere that GLL partners for sports and leisure delivery, or use a BETTER Gym for strength and conditioning.

Five extra years of community fund

Schroders Greencoat, the owner of Sleaford Renewable Energy Plant, has agreed to extend its community fund for five years, securing a further £125,000 for local projects.

Over the past five years, since 2020, the Sleaford Renewable Energy Plant Community Fund has provided £25,000 per year split across various grants to groups and projects in the area. It's funded projects as diverse

as art workshops, church kitchen refurbishments and youth activities locally.

Projects applying for the funds must meet eligibility criteria and be within five miles of the plant, near Kirkby La Thorpe.

The next round of funding closes for applications on April 9, 2025.

More information is available at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/ your-community/localism-yourcommunity/community-funding

Check if you could be at risk

Go to www.gov.uk/sign-upfor-flood-warnings or scan the QR code to see if you can sign up for flood warnings.

Know where to find information

Prepare now by finding and following accounts such as @envagencymids and @envagency on social media platform X, the @lincolnshire resilienceforum and us at @northkestevendc on social media to stay prepared. BBC Radio Lincolnshire broadcasts updates in the event of emergencies like floods and local press share lots of information too.

Decide on your flood kit

What would go in your flood kit, if you needed to evacuate? You could plan it now. Good items are a torch, warm and waterproof clothing, water, food, medication, toys for children and pets, rubber gloves and wellington boots.

There's a Government website with ways to support yourself and your community in an emergency, including specific advice for disabled people and carers. See: www.gov.uk/prepare

You can check for any flood alerts at: https://check-for-flooding. service.gov.uk

The Fix My Street function on the Lincolnshire County Council website can be used to report floods in the first instancewww.fixmystreet.com

If you are experiencing surface water flooding or want to report local flooding, you can call the Lincolnshire County Council Floodline on 01522 782082

In the event of river flooding you can also call the Environment Agency’s national Floodline, open 24/7 on 0345 988 1188. There's also a textphone you can use, for example if you have difficulty hearing, which is 0345 602 6340

Call 105 if you have a power cut or see damaged power lines.

If you spot a fallen tree blocking a footpath or dangerous standing water, call 101.

If there is a risk to life, call 999.

For non-urgent medical help after being evacuated from home, visit NHS 111 online or call 111.

Our free Digital Hubs can help you get to grips with your devices, from paying bills online to staying in touch with people virtually, and more.

In an increasingly online world, they are a supportive space for people of all ages to enhance and improve their digital skills. They are run by dedicated North Kesteven District Council colleagues and volunteers, and are a great chance to socialise with other people locally too. Why not cut out and keep this reminder, or pass it on to someone you know?

The Digital Hubs are held weekly during school term at:

• Sleaford: Riverside Centre, Tues 10.30am-12pm

• Osbournby: Village Hall, Tues 1pm-2.30pm.

• Metheringham: community library on High Street, Weds 10.30am-12pm.

• Heckington: Methodist Church Hall, Weds 1pm-2.30pm.

• Ruskington: the Methodist Church, Thurs 10.30am-12pm.

• Waddington: the community hub on High Street, Thurs 1pm-2.30pm.

You can plan now where you might go if you have to evacuate, and how you would get there safely. You can also download a flood plan, which may be useful to fill out with any neighbours or family. Scan the QR code, or visit: www. lincolnshireresilienceforum. org/risks/river-surfacegroundwater-flooding and scroll down the page.

Anglian Water will clear up sewage left on the roads, but their priority in a flood is any sewageflooded homes across the region. Customers should call Anglian Water to report sewage on 03457 145 145 or do so online at: www.anglianwater.co.uk/helpand-advice/flooding-guidance

There is guidance on how to safely disinfect and clean up at home after flood water: www.gov. uk/government/publications/ floods-how-to-clean-up-yourhome-safely/floods-cleaningyour-home-safely

Lots to enjoy in North Kesteven this year

Wherever you find yourself in North Kesteven, you're at the heart of it all.

Plan your next days out at www.heartoflincs.com or if you organise community events you can list yours there.

There you can also find the full 2024/25 Leisure Guide to North Kesteven, or look out for copies to pick up at venues locally.

Keep your eyes peeled for the 2025/26 Leisure Guide, hot off the press this spring and full of inspiration from aviation, history, arts and leisure, and much more. Follow @heartoflincs on social media too for events and news.

Sunday February 2

Yorkshire Pudding Day:

Cogglesford Watermill, free. www.cogglesfordwatermill.co.uk

Wednesday February 5 to

Saturday April 5

Spring Bulb Pageant:

Doddington Hall, gardens only, Wed-Sun, 10am-4pm (last entry 3pm). Adult gardens ticket £9.50, child £4.50. www.doddingtonhall.com

Sunday February 9

Milling Day: Cogglesford Watermill www.cogglesfordwatermill.co.uk

Free. Visit also on February 22 for history tours.

Monday February 17

Build a Boggart and Lincolnshire folk tales day: Mrs Smith's Cottage, 12-3pm. Included in admission fee, book your visit at: www.mrssmithscottage.com

Sunday March 9

Milling Day: Cogglesford Watermill. www.cogglesfordwatermill.co.uk

Saturday June 7

Eden Project Big Lunch: Mrs Smith's Cottage, midday-3pm

Join our Teddy Bear’s Picnic for the Big Lunch! Bring your own to enjoy in the cottage garden. www.mrssmithscottage.com

Saturday June 14 to June 29

NK Walking Festival, celebrating 10 years since its beginning. www.hillholtwood.co.uk/nkwalking-festival

Saturday June 14 to June 21

RiverLight Festival: various locations in Sleaford Image, left: Parade, The Giant Wheel, Autin Dance Theatre is a confirmed act. www.hub-sleaford.org.uk/riverlight

Friday January 24 to January 26

RSPB Big Garden Bird Watch: Cogglesford Watermill, free. Bird-watching beside the River Slea. www.cogglesfordwatermill.co.uk

Saturday January 25

RSPB Big Garden Bird Watch: Mrs Smith's Cottage, admission fees apply, adults £3.50 kids £2 each. Family trails and crafts to help little ones learn about birds. Book your visit at: www.mrssmithscottage.com

Saturday January 25

History Tours: Cogglesford Watermill www.cogglesfordwatermill.co.uk

Visit also on Saturday March 22 for history tours.

Monday March 10

Whisby Visually Impaired

Wellbeing Walk: Whisby Nature Park, free, 10.30-11.30am. For more Wellbeing Walks see: www.heartoflincs.com/events

Sunday March 30

Mother’s Day Vintage Afternoon Tea and Music: International Bomber Command Centre. 2.30pm-4.30pm, tickets £35 per adult and £12.50 per child (aged 5-16). www.internationalbcc.co.uk

Thursday April 3

IBCC Lecture and Supper Series: Operation Exodus - the Forgotten Story: International Bomber Command Centre. Part of the IBCC Lecture and Supper series, £16 a ticket, 6.30pm-10pm, starts with a hot supper at 6.30pm. www.internationalbcc.co.uk

Friday April 4 to April 28

Easter trail: Mrs Smith's Cottage. Included in admission, see: www.mrssmithscottage.com

Monday April 7

Blossom’s Bee Festival: Mrs Smith's Cottage, 12pm - 3pm Learn about our new mascot Blossom and her bee friends. Included in admission fee, book your visit in advance at: www.mrssmithscottage.com

Sunday April 13

Milling Day: Cogglesford Watermill. www.cogglesfordwatermill.co.uk Visit on April 26 for history tours.

Friday April 18 to April 20

Easter Crafts: Navigation House, free. See: www.navigationhouse. co.uk

Sunday April 20

Chocolate Day and Easter Egg Hunt: Cogglesford Watermill. www.cogglesfordwatermill.co.uk

From Friday February 21, throughout 2025 Woman in Airforce Blue Exhibition: Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre. www.cranwellaviation.co.uk

Open until March

Uncovering Sleaford Castle Exhibition: Navigation House in Sleaford. www.navigationhouse.co.uk

Open until Sunday March 2

Miscellany by MosArt: The Hub, Window Collection. www.hub-sleaford.org.uk

Open until Sunday March 23

Jason Wilsher-Mills: Looking Back, Looking Forward The Hub, main gallery. www.hub-sleaford.org.uk

Open until Sunday March 30

Printers Inc: Impressed The Hub, River Stairwell. www.hub-sleaford.org.uk

Saturday May 24

Plant Sale and Swap: Mrs Smith's Cottage, 12pm – 3pm. Included in admission fee, book tickets in advance at: www.mrssmithscottage.com

For fun and learning

Join the NavenBees Toddler Club at Mrs Smith's Cottage in Navenby, where learning meets fun for your little ones!

Every second and fourth Friday morning, 11am–12pm, for children aged two to five. www.mrssmithscottage.com

Make It Mondays continue at Cranwell Aviation Heritage Museum during school holidays and halfterms.

www.cranwellaviation.co.uk

Care about the environment?

The Riverside Guardians group meets at Navigation House in Sleaford, on the first Sunday of each month from 10am-2pm, and consists of young people who help clean up the local area for both people and wildlife. www.navigationhouse.co.uk

Aged 11-18 years and interested in helping the natural world? Whisby’s Junior Wardens group gives young people practical skills and knowledge, from coppicing and woodland management to species identification and more. £5 per member, every second Saturday, 1–3.30pm. To book, email: whisbyeducation@lincstrust. co.uk or call 01522 696926. There's also the Whisby Nature Park Wildlife Watch, for outdoor learning for those aged 5-11. It's on the second Saturday of each month from 10am–11.30am, £4 per member. Use the same email address and phone number to book.

There's a Van Gogh Collage Workshop on February 20 at Whisby Natural World Centre, from 10.30am–midday, inspired by his sunflowers masterpiece.

It's £15 per child, ages six and up. See: www.naturalworldcentre.org/event to book.

Why not spend Mother's Day learning to draw and paint some beautiful daisies artwork?

It's £25 each, from 10.30am–1.30pm, on Sunday March 30 at Whisby Natural World Centre. See: www.naturalworldcentre.org/event to book tickets.

Heckington Windmill hosts Winter Talks on a range of topics, with coffee and cake afterwards. All talks start at 10.30am for around 1–1.5 hours, at £6 per talk. The next is February 3, by the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust on the Woodhall Spa Airfield and Nature Reserve. www.heartoflincs.com/events

There's Dance for Parkinson’s every Thursday at One NK in North Hykeham, 1.30pm–2.45pm. It's just £3, and free for carers. Book at: www.hub-sleaford.org.uk/ events

You can now enjoy an Open Pottery Hub Evening on the first Tuesday of each month, at the Hub in Sleaford. It's held from 6.30–8.30pm at £10 a session, 16yrs+ plus cost for clay and firing your makes. Book at: www.hubsleaford.org.uk/events

A fun springtime activity for you

Build a windmill ready for sunshine and springtime outdoors, with this fun activity from the Cogglesford Watermill team.

You'll need:

» Paper in two colours and scissors to cut

» Decorative stickers

» A flat pin/push pin

» A thin dowel stick

Method:

1. Cut two 20cm squares of paper, and colour each one differently if you can. Place one sheet on top of the other and, matching the edges all the way round, fold the paper in half diagonally and open out. Fold diagonally again, this time on the opposite diagonal, and open out.

2. Cut from one corner along the diagonal fold, stopping around 3cm from the centre. Repeat along the remaining diagonal folds.

3. Fold four alternate corner sections down to the centre of the paper, holding each section under your thumb at the centre as you work. Place a sticker centrally on the windmill so that it holds the four blades in position.

4. Take a pin or push pin and put it through the centre of the sticker and out of the back of the windmill. Push the pin into the top of the dowel stick so that it firmly secures the windmill in place but still allows it to turn. Enjoy!

Spanning some 130 miles, the Stepping Out network of footpaths across the District goes back many years and is a great chance to enjoy spring. With over 30 separate walks, and sitting alongside the Spires and Steeples and Ridges and Furrows routes, many of the Stepping Out routes can be combined or walked in part. See www.hilltholtwood. co.uk/stepping-out-walks for maps and details.

You can also take in the sights and delights of North Kesteven as you explore on two wheels. The District is perfect for cycling, and Cycle Lincolnshire has developed a selection of long-distance routes across the county with a mix of leisure and distance rides for all abilities. See: www.heartoflincs.com/ things_to_do/cycling-in-theheart-of-lincs

To support sustainable and regenerative local economic growth and resilience; transitioning to a Green Economy working within environmental thresholds.

£201 million

value of tourism to the local economy

2.9 million visitors came into or moved within North Kesteven for days out or holidays in 2023, generating a total value of £201 million into the local economy. It directly supported the fulltime equivalent of more than 2,000 jobs across the year.

That was a 21% uplift in economic impact on the year before, restoring the visitor economy sector above the prepandemic level and continuing to demonstrate its importance.

Now, in order to support businesses operating in the sector, a North Kesteven Tourism Strategy is being rolled out. It has been developed to reflect the intentions of businesses and visitors who were surveyed to understand the strengths, weaknesses and opportunities within the sector, and asked to help shape key priorities.

Some of these measures are already carried out by the Council’s tourism and business support teams and by making use of Government UKSPF funding to boost opportunities and growth. Find out more at: www.nkesteven.gov.uk/council-news

DID YOU KNOW?

Almost 42,000 phone calls were made to the Council's Customer Services Team from April to September 2024.

A range of projects to help improve pride of place and increase life chances in North Kesteven are complete or nearing completion.

The Government's UK Shared Prosperity Fund has enabled each of the projects to take place on the condition they meet the specific criteria of the fund.

Read on for the latest, and get more in your inbox by signing up for e-newsletters at www.n-kesteven. gov.uk/stayconnected

A festive weekend of free Christmas celebrations welcomed people back to Sleaford's Market Place in December. This historic space now offers a calm and attractive area for events, markets and activities, and better reflects the surrounding buildings. The war memorial also now has lighting and resin-bound gravel to highlight its importance. Two raised planters provide greenery and hardwood benches, with seven more benches being installed, plus lighting and cycle hoops. There'll be repairs and repainting to the bus shelter as part of finishing touches. Dedicated Blue Badge-only parking is available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays on Market Place – between 9am-3pm for two hours maximum and no return in one hour – in front of the church wall. That's in addition to pre-arranged disabled access for events and services at St Denys' Church, plus up to 30 minutes loading anytime for permit holders if necessary. Market traders can now benefit from this enhanced space; with more visibility for them and customers able to move around it freely. The market is operated by the Town Council. Heckington-based Smith Construction put in an incredible effort to ensure the space was ready to host the WinterLight event.

A mosaic dedicated to the River Slea is the latest artwork added to Sleaford, in a refresh of Monument Gardens.

There are new hexagonal flower beds to create more space (retaining the trees and one existing flower bed) feature lighting, new seating, a brand-new flagpole, plus a repaint of the museum's exterior wall and shutters and the Wyvern barrier.

A restored heritage Sleaford sign finished off the project when it was unveiled in November.

www.n-kesteven.gov.uk

The area around Handley Monument is now a pleasant place to sit and watch the world go by, on Southgate in Sleaford, after two new plant beds were created with built-in seating.

Handley Monument itself also now has its own uplighting to highlight it as an entrance feature as people come into the town centre.

An information board is soon being installed.

Monument Gardens refreshed

An enhanced space for people

Handley Monument highlighted

Volunteers are working hard on the internal fit-out of Sleaford's new trip boat with floor and wood panelling for the walls and ceiling now in place.

The project to operate the trip boat, which has been named the Benjamin Handley, along the historic Sleaford Navigation between the Hub and Cogglesford Watermill in Sleaford is led by Sleaford Navigation Trust with support from NKDC through UK Shared Prosperity Fund monies.

A landing stage will be built at Cogglesford Watermill as part of the project, if approved, and it is planned to remove excess reeds from the river in March.

Follow Sleaford Navigation Trust on Facebook to stay up to date on the project and how it's moving along.

Forgotten heritage features are being uncovered and buildings being restored thanks to funding to preserve historic shopfronts.

NKDC is working closely with commercial property and business owners in Sleaford town centre to repair and reinstate historic features, through the Council’s Sleaford Shopfront Grant Scheme.

Over £380,000 of UKSPF funding has been allocated across 12 projects, with up to 90% of the cost of works awarded as a grant. By the end of the scheme in March 2025 the town centre will be transformed with 15 different shopfronts being restored or repaired. The properties all fall within the town centre conservation area.

Events to enjoy

Everyone is invited to celebrate someone or something they love, with heart tags that can be added to the heart seat which returns to Sleaford from February 10 until February 24.

Businesses can email ukspf@n-kesteven.gov.uk to host heart tags for people to collect before visiting the seat, which will be in Market Place.

It's part of the Events Programme, which has also seen first-time events supported including the Threekingham Viking Festival, pop-up events in North Hykeham, a shop small market in Heckington and the recent Christmas tree festival in Bracebridge Heath.

The Carre Gallery in Sleaford has invited artists and photographers aged between 14 and 21-years-old to exhibit their work for free, supported by event funding from the Events Programme (see above). The installation will run from Tuesday January 14 until February 1 and there are plans for it to become a yearly January celebration of young artistic and photographic talent.

The Rural England Prosperity Fund is a capital grant aimed at supporting small and micro businesses to develop new products and facilities that will be of wider benefit to the local economy. It totals £450,000 and applications close on January 31 2025. It's a top-up fund for rural districts in addition to the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, and is managed by the District Council on behalf of DEFRA. See: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/ukspf for eligibility.

Our Economy

Did you know these fantastic facts about the local economy in North Kesteven?

» It contributed £3.2 billion in added value towards the national economy in 2022.

» There are 5,000 more jobs in North Kesteven than in 2015.

The Council’s new Economy Strategy spells out the District’s opportunities for growth.

These include a strong and diverse base of employers who are aware of their potential to diversify and grow, nationally important sectors already based here, provision of great quality homes for people and being a great place to both live and work.

The strategy also looks at the challenges our local economy faces, including young people moving on after 18, and limited employment sites beyond existing allocations.

Find out more at www.nkesteven.gov.uk/council-news

The Council offers the services of a dedicated Business Support Adviser who can provide a whole range of free, bespoke advice.

If you are in business and feel you could benefit from this, please contact the team by emailing ecodev@n-kesteven.gov.uk

Further specialist support and programmes are also provided via the Business Lincolnshire Growth Hub - see: www. businesslincolnshire.com

For more business news, scan to sign up for the Council’s e-newsletter.

Free social media support

There's still free access available to social media tools and training to help your business reach more customers.

The social media experts at Maybe* are providing digital skills training secured by North Kesteven District Council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, from where to get started with social media to advanced strategies on using Facebook ads to deliver winning sales tactics. See: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/ukspf for how to sign up.

From April to September 2024, the Council received 889 requests for access to information, most of which were Environmental Information Regulation and Freedom of Information requests. DID YOU KNOW?

www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/ council-democracy

Grant help for rural businesses

New narrowboat

Protecting built heritage

Showcasing local talent

Through the Local Plan, deliver sustainable housing growth and pursue energy efficient development to meet the current and emerging needs of all.

4,800

people are Council tenants in North Kesteven

If you're a North Kesteven District Council tenant, you're invited to join our dedicated community Facebook group. You can use the group to share your thoughts or ask for advice on tenancy-related issues, as well as finding out the latest news from us and making your voice heard.

To join, follow these steps:

1. Search ‘NKDC Housing’ on Facebook.

2. Answer a few simple questions.

3. Agree to the group rules. It's just one of the many ways we engage directly with our tenants to help shape our work to deliver homes that meet need.

There's also our Tenant Liaison Panel, our local Tenants' Association groups, satisfaction surveys and much more. Join the Facebook group to be kept up to date on these too.

DID YOU KNOW?

From April to September 2024, over 280 homelessness cases in North Kesteven were prevented and relieved through use of housing advice and prevention tools.

www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/ homes-property

Retrofitting success means more to come

A £6 million programme of works designed to reduce heating costs, make homes warmer and tackle climate change has been completed on 205 Council homes, with more to come.

The retrofitting scheme involves replacing energy-hungry heating equipment, boosting insulation and installing green technology. It is funded partly by the Council and partly by Government grants.

Once completed, homes that have been through the retrofit process have more insulation and improved energy efficiency.

205 Council bungalows across nearly 40 North Kesteven villages have benefitted from the work, delivered by partner Equans.

The green technology added includes solar panels and heat pumps, along with upgraded heating systems and monitoring equipment.

Say no to fly-tippers

Unscrupulous waste carriers will take advantage of you by offering to take your waste and then dumping it. They pocket your money and tip your rubbish onto farmers' tracks, fields, lay-bys or anywhere else they can avoid dealing with it properly as a licensed carrier would.

Beforehand the average EPC rating of the properties was a D, but now half are rated B or above, with the rest at least a C.

This improved rating means residents can expect to see significant price drops in their energy bills over the coming year.

The project has been such a success that already the Council has allocated money to fund retrofitting of another 100 homes, and the team is working hard to secure funding for more Council properties in future.

James Jackson, a resident whose home has benefitted from the retrofitting scheme, said: “The work done on the house has been superb. It’s changed the temperature of the house throughout. We’ve got the smart meter so the bills, from what we can see, are coming down. Dramatically coming down, so

we’re quids in.

“The workmen who installed it were absolutely brilliant. It’s as though they’d rehearsed it –you’d stand there mesmerised and it just got done in two days. You can’t praise the whole team enough because from start to finish they were superb.”

In total, 200 of the 205 properties had solar panels installed, expecting to generate nearly 3,000kW of electricity per home per year, the combined measures saving as much as £1,200 per year on energy bills. Each home should save 2.8 tonnes of carbon each year, a total of 560 tonnes across the scheme. This scheme has been made possible with £3.2 million being funded from the Council’s housing budget and £2.8 million from the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund.

You can help protect yourself from a fine or prosecution by always ensuring you remember the SCRAP fly-tipping code:

» SUSPECT all waste carriers.

» CHECK their waste carrier’s registration details, then verify them by searching the Environment Agency website or by calling 03708 506 506. Note the registration plate of the vehicle used.

» REFUSE unexpected offers to have any rubbish taken away.

» ASK what they'll do with it.

» PAPERWORK should be obtained. Make sure you get a full receipt and a waste transfer note with their details included.

The Council has produced a receipt you can fill in with any waste carrier to ensure you get all their details and assure you they're legitimate. It will help prove you did all you can, should your waste end up fly-tipped. Flick to the back page of this edition to find it.

new North Hykeham homes Tenants settled in at

The door has been opened on the District Council’s latest scheme of refurbished and new-build homes as it continues to expand access to quality, affordable Council housing.

By reconfiguring 14 former sheltered housing flats at Grinter House that are nearly 60 years old and replacing and building additional homes at Grinter Close – all to meet modern needs – the District Council has provided 32 new and enhanced homes.

Completed in August, two months ahead of schedule, tenants have since made them their homes and are enjoying the benefits of electric charging points, enhanced insulation, better

Did you know that the Council offers a garden waste service?

It's a hassle-free way of dealing with things like clippings, branch cuttings, clean straw and even real Christmas trees (cut up). It's collected and then composted, ensuring that this green waste can be put to use in agriculture rather than being lost. Sign-ups for the 2025/26 service will open in February. See www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/ gardenwaste for all the details, which will be updated soon with the price for the year's service.

internal layout and configuration, as well as private cycle storage.

It's a development that typifies the Council’s approach to building to a high environmental specification – this time through a collaborative team effort as six professionals within the Council’s property team each contributed individual designs into a scheme that also provided opportunity for builders Lindum’s apprentice bricklayers and stonemasons.

With the enthusiasm of grant funders Homes England, and contractors Lindum Group sharing that passion for quality, plus the pragmatism of the Town Council, it's a great example of what’s possible.

Building excellence across the District is being celebrated. All five schemes that won NK Building Excellence Awards in 2024 – in North Hykeham, Helpringham, Scredington, Waddington and Wilsford –were submitted for regional consideration; with School House, Wilsford, named the East Midlands’ best residential extension and nominated for the recent national LABC awards. The extension at Grantham Road, Waddington was highly commended at regional level.

The awards recognise excellence in design, build and execution within projects which use Local Authority Building Control services for verification, sign-off and validation of compliance and standards. Certificates were presented on site to owners, applicants, agents and builders for each.

One of the tenants now settled in is Leon and his family: "The rooms are the right sizes for the kids so all the kids love it," he said.

"One of our youngest is heavily autistic so she’s got her own space now, so it’s been fantastic for her.

"The dogs have the space to run outside, which is fantastic for us.

"There’s an airing cupboard upstairs, we didn’t have one beforehand, and the walk-in wardrobes are a dream."

With Volunteer Centre Services and Lincolnshire Co-op, the Council is offering get-togethers for isolated tenants in Billinghay. Community lottery funding is providing an initial year of weekly social and wellbeing activities. As many as 16 residents have attended the Community Room at The Whyche each week so far. It will continue until at least March 2025, and possibly beyond. It is hoped that more Council tenants can enjoy a Community Cuppa and trial events are taking place in Ruskington.

Are you worried about someone you've seen rough sleeping?

If you see someone sleeping rough and are concerned about them, notify the relevant local team by emailing Change4Lincs at change4lincs@ southkesteven.gov.uk or call StreetLink on 0300 500 0914

Should you find yourself in an emergency situation with nowhere to stay, you can call the Council on 01529 414155 or email housingoptionsteam@nkesteven.gov.uk in office hours or call 01529 308308 out of hours.

The Council also undertakes lots of preventative work to help those at risk of homelessness, and works jointly to help reduce homelessness including through the Change4Lincs partnership of district councils.

In the event that you have a serious housing issue or potential threat of homelessness, contact us as soon as you can by calling 01529 414155 or by email at housingoptions@n-kesteven. gov.uk during office hours.

to help ensure that anyone living, working or studying in Lincolnshire gets support if they have been the victim of crimeeven if they don’t want to report the crime to the police.

The team are specially trained to provide free, confidential advice and guidance.

They can discuss the different support options available to you, and make referrals to specialist coping and recovery services, should you need them.

Go to www.victimlincs.co.uk or call between 8am-4pm Monday to Friday on 01522 212333 to seek help and discuss the options available for support.

Victim Lincs is a service put in place by the Police and Crime Commissioner for Lincolnshire as part of his Victims' Strategy.

Victim Lincs is a service

Community Champion Awards 2024

Everyone nominated as an NK Community Champion is a winner in the affections of District residents; all being thanked for their voluntary endeavour and community consideration. Meet the 31 finalists for 2024 here...

Community Spirit

Contribution to Climate Action

Sponsored by Sleaford Renewable Energy Plant / Schroders Greencoat

Winner: Washingborough Academy school

Sustainability is central to the curriculum at Washingborough Academy with every student receiving at least one hour of topical teaching every week across six key themes from waste to water use, recycling and re-use.

The field to fork journey of lunches and snacks could not be shorter with students growing much of what the kitchen cooks and any food waste – itself vastly cut down through targeted learning and a school culture where climate is a core concern – returned to the compost heap and wormery.

On-site hives, a 19-variety orchard, 20 metre polytunnel, 300 square metre organic kitchen garden, exclusive use of saved heritage seeds, chickens and dedicated plots for every class all contribute to a proactive redress

of the 6% of greenhouses gasses caused through food waste alone.

Although not part of the National Curriculum, this investment in lifelong learning focused on the future of the planet is carried home and inspires the community to respond as climate-conscious, environmentally-aware, global citizens too, well-placed to make a positive difference in the world they are inheriting.

Sustainability lead Lauren Vint said that building on Headteacher Dr Jason O’Rourke’s sustainable food programme, everything that can be grown in the school grounds is. “It’s such an important thing to teach our children all about sustainability as a whole. It makes them aware of what they’re eating and the impacts their choices have and they’re better climate advocates for the future.”

Other finalists were:

• Judy Dickin, Branston –involved in almost every facet of village life over 50 years, Judy is especially focused on improving opportunities and outcomes for the young, the old and those in greatest need.

• Maddie Parker, Nocton –actively contributing to village life in many and various ways and described as a ‘bundle of energy’ who can ‘always be relied upon to help out in improving village life,’ Maddie loves to connect people.

Other finalists were:

• Paul Rae & Nicola Jones, Bassingham – initiating and leading on a new community woodland for biodiversity gain, nature connectivity, climate redress, and environmental and wellbeing benefits.

• Sleaford Repair Café, Sleaford – part of Sleaford Climate Action Network’s push for more re-use, recycling, rehoming and reduced demand on resources, the Repair Café sees enthusiastic skilled repairers fix things and share skills for the good of the planet.

Contribution to Sport

Community Business

Good Neighbour

Young Achiever

Contribution to Community Resilience

Contribution to Arts & Culture

Contribution to Health & Wellbeing

Longstanding Contribution to a Group or Organisation

Winner: Janet Johnson, Silk Willoughby

Associated with St Denis’ in Silk Willoughby throughout her entire life, for the last 62 years Janet has been on the church council that manages and maintains it – most recently overseeing a massive project as sole church warden.

Running numerous fundraising events to sustain the church and innovating in ways that involved the whole community in cheese wrapper and printer cartridge recycling and Facebook Marketplace sales to contribute towards the £94,000 installation of toilets and a servery that make the church a more appealing and accessible community asset, Janet creates a sense of community in everything she does.

With a deep love of church, congregation and community it is thought that if she were a stick of rock, she would have St Denis’ running through her.

Regarded as the linchpin of every

event and fundraising idea, and continuing to open up and close the church daily, the loyal friends and helpers undertaking tasks alongside her are testament to her cause, with each and every one helping out for one united reason –and that’s Janet.

“I just enjoy working with people and get a lot of pleasure in doing things for the church, in order that it doesn’t close as so many have. You do unto others what you would have them do unto you,” said Janet.

Other finalists were:

Garry Goodge, Sleaford – operating on-stage, off-stage, backstage and in various committee positions for almost 50 years, Garry is regarded as ‘a major cornerstone in the success of Sleaford Playhouse and Sleaford Little Theatre.

Ralph Wilford, Potterhanworth – contributing to various village organisations over 60 years, he has digitised historic records, written about village life, and is an oracle of local information.

News NK January - July 2025 North Kesteven District Council

Significant investments aim to boost life across North Kesteven

Vibrant weekend in the refreshed Market Place

Getting in touch with us

Young minds imagine our future in 50 years

Saving more energy with new solar panels installed

improve access to nature Upgraded walkway will

£9,000

Five extra years of community fund

Check if you could be at risk

Know where to find information

Decide on your flood kit

Lots to enjoy in North Kesteven this year

For fun and learning

A fun springtime activity for you

DID YOU KNOW?

Events to enjoy

Our Economy

Free social media support

DID YOU KNOW?

Retrofitting success means more to come

Say no to fly-tippers

new North Hykeham homes Tenants settled in at

Community Champion Awards 2024

Community Spirit

Contribution to Climate Action

Contribution to Sport

Community Business

Good Neighbour

Young Achiever

Contribution to Community Resilience

Contribution to Arts & Culture

Contribution to Health & Wellbeing

Longstanding Contribution to a Group or Organisation

Winner: Janet Johnson, Silk Willoughby

Contribution to a Better Environment

Let’s Stop