News NK Summer 2016

newsnk

Pull-out and keep guide to what’s on locally this summer

The newspaper for all North Kesteven residents

Summer 2016

UK’s first interactive slide launches at One NK Thousands of people have enjoyed the new and unique attractions at ONE NK as it continues to rise in popularity.

The pool area has been completely revamped under the centre’s recent £3.6 million transformation to include the UK’s first interactive selfie flume and a bespoke Magna Carta splash area for smaller children.

Named VFlume to recognise the area’s aviation links, the slide offers users an interchangeable experience with 12 different ride themes to choose from, with lights and music accompanying the rider as they make their descent.

Three are based around aviation – Vulcan, Spitfire and Lancaster – alongside other themes on parties and films.

The Magna Carta Splash includes a knight’s horse slide and water cannon, enclosed in a castle area, all carefully handpainted with incredible detailing.

Across the broader facility there is a bright new, welcoming entrance, cafe and Info-Links giving easy access to Council information and services.

New gym, dance and cycle studios, outdoor pitches, changing rooms and vibrant artworks complete the look.

For more about ONE NK’s upgrade, see centre pages.

> Casual swims have doubled – up from 3,104 to 6,917. > Junior swims have risen more than three-fold to 3,109. > Under fives’ swimming has more than doubled from 160 to 361 and adults swimming rose from 1,150 to 2,701. > The total number on the wet side has risen by 4,200 from 8,679 to 12,801 – a rise of 45%. > On the dry side there was an increase across all sports and activities in both April and May with aerobics up 45% and gym up 30%.

All figures from May 2015 to May 2016

Thousands turn out to ride the unique VFlume experience Our Communities

pages 6 & 7

01529 414155

Our Economy

Our Homes

pages 16 & 17

pages 14 & 15 info@n-kesteven.gov.uk

www.n-kesteven.gov.uk

inside Devolution Consultation period is now underway 4

system undergoes an upgrade 7 Eco-friendly Work takes place on first Passivhauses 14

Fly-tipping District Council’s success at catching offenders 5

newsnk is your newspaper

Armed Forces Day Events held in annual celebration 6 On camera Sleaford’s CCTV

Council Enquiries Phone: 01529 414155 Minicom: 01529 308088 Emergency: 01529 308308 Website: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk Email: customer_services@n-kesteven.gov.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/northkestevendc Twitter: @northkestevendc INFO-LINKS North Hykeham ONE NK, Moor Lane, North Hykeham, Lincoln LN6 9AX Billinghay Cottage & Parish Office The Old Vicarage Cottage, Church Street, Billinghay, Lincoln, LN4 4HN Branston Connect Branston Community Library, Station Road, Branston, LN4 1LH Heckington Parish Office St Andrew’s Street, Heckington, NG34 9RE Metheringham 15a High Street, Metheringham, Lincoln, LN4 3DZ Navenby Village Office The Venue, Grantham Road, Navenby, LN5 0JJ Skellingthorpe Village Office Lincoln Road, Skellingthorpe Community Centre, Lincoln, LN6 5UT The Witham Office The Hammond Hall, Lincoln Road, Bassingham, Lincoln, LN5 9HQ Waddington Parish Council High Street, Waddington, Lincoln, LN5 9RF Washingborough Civic Office Fen Road, Washingborough, Lincoln, LN4 1AB

This document is available in large print, Braille, audio, electronic formats such as CD, or in a different language.

Printed on Recycled Paper

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Made in Sleaford Popular event will make a return 17

4 14

What a year we have had so far - and there’s so much more still to come!

The newspaper is edited by the Communications Team at North Kesteven District Council.

Each issue costs 6.3 pence to produce and print and 9.75 pence to deliver direct to your door.

Editorial Phone: 01529 308061 Email: communications@n-kesteven.gov.uk Address: North Kesteven District Council District Council Offices, Kesteven Street, Sleaford, Lincolnshire NG34 7EF

Empty homes Council bringing properties back into use 15

Council Leader Cllr Mrs Marion Brighton OBE

“

2016 is proving to be a celebratory year for so many people and so many reasons; and not least for us all at North Kesteven as we see the fulfilment and beginnings of a number of key investment projects.

Chief among them is the completion of the £3.6m refurbishment of the NK Sports Centre at North Hykeham which has been refreshed, revived and re-branded as ONE NK. Ranging across the facilities from a welcoming new reception and cafe area through to new dance, gym and cycling studios, new outdoor pitches, reconfigured layouts, new toddler splash and the innovative, water slide which is the first of its kind in the UK, the transformation really is most comprehensive.

Building on the success of the £2.8m refurbishment of the Sleaford Leisure Centre – which drew admiration from Olympic swimmer and commentator Sharron Davies as much as from users who felt it was equal in quality to a private spa – we were determined to continue a programme of investment and improvement at a time when so many other councils are scaling down or closing their facilities.

We are especially pleased – as have been thousands of users already - with the success of the interactive VFlume which is not only unique to the area but to the country and brings up to date one of the distinctive features of this popular facility over the past 40 years.

Investment has been made at Whisby Natural World Centre too where new all-weather play facilities have been taking shape for young tots at Otter’s Reach and the much-loved, locallydistinct Little Darters has been extended to expand opportunities for adventurous play out doors.

One further area of investment I am most keen to see fulfilled is the passivhauses we are building at Heckington as part of our ongoing regeneration of our housing stock.

As we push towards fulfilment of 150 homes since pioneering a new era in the delivery of council homes for those in most need, these particular properties are another example of North Kesteven District Council leading the way - this time in super efficient homes which cost virtually nothing to heat and therefore bring great benefits to the tenants.

These are the first homes of their kind in Lincolnshire and exemplify the strides taken by the Council in embracing a greener future.

Our environmental concern stretches to a strong determination to minimise levels of fly-tipping through a committed response of speedy removal and thorough enforcement.

The figures presented on page 5 show that we lead the way in catching and convicting those responsible for fly-tipping; pursuing 84% of the court cases despite

having only 12% of the incidents across the whole of Lincolnshire.

Such consistency and conviction in pursuing a hard line clearly has an effect; it can be no coincidence that in North Kesteven, where enforcement is strong, incident numbers are reduced and I believe that the unique way in which we carry out some of our environmental protection work, through a contract with learners at Hill Holt Wood, has a strong influence too.

Community Safety remains an equally committed focus across all that we do as a Council, with strong partnerships which support our ongoing status as the safest place to live in England.

Further investment into the Sleaford CCTV network is now being realised through the dual reward of improved functionality of the system and ultimately financial savings, as outlined on page 7.

Finally, I implore you all to consider the vast amount of excellent, voluntary endeavour undertaken by individuals, groups and organisations right across the District.

Such work makes a vast difference in creating the kind of communities we enjoy living in, and it is North Kesteven District Council’s pleasure to celebrate this. Please take a few moments to think about who it is that makes a difference in your lives and neighbourhoods and turn to the back page to make a nomination today.

News Focus

Tell us who your champion is!

We’re keen to hear from you of who you think our Community Champions are, just as these people were in 2015.

Get pedalling in a new District sportive Your Council is in the saddle, pioneering a new family cycle ride challenge within the District.

Building on its sponsorship of the Lincoln Grand Prix and last year’s cycling festival, NKDC is behind a new family trail ride from Doddington Hall on Sunday, August 14.

This is one of four ride options making up a new sportive event, the Giant Doddington Bike Ride – which also includes options of 33, 50 or 100 mile road rides.

Open to families of all ages, between 10am and 1pm, on new traffic free routes within the Doddington estate, the length of the family ride is entirely down to entrants as they can complete as many circuits as they wish.

The cost is £5 per family and all riders will receive a certificate on completion.

Entry includes mechanical support, energy products, GPS maps, fully signed routes, event photographer and electronic timing. > Details and entry at www. giantdoddingtonbikeride. co.uk

Councillor Lindsey Cawrey got the first ever dedicated women’s Grand Prix race under way in Lincoln in May

There’s a new programme of rides for all ages and abilities to take part in THE NK Outreach team has launched a new programme of free guided rides for all abilities and ages over five.

Across three locations – North Hykeham,

Metheringham and Heckington – three rides are on offer at each location, with ride leaders educating on safe road use as appropriate.

Each is free and off-road or on safe, quiet roads.

They range from three miles to 30 miles in length, at speeds to suit the riders.

The programme will be extended according to demand.

Volunteer ride leaders are

sought, with support and expenses available.

For details and booking call Victoria Chapman on 01522 883311 or 07572 080716 or email victoria.chapman@1life.co.uk

Do you know anyone who has made a difference to life locally?

If you think they deserve an award and applause for all the good work they do in their community, then nominate them today.

The annual NK Community Champion Awards recognise individuals, groups and businesses whose quiet, tireless, selfless and voluntary work improves the lives of others in our district.

The closing date for entries is Monday, September 12.

You can fill in the form on the back of this edition of newsnk, or do it online at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/ communitychampions

Strategy for sport ‘Inspiring everyone to be more active, more often’ is the vision of the new Sport and Physical Activity Strategy for the district.

The Sport, Leisure and Culture Consultancy (SLC) was commissioned by NKDC to produce the plan with the overall aim of providing a clear direction for sport and physical activities, the services the Council delivers directly – such as leisure centres – and those carried out by partners.

It sets out how key health issues can be addressed by increased physical activity.

Underpinning the vision are priority outcomes, including addressing obesity, diabetes and heart disease by: > inspiring everyone to be more active, more often; > engaging with groups and localities to expand the number of people involved and increase the frequency they participate in physical activity; > improving community cohesion through sport and physical activity; > and delivering a positive customer experience.

It also sets out themes for the Council and its partners to consider for a strategic action plan moving forward.

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Devolution

What does this all mean to you?

What is devolution?

The Government is offering local areas the chance of greater responsibility and control over certain decisions and spending in their region.

The transfer of these matters, which would usually be taken by central Government, to a more local level or regional level is called devolution.

Why would places want to have more powers and responsibilities from central Government?

To focus spending on local priorities, and have more of a say over local taxation: > To work together across services and use local knowledge to get better value for money > To be more selfsufficient and have more responsibility for the future of the local area. > For decisions to be taken by locally elected politicians working with their private sector partners on the Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) who better understand local issues, and can be held to account locally.

Why do we need a Mayor to get fully devolved powers from Government?

The Government is clear that in order to access devolved powers and resources, places need an elected Mayor.

We won’t get this funding and new powers without one.

An elected Mayor would act as an individual to unite and work across the area, and can be held to account for decisions made locally.

The Greater Lincolnshire Governance Review concluded that new powers and responsibilities would best be carried out through a Mayoral Combined Authority – the proposal you are being asked to comment on.

4 newsnk Summer 2016

Your chance to have a say on devolution bid Consultation period is now underway on whether more powers should be transferred locally Decision-makers across Greater Lincolnshire are keen to see more powers and funding transferred from Whitehall to a local level.

But what do you think?

For many years, the Government has been deciding all kinds of things which local councils and organisations believe they can run much better.

That’s everything from housing and transport to skills training and flood-risk management – issues vital to our future prosperity.

The 10 local authorities from the Humber to the Wash – including North Kesteven District Council – cover an extraordinary area, serving more than one million residents.

The Greater Lincolnshire area already contributes more than £18 billion to the national economy, putting in much more than we take out.

In particular, Greater Lincolnshire produces or

Devolution in numbers 1 combined authority underpinned by 10 local authorities

processes more than 12% of the country’s food – four times the UK average.

Our manufacturing and engineering sector generates nearly £2 billion every year, as well as providing 41,000 jobs.

And our world-class attractions of historic cities and towns, beautiful countryside and fabulous resorts draw millions of visitors – 31 million in 2014.

We also have a growing low carbon economic sector – including offshore wind and other new technologies – which is already worth £1.2 billion a year.

It’s a record we should be really proud of – but we think we can do even better.

To achieve that: > We must invest in transport and infrastructure; > We must equip local people with the best skills; > And above all, we must have a joined-up approach.

That’s where devolution – the transfer of key powers

30 YEARS

to the local area – is so important.

With new responsibilities and funding from the Government, the 10 Greater Lincolnshire authorities can work far more closely together than ever before.

Already, we’ve secured a devolution deal worth an extra £15m a year – potentially £450m over 30 years.

And that could be just the start, as the 10 partner councils and Local Enterprise Partnership are are already working on a possible further deal.

Before then, however, we want to know what you

think about the proposed new arrangements.

If approved, they would see the creation of a new body – known as a Mayoral Combined Authority – separate to Greater Lincolnshire’s 10 existing councils.

It would be a board including councillors from the 10 councils, chaired by an elected mayor chosen directly by local residents.

The Combined Authority would only have responsibility for the new devolved powers and the costs of setting it up would be kept to a minimum.

How to get involved Consultation on the Greater Lincolnshire devolution proposals runs until 5pm on August 8.

For details and to feedback online visit: www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/greaterlincs Paper copies are also available at council venues including all of NKDC’s access points and leisure centres and libraries within the District.

Also at: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/devolution

£15m EACH YEAR

£15m a year from Government for the next 30 years

£5bn £8bn could be brought into the area’s economy

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29,000 new jobs potentially created over the coming years

100k

100,000 new homes could be provided

News Focus

Order in place to protect Green Visitors to a North Hykeham beauty spot are being reminded that an order is in place to ensure it remains a place people can enjoy going to.

A Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) is in force at Millennium Green to restrict a range of anti-social behaviour which has, in the past, caused nuisance and distress to nearby residents and users of the 41 acre site behind Station Road.

The restrictions, which include littering, swimming or entering the water, fishing, alcohol, camping, fires, amplified music and dog fouling, are designed to ensure the law-abiding majority can use the public space safely – particularly so when the weather is warmer and the evenings stay lighter for longer.

They are enforced by council officers as well as police and PCSOs, through fixed penalty fines or court proceedings; stronger enforcement powers than without the order being in place.

If you see any anti-social behaviour at Millennium Green call the Police on 101 or NKDC on 01529 414155.

Leading the way on tackling fly-tipping

Tough action means Council is top for the number of prosecutions NKDC’s hard line against fly-tipping continues to play a key role in deterring potential dumpers from littering the District.

Through its determination to investigate every case of fly-tipping within its area and prosecute wherever sufficient evidence can be found to support a case, the Council continues to see one of the lowest levels of flytipping locally.

This proactive stance sees NKDC successfully pursuing more than 80% of all flytip prosecutions taken by all of Lincolnshire’s seven councils, even though it has only around 12% of the total incidents within its borders.

Signs are being placed at known fly-tipping hotspots in a bid to deter people from leaving their waste.

In the 12 months up to March 2016, the authority recorded 987 offences of flytipping across its 356 square mile area, the third lowest of the seven district areas and third lowest in terms of offences by area.

The Council pursued 14 of last year’s cases through the courts, 16 the year before and four in the year before that.

Collectively, all six of the other councils took only 11 of the 45 total cases to the courts over those three years.

During this time the total number of fly-tip incidents across all seven Lincolnshire council areas went up from 6,967 in 2013/14, to 7,202 in 2014/15 and up to 8,215 last year, while North Kesteven’s remained steady.

Simple steps to keep youngsters safe this summer Did you know that accidental injuries are the leading cause of death and disability among children under 15?

According to Public Health England figures Lincolnshire has a higher than average rate of hospital admissions due to accidental injuries than the England average and the highest in the East Midlands region.

During the summer there’s a rise in accidents associated with play and leisure activities but by taking a few simple safety steps, such as those in the graphics on the right, children can have a safe, fun and active summer with less risk of having an accident or serious injury.

In a recent case, Scott Overton, 41, of Webster Close, Lincoln, was found guilty at Lincoln Magistrates’ Court, of being the registered keeper in charge of a vehicle that was seen involved in fly-tipping at Somerton Gate Lane, Waddington, in May 2015.

He was ordered to pay a £1,100 fine, £1,383 costs and a £110 victim surcharge.

Elections update It’s been a busy few months with two elections and the EU Referendum taking place.

In March Cllr Steve Clegg (Lincolnshire Independent NK) won a by-election for the Ashby-de-la-Launde and Cranwell ward on NKDC following the death of Cllr Geoffrey Whittle.

In May there was the Police & Crime Commissioner election which drew a local turnout in NK of 21%, with 17,246 ballots cast.

Locally, ultimate winner Conservative Marc Jones secured most votes, with the Lincolnshire Independents candidate being the second most popular of the four candidates in NK. Then in June, the EU Referendum drew a turnout of 78.4%– the highest for decades with a total of 67,791 votes cast locally.

North Kesteven voters opted for Leave by a margin of 62.3% to 37.7%, contributing to a combined national outcome of Leave.

To be eligible to vote in any election you need to be on the Electoral Roll.

Look out for forms being sent to households which must be responded to if you want to stay eligible to vote.

Budget brings changes to benefits Households affected by changes to the benefits cap will hear directly from the Department for Work and Pensions.

The summer budget ensures no working-age

household on benefits gets more than a family earning an average wage of £20,000; the figure was £26,000 before.

The figure for single claimants is now £13,400; previously it was £18,200.

You can find a full breakdown at: www.gov.uk/benefit-cap/benefits-included-in-the-cap For financial or general advice contact NKDC on: 01529 414155 or visit www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/ucan

Find your local NK Councillor online easily For information please visit: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/councillors Summer 2016 newsnk 5

Our Communities

To promote the sustainability, wellbeing, safety and health of North Kesteven’s growing communities

Five-year plan is given backing

Charter signed to protect residents

A plan that sets out aims and objectives for improving people’s lives in the district over the next five years has been approved by North Kesteven District Council.

Partnership NK – established in 2002 as a collaboration of organisations from public, private, voluntary and community sectors – has devised the Community Plan 2016-2021, which considers how to promote and improve the economic, social and environmental health and wellbeing of the area.

Early on in the process it was decided to use the same ambitions as those set out in the Council’s Corporate Plan – Our Communities, Our Economy and Our Homes – so that there was a clear link between the two.

Several ambitions have been identified, with actions underpinning them, including improving walking and cycling routes, providing focused support for growth and entrepreneurial activity, promoting improvements in the condition of private sector properties and working with partners to support an increase in the supply of housing and affordable homes.

An action group will oversee work in each of the three priority areas, with progress recorded on a quarterly basis and monitored by the Partnership Steering Group. To read the Plan online please visit: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk

NKDC has signed up to the Hate and Mate Crime Charter in order to protect its residents from these types of offences.

By taking this action, the Council is making a commitment to not only make sure there is understanding about these crimes, but also to dealing with them.

A hate crime is any criminal offence where the victim has been targeted because of their race or ethnicity, religion or belief, gender or gender identity, disability, age, sexual orientation, or any other actual or perceived difference.

It can take many forms, including physical attacks, threats, verbal abuse, murder, neighbour disputes, arson, graffiti, intimidation or harassment, bullying and cyber bullying.

Mate crime is where a person is befriended and then exploited by someone they think of as a friend, with vulnerable people in communities particularly exposed to this type of offence.

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Service recognised at special evening Armed Forces Week marked with events in the District Veteran’s Badges were presented in a special evening held as the culmination of a number of Armed Forces Week events in the District.

Wing Commander Tom Ashbridge, Commanding Officer of RAF Digby, was on hand to make the presentations at the Veterans’ Evening held on Friday, June 24.

The service of Patricia Anne Punton, John Stephen Punton, Martyn Gallagher, Colin Baines, Colin Ward, Malcolm Hind, Michael Barnshaw, Thomas Scriminger, Sidney Claude McFarlane, Eric Wright, Raymond Albarns, Frederick Samuel Hunt, Edwin John

Percy Collins, Jacqueline Costerd, George Graham, Ronald Hill, Michael Eastham, Terry Cooper and Tom Monteith was all recognised at the event.

During the evening, Charlotte Barr was presented with her award after winning the Schools Design Competition where youngsters were asked to create an image the Council could use for its posters, tickets and programmes that represented all three services, while Specsavers on Southgate, Sleaford, was given its prize for winning the Shop Display Competition.

Thanks go to all the children and shops that took

part in both competitions with great enthusiasm and a tremendous amount of effort.

NKDC hosted a ceremonial flag-raising in its Sleaford courtyard at the start of the week.

In spite of the rain there was a record attendance of 40 children and 20 adults, representing 17 schools from across the District.

They joined with High Sheriff of Lincolnshire Jill Hughes, Wing Commander Tom Ashbridge, other Uniformed Service representatives, NKDC Chairman Cllr John Money, and Members of NKDC, Rev Philip Johnson and people from Sleaford.

Help is at hand in a range of circumstances

Support with IT

Most of us will need help at some time in our lives, but would you know where to turn?

The NK Wellbeing Service is for anyone aged 18 or over. The service, funded

by Lincolnshire County Council, may be able to offer you support for six weeks – either with advice or by signposting you to places which could help you with your change of circumstances.

Staff have a detailed knowledge of local services, charities and social activities.

The aim is ensure people have the best possible chances of remaining safe

An IT Taster Day held in Navenby has been a huge success, with support set to continue.

One-to-one sessions can now be booked with Navenby’s Digital Champion Ralph, especially designed for those wanting iPad tuition or to progress at a steady pace.

More taster days are now planned to be held across the whole of the District, in libraries, community hubs and local access points.

Do you think you could benefit from IT support?

Contact the Navenby parish office on 01522 811132 or email navenby@n-kesteven.gov.uk

and independent in their own home.

Often it’s just information on options or signposting to services which are not obvious, but which can make a real difference when circumstances change.

For example, a private rented tenant moved to a new address and, due to a physical disability, was having problems living alone.

To help them recover some independence and be less reliant on other people, the NK Wellbeing Service

requested an assisted bin service; found information on how they could apply for a grant to create a wet room; ordered new equipment such as a toilet raiser and grab rails; made a referral to the Welfare Team for money advice and help to complete forms; spoke to the doctor for additional support; and arranged for the local pharmacy to deliver their medication.

The customer said they were relieved that everything moved along so quickly.

For more information about how the Wellbeing Service could help you please call 01529 414155 or visit www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/wellbeing

To promote the sustainability, wellbeing, safety and health of North Kesteven’s growing communities

Our Community

Better access to fast broadband

District tackling carbon emissions

More than 90% of homes and businesses now have access to superfast broadband at the end of a three-year installation programme Through the Onlincolnshire initiative – part funded by NKDC – faster digital speeds have been rolled out across the county, reaching parts which private providers would otherwise fail to reach because they would not be commercially viable.

Through phase one an astonishing 150,775 county homes and businesses have been given access to better broadband, making a massive difference to the way people live and do business.

Work continues to bring speeds of up to 80Mbps to 95% of the county by late 2017.

Fibre broadband makes everything happen online much faster than a standard broadband connection.

It offers download speeds up to 80Mbps.

At 50Mbps, a music album takes roughly 16 seconds to download, compared with more than three minutes on a 4Mbps connection.

See: www.onlincolnshire.org

Carbon emissions within North Kesteven have fallen by 12% over the past decade, in no small part through the Council’s own initiative.

The authority alone has successfully reduced its own greenhouse gas emissions by more than 34% by improving energy, fuel and water use across operations and services, along with purchasing carbon neutral electricity.

This has saved us £157,412, created greater resilience to price increases and generated an estimated future income of £58,000 from renewable energy generation.

The Council brings together pioneers in carbon reduction through the Low Carbon NK Partnership to celebrate the contributions made by businesses across the District and support those who would like to do more.

Info at ONE NK The Council’s North Hykeham Info-Links has re-opened in the newly refurbished NK Sport Centre – now known as ONE NK. After a period in the Town Council offices during the re-fit, the office is now fully functioning with all of the same facilities and helpful services as before.

Opening hours are: > 9am to 5pm on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday > 9am to 4.30pm on Friday, > It is closed daily 1pm to 1.45pm and all day Wednesday.

See page 2 for details of all local access points.

Town’s camera system upgraded Improved CCTV reaps savings and better operational results CCTV cameras in Sleaford have undergone a complete upgrade to ensure their use for years to come.

The system is an important part of keeping residents and businesses safe and is invaluable in situations of missing people, criminal investigations and general safety.

Its operation is funded by NKDC and Sleaford Town Council.

There has been a CCTV network in the town for a number of years, but the

equipment was becoming old, approaching the end of its life and proving costly to operate.

Working with Boston Borough Council, which has taken on the monitoring role, NKDC has been able to upgrade the system to the latest technology - providing enhanced viewing and incredibly clear images – as well as achieving significant savings on monitoring and running costs.

The new system has cost £49,000 but will save more than £100,000 over the next

five years as the modern system is more cost effective to maintain.

North Hykeham also has a central CCTV system, with one camera set to remain at the Forum while a review into the location of other cameras will ensure the best possible outcomes from the technology.

CCTV is one of a range of measures promoted by the Council in support of community safety – helping to maintain the District’s status as the safest place in the country over recent years.

For more information visit: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/ sustainnk

Have a go at lots of activities for free this summer A series of events will be held across the summer to promote active wellbeing and creative fun.

Organised by the Partnership NK Our Communities Group, working with the Council’s leisure contractor 1Life, they seek to inspire residents of all ages to find out about opportunities to improve their health and engage with the arts in the district.

Among the free, have-ago activities are the climbing wall, aerial training hoop, craft, design and exercise to movement, with information about many groups and events.

Future dates are: > July 22 – Billinghay Village Hall, 12pm to 4pm > August 5 – Cranwell Village Hall, 11am to 3pm > August 19 – Washingborough Community Centre, 12pm to 4pm > September 2 – Brant Broughton, Jubilee Hall, 12pm to 4pm > October 28 – Bracebridge Heath Village Hall, 11am to 3pm Any community group wanting to get involved and showcase their services should email

victoria.chapman@1life.co.uk

or call 07572 080716.

Do your know someone who has helped your community?

Nominate them today.

See back page or visit: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/ communitychampions

Summer 2016 newsnk 7

ONE NK

ARTS • LEISURE • SPORT

Formerly known as North Kesteven Centre, ONE NK in North Hykeham, has undergone a complete transformation over the last two years, with North Kesteven District Council investing £3.6 million to improve the facility.

Completed over four phases and while remaining open as much as possible, work has included: creation of a 3G pitch; two new multi-purpose studios; dedicated dance and cycling studios; a family-friendly changing village; and a new reception and cafe; as well as transformation of the pool hall with the new VFlume and Magna Carta-inspired splash area for toddlers.

The Council has worked alongside 1 Life, which operates ONE NK under contract, to create a swimming timetable that gives more public access than ever before as both share a vision to drive participation in the sport to the highest level possible.

This is the latest in a total £7m investment over recent years to improve local facilities for sports and physical activity. In 2013 it invested £2.8m in a complete refurbishment of Sleaford Leisure Centre to deliver a revamped pool, extended gym, fitness studio, improved sauna and steam room, new toddler splash pool and enhanced facilities.

Impressed by the Sleaford project, Olympic swimming medallist Sharron Davies MBE was keen to see what the Council had achieved at ONE NK.

Casual swim numbers have risen by

One of the Council’s priorities focusses on Our Communities and ensuring there are places people can go to keep themselves fit and healthy, with the investment in ONE NK a key part of this.

123% Twice as many under-5s using pools – up by

225%

Junior swim usage has increased by

245% 8 newsnk Summer 2016

E

N

what’son Phase 1

An old sand-based pitch was replaced with a new modern 3G pitch, which meets both Football and Hockey Association standards. It is a blend of grass-like fibres attached to a special backing with a mix rubber-crumb brushed in.

Your pull-out and keepTotal guide useto on getting out and wetside rose b about in the4,200 District thisinSummer one month alone

Summer 2016

Enjoy Otter’s Reach whatever the weather

Phaseplay 2 area imaginatively tells story of Whisby New unique Two multi-purpose studios were created that can be used for a variety of activities - from sport classes to community and charity events. Studios have a semisprung cushioned vinyl floor, new acoustic suspended ceiling system, modular lighting and air conditioning.

Phase 3 This focused on transforming the squash courts into a dedicated dance studio downstairs, incorporating the popular aerial dance classes. A dedicated cycling studio was also put in place.

A mezzanine floor helped to create a large 50 station gym upstairs and new carers take a break while The new children’s indoor Using natural materials male dry changing rooms.

The downstairs youngsters explore. and striking photographic adventure at Whisby male and female groups changing Outdoors, the awardNatural World Centre is montages, it takes little rooms also overhauled new and hugely winning adventurers on a journey with proving to be a real hit. were popular Little Darters Extending free floors, shower throughareas Whisby and – fromfinishes. its

attraction and the physical activity offer for visitors.

Repeatedly awarded the Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence, the Natural World Centre remains popular with approximately 200,000 visitors each year.

Both Little Darters and Otter’s Reach can be booked for private parties.

Wildlife Adventure Area opportunities for all-yearorigins as a gravel pits to has been transformed the attraction and wildlife round play, Otter’s Reach is to feature new assault inspired by the success of haven of today. course, balance ropes and The area allows younger Little Darters to provide an all-weather experience and visitors to explore the park’s a new lookout tower as a further enhancement of the educational resource for tots history through imaginative and younger children. play, including an exciting gravel plantof with hands-on In its first month In alone the final phase works, a newThis all adds to the free attractions and facilities which form almost 2,000 children features, stilt posts, climbing part of the Whisby Nature Park experience, open daily Magna Carta-inspired splash areaa for discovered the new nets, cosy nest, slides and 10am to 5pm, and free apart from a £2 day-long parking fee. toddlers was built, the pool hall area was balance beams. attraction and enthusiasm Call 01522 688868 or visit www.naturalworldcentre.co.uk has not slowed down.

An adjacent coffee bar letsVFlume improved, the new interactive

Phase 4

was installed, the family changing village was put in place and the reception and cafe area were all upgraded.

Cause & Effect at the NCCD

01529 414155

Plenty of walks

in NK this summer

info@n-kesteven.gov.uk

Funding boost

Mrs Smith’s Cottage

www.n-kesteven.gov.ukSummer 2016 Summer newsnk 20169ne

What’s on

Your summer guide for 2016

Let’s get snapping

The National Centre for Craft & Design

The Natural World Centre’s annual photo competition is a perfect excuse for strolling around Whisby, capturing the beautiful flora and fauna through the camera lens.

The competition is sponsored by Guildhall Studios in association with artsNK. Closing date is Monday, September 12.

Four categories will be independently judged with shortlisted entries displayed in the Boardwalk Bistro at the Natural World Centre.

Visitors can vote for their favourite which will become the face of the 2017 Calendar.

It is free to enter and is open to all ages with a limit of four entries per person.

All photographs must be taken within the Whisby Nature Reserve.

For more information or for an application pack, contact the centre on 01522 688868 or email whisby@1life.co.uk

Whisby workshops Workshops take place at Whisby to help people capture that perfect, winning, image.

Two summer photography workshops take place on Wednesday, August 10 at 10am and 1.30pm.

The workshop and walk takes around two hours and costs £2 for adults and £1 for children aged between 10 and 16.

Matchbox Camera Workshop – a hands on crafty activity where you will transform an old matchbox into a fully functional film camera – is being held on Friday, August 5 and costs £10 per person.

For more information about the sessions, or or to book, call 01522 688868 or email whisby@1life.co.uk For regular updates on events and activities, see Facebook /Natural-WorldCentre or follow @WhisbyNatureP on Twitter.

10 newsnk Summer 2016

Navigation Wharf, Sleaford

01529 308710

www.nationalcraftanddesign.org.uk

Clubs and workshops Tuesdays, 10am to noon Tots Tuesdays Have a go at the changing activity zones and worksheets without worrying about how much noise and mess is made!

During the school holidays sessions are extended so older members of the family can join the fun.

Free, no need to book.

Cause & Effect Until September 18 Cause & Effect Explore artists’ responses to adversity.

Each of the contemporary artists takes inspiration from personal tragedies, international disasters and unfortunate events.

It centres on a body of work from ceramicist Julian Stair – Quietus: The vessel, death and the human body – which explores the containment of the human body after death.

July 4, 10.30am to 11.30am Death Cafe Linked to Cause & Effect is July 9 to September 4 Hybrids: Interspecies Collaboration in Craft and Design The exhibition focusses on the cross-species collaboration of human and non-human living creators from a craft and design perspective.

The show explores recent developments in biomaterials and their use in art and design.

Linked to this exhibition are: July 9, 2pm to 4pm Performance: Bioni Samp Artist, producer and beekeeper Bioni Samp will perform live electronic music on his homemade equipment and Bee Synth. Free and hands-on.

the centre’s first Death Cafe.

Go along, drink tea, eat cake and discuss death and living in a safe and informal setting. Free event, for 18 years+. Book.

See: www.deathcafe.com July 23 to September 4 Food Bank donations Create a community artwork with food items donated for ultimate use by the Sleaford Community Larder.

will introduce you to the themes behind her dropped ice cream cone artwork that features in Cause & Effect.

Scoop and pipe clay alongside more traditional slab making, press moulding and hand modelling. Participants can make their own ceramic ice creams that include an element of hazard. £50 per person, including materials. For 16 years+.

Book.

July 25, 12pm to 4.30pm Ice Creams in Jeopardy: Ceramics Workshop Ceramicist Anna Barlow

September 3, 10am to 4pm What broken pot?

Learn the basics of ceramic conservation. £35, for 18+.

July 9 to September 4 Craig Fellows: Synergistic Design Craig Fellows recently completed an MA in Textile Design Innovation focusing on investigating symbiotic practices through printed textiles and will be exhibiting some of his work from this time in the Project Space.

Roof Gallery September 10 to November 6 Class of 2016 Showcasing some of the best graduate talent from leading institutions for craft and design. The top floor is dedicated to Britain’s rising stars making innovative and exquisite objects.

July 9 to September 4 Maggie Cooper: The Willow Horse Project Sculptural willow basketry to sketch horses’ bodies in lifelike form, using the minimum quantity of material for the maximum impact – exploring the torsion and strength of willow to exemplify the grace, power and sinuosity of the horses’ bodies.

September 10 to November 6 Chloe Solomon - Innovation Award Winner 2015 Jeweller, designer and maker Chloe was winner of NCCD’s Innovation Award at Lustre 2015.

Here she presents her ’S K I N’ collection inspired by the textures and colours found in skin.

Bank Holiday Monday, August 29, 11am to 3pm Free Family Workshop Decorate the cafe crockery creating unusual designs and effects. Open to all ages.

Mondays July 4, August 1, & September 5 Sewing Club Emma Ronald supports a group of sewers working on their own projects, with advice, guidance, tea and chat. £10 per session. Book July 9 and September 10, 10am to 3pm Life Drawing Class Using a variety of models these sessions are suitable for beginners and practised artists alike. Basic materials and easels provided.

For adults. £30. Book.

Tuesdays, 4pm to 5pm, Creative Young Minds Create artwork and events at the NCCD. Opportunities throughout the year to work with artists and members of the public. For ages 12 to 25. Extended to 6pm on first Tuesday of the month First Tuesday, 6.30 to 9pm Hub Writers Unplugged NCCD is brought to life with a mix of local musicians and writers. Free, open to all.

Various dates Young people’s summer sessions Working with professional artists and designers, to develop skills at a series of creative, all day sessions for young people. Film and photos to be displayed. £20 per person per session. Book.

Your summer guide for 2016

Terry O’Toole Theatre ONE NK, Moor Lane, North Hykeham

July 1 at 7pm; July 2 at 3pm & 7pm; and July 3 at 6pm Dance Fever 10 Students from Lyndsey Ellis School of Dance return with Dance Fever 10, a dance show featuring ballet, tap, jazz, breakdance, hip hop and musical theatre.

Tickets: £8, £7.50 & £7.

Friday, July 7, 6pm & 7.15pm Summer Primary Schools’ Dance Showcase North Kesteven School, in partnership with artsNK, has worked with primary schools over six weeks to create dance pieces for this festival.

Tickets: £3 & £2.

Monday, July 25 to Friday, July 29, 9.30am to 3pm MaDD Performing Arts Summer School Youngsters aged between 8 and 14 can take part in an exciting week of music, dance and drama, creating an original piece to be shared with family and friends in a final performance.

Tickets: £65, including T-shirt.

01522 883311

Saturday, July 9 at 7.30pm Swing on a Summer Night International big band star Steve Walker and his 17-piece band create two hours of iconic vintage tunes.

Tickets: £14.

August 1 to 5, 9am to 4pm Zest Theatre Summer Challenge An exciting opportunity for

www.terryotooletheatre.org.uk

young people to create a brand new professional show. The resulting work will be performed for public, family and friends at the end of the week. No previous experience is required.

Free for ages 12-19.

Booking essential: Call 01522 883311 to reserve your place. (Refundable £10 registration fee required).

Friday, July 8, 7.30pm Lincoln Schools’ Music Showcase Students from NK School and other schools in Lincoln will perform a range of music.

Tickets: £6 & £4.

Heritage sites in NK Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre, Navigation House, Cogglesford Watermill

Sunday, August 28 Summer Fun Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre holds its free annual Summer Fun event. From kites to cockpits, there is something for all to enjoy whatever your age!

All Summer long, daily Riverside Trail In Sleaford, the Riverside Discovery Trail is for the whole family to explore the riverside, Lollycocks

Field, The Nettles, National Centre for Craft & Design, Cogglesford Watermill and Navigation House.

Along the way you’ll be hunting for a time capsule, use old scales to solve a clue, count butterflies and much more!

Leaflets £1.50 from the mill or Navigation House.

Saturday 10 & Sunday 11 September Heritage Open Days

All three venues will be taking part in the Heritage Open Days designed to encourage visitors to explore their local history and heritage.

There will be a free fun family trail at each centre on both days and you can see Cogglesford Watermill in action on Sunday. Greenfield Bakery will be joining Cogglesford Watermill with their delicious bread baked in a wood fired oven and

Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre will be offering free refreshments.

Various dates Cogglesford Watermill The mill holds regular milling days on the second Sunday of the month.

Watch the mill in operation making stoneground flour.

Their milling days are: July 10, August 14, September 11, October 9, November 13 & December 11.

Whisby Nature Park & Natural World Centre Thorpe on the Hill

July 21 to September 5, 10am to 4pm daily Sensational Summer Seasonal Trail Free, self-guided natural quest for families around Whisby Nature Park with adventures and sights to behold.

Pick up your trail booklet from the Natural World Centre or print your own from the Whisby Nature

01522 688868 for Natural World Centre / 01522 696926 for Wilflife Trust

www.naturalworldcentre.co.uk

First Wednesday of each month, 10am to 11am Whisby Nature Tots Outdoor adventures, stories and wild play for the under 5s whatever the weather. £3.

adventure, pond exploration and bird surveys. £2.

Park or Junior Wild Time in Lincolnshire Facebook pages.

Within Whisby Nature Park, the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust operates its education centre. There are some fantastic monthly events for children across all age ranges, which must be booked on 01522 696926 or email whisbyeducation@ lincstrust.co.uk

First Saturday of each month, 10am to 1pm Junior Wardens Activity for 10-18 yearolds including habitat conservation, woodland

Second Saturday of each month, 10am to 12.30pm Wildlife Watch The Junior Branch of the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust, for ages 6 to 12, getting handson with conservation tasks, pond dipping, birds, bugs and so much more. £2 per child.

What’s on

Funding boost for historic cottage Plans to bring Mrs Smith’s Cottage back into use as a tourist attraction are one step closer, with support from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Located in Navenby, the cottage closed its doors to the public in early 2013 after a routine structural survey identified problems.

Since then, both NKDC and The Friends of Mrs Smith’s Cottage have fought hard to gain funding to bring it back into use.

The District Council has now been successful in gaining the first of a twophase funding application, meaning plans can be put into place to map out exactly what will need to be done before proceeding with a second application to deliver and undertake the work required.

Scaffolding is scheduled to be erected at the historic cottage shortly.

The total funding needed to carry out the works will be £187,500 for phase 1 and £403,800 for phase 2.

Follow progress at: www.mrssmithscottage.co.uk

Centre’s top award Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre has been awarded a Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence.

This is further recognition for the facility, which is a Visit England Quality Assured Visitor Attraction.

Visitors can discover the history of RAF Cranwell and the RAF College Cranwell through artefacts, storyboards, displays and exhibits, including a flight simulator to land a Jet Provost short on fuel.

Once more Whisby’s Natural World Centre has been recognised for its ‘superior service’.

Summer 2016 newsnk 11

ONE NK What’s on

New social stroll added in village

Your summer guide for 2016

Why not sample the great outdoors...

TS • LEISURE • SPORT

Another new walk has The NK Walking Festival been added to the has been expanded and NK Social Strollers extended, with twice as programme – this time in many opportunities to Navenby. stretch out across the There are now 16 popular District than before. walks available across the Taking place over nine District, offering options for days from Saturday 9 30 to 90 minute walks to to Sunday 17 July, the improve fitness on every programme is available now. day of the week.

It’s a real celebration of The new weekly walk the many, varied walking leaves the Cliff Medical opportunities you can find in 10am on NorthThis Kesteven! is the latest in a total £7m investment d Practice over fouratphases and while Fridays. over a recent regular years walker to improve local facilities open as much as possible, work If you’re ed: Duration creation 60ofminutes. a 3G pitch; two new or wanting for sports to get and outphysical and activity. In 2013 it on the schemedance and and aboutinvested more, there £2.8m is ainwalk a complete refurbishment oseDetail studios; dedicated dios; otherawalks family-friendly from: changing for everyone. of Sleaford These Leisure include: Centre to deliver a revamped pool, extended gym, fitness studio, d>aCarly new reception Togher onand cafe; as improved Julysauna 9, 9amand – steam room, new nsformation 01522 870272 of the pool hall with Saturday, Flume > Email: and Magna Carta-inspiredSpires toddler & Steeples splash Arts pool & and enhanced facilities. carly.togher@1life.co.uk Heritage Trail a for toddlers.

From Metheringham > Facebook: North Impressed by the Sleaford project, Olympic swimming Field to Lincoln medallist Sharron Davies MBE cil has Kesteven worked Social alongside Strollers 1 Life, Playing rates Health ONEWalk NK under Scheme contract, toCastlewas where keen you to can see what the Council had see the PoppiesatWave wimming > Twittertimetable @NKHealthWalks that gives more achieved ONE NK. > Or visit: www. installation, with return ess than ever before as both share to see its transformation from walkingforhealth.org.uk drive participation in the sport totransport. £6 per person, landfill site to wildlife haven incl free family pass to ONE wildlife. Free, allow 1hr. t level possible.

NK’s new Magna Carta Council’s priorities focusses on splash. Allow 6hrs.

Wednesday, Casual swim July 13, 10am munities and ensuring there are – Sleaford Arts & Heritage numbers ople can go to keep themselves Saturday, July 9, 11am Trail have risenDiscover

by Sleaford’s There a vast network lthy, withisthe investment – Introduction to of way-marked Stepping K a key part of this.

Geocaching historic places and public Out Walks right across With a number of new works of art along a three the District. geocaches to be uncovered mile route, starting at the There are 18 in total, all along the route varying in National Centre for Craft & of which are mapped out on size and difficulty, this realDesign. Free, allow 2hrs. leaflets that can be picked world outdoor treasure hunt up or downloaded at is a great morning out for Thursday 14 July – Twice as many Whisby Curry Night www.visitlincolnshire.com the whole family.

Join an evening walk under-5s using Bat Walk Monday, July 11, 6pm – around the beautiful Whisby pools – up by Friday July 8, 9pm for a Mareham Pastures, Nature Park followed by 9.30pm start A leisurely walk around a mouth-watering Beef Discover the bats in Mareham Pastures Local Madras or Chicken Korma Norton Big Wood, at Nature Reserve in Sleaford in the Boardwalk Bistro.

Norton Disney, led by a WatchNK Ranger and using electronic bat detectors.

Free.

Plans for the next stage of heritage of towns and villages arts and heritage project across the district.

Nature Caching Ridges & Furrows are Upcoming activities Monday, July 25, 2pm to moving forward, with an will focus on Welbourn 4.30pm and Waddington and exciting programme of Self-guided voyage activities being developed North Hykeham where of discovery through communities worked with to take place in three NK Millennium Green, North locations over the coming artists in residence last year Hykeham – to find native to explore initial ideas and year. birds and earn a gift.

Initiated by the NK Arts generate interest.

For details and booking Now, artists, historians Partnership, Ridges & on any of these events call Furrows is a creative heritage and local people are 07557 123534 or email project that draws on and being brought together countrysidenk@1life.co.uk celebrates the history and rich to further research social

rly known as North Kesteven Centre, ONE NK in Hykeham, has undergone a complete transformation e last two years, with North Kesteven District l investing £3.6 million to improve the facility.

Step out in NK and take a walk

k 12 Summer newsnk 2016 Winter 2015 Summer 2016

123%

225%

Sunday 17 July – Coleby Circular walk A walk along the Jurassic ridge known as the Lincoln edge; taking in four villages along the way.

Fridays, July 9 & 15 – Guided photo walks Take your camera for a walk to gain professional hints and advice from John Bennett.

For details and booking on to any of the walks: > Call Donna Sutton on 01522 694353 > email: donna.sutton@1life.co.uk > Follow on Twitter @NKWalking or search on Facebook for NK Walking Festival

Walking at Whisby for all-year adventure There are many walks, trails and spaces at Whisby Nature Park near Lincoln with easy access and extension of Little Darters to allow for even more outdoor adventurous play.

Open daily till dusk and all free except for a £2 parking charge. There is a discovery trail operating throughout the school holidays, available from the Natural World Centre.

Arts trail will take inspiration from Ridges and Furrows Junior swim usage has increased by

245%

histories for each location, revealing local folklore and hidden traditions through memorable and exciting activities and workshops that will culminate with celebratory events.

The programme of activities will begin in Welbourn this autumn, moving to North Hykeham in the winter, and taking place in Waddington in spring 2017.

The project will ultimately inspire the creation of a new arts and heritage trail that links the Terry O’Toole Theatre in North Hykeham and the National Centre for Craft & Design, Sleaford, through the participating towns and villages.

To keep up to date with project news and events visit the facebook page www.facebook.com/ ridgesandfurrows

Phase 1 An old sand-based pitch was replaced with a new modern 3G pitch, which meets both Football and Hockey Association standards. It is a blend of grass-like fibres attached to a special backing with a mix rubber-crumb brushed in.

Total use on wetside rose by

4,200

in one month alone

Phase 2 Two multi-purpose studios were created that can be used for a variety of activities - from sport classes to community and charity events. Studios have a semisprung cushioned vinyl floor, new acoustic suspended ceiling system, modular lighting and air conditioning.

Phase 3 This focused on transforming the squash courts into a dedicated dance studio downstairs, incorporating the popular aerial dance classes. A dedicated cycling studio was also put in place.

A mezzanine floor helped to create a large 50 station gym upstairs and new male dry changing rooms. The downstairs male and female groups changing rooms were also overhauled with new floors, shower areas and finishes.

Phase 4 In the final phase of works, a new Magna Carta-inspired splash area for toddlers was built, the pool hall area was improved, the new interactive VFlume was installed, the family changing village was put in place and the reception and cafe area were all upgraded.

Summer 2016 newsnk 13

Our Homes

To promote housing growth that meets the current and emerging needs of North Kesteven

First phase starts at Newfield Road It’s official - work on the Newfield Road regeneration is under way!

D Brown Building Contractors have been on site in Sleaford since the end of April and have started work on the first phase of the project.

Once complete, the £8.9 million scheme will overhaul all houses on the street with designated off-road parking, improved and extended living spaces and upgraded insultation, as well as see 18 new homes built, the road reconfigured and a new play area created.

Service helps tenants to save money Tenants have saved more than £26,000 combined on their fuel and water bills in the last year thanks to NKDC’s Affordable Warmth Service.

The aim of the project is to assist with electric, gas and water bills to help tenants reduce the amount spent on their utilities but still stay warm in their homes.

This can include assistance with setting

up accounts, finding the cheapest tariff, explaining bills, and giving energy efficiency advice and general support.

In 2015-16, 167 households had an initial assessment, with 124 receiving revisit appointments. As a result, tenants saved £26,068.43 in total by switching to a cheaper tariff - an average of £156.10 per household.

Save yourself the hassle Sign up and let us collect your garden waste www.n-kesteven.gov.uk

01529 414155

£30 for the year

A full year’s collection of garden waste from your home, starting April 1, for just £30 14 newsnk Summer 2016

Eco-friendly homes are on the way Development of 22 properties – including two Passivhauses Significant progress is being made on the site of NKDC’s newest housing scheme featuring two ecofriendly properties.

Councillors recently visited the development at Kyme Road, Heckington, to see how the 22 houses – including two Passivhauses that are designed to be super energy efficient – are coming along.

These are the first homes of their kind in Lincolncolshire for council tenants to live in.

The Passivhaus properties have now had the first floor

wall plate fixed and joists installed. Specialist airtight taping on all the bespoke window and door frames assures high insulation levels.

At the other properties, which are of normal construction – but still built to a higher than usual standard under the NK Fabric First quality – roof construction is underway.

The site is part of NKDC’s determination to increase the availability of quality affordable housing locally by building 500 new homes over a decade.

Under its pioneering approach, NKDC is the first Council locally and one of just a handful nationwide – to build to the rigorous Passivhaus standard.

Although Passivhauses are around 15% more expensive to build, they are significantly cheaper to run – generally requiring about 75% less heating than standard-build and contributing to reduced carbon outputs.

Work on site is being carried out by the Council’s contractor, Lindum BMS.

Help us to keep our district as beautiful as it should be We live in a beautiful district and we want it to remain that way without dangerous and unsightly fly-tipped waste causing a hazard for residents and visitors.

Last year North Kesteven District Council responded to almost 1,000 reports of fly-tipping, spending nearly £75,000 on its investigation and removal annually.

To help us keep NK as we all like it to be, please remain vigilant when you are out and about and report anything

you see – whether it’s a pile of rubbish that’s been dumped or if you see someone depositing their waste somewhere they shouldn’t.

In the latter scenario it’s important you make as many notes about what you’ve seen as possible, including the make, model and registration of any vehicles, a description of the driver and any occupants, and the

items of waste you’ve seen.

If you spot any contact details in the waste please let the council know as soon possible.

If you decide to remove any items try not to disturb the waste too much and keep what you take until an officer from the council comes to take a statement. All evidence needs to be saved as part of the legal process.

If you see any waste, please report it at: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/reportflytipping or by telephoning 01529 414155.

To promote housing growth that meets the current and emerging needs of North Kesteven

Our Homes

Target exceeded on empty homes

Local Plan is set for consideration

Bringing empty properties back into use can be a complex issue but North Kesteven District Council is consistently achieving its targets, meaning there are more homes available for people in the District.

Since 2011 more than 100 homes in NK have been brought back into use by the Council, rehousing more than 100 families in the process.

The target of 20 in 201516 was exceeded, with 21 achieved.

This is testament to the hard work of staff who have to deal with a number of issues when they are notified of vacant properties, some of which can be left for several years.

This can include identifying who owns the building, planning and costing renovations, working with the owners to let the properties out and taking enforcement action when absolutely necessary.

With no two cases being the same, this can be a difficult and time-consuming process.

The number of empty properties in the District has fallen significantly – from 570 in October 2008 to 372 in October 2015. This follows a national trend where the number of empty homes is now at its lowest level since records began – dropping by 100,000 over a decade to 203,595 in 2015.

Homes that remain empty unnecessarily can cause a range of issues for the District and the people who live near them – from social problems in communities to pushing up prices with fewer houses on the market.

Properties become vacant for a number of reasons, including a change in personal circumstances, inheriting a property or the ill health of an owner.

Anyone concerned about an empty property can contact the Council by calling 01529 414155.

A plan that shapes future housing, jobs, and local facility growth up to 2036 is due to be examined in public this summer.

The Central Lincolnshire Joint Strategic Planning Committee approved the Proposed Submission Local Plan in March and a final six-week consultation period was carried out during April and May. All responses received as part of the process will be sent with the Plan to the Planning Inspectorate who will decide whether the document is robust and if it can be adopted.

If given approval, the Local Plan will help to guide the location of homes, the creation of jobs and the protection of open spaces in the three authority areas of North Kesteven, Lincoln and West Lindsey.

To find our more, visit www.central-lincs.org.uk

Family house brought back into use A family home has been created in an area of high demand through an innovative response to making use of empty homes.

The property, in Sutton Close, Washingborough – where there is limited availabity of low-cost social housing – had been empty for a number of years.

But after significant effort, NKDC managed to secure an

Empty Dwelling Management Order, enabling it to renovate the house, including new kitchen, boiler, windows and doors as well as full rewiring and decoration.

The Council’s costs are recouped through rent paid over the next seven years.

The house is privately owned and if the owner chooses to sell it sooner, then any outstanding costs would be recovered from

the proceeds of the sale.

This is the eighth empty home brought back into use through this measure, supporting NKDC’s drive to meet the emerging needs of the district and make better use of empty homes to enhance neighbourhoods and boost the available supply of affordable homes.

Furthermore the Council is committed to an ambitious housebuilding programme.

Amnesty to support landlords with problem properties An enforcement amnesty is underway to give landlords of private rental homes a chance to bring them up to scratch.

Where landlords identify isues and engage with the Council’s dedicated private sector housing team for advice and guidance in bringing the properties up to standards, there will be a hold on enforcement.

This is under the Safe as Houses initiative to ensure that housing standards – including condition, warmth and safety – are met.

It is coupled with a new Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy coming into force.

This includes the

introduction of charges for issuing enforcement notices to landlords who put their tenants at risk of harm as a consequence of poor housing conditions.

But landlords who seek advice will not have enforcement action taken against them for a year to give them the chance to rectify any problems under agreed timescales.

In situations where emergency action is warranted, the Council is obligated to act.

However, under this amnesty notice fees will be waived for a period.

The Safe as Houses project also includes work to seek out private rented properties with poor energy performance ratings, with the aim of helping landlords and agents understand the changes in law which mean that from 2018 most properties rated F or G will not be legally rentable.

Estimates suggest this could affect around 1,600 homes in the district.

For more information please call 01529 414155, e-mail SafeAsHouses@n-kesteven.gov.uk or go online and visit www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/SafeAsHouses

Do your know someone who has helped your community?

Nominate them today.

See back page or visit: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/ communitychampions

Summer 2016 newsnk 15

Our Economy

More services stop at Hykeham It’s been good news for commuters as more trains have been stopping at Hykeham Train Station on Saturdays since May. Seven additional trains have been added to the timetable following a rise in passenger numbers.

The new schedule has been brought about by NKDC and other councils in partnership with East Midlands Trains. The Council has also invested £10,000 per year for the next three years to continue the running of this improved timetable.

The eastbound route runs from Leicester to Cleethorpes and stops at Hykeham and Lincoln, meaning those wishing to nip into the city can do so more frequently with three additional Saturday stops: 0900, 1215 and 1308.

The westbound route through to Nottingham has four additional stops at Hykeham on a Saturday: 0944, 1345, 1440 and 1838.

Do your know someone who has helped local business?

Nominate them today.

See back page or visit: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/ communitychampions

16 newsnk Summer 2016

To promote the prosperity of North Kesteven

New business area officially opens Only two units remain at Blackwood Court at Teal Park, the region’s premier employment location in North Hykeham.

It is one of three key strategic employment sites in North Kesteven.

Responding to a need for small, flexible, low cost start-up units within the increasingly popular LN6 business area, NKDC has invested £2m in the development.

Even before completion, many of the units had been signed-up by tenants who hailed them as exactly what they were seeking; the right size in the right place at the right price.

The 19 workshops range in size from 500 sq ft to 2,000 sq ft.

NKDC has 102 workshops across nine locations, including Churchill Business Park in Bracebridge Heath, which was fully let within six months and has continued to be 100% occupied.

For information about business units across the district email ecodev@n-kesteven.gov.uk or call 01529 414155.

Where to go to get online

Greenray’s new £3m base

We live in the digital age; how often, when we’re watching TV or reading the paper, are we invited to visit a website for more details?

‘Go to www…’ are the magic words nowadays.

And it doesn’t stop there – banks, shops, doctors’ surgeries and councils are all encouraging their clients to access services via the internet, as well as employers requesting job applications are filled in online.

All over North Kesteven there are Digital Access Points, Digital Hubs and Community Groups and many more are on the way.

Local libraries have public access computers, North Kesteven District Council offices and the Job Centre also have Free Access

Work is underway on a new £3m headquarters for engineering firm Greenray Energy to consolidate their operations in the District.

Bringing three operations onto one site at Teal Park, North Hykeham, they are future-proofing with room for

potential growth.

Greenray specialises in parts and servicing for older, gas and steam legacy engines within 36 different countries, with exports accounting for 64% of business and more expansion opportunities being sought.

Awards success

Regional gongs

Computers; call in to ask for details of opening hours.

NK has Local Access Points at Billinghay, Navenby, North Hykeham and Bassingham where you can use computers.

In addition to these, there are new community groups being formed where residents can join in regular weekly sessions that will assist you whatever your level of skills.

The first of these is at Heckington where a weekly group meets at the Methodist Church Hall on Wednesdays from 2pm to 4pm.

Plans are well advanced for similar groups at Ruskington and Billinghay with interest from other local communities.

If you would like more information, please contact Lynda Clark (Volunteer Coordinator) 07973 936166.

A District businesses is being singled out in a series of awards celebrating excellence.

In the first Made in Lincolnshire Awards, celebrating the variety of goods and services produced in the county, Househam Sprayers Ltd at Leadenham was highlighted as the best locally-sold product that is Made in Lincolnshire.

In total there were 75 businesses entered across six categories.

Two businessmen based in the LN6 business growth area of North Hykeham were finding out at the end of June how they fared in the East Midlands Institute of Directors Awards.

Among the 21 highlighted business leaders from five counties were Darren Crookes, managing director of partitions and storage innovators APSS and Chris Trigg, managing director of Crucis Consultants.

To promote the prosperity of North Kesteven

Try out your shop idea in the heart of town

Conservation Areas reviewed Letters have been sent to residents advising them of changes to Conservation Areas in Sleaford and Heckington.

In order to create a robust framework to advise and guide planning decisions, a detailed appraisal of what makes each area so special has been carried out, along with a plan to manage the areas into the future.

There has been a Conservation Area designation in place in Sleaford for 40 years, giving protection to the historic character of the town.

As part of the Council’s ongoing review of conservation areas, a public consultation, which included an exhibition of the proposals, took place earlier this year.

Following this, officers considered the comments received, and as a result proposals to change the boundary of the Conservation Area have been put forward including bringing areas in West Banks, Stevens Lane, Westgate, Ashfield Road and Duke Street within the revised boundary.

Alongside this, Heckington’s Conservation Areas (Heckington village and Heckington Station) – in place in the village as early as 1975 – have also been reviewed and consulted upon, with changes to its boundary put forward, including the addition of land and buildings around Heckington Station.

Both Conservation Area reviews have been approved by North Kesteven District Council.

Officers are now working on preparing and consulting upon an Article 4 Direction for the Sleaford and Heckington conservation areas, which could remove certain permitted development rights if given approval.

Our Economy

Popular event is making a return Building on the success of last year’s first-ever Made in Sleaford event, it will be back with a bang this autumn.

The two-day showcase is designed to celebrate the quality and diversity of all things manufactured, produced or designed in the town.

The show takes place on October 7 and 8, giving businesses based in the town the chance to show residents and visitors what they’re really made of.

Based at the National Centre for Craft & Design and Navigation Wharf – the area at the heart of Sleaford’s industrial history – the festival provides a unique opportunity for local businesses and local people to connect and find out more about each other.

The focus on Friday will be on schools – though the event is still open to the public – with up to 500 youngsters from Sleaford taking part in specially designed activities with a

range of local businesses including SHD Composites, Sleaford Quality Foods and Eco 2.

On Saturday the emphasis of the public opening is on participation and demonstrations with a wide range of activities planned for the whole family.

As organiser, the Council hopes to build on the success of last year’s event which drew nearly 4,000 visitors and broadened public understanding of the range of local productivity.

Have you thought about running your own shop but don’t know where to start?

Are you already in business and looking to branch out but want to test the market first?

Pop Up NK could be the answer!

Partnership NK is running a pop up shop project so whether you’re an artist or crafts person looking to sell your creations, or have an idea for a shop that you want to try out, or a business looking to expand – the opportunities are endless.

The facility will be ideally located in the heart of Sleaford at Navigation Yard, and will mean that all units on the site will be occupied.

For more information and to register your interest visit www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/ popup

Join the conversation on social media #MadeInSleaford Visit www.madeinsleaford.com

P

Car Park

£2 All Day

Grantham Road car park - £2 to park all day, easy walk to town centre, great for commuters.

www.n-kesteven.gov.uk

01529 414155 Summer 2016 newsnk 17

Our Council

To be a high performing and value for money Council that is prepared for the future

And the winners are...

Best extension or alteration to an existing home winner: Grampian Close, Sleaford – Rear extension Builder - Russell Taylor Architect - Rick Smith Design

Best individual new home highly commended: Main Road, Evedon – Erection of dwelling with detached double garage Builder - Gary Winterton Architect - Rose Design Co

Best extension or alteration to an existing home highly commended: Eastgate House, Bassingham – Single storey rear extension Builder - Carl Parkinson Architect - Dan Asher

Best new housing development winner: Waterloo Lane, Skellingthorpe – Erection of nine dwellings Builder - Castlegate Homes Midlands Ltd Architect - Ryland Design Services

Best extension or alteration to an existing home highly commended: Dorchester Way, North Hykeham – Single storey extension to replace conservatory and two storey rear extension Builder - Gary Foulston Architect - Terry Wilson Best local builder or traditional craftsman winner: Simon Ballard Best change of use of an existing building or conversion winner Methodist Chapel, High Street, Bassingham – Conversion of chapel to dwelling Builder - Jackson Homes (Scopwick) Ltd Architect - Ryland Design Services Best individual new home winner: Five Acre Farm, South Hykeham – Erection of dwelling and detached double garage with store Builder - Marshgate Properties Ltd Architect - Ryland Design Services Best individual new home highly commended: Erection of detached four bedroom dwelling and integral garage in Nocton Builder - Stonewell Homes Ltd Architect - Carl Medd

Best individual new home highly commended: Holly House Farm, Martin – One barn conversion and six new build dwellings and associated works and garages Builder - Roger Leighton Homes Ltd Architect - Heronswood Design Ltd

Building excellence recognised Shining examples of excellence in building design and construction across North Kesteven have been highlighted alongside others from across the region.

As clients of NKDC’s in-house Building Control Unit, the 12 projects and two individuals went on from being awarded or commended in the Council’s own Building Control Awards, to compete in the regional Local Authority Building Control awards.

The initiative seeks to honour designers, developers and builders involved in schemes that the local Building Control Unit considers worthy of recognition.

In all cases, the awards applauded unusual design, innovative ideas, sustainability, high standards, legal compliance and overall quality of a building project completed in 2015.

The NK awards were presented by Cllr Richard Wright, Executive Board Member with responsibility for Building Control, energy efficiency and health and safety.

He said the quality of the design and construction of new buildings and conversions within North Kesteven was something to be hugely proud of, with residents appreciating the time, effort, trouble and expense expended on

delivering good buildings which make a positive difference in making the District a great place to live.

The unit is already looking out for examples of good practice throughout 2016 to put forward for awards next year.

Only those schemes which have chosen to use the local authority’s building control services are eligible for the LABC regional awards.

By using the authority’s services clients can also be assured of extensive technical expertise, local knowledge and quick response times, value for money, prompt and efficient service, and a comprehensive package of related advice.

Best social or affordable new housing development winner: Land off School Lane, Helpringham – Erection of three pairs of semidetached houses Builder - Langwith Construction Architect - Amey Architects Best public service building highly commended: Heckington Community Centre & Parish Chambers – Alterations and extensions Builder - Newman Moore Architect - Clive Wicks Associates Best commercial building winner: Washingborough Hall Hotel – Extension to hotel to form function room and associated facilities Builder - Steve Jones Architect - Steven Dunn Architects LABC site agent of the year Winner: Danny Rounce

What our Building Control team can do to help you The Building Control Unit delivers a safe built environment by ensuring the health and safety of people in and around buildings, their welfare and convenience, furthering the conservation of fuel and power and ensuring reasonable provision of facilities for the disabled.

The Unit provides a plan checking and siteinspection service to the public, builders, architects and developers to ensure compliance with building regulations.

It also has responsibility for: > Dealing with dangerous structures and demolitions to ensure public safety > Enabling the public to view the public sewers maps

> Keeping the register of Approved Inspector building regulation applications > Land Charge enquiries > Promoting access for the disabled It is now also able to offer builders and architects the following services: > Pre-submission advice > SAP assessments > EPC certificates > Air testing

> Access audits Through the LABC there’s also: > Noise testing > Fire risk assessments > New homes warranties Check out the SAP, EPC, Air Pressure Testing, Access Audits and Fire Risk Assessment services at: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/ bcservices

For information visit www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/bcservices, call 01529 414155 or email sharron_routledge@n-kesteven.gov.uk

18 newsnk Summer 2016

To be a high performing and value for money Council that is prepared for the future

Our Council

New Chairman elected to take over the chains

Two good causes benefit from £20,000 raised during year Previous Council Chairman Cllr Gill Ogden amassed a record sum of almost £20,000 for two charities.

Throughout her civic year she was a passionate advocate of the International Bomber Command Centre taking shape at the northern edge of North Kesteven and also Canine Partners, a charity which provides

assistance dogs to help disabled people with everyday living.

At the end of her year she accrued a total of £19,400 which was significantly higher than usual, through the exceptional generosity of a third party charity, the F&PC Scotto Charitable Trust which put a total of £16,600 into the fund to

make a difference to these two good causes too.

In total the Bomber Command Centre received £11,400, and £8,000 went to Canine Partners.

A charity music night with the Ruffs, a quiz, fundraisers within the Council and raffles at the Civic Dinner and NK Community Champion Awards all helped to boost

the sum. Cllr Ogden said: “It has been a remarkable year.

“I have been humbled and moved by some of the people I have met and honoured to represent such a great council as North Kesteven.”

Both charities expressed their delight at the donations which would be put to good use locally.

Beacons lit to mark 90th birthday In April, the Memorial was among 1,000-plus locations where special commemorative beacons were lit for the Her Majesty the Queen’s 90th birthday.

Sitting atop Canwick Hill, the light was so impressive as it flickered against the memorial spire a wellmeaning call was made to the fire service fearing the whole structure was alight.

A select gathering of

guests included veterans and 50/61 Squadron veteran James Flowers who was thrilled to light the beacon.

The memorial is central within Bomber County remembering the 55,573 WWII airmen and ground crew killed in action between 1939 and 1945.

A Digital Archive and Centre are taking shape to house the stories of those who served.

You can rely on this little bird to tell you Follow us on Twitter @northkestevendc @businessnk @nkcentre @discover_nk @talkplanning

You can also follow Council news and information at:

Online: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk Facebook: facebook.com/northkestevendc Instagram: instagram.com/northkestevendc

New Council Chairman Cllr John Money has chosen to support St Barnabas Hospice through his fundraising endeavours in the year ahead.

Accompanied by his wife Mary, and supported by Cllr Sally Tarry as Vicechairman, he will build on his enjoyment of the past year as vice-chairman, when he supported previous Chairman Cllr Gill Odgen in representing the District, its residents and the Council, learning more about businesses, groups and organisations locally and attending wide-ranging events and festivities.

Working to support patients through end-of-life care, Cllr Money knows that the hospice is highly valued

by District residents.

“St Barnabas is a fantastic charity that provides a haven of comfort, care and relief for cancer patients in Lincolnshire. To me, the work they do in bringing comfort to people at the end of their life is immeasurable and I can think of no better cause,” he said.

“The Trust needs £4million per year to provide its services, and any help we can provide this year I’m sure will be much appreciated.”

Cllr Money was elected to serve the Metheringham Ward in 2011.

What to do in case of flooding Recent rains have shown how you can never predict flooding situations.

This normally happens when drains fail to cope with a large, heavy, sudden downpour of rain or when drains, rivers and streams are at capacity.

In the first instance,

anyone affected by any type of flooding in the District should contact Lincolnshire County Council Highways – on 01522 782082.

Calls can be made at any time of the day.

Be clear in the detail of the incident to ensure the best, speediest response.

Councillor Mrs Gill Ogden hands over to Councillor John Money Summer 2016 newsnk 19

Award Nomination Form Award Categories* (Tick the box of chosen category) Young Achievers Award

Contribution to Sustainable Transport

Community Business Award

Contribution to Sport

Community Spirit Award

Contribution to Arts & Culture

Contribution to a Better Environment Award

Contribution to Health & Wellbeing

Name of nominee: Address of nominee: (thier address)

Contact number (if known) : Email address: Referee (you): Address of referee: (your address)

Contact number: Email address: Reason for nomination (attach follow-on sheet if necessary)

All nominations must be made by Monday, September 12.

Return completed forms to: NK Community Champions, Communications Team, NKDC, PO Box 3, Kesteven Street, Sleaford, NG34 7EF or email: communications@n-kesteven.gov.uk Alternatively you can submit your nomination electronically at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/communitychampions