Winter newsnk 2014 by North Kesteven District Council

newsnk

NK’s latest food hygiene ratings p8-9 inside

The newspaper for all North Kesteven residents

Straw-burning power station generates community benefit

Council praised for securing the best possible deal of local wellbeing from plant The pioneering renewable energy plant North Kesteven District Council secured for Sleaford has been officially opened by a Government Minister. After touring the £165m plant she described as being at the vanguard of sustainable energy production, Energy and Climate Change Minister Baroness Sandip Verma, said the Council had been ‘visionary’ in its actions to ensure maximum community benefit from the operation. This included millions of pounds worth of free heat, apprenticeships, infrastructure improvements and significant local project funding. Eight years after initially being proposed, the Sleaford Renewable Energy Plant has entered commercial operation as the UK’s first straw-burning combined heat and power plant. It will turn 240,000 tonnes of locally grown wheat straw into enough electricity to power 65,000 homes annually, pumping surplus heat and hot water into five local facilities for free – including the NKDC offices and Sleaford Leisure Centre.

Prime Minister David Cameron said it was ‘an exemplar of the future of UK energy generation’ and owners Glennmont Partners describe it as the ‘jewel in the crown’ of their portfolio of renewable energy solutions. After identifying North Kesteven as the ideal place to locate, renewables developer Eco2 undertook an exhaustive process to secure planning permission in November 2008, which engaged the Council’s economic development and planning teams closely in securing maximum community benefit through a wellbeing agreement. Council Leader Cllr Marion Brighton OBE said the District was ‘very proud’ to have been chosen as the home of this new technology and ‘very grateful’ for all of the positive outcomes achieved for community wellbeing. She expressly thanked Fran Mackereth from Anwick Forge for her perception-changing support in securing, “a win, win project that not only generates renewable energy, but also supports the agricultural sector, local employment and broader community and provides more than

£2m in free heat to public facilities.” Baroness Verma said the Sleaford plant was a model for how other areas could benefit from the development of renewable energy, which was a credit to the Council and developers for working in such close partnership. “This plant is a great example of the

potential benefits to a local community, including ongoing investment in jobs and fuel sourcing and the supply of free heat,” she said. “I have been extremely impressed by everything I have seen and heard of how it generates community benefits alongside heat and power.”

Economic boost

Environmental boost

Community boost

Broader boost

The plant is a £165m investment generating an extra £9m annually to the local economy. Having created 350 jobs during construction, it now supports 80 local people – 30 operating the site and 50 through fuel sourcing, taking 240,000 tonnes of straw a year, mainly from farms within a 30-mile radius. These contracts are worth around £6m a year. The free heat supply to five public buildings will also save them more than £2m over 25 years.

Through clean, efficient burning of straw, the plant generates power for 65,000 homes, saving 240,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide over conventional generation. The free supply of surplus heat and hot water to five public facilities will shave their carbon outputs too. The operation is carbon neutral. A five-hectare green belt planted with trees, shrubs and grasses, has further positive impacts and ash is returned as crop fertiliser.

An overall package of community benefits is valued at £285,000, including £120,000 to be shared across community groups in Sleaford and Kirkby la Thorpe over three years. It paid for the £125,000 children’s splash pool at Sleaford Leisure Centre, gave £10,000 to Kirkby la Thorpe School for interactive teaching boards and committed £20,000 to a project to build a model of the plant and promote sustainability in schools.

The plant has also financed three apprenticeships and will go on to support another two apprenticeship placements. It commissioned a £50,000 piece of public art for the plant entrance involving local schools, developed a walks scheme to link the public art around Sleaford and also – further to the community fund – financed a £200,000 footpath upgrade, A17 junction improvements and paid for the £2m heat supply infrastructure.

Our Communities

page 6 & 7

01529 414155 / 01522 699699

Baroness Verma, Cllr Marion Brighton OBE and guests at the Renewable Energy Plant’s opening

Our Economy

page 10 & 11

info@n-kesteven.gov.uk

Winter 2014

High scores for food hygiene Almost all of North Kesteven’s food businesses score the highest ratings for food hygiene standards. Of the 775 ratings issued by NKDC to District businesses on the quality of hygiene and food handling, all but 18 are now a three or above. A staggering 531 achieve the top score of five - which is almost 100 more than at the same time last year; and that was almost 100 more than in the year before. Cllr Richard Wright, Executive Board Member with responsibility for environmental health matters, said: “This steady and continued rise in standards is a clear indication of the care and consideration taken by most businesses in their operations. “It demonstrates the support the Council gives businesses and the importance placed on the ratings by discerning consumers.”

Energy from waste The county’s new Energy from Waste facility at North Hykeham has also been officially opened. Business Secretary Vince Cable toured the plant built to generate power by burning waste which would otherwise go to landfill. Since operations began in July 2013, 123,500 tonnes of nonrecyleable waste material have been burnt, exporting 58MW of electricity to the National Grid – enough to power 26,500 homes for a year. Employing 33 staff, the £125m plant was built using a Government loan and is operated by FCC Environmental under a 25 year Lincolnshire County Council contract. This makes effective use of the residual waste from residents’ black bins. Every day it saves 462 tonnes from being put into landfill, generating valuable sustainable energy and saving taxpayers’ money.

Our Homes

pages 12 – 13 www.n-kesteven.gov.uk

newsnk

NK’s latest food hygiene ratings p8-9 inside

The newspaper for all North Kesteven residents

Straw-burning power station generates community benefit

Economic boost

Environmental boost

Community boost

Broader boost

Through clean, efficient burning of straw, the plant generates power for 65,000 homes, saving 240,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide over conventional generation. The free supply of surplus heat and hot water to five public facilities will will shave their carbon outputs too. The operation is carbon neutral. A five-hectare green belt planted with trees, shrubs and grasses, has further positive impacts and ash is returned as crop fertiliser.

Our Communities

page 6 & 7

Baroness Verma, Cllr Marion Brighton OBE and guests at the Renewable Energy Plant’s opening

Our Economy page 10 & 11

Almost all of North Kesteven’s food businesses score the highest ratings for food hygiene standards. Of the 775 ratings issued by NKDC to District businesses on the quality of hygiene and food handling, all but 18 are now a three or above. A staggering 531 achieve the top score of five - which is almost 100 more than at the same time last year; and that was almost 100 more than in the year before. Cllr Richard Wright, Executive Board Member with responsibility for environmental health matters, said: “This steady and continued rise in standards is a clear indication of the care and consideration taken by most businesses in their operations. “It demonstates the support the Council gives businesses and the importance placed on the ratings by discerning consumers.”

Energy from waste

The county’s new Energy from Waste facility at North Hykeham has also been officially opened. Business Secretary Vince Cable toured the plant built to generate power by burning waste which would otherwise go to landfill. Since operations began in July 2013, 123,500 tonnes of nonrecylable waste material have been burnt, exporting 58MW of electricity to the National Grid – enough to power 26,500 homes for a year. Employing 33 staff, the £125m plant was built using a Government loan and is operated by FCC Environmental under a 25 year Lincolnshire County Council contract. This makes effective use of the residual waste from residents’ black bins. Every day it saves 462 tonnes from being put into landfill, generating valuable sustainable energy and saving taxpayers’ money.

Our Homes

pages 12 – 13

newsnk is your newspaper 01529 414155 / 01522 699699

info@n-kesteven.gov.uk

Editorial Phone: 01529 308116 Email: communications@n-kesteven.gov.uk Address: North Kesteven District Council District Council Offices, Kesteven Street, Sleaford, Lincolnshire NG34 7EF Council Enquiries Phone: 01529 414155 or 01522 699699 if calling from a Lincoln number Minicom: 01529 308088 Emergency: 01529 308308 or 01522 699650 Website: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk Email: customer_services@n-kesteven.gov.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/northkestevendc Twitter: @northkestevendc INFO-LINKS North Hykeham North Kesteven Centre, Moor Lane, North Hykeham, Lincoln LN6 9AX INFO-LINKS Metheringham 15a High Street, Metheringham, Lincoln, LN4 3DZ 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 Navenby Village Office The Venue, Grantham Road, Navenby, LN5 0JJ Osbournby Village Hall London Road, Osbournby, Sleaford, NG34 0DG Skellingthorpe Village Office Lincoln Road, Skellingthorpe Community Centre, Lincoln, LN6 5UT The Witham Office 16 Torgate Lane, Bassingham, Lincoln, LN5 9HF 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. 2 newsnk Winter 2014

Safe as houses Former children’s home demolished to enhance community safety 5

Family friendly New housing solutions suited to young families and those in greatest need 12

Winter wellbeing Scheme to support neighbours in need this winter 7

Photo focus Capturing the District’s delights 13

Healthy eating Food hygiene ratings help you make wise choices for festive dining 8-9

www.n-kesteven.gov.uk

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.

Printed on Recycled Paper

inside

Winter 2014

High scores for food hygiene

Free parking Charges lifted on NKDC’s Sleaford car parks to help small shops prosper 10

Behind the scenes A useful guide for getting out and about into the District 14-15 Recycle right Top Christmas tips for putting your excess wrapping paper, toy packaging and empty bottles into the right bin 16

4 8-9

Continued corporate focus on homes, Homes contractor communities and economic strength gives charity cash The Council’s corporate vision for the next three years is being drawn up. Elected members, colleagues, partners and communities are all being engaged in consultation ahead of Full Council setting the NK Corporate Plan 2015-18 next February. Under its annual review of priorities, the Council is seeking to continue its focused approach towards homes, communities, the economy and operating as an efficient, effective value-for-money authority. Consultation and adoption will run in tandem with similar processes for the capital programme, general fund and housing revenue account budgets. Chief Executive Ian Fytche said the Council maintained a ‘strong track record for delivery, high levels of customer satisfaction and implementing its priorities. Consistency in its vision and purpose had helped the Council safeguard and create 200-plus jobs in the last year, move forward with business development and growth at

Teal Park and in LN6 at North Hykeham, deliver more than 50 new council houses in recent years as part of a 10-year plan for 500 more and achieve almost £7m of leisure refurbishments. See the full report at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk

Annual accounts The Council’s statement of accounts for 2013/14 is now available to view. During that year, the net budget for General Fund expenditure, to be met from Government sources and Council Taxpayers, was £11.9m, of which £10.6m was spent and the remainder placed in reserves for use in future years. Spending on the Capital Account was £12.3m and spending within the Housing Revenue Account was £14.4m. A summary and full copy of the accounts can be found in full on the Council’s website at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk under ‘your council, facts and figures’ or call the Council direct.

A local school and life-saving charity have both benefitted from the generosity of one of NKDC’s contractors in celebration of a landmark installation. Having fitted their 1,000th boiler in an NK council house, locally based D Brown wanted to donate £1 for each one to charity. At the request of Joanne Betts, the recipient of the 1,000th installation, £500 was given to the William Alvey School, where her daughter had attended, and the balance to the Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance, D Brown’s charity of choice, which also happens to be the Chairman of the Council’s charity this year. Mrs Betts said: “They did a very good job in just two days and I’m very pleased with their work and my new boiler.” The school’s money will pay for new benches and the air ambulance’s contribution will help meet the costs of new night flying.

All public meetings can now be recorded All public meetings of NKDC can now be filmed and recorded following an extension of an allowance originally agreed earlier this year. New regulations on the openness of local government bodies came into effect in April, which extends a requirement to make available to all members of public reasonable facilities for using any communication method, including the internet. This includes meetings of the Council’s executive and non-executive meetings and also covers photography and social media. In anticipation of this change the Council updated its protocols for public meetings last January, pledging to upload audio recordings

of certain meetings to its internet. That has now been extended to all public council and committee meetings, including the key decision-making Executive Board. Written records must also be published of certain significant decisions taken by officers in excess of £50,000 for revenue and £100,000 for capital spending. Measures extending transparency and openness also allow more time for developers to explain their projects and members longer to question them in pre-application presentations. Parish councils and other bodies are also subject to the new regulations and need to adopt their own measures.

Newly independent There are no longer any Liberal Democrats on the Council after three North Hykeham members resigned their party affiliation. Councillors Wallace Lee, Kay Barrett and John Bishop have left the Liberal Democrat Party, and formed a new political group called the ‘Hykeham Independent Group’. This change does not affect the political balance of the Council, where there are now 16 independent councillors arranged in five groups and 27 Conservative members.

Polling station review makes it easier to vote in North Kesteven Changes are being made to the location of a few polling stations in the District to make it easier for electors to cast their votes. A thorough review of polling places across North Kesteven has concluded that almost all of the 99 ballot boxes are located in the right place, with limited change needed at: > Bracebridge Heath – To add a third polling district centred on Canwick Avenue and the St John’s Hospital site, with a polling station at The Pavilion, Bath Road; > Doddington – Relocation from the Old Rectory to the Coach House, more central and with improved access and facilities;

> Dogdyke – Relocation to Crown Lodge pub lounge to improve accessibility; > Sleaford, Castle – Relocating to St Botolph’s Primary School to accommodate increasing electorate more conveniently; > Sleaford, Holdingham – Additional station at Greenfield Road Communal Room to improve accessibility and accommodate increased electorate; > Sleaford, Quarrington – To use St Botolph’s Primary School to serve a new polling district; > Sleaford, Westholme – To use TA Centre on The Drove, as well as Northgate Methodist Hall to increase convenience;

> Waddington East – Relocation to the Youth Club central to the village, avoiding disturbance to other activities in the village hall and Millers Road communal room. These changes were all subject to consultation and review by the Returning Officer and were approved by North Kesteven’s Full Council meeting. Cllr Stewart Ogden, who has Executive Board oversight for elections, said it was essential to undertake periodic review of electoral arrangements to ensure polling places were in the most accessible, convenient location practicable.

News Focus

Bin collections change for all Refuse collection days will change for everyone this Christmas, with two further tweaks over New Year. To be sure of knowing when to put your wheeled bins out, cut out the table on the back page of this newsnk Normal collections resume on January 5. Always put bins out by 7.30am on collection day as pick-up times can vary. Yet again, we will collect side waste placed alongside both the recycling and general waste bins – but only on the first collection after Christmas. And if you have signed up to the garden waste collection remember you can put your cut-up Christmas tree in, to be chipped and composted. If in doubt call the Refuse Hotline free on 0800 174499.

Better broadband rolls out into the District Council’s investment delivers faster connections where companies cannot reach Having been a key priority for the Council for sometime, improved broadband connectivity is now a reality for 10,000 District homes. The initiative for better broadband has been pioneered by a partnership of councils, including North Kesteven, in a project called OnLincolnshire. Faster speeds will reach most of the rest of the District in 2015, with nearly all communities set to have faster broadband access enabled by the end of the year. With commercial operators focused on upgrading exchanges in larger towns and villages, many more commercially peripheral communities require the intervention of OnLincolnshire to be brought up to speed. Working with BT, OnLincolnshire is

investing £48m in upgrading capacity in these areas to have at least 2 Mbps available everywhere and most homes able to access download speeds of at least 24 Mbps. North Kesteven District Council has contributed £600,000 towards this fund. In the last few months telephone exchanges serving parts of Sleaford, Ruskington, Metheringham, Navenby, Heckington, Waddington, Billinghay and Washingborough have been enabled, serving just over 10,000 households in total. Everyone in these areas will now see speeds of at least 2 Mbps, with some having ‘superfast’ speeds. They may need to contact their broadband provider to check local availability and upgrade their contract.

Parts of North Hykeham, Sleaford and other areas have been enabled through other, commercial initiatives. The OnLincolnshire project is on target, bringing better broadband to more than 50,000 homes, increasing at a rate of 1,000 a week. Council Leader Cllr Marion Brighton OBE, who has Executive Board oversight for accessible services, said: “Faster broadband breaks down barriers to doing business in the digital world, enables online trading, helps to empower small businesses to find new markets, sell new products, try new models and compete on an equal footing with larger businesses.” “It can also be a factor in improved house prices and speed of selling and is increasingly important in accessing

Budget briefing

Dancing to the beat

Residents’ zone moves forward

Have your say on aspects of the Council’s budget for the year ahead. Appreciating residents’ input, NKDC consults over its proposals, explaining how the budget is formed and seeking feedback on how it is spent. There is also chance to question the Executive Board and senior managers. The informal consultations will be on: > January 20, 7pm - Council Chamber, NKDC offices, Eastgate, Sleaford. > January 21, 7pm - The Venue, Navenby > January 28, 7pm - Terry O’Toole Theatre, North Hykeham New this year, early workshops will be held on December 3 in Sleaford and December 8 in North Hykeham, both at 7pm. For details call on 01529 308016 or email research@n-kesteven.gov.uk

A scheme pioneered by NKDC’s artsNK initiative is set to reach into all parts of Lincolnshire. Dance Factor has won £48,500 of lottery funding through the ITV The People’s Millions TV Competition, towards a total fund of £70,000 to set up 35 new street dance crews in all seven districts of the county. It was chosen as one of six causes to battle it out in a public vote. Although it missed out when pitted head to head with another project, it still won the funds for having the largest support of all the runners-up. The aim is to rollout Dance Factor to all areas from February, engaging more than 750 young people in dance and bringing to others the benefits of active participation already enjoyed and appreciated in North Kesteven.

Work is progressing to establish the District’s first designated residents’ parking zone in Sleaford. In response to local demand, the Council has developed a scheme that would restrict on-street parking in Duke Street, Kingston Terrace and parts of Eastgate between 8am and 6pm to permit holders. Only if a majority of residents balloted in those streets in the New Year vote in favour of a zone will a scheme will be introduced at £25 per

discounts and financial services.” “The improvements in broadband speed in these areas have the potential to make a real difference to the way they live their lives and work,” said Cllr Brighton. “These are tangible benefits of the OnLincolnshire partnership NKDC is very proud to be a part of; enabling broadband to reach parts of the District that commercial rollout could not otherwise reach.” OnLincolnshire aims to: > Bring superfast broadband to at least 89% of properties by April 2016. > Deliver standard broadband of at least 2Mbps to the whole county. > Extend superfast coverage to 95% by the end of 2017. See www.onlincolnshire.org

vehicle per year, starting next summer at the earliest. Permits will be restricted to people living locally or who need to park for business. In advance of a vote by residents, emergency services, the town and county council and other partners have to be satisfied with the suggestions. Other zone proposals have been made for Sleaford, which require further consideration.

Business support funds spring up More than £1m is anticipated to be available from the spring to help rural businesses prosper. The area of both North and South Kesteven has been allocated funds

to meet up to half the costs of small business, tourism, farm diversification and farm productivity growth projects. For details speak to the NKDC Economic Development Team.

Job Centre Plus Minister lobbied on air show future Work starts on new war memorial Project ambassador, historian Dan has been made by one of Lincolnshire’s heart. It is the largest of all Construction of the new International moves to Council Athecase Snow, said: “There are few more Bomber Command Centre at Canwick District’s MPs to the Ministry RAF air shows and is regularly attended Sleaford’s Job Centre Plus will be operating from the NKDC offices in Kesteven Street from mid December. This will bring more public services under one roof, achieving cost savings and efficiencies for both partners. It is anticipated that the move will take place in the week beginning December 15, taking up offices on the ground floor, easily accessed from the NKDC reception. Council Leader, Cllr Marion Brighton OBE said the relocation would achieve more unified delivery of public services. “It will undoubtedly save time, expense and hassle for people by being able to access advice on complementary services such as benefits claims. money advice and housing matters, alongside work availability and help employers too.”

of Defence for the return of the Waddington Air Show. Lincoln MP Karl McCartney, whose constituency stretches into northern parts of the District and cuts through the middle of RAF Waddington’s runway, lobbied a Defence Minister on a visit to the base in October. Having cancelled the 2015 airshow because of £35m of ongoing runway works, the MoD announced a full review of all its airshow commitments and made no firm commitment of it ever happening again. With the Waddington event contributing around £12m to the local economy, more than 4,000 people have signed a petition for its continuation and Mr McCartney is optimistic for its future. He said: “There is no doubt that the RAF Waddington International Air Show is an event firmly entrenched in

by over 140,000 visitors, doing so much for the North Kesteven economy. “It is also important for us to ensure that the air show takes place at Waddington in 2017 ahead of what will be the large and year-long celebrations of the RAF’s existence in 2018. Defence Minister Mark Francois said the £35m rebuild of the runway should be finished by Christmas 2015; which was a big investment by the MOD in the long-term future of Waddington. His boss the Defence Secretary Michael Fallon, told Parliament that the review would be carried out early in 2015, adding, ‘I very much hope the Waddington Air Show is able to return in 2016’. Waddington’s Reaper squadron has been tasked with conducting surveillance missions in the battle against Islamic State in Syria.

Hill is set to begin in December. Building on a £3.1m Heritage Lottery Fund grant and £1.2m raised locally in little over a year, the Lincolnshire Bomber Command Memorial Trust continues with its fundraising endeavours to realise the full £8m needed to deliver all aspects of the memorial in 2015. The current aim is to have the 31m high memorial spire and surrounding walls featuring the names of all 25,411 air crew who flew from Lincolnshire bases but never returned, in place by June, followed in the autumn by the interpretation centre. It will create, for the first time, a central hub to tell Bomber Command’s heroic and difficult story – presenting the experiences of those who served, supported or were affected by Bomber Command’s campaigns in interactive state-of-the-art digital displays.

deserving projects in the UK than the International Bomber Command Centre. Lincolnshire needs a proper memorial to the service personnel who faced appalling conditions as they did their bit to liberate Europe from fascism. There is no other centre in Britain or any other country where the history of the bomber offensive can be preserved, gathered, curated, studied and debated. This centre will be a world leader.” Bomber Command’s was a truly international campaign, with 60 nations represented among the 125,000 aircrew. German refugees even made significant contributions. Once complete, the centre, archive, peace garden and memorial spire, will provide a world-class facility to serve as a point for recognition, remembrance and reconciliation.

Winter 2014 newsnk 3

News Focus

Lessons in electoral engagement for teenagers

Mock elections help next generation of voters get to grips with tough decisions, debates and democracy Politicians and voters of the future learned valuable lessons on the importance of electoral engagement through the District’s ever-popular Local Democracy Week events for Year 9 pupils. Their level of participation in the two day-long events was an inspiration as they arranged themselves into candidate campaign teams, a media group and residents lobby to carry out mock-elections. Every year the Council finds a new theme to exercise pupils’ minds on aspects of Council business, democratic involvement and why this matters in their lives. This year, with District and General elections due on May 7 2015, the focus was on the whole electoral process from registration, through campaigning and challenging candidates and their policies, to making a mark at the ballot box and counting votes. When the three secondary schools in Sleaford, plus St George’s in Ruskington, met up there was strong interest in regeneration, renewable energy and employment, but in the north of the District the North Hykeham and Branston schools showed a keen interest in wind farms, housing and equality issues. As students from the schools mixed together to make teams, they formed four campaign teams behind nominated

candidates, chose party names, colours and slogans and crafted rosettes, manifestoes and posters. Other teams took the roles of press, a residents’ lobby and election officers managing the polls. One candidate prophetically declared: ‘Our generation is the generation which is going to be running the country.’ The Council’s Deputy Leader, Cllr Mike Gallagher said the level of engagement among the 85 students was the best ever as they really understood the issues at stake. “As the next generation of voters, it is important to engage young people in the importance of elections, the principles and processes involved and inspire them to play an active part in democracy,” he said. They were so engaged that 10 of the 85 students signed up to the NK Youth Council in order to ‘speak up, speak out’.

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YOUR VOTE MATTERS

Being registered to vote does not happen automatically, you must register to vote and re-register every time you move home

North Kesteven District Council

4 newsnk Winter 2014

standing as a local councillor, available at www.electoralcommission.org.uk The Local Government Association can

for these too. Contact your local council for more information about becoming a parish councillor.

Taking office is an important civic and democratic duty. Local Councils need active, interested and committed people to serve and get involved in their work. Representing your local community, being an advocate and working with fellow councillors to deliver services and to lead communities to a secure new future can be very challenging and rewarding. Every day, elected members face tremendously difficult decisions as demand for services increases and funding from central government falls. You don’t need any experience but you must be willing to engage in learning, training and development to enable you to carry out this important role. Support will be given to all elected District Councillors through an induction and training programme.

News Focus

Council Tax bill Fire-ravaged home demolished to remove safety risk MP puts road dual plan to chancellor support extended More than a hundred families are likely to receive increased support in meeting their Council Tax payments. Continuing within the proposals for a locally-devised scheme of Council Tax Support going into next year, is full support to help the most vulnerable – pensioners, carers and disabled – to pay their council tax. One change proposed by North Kesteven’s Executive Board is for all Child Maintenance payments to be disregarded from the assessment, which will help a further 112 people by allowing them to keep a further £50 without it affecting their entitlement. The changes have been subject to consultation and will be settled in January ready to take effect next April. The general principles remain to: > Protect the most vulnerable – pensioners, carers, the disabled. > Reduce support where increased household income or savings are anticipated. > For all working-age households to pay at least 10% if they are not classed as vulnerable. > Restrict support to people with £8,000 or more in capital and savings, and > To not offer any support at a level higher than Band D equivalent. Other measures within a formula will be applied in calculating the level of support for the 6,000 claimants in receipt of a share of a £5.2m fund. An exceptional hardship scheme continues to assist households entitled to Council Tax Support who still struggle to pay what remains of their bill. Cllr Geoff Hazelwood, Executive Board Member with responsibility for financial services, said that as the economy picks up it is anticipated that the number of Council Tax Support claimants will fall by around 1% - 131 cases - annually, reducing the scheme’s cost by around £400,000.

It took only days to demolish Pinfold House, an eyesore and community safety nuisance in recent years The Council has demolished a former children’s home destroyed by fire after many years of standing empty. With trespass, damage, graffiti and arson being a persistent and recurring problem, Pinfold House in Ruskington has become a significant community safety concern. The Council has worked tirelessly to resolve issues over access, ownership,

legal responsibilities and long-term use, stepping this up after a fire in early July made the building even more dangerous than ever before. The demolition has been carried out, under enforcement powers with the owners’ knowledge in order to remove a significant risk to public safety. If they do not pay the debt the Council will have the right to enforce a sale in the

spring and impose a land charge. Cllr Mike Gallagher, chairman of the Community Safety Partnership, said: “In the absence of distant owners and tenants, many thousands of pounds of public funds have been spent securing, patrolling and protecting this empty building but through the responsible actions of this Council that will no longer be the case.”

Sleaford regeneration projects Hopes remain for negotiated solution on link road scheme While pursuing an unprecidented legal move to deliver significant economic regeneration schemes for Sleaford, the Council is still working to achieve an amicable resolution. Councillors voted in June to pursue a Compulsory Purchase Order – the first in NKDC’s 41 year history – in order to acquire the land needed to build a new road that will fulfil investments totalling more than £100m, secure in excess of 1,000 jobs, restore the endangered Maltings buildings and promote further prosperity for Sleaford’s retailers. Alongside this, Lincolnshire County Council is taking steps to close the Southgate level crossing to traffic. Legal orders have been served and both affected parties and the wider public invited to comment. The District Council will attempt to respond to objections, to resolve issues where it can, with any outstanding issues to be aired at public inquiry; this would be called by the relevant Secretary of State should they think it necessary. Meanwhile there have been ongoing negotiations with some

of the affected landowners and modifications which require less land to be taken for the road than originally envisaged. Council Leader, Cllr Marion Brighton OBE said: “We continue to work towards a settlement with all parties and our doors remain open for discussions in order to achieve that. “That has always been our preferred

position and we continue in that hope right up until the final hour.” “The Secretary of State will review the objections, decide whether a public inquiry is appropriate and, at the end of a prescribed process, confirm the Compulsory Purchase Order on the evidence presented, or decline it.” See www.n-kesteven.gov.uk for the latest updates.

Visible growth

Footbridge plan

Drawings, plans and videos illustrating the various regeneration schemes proposed to boost Sleaford’s economic growth are being brought to the high street. To assist wider understanding of the way the Tesco development, Maltings regeneration, link road scheme, Heart of Sleaford project and new housing dovetail together with the Masterplan, Transport Strategy and Local Plan to inspire increased activity and confidence in the town centre, displays are to be placed in a window of one of the few empty shops on Southgate. They will be visible during the day from mid December.

Plans for a fully-accessible footbridge to cross Sleaford’s railway tracks and improve public safety will be considered in mid December. Listed Building Consent is required before Network Rail can install the bridge designed to exceed disability requirements whilst maintaining easy, safe, pedestrian, wheelchair, pushchair and cycle access over the tracks and create a landmark asset.

With work anticipated to start in 2015 on Lincoln’s Eastern Bypass, pressure is still being applied to have the road dualled. The original proposal was for a £112m dual-carriageway relief road to cross the River Witham and swing passed Washingborough, Canwick and Branston to link with the A15 at Bracebridge Heath. This was cut back to a single road in the 2011 central financial cuts, with Government giving £50m to the £96m cost, the County Council putting up £14m and underwriting a further £33m to be funded by developer’s infrastructure contributions. Now Lincoln MP Karl McCartney has lobbied the Chancellor of the Exchequer to press the need for it to be dualled from the outset as an infrastructure investment.

Living wage pledge Having been the county’s first council to adopt the Living Wage, North Kesteven has now adopted a measure by which the pay level increases annually. The Living Wage lifts 60 members of staff above the statutory minimum wage to be in line with the cost of living and reduce reliance on benefits. This has been paid for the last 18 months – at a cost of £62,629 this year – and by now achieving accreditation as a Living Wage employer, the Council needs no longer consider the position annually but increase the rate automatically. It can now receive recognition as one of almost 1,000 companies paying the supplement. You can rely on a little bird to keep you informed Follow us on Twitter @northkestevendc @slcrefurb @talkplanning

Inspiring sporting excellence of District residents is celebrated at Lincolnshire Sports Awards The sporting excellence of District residents continues to shine as an instructive inspiration to others. A number of this year’s Lincolnshire Sports Awards were won by local people who have excelled in their sports or helped others to improve their fitness and find enjoyment in exercise. Bassingham’s Jack Harvey won the Sportsman of the Year Award for a second year; being so committed to his sport that he was competing and unable to attend the ceremony. Aged 21, he has worked through a series of auto racing classifications for

leading teams at the highest level, most recently in the American Indy Lights series where he tied for the championship and was named best driver. Alice Carter, part of NKDC’s arts development programme, was named Sports Volunteer of the year for giving up her spare time to coach and develop a children’s football team in Lincoln’s Abbey Ward. She has worked extensively across a range of sports and initiatives. Winner of the Contribution to Physical Activity Award, Brian Smith from North Hykeham has been a volunteer walk leader for many years,

leading the visually impaired walking group at Whisby Natural World Centre. The group he set up in early 2011 has never been more popular thanks to the enthusiasm of Brian, a key volunteer and true asset to NK Social Strollers, Lincolnshire Health Walks and the Lincolnshire Blind Society. PE teacher Paul Brazinskas from Branston was named Sports Educator of the Year. Throughout his 21 years at Priory LSST he has won universal affection as a motivational and enthusiastic teacher, supportive of pupils of all abilities, and gives up his own weekend sports activities to

Pictured left to right: Brian Smith, Paul Brazinskas and Alice Carter. Photos: Chris Vaughan support pupils’ endeavours. Heckington Paralympian, discuss thrower Kieran Tscherniawsky was a runner-up in the disabled sports category and Jan Smailes was a runner up in Active 4 Health after making great strides through exercise referral in North Hykeham.

Janet Inman, Chief Executive of Lincolnshire Sport said these and other fantastic sporting achievements deserved celebrating in ‘yet another fantastic year for sport’. More than £4,000 was raised for the Lincolnshire Elite Athlete Programme.

Winter 2014 newsnk 5

Our Community

Moving forward with LN6 travel A park and ride bike scheme has been set up to encourage commuters to bike into the city centre. Under the Access LN6 initiative people can park up at Skellingthorpe Community Centre and jump on their own bike or pick up an on-site hirebike to pedal along designated cycle paths into Lincoln. Cycling can be proven to cost calories whilst saving money. Collectively the 1,200 people who signed up for the four-week Lincs Cycle Challenge saved around £12,000 in fuel costs, burned around 1,300,000 calories and saved 10,400kg of carbon dioxide emissions by cycling almost 40,000 miles. The initiative sought to entice people away from their cars and onto their bikes for work and leisure purposes. Cycling, walking and public transport are suggested as the ideal way to travel as work continues on Station Road in North Hykeham. The new shared footpath and cycleway is not expected to be installed along the west side of the road until next March. Although there is a one-way traffic system in place northbound beyond the station during the works, the eastern footpath remains open for walking and cycling. As well as a new kerbed 2.5m wide shared path between the station and Whisby Road, the county council is installing new street lighting and bus stops. An after-school club has inspired more than 100 children to actively choose cycling. Through an Access LN6 project, Waddington All Saints Primary School set up a bike club to encourage active travel to school. Numbers cycling have risen fourfold, cycle racks are full to bursting and there is now a waiting list to join. Schools interested in a similar scheme, should contact Access LN6. Drivers could save more than £1,000 a year by sharing their car journeys to and from work. Single occupancy car drivers could save £1,000 per year by sharing a five mile journey to and from work with one person – or more if journeys are longer or more people join the liftshare. Joining up with colleagues, friends or neighbours heading the same way helps with fuel and parking costs, cuts congestion and environmental harm and is more social too. All initiatives are part of the Access LN6 project. Call on 01522 782070, email accessln6@lincolnshire.gov.uk or visit www.accessln6.co.uk

6 newsnk Winter 2014

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

Brushing up on community links Appeal to residential homes to get onboard with art activities

“

The Guidelines to Art project is working really well at our home. Our volunteer is absolutely fantastic. She has a great rapport with the residents, is full of enthusiasm and is very well prepared. Their work is displayed and much admired by visitors. They have done work linked to the WW1 centenary and hope to use the watercolour theme to produce birthday and Christmas cards. We have all come so far even having an exhibition in a local art gallery.” Oakdene Care Home activity co-ordinator Sonia Harris

Older people are brushing up on their artistic talents through a project bringing together community volunteers and residential home clients. It is hoped that many more establishments will pick up on the initial success of Oakdene in Sleaford where residents participate in Guidelines to Art weekly, with volunteers helping one-to-one – leading to a recent exhibition of their work. Ashfield Lodge has enjoyed positive experiences and another volunteer has been running fortnightly art courses on a sheltered housing scheme in Branston. Using a simple template, Guidelines to Art gives people the opportunity to try painting with watercolours, demonstrating some incredible benefits for people living in residential care settings, Homes interested in taking up the scheme should contact the PartnershipNK team on 01529 308196. All equipment and a volunteer are provided.

“

Based on the excellent experiences of everyone at Oakdene, I hope that all residential and nursing homes in the District can enjoy the benefits of art activities. We would love to roll this out to everyone who thinks they could benefit and appeal to homes and volunteers to help us achieve this. Success depends entirely on input. No art or teaching experience is required, just enthusiasm, as training is provided.” Cllr Lindsey Cawrey, Executive Member for Excellent Ageing

Consultation planned on Heckington conservation areas Heckington residents are being called on to help shape the boundaries and extent of the village’s two Conservation Areas. NKDC is undertaking a review of the designated areas covering the village core and the heritage assets surrounding the station. This involves public consultation from December 15 to January 23, with any suggested changes due for further consideration next spring. A character assessment has already been carried out: > Assessing the qualities which make

the two areas distinct and special; > Reviewing the boundaries and suggesting any necessary changes; > Identifying and recording anything of local interest; > Providing a framework against which future development can be assessed. There is a proposal to shrink the village Conservation Area boundary to remove properties which are inappropriately included and extend the one surrounding the station, mill and former Pearoom. The extent of a conservation area

Chairman’s charity fund flies high At the midpoint of his fundraising year, NKDC Chairman Cllr Lance Pennell has so far raised more than £1,000 for the Lincolnshire & Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance. In support of new night-flying, Cllr Pennell’s increasing fund will help the ambucopter to go further. Based at RAF Waddington, it can reach any point in the two counties within 20 minutes, unaffected by congestion, roadworks and county roads – wholly supported by the generosity of donations.

Cllr Lance Pennell, a former Vulcan pilot during his 37-year RAF career, chose the air ambulance because of its universal support for people in need of a fast and accessible emergency service right across the District and region. When visiting it on base he had the opportunity to fly over the Vulcan gate guard.

affects the way planning applications and schemes are considered in respect of properties, trees and assets covered by the designation. The methods by which the Council can seek to protect and enhance the conservation areas will also be subject to discussion during the process. A public event will be held on Monday December 15, from 4pm to 7pm, in the parish council offices, St Andrew’s Street Heckington and relevant documents will be available in the parish office and online at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk

The secret life of Men in Sheds A new project is starting up to entice men out of their sheds to socialise and put their skills to good use. Based on a successful global movement, Men in Sheds will operate at Hill Holt Wood, off the A46 near Norton Disney, from January. The project is aimed at men aged 60 and over. Put simply the plan is to encourage men – who are statistically the worst at engaging with others – to feel a part of a group, socialise with others and put their skills to good use. Running from a well-equipped hobby workshop, the group can work together on a range of practical activities, share their knowledge, learn new skills and generally put the world to rights over a cup of tea, coffee or whatever else they fancy! For details, call PartnershipNK on 01529 308196 or email partnership_nk@n-kesteven.gov.uk

Sow Grow Cook

Free group or one-to-one cooking courses are on offer through an NK community initiative. The Sow Grow Cook courses promote healthier eating, balanced diets and more sustainable lifestyles. There are two course options: > Two hour sessions, for a six week period in groups of up to 12, held at Carre’s Grammar School in Sleaford; > One-to-one sessions held in your own home. They include basic cookery skills and general advice on nutrition, food safety and food labelling to help families rediscover the delights of home cooking. If you know someone who would benefit, do get in touch. Call the PartnershipNK team on 01529 308196 Course leader Jack Wright on 07779 713479 or email partnership_nk@n-kesteven.gov.uk

Security advice for seasonal safety Don’t let the criminal enjoy Christmas at your expense. Christmas is a busy time of year for everyone, including criminals, but most opportunistic crime can be prevented by taking some simple precautions. Out shopping > Lock presents out of sight in the car boot and always ensure the car is locked, even if you are only away for a few minutes. > Never leave your keys in the ignition whilst your vehicle is unattended. Cars are often stolen whilst left running to defrost the windows. > Take handbags, bank cards, mobile phones and sat nav systems with you away from the car. > Park in a well-lit area or an attended car park. Back home > Keep doors and windows locked at all times, even when you are in the house. > Keep presents out of sight. Large piles of gift-wrapped goodies under the tree which are visible through a door or window are tempting to thieves. > Discarded packaging outside advertises all the new goods indoors. > Leave lights on and close the curtains when going out to imitate occupancy. > Set burglar alarms.

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

Win a hamper full of Christmas gifts Christmas needn’t cost the earth – especially if you win a free hamper. A hamper of goodies suited for all the family’s needs this Christmas is being offered by the Council’s Sustainability Team as a prize. Success will significantly reduce the expense of Christmas shopping. To enter, simply sign up for a newsletter jam-packed with advice on more cost-effective, energy-efficient lifestyle options that cut bills, protect the environment and help you stay warm. Email sustainNK@n-kesteven.gov.uk or call 01529 414155. It will be drawn on December 17, with the winner notified that afternoon. It is restricted to NK residents only and if you already receive the newsletter you can still enter.

Green gift guide Christmas is a time for giving, cherishing and extending goodwill to all. So when it comes to choosing the perfect gift, why not factor environmental impact and long-term energy savings into your considerations. > Solar or wind-up radio or torch, or saltwater remote control toy – removes any need for batteries > Energy saving light bulbs > Fairtrade chocolates & sweets > Trees & garden plants – helping to soak up carbon emissions > Waterbutt – to conserve water use > Compost bin – make good use of vegetable peelings and green waste > Chickens – as above > Re-usable, washable nappies – long-term investment cutting down on persistent landfill problem > Recycled glass wine glasses – recycled glass takes less energy and natural resources to make > Socks, jumper and wooly hat – old school favourites which keep you warm without turning the heating up

Our Community

Neighbourly warmth in coldest weather

Volunteers are set to deliver shopping, collect medicines and shovel snow An initiative based on good oldfashioned neighbourliness is ready to deliver emergency food parcels and help to the most isolated and vulnerable people in our communities when it gets cold. This winter, where people are unable to get out of their homes to replenish their supplies, they can call up and request a parcel of essential groceries to be delivered to their door. The Winter Wellbeing volunteers will also collect prescriptions and clear snow and ice from paths. Although co-ordinated by NKDC’s community initiatives team, it is delivered by community volunteers and with support from Lincolnshire Co-operative stores locally. The project runs on weekdays only, in partnership with Sleaford’s Riverside Church and the Community Larder. The main focus is on supporting those who have limited food in the house, no family support nearby and who can’t easily get to the shops themselves because of lying snow, persistent cold and limited mobility. They simply need to call NKDC during working hours, request a delivery, explain their need and arrange to make a payment.

That request will be passed to a community volunteer who would pick up a parcel from the Co-op and take it to where it’s needed. While there they may be able to help in other ways too. For a list of what’s in the pack, how to receive one and how to volunteer to deliver them, see the panels below. Executive Board Member Cllr Lindsey Cawrey said: “No one knows how harsh the winter months will be, but we all know how nice it is to know there’s someone looking out for us and also the satisfaction of knowing you have helped someone in need. “I encourage anyone who thinks they might be in need to make a note of the number and for anyone willing to be a delivery volunteer to let us know.”

Receiving

The parcel will contain toilet rolls, white bread, UHT milk, eggs, tinned beans and soup, fresh sausages, cheese, jam, potatoes, biscuits and tea or coffee. Other packs are suited to vegetarian, gluten-free and diabetic needs. Recipients of a food parcel can also request a pet pack; these are priced £4 each and contain tinned food for either a cat or a dog.

NKDC Community Initiatives Officer Anne-Marie Shepherd helps Sleaford Co-op store deputy manager Julie Smith prepare the packs

Requesting

In cold weather if you can’t get out, have limited food stocks and no friends or family to help, you may be well-placed for Winter Wellbeing. Call NKDC on 01529 414155 or 01522 699699. Your details will be taken, delivery arranged and payment requested by card over the phone. Cheques and cash will be accepted on delivery. There are triggers on severity of cold but no age or disability criteria.

Responding

The volunteer register will be compiled by Sleaford’s Riverside Church. If you are able to collect a parcel from a local Co-op and drop it where it’s needed, within your community, on your drive to work or within the scope of your daily activity, call Jeremy Green at the Riverside Church on 07412 174763 or email jeremy.green@carres. lincs.sch.uk. All suitable safety and safeguarding measure will be taken.

Staying warm and well with Responders to Warmth

Best-kept villages

Residents are reminded of a scheme of help and support to keep warm and heat their homes this winter. The council-supported Responders to Warmth programme answered more than 1,800 calls from people looking for help and advice last year. Responders to Warmth offers: > Heating repairs and support to find replacement heating > Emergency oil-filled radiators > Practical support and advice > Insulation > Heated electric throws, thermal

socks, hot water bottles > Support to join bulk oil buying schemes Cllr Lindsey Cawrey, NKDC’s Executive Board Member with oversight of vulnerable people, said Responders to Warmth existed to give essential, practical advice to people on low incomes who were struggling to heat their homes. The scheme is available for people with a chronic, acute or long term illness or disability and low income, and also for people on a low income

Silk Willoughby has repeated its success in the contest to find the county’s best-kept villages. It won this year’s class for previous winners, with South Kyme being a runner-up in the same category. Since winning an NK Community Award, the Dunston IDEAS group – with help from the village school’s youngest pupils – has planted 550 small wildflower plug plants and spread two kilos of wild flower seed over some of the bare earth round the play equipment.

Libraries review

Nocton Fen plan

Wellbeing support is freely available Plying for trade

A fresh look is being taken by Lincolnshire County Council over ways to make savings within the library network. After being ordered to re-consult on its proposals in the summer and seek new ideas and suggestions for a comprehensive and more-efficient service, the council received well in excess of 100 responses with wideranging suggestions. It is expected that the County Council’s executive will take a fresh decision on the future of the library service next February. This has scope to affect provision at all North Kesteven libraries, most significantly in the village branches.

Consultation will continue in 2015 on a potential 20 turbine wind energy development at Nocton Fen. Vattenfall, the company developing the project, will run a number of events and activities for local residents and groups to get involved with, including scope to explore the supply chain and community benefit opportunities the project could generate. Formal consultation on the proposal will also take place next year. NKDC is tasked with ensuring all consultation is carried out fully. Register at www.surveymonkey. com/s/noctonfenwindenergy for updates or visit the company website www.vattenfall.co.uk/noctonfen

Anyone experiencing a change in their circumstances should remember the NK Wellbeing Service is at hand to help – for free. While there are broad eligibility criteria, it is almost certain that some sort of support, advice, or guidance can be given in most cases to help people to continue living independently at home. The service offers six weeks of support and signposting. It is open to everyone aged 18 or over, living in North Kesteven, who is in need of a little extra support, advice or signposting to services to promote their independence at home, identify areas of need or assist with the installation of small aids, adaptations or alarms.

with responsibility for children. “Keeping warm in winter helps your body to fight flu, pneumonia, heart attacks, strokes and depression. To stay warm at home, the ideal temperature for your main living room is 21°C, with 18°C elsewhere. “We know that this can be a challenge for some, and that is where Responders to Warmth can help.” For details: Call on 0845 606 4566 Visit www.responderstowarmth.org Eligibility criteria apply.

Potential situations for Wellbeing support could include pregnancy, child-birth, depression, anxiety, change in household income, discharge from hospital, bereavement or complications associated with ageing. It is all about integrating services and offering them at an early stage to ensure people have the best possible chance of remaining safe and independent at home. Requests can be made in person or on behalf of family or friends: > via a GP, or to LCC on 01522 782140 > or by calling NKDC on 01529 414155 This NK Wellbeing Service is different to the Winter Wellbeing Service described above which the Council has also pioneered.

Lincolnshire County Council tender Home to School/College Transport at various times throughout the year. Contracts are for Primary School, Secondary School, F E Colleges, SEN Establishments and local bus services. The authority seeks suitable and reliable taxi, private hire and bus operators to fulfil these. If your business is interested in joining an approved list of operators call Mike Rigg on 01522 553209 or email mike.rigg@lincolnshire.gov.uk Further information is also available from the website: http://www. lincolnshire.gov.uk/business/sellingto-the-council/passenger-transportcontracts-approved-operators-list/

Winter 2014 newsnk 7

Dining out and eating in with confidence hygiene ratings to help you take your pick The menu whets your appetite, the price is right and the decor does it for you, but when it comes to choosing a restaurant, takeaway, shop or cafe, how can you be certain of the standards behind the scenes? The Council inspects kitchens, assesses cleanliness and awards hygiene ratings to hundreds of food outlets in North Kesteven. While the scores are not a guide to food quality, they are an indication of food hygiene standards. Latest ratings are always available online at www.food.gov.uk/ratings and via a smartphone app. They should be posted up at the premises to inform your dining out choices this Christmas and into 2015 – but do always check for updates in case the ratings have been re-assessed. Good company, great food, crackers and all the trimmings are usually the ingredients for a meal out during the festive season. But what about the food hygiene rating? Whatever your recipe for eating out this Christmas, make sure you choose one of the 755 eateries in North Kesteven with a rating of three or more. The Food Hygiene Rating Scheme rates food businesses on their hygiene standards, based on inspections carried out by NKDC. They are rated 0-5, with 5 being as good as it gets. So, whether you’re planning a festive meal out or just grabbing a quick snack, don’t only consider the menu – make sure you check the hygiene rating too. Look out for the green and black Food Hygiene Rating stickers displayed on windows and doors. And if you can’t see a sticker, then ask staff inside or check at www.food.gov.uk/ratings. Look out for a rating of 3, 4 or 5.

Cllr Richard Wright, Executive Member for environmental health, said: “With almost all of our food businesses rated three or above, we know there are many quality options. “In the year since we last published these ratings, almost 100 more premises have achieved the top rating of 5 and we now have only 18 scoring lower than a 3,” he said. “The ratings scheme makes it easier for everyone to choose places where food hygiene is taken seriously and to have confidence in those choices.” “No-one wants to feel ill after eating out, so please use the ratings listed here, online and available to view in business windows when choosing where to eat. “It’s good to support deserving local eateries and emphasise the point that a good food hygiene rating is good for business, so make this a key ingredient in your meal out,” said Cllr Wright.

Scan this code to download the new handy phone app for use whenever you want to check hygiene ratings on the move. Or go to www.food.gov.uk/ratings and follow the links from there. 8 newsnk Winter 2014

Takeaways

Akash Indian, High St, Navenby Angel’s Pizza, High St, Heckington China China, Grantham Rd, Bracebridge Heath Chip Off The Old Block, High St, Billinghay Chip Stop, Newark Rd, North Hykeham Dominos Pizza, Lincoln Rd, Sleaford Dragon House, Redwood Drive, Waddington Flamin Grill, Victoria St, Billinghay Golden Phoenix, High St, Ruskington Heath Fish Bar, Grantham Rd, Bracebridge Heath Great Barrier Reef, Princess Margaret Av, Metheringham Kedgeree Too, Moor Lane, North Hykeham Kelly’s Catch, High St, Metheringham Kyme Road Chippy, Heckington Mark’s Plaice, Station Rd, Branston Maya Indian,Station Rd, Heckington Mint Indian Takeaway, Grantham Rd, Bracebridge Heath Navenby Chinese,High St, Navenby New Ko Sing, Lincoln Road, North Hykeham Olde Reindeer Fish & Chip, High Street, Navenby On a Roll,Station Rd, North Hykeham Open Kitchen, Sycamore Dr, Sleaford Option 3 Pizza, Lincoln Road, North Hykeham Pizza Luna, Grantham Rd, Bracebridge Heath Pizza Place, Main Rd, Washingborough Queen St Fish & Chip Shop, Queen Street, Sleaford Subway, Southgate, Sleaford Subway, Holdingham, Sleaford Sunny’s Plaice, Jermyn St, Sleaford Swallow Chinese, Queen Street, Sleaford The Taj, Muntjac Way, Witham St Hughs Thai Jasmin, Redwood Drive, Waddington Top Wok, High St, Metheringham Welbourne’s Fish & Chips, High St, Ruskington

4 Appetites, Southgate, Sleaford Branston Chinese, Station Road, Branston Chilli Hut, Station Road, Sleaford Dragon House, High St, Heckington Fish Bar, Bar Lane, Waddington Forum Chinese Takeaway, The Forum, North Hykeham Golden Hay, Queen St, Billinghay Green Elachi, Pinfold Ln, Ruskington Hykeham Kebab House, Newark Road, North Hykeham

Mowgli Indian Takeaway, High Street, Metheringham Palki, Bar Lane, Waddington Peking Chef, Westgate, Sleaford Pizza Plus, High St, Metheringham Scoffers, Lincoln Rd, Sleaford The Supreme, Linden Av, Branston Valentino’s, Redwood Dr, Waddington

3 Fine Foods Exchange, Exchange Road, North Hykeham Kamble House, Eastgate, Sleaford Mamma Mia Pizza, Muntjac Way, Witham St Hughs Mario’s Pizza & Grill, Southgate, Sleaford Pizza Delight, Market Pl, Sleaford Pizza Roma, Church St, Ruskington USA Chicken, Southgate, Sleaford

2 Jade Garden, Newark Road, North Hykeham

1 Kites, Bar Lane, Waddington Lucky Star, Westgate, Sleaford Top Wok, Church St, Ruskington Spring Chinese Takeaway, Park Lane, Washingborough

Restaurants & cafes

Black Swan Restaurant, Hillside, Beckingham Blanchards, Boston Rd, Sleaford Burger King, Thorpe on the Hill, Lincoln Cafe Latte, Weaver Road, North Hykeham Cafe Plus, Redwood Drive, Waddington Coffee Range, Moor Lane, Thorpe on the Hill Crazee Bongos Ltd, Sellwood Court, Sleaford Industrial Estate Daisy Made, Lincoln Road, Skellingthorpe Doddington Hall, Doddington Elite Fish Bar, High St, Ruskington Elite Fish & Chips, Grantham Road, Sleaford Emily’s Bakehouse, Millstream Square, Sleaford Fenlake Cafe, Fen Lane, Metheringham Four Seasons Garden Centre, London Road, Silk Willoughby Fun Farm, Stephenson Road, North Hykeham Garwick Cafe, Boston Road, Heckington Greek Taverna, Market Pl, Sleaford Hill Holt Wood, Norton Disney

India Garden, Market Pl, Sleaford Italian Connection 2, Market Place, Sleaford La Royale, Newark Road, North Rauceby Lincoln Golf Centre, Moor Lane, Thorpe on the Hill Jade Dragon House, Station Road, Sleaford Jayne’s Pantry, Kesteven St, Sleaford Jocasta’s, Moor Lane, Thorpe on the Hill Lakeside Cafe, Whisby Road, Whisby Moor Little Italy Pizza Co, Mill Ct, Sleaford McDonalds, Lincoln Rd, Holdingham Metheringham Airfield Heritage, Martin Moor Mrs H’s Cafe, Hykeham Green, Lincoln Road National Centre for Craft & Design, Carre Street, Sleaford North Kesteven Sports Centre, Moor Lane, North Hykeham Old Coach House Motel, Church Lane, North Kyme Pennells Garden Centre, Newark Road, South Hykeham Ruskington Garden Centre, Newton Lane, Ruskington Second Chance, Boston Rd, Sleaford Silver Spoon, Southgate, Sleaford Simply Divine Coffee House, Newark Road, North Hykeham Tea in the Park, Boston Rd, Sleaford The Barns Tea Shop, Heckington Fen The Cake Hole, Bristol Arcade, Sleaford The Cottage Tea Rooms, High Street, Navenby The Curio Cafe, Money’s Yard, Sleaford The Fish King Restaurant, The Forum, North Hykeham The Food Boutique, High St, Brant Broughton The Garden Tea Rooms, Moor Lane, North Hykeham The Green Tea Room, High Street, Heckington The Griddle, East Road, Sleaford The Homestead, Canwick Avenue, Bracebridge Heath The Natural World Centre, Whisby Nature Park, Moor Lane, Thorpe on the Hill The Old Butchers Ltd, Victoria St, Billinghay The Pantry Cafe, Grantham Rd, Bracebridge Heath The Pottery Painting Cafe, West Banks, Sleaford The Source Multi-use Centre, Southgate, Sleaford Time2Eat, Main Road, Anwick Total Fitness, Kingsley Road, off Whisby Road, North Hykeham URS Cafe, Roman Way, South Hykeham Y of Sleaford,Market Place, Sleaford

So what do these scores on the doors actually mean to the man in the street looking in? There are six food hygiene ratings from 0-5 5 shows ‘very good’ compliance with legal requirements and all businesses should be able to achieve this irrespective of their size as it needs no more than full compliance with food hygiene laws. 4 means ‘good’ 3 is ‘generally satisfactory’ 2 means that ‘some improvement is needed’ 1 suggests that ‘major improvement is necessary’ 0 shows that ‘urgent improvement is necessary’ All ratings are published online at www.food.gov.uk/ratings and through the Council website www.n-kesteven.gov.uk

4 Branston Cafe, Rectory Lane, Branston Brewsters, Newark Road, South Hykeham Burger King, Holdingham, Sleaford Carter Plot Picnic Site, Boston Road, East Heckington, A17 Cogglesford Mill Cottage Restaurant, East Road, Sleaford Coffee Culture, The Forum, North Hykeham Costa Coffee, The Riverside, Sleaford Fillets Fish & Chip Restaurant Lincoln Road, Sleaford Frankie & Benny’s, Lincolnfields, South Hykeham Jade Palace, Church St, Ruskington Lina’s Cafe & Restaurant, Lincoln Road, Sleaford Millers Bar & Brasserie, Mill Court, Carre Street, Sleaford Macy’s Brasserie, High St Navenby McDonalds, Newark Road, South Hykeham Mia Italian, Market Place, Sleaford No 20, Southgate, Sleaford Sentry Cafe, Bar Lane, Waddington Serendipitea, Elm Grange Studios, East Heckington Sleaford Kitchen, Boston Road, Sleaford Sylv’s Coffee Shop & Cafe, Church Street, Heckington The Agra, Enterprise Park, Sleaford The Coffee Pot, High Street, Ruskington The Kitchen, Sleaford Rd, Nocton Heath The Lincolnshire Kitchen, Sleaford Road, Nocton Heath The Ocean Restaurant, Newark Road, North Hykeham, Thai Sabai, Millstream Square, Southgate The Sentry Post, Sleaford Rd, Waddington (A15) Tiamo Pizza, The Forum, North Hykeham Quackers, East Banks, Sleaford

Cheerio Cafe, Newark Road, North Rauceby Little Chef, Middle Lane, Thorpe on the Hill Sarga Indian Restaurant, Newark Road, North Hykeham Sweet Vienna, Riverside Shopping Centre, Southgate, Sleaford The Boathouse Cafe, Whisby Road, Whisby Moor The Mill House Tea Rooms, Hale Road, Heckington

Abbey Parks Farm Parks Farm, East Heckington

Little Chef, Holdingham, Sleaford

Businesses are encouraged to display their ratings, but are not required to. They can appeal and seek a re-inspection and, as such, the ratings published here cannot be relied upon long-term. But they were valid as of Friday, November 28, 2014.

Pubs & Clubs

Bracebridge Heath Cricket Club, Cross O’Cliffe Ct, Bracebridge Heath Branston Hall Hotel, Lincoln Road, Branston Branston Home Guard Social Club, High Street, Branston Bristol Bowls Club, Boston Road, Sleaford Canwick Park Golf Club, Washingborough Road, Lincoln Crown Lodge, Chapel Hill Electra Club, Electric Station Road, Sleaford Ferry Boat Inn, High Street, Washingborough Finch Hatton Arms, Main Street, Ewerby Horse & Jockey, High Street, Waddington Hunters Leap, Oak Hill, Washingborough Ibis Hotel, Whisby Road, North Hykeham A46 Kings Head, High St, Navenby Legionnaires Club, Southgate, Sleaford Lincoln Green, Lincoln Road, North Hykeham Lion & Royal, High St, Navenby Marquis of Granby, Northgate, Sleaford Metheringham Bowls Club, Princes Street, Metheringham Metheringham Squash Club, Fen Road, Metheringham Musicians Arms, Main Street, Dorrington Orchard Caravan Park, Witham Bank, Chapel Hill Packhorse Inn, Northgate, Sleaford Parva House, Main Rd, Little Hale Pottergate Golf Club, Moor Lane, Branston Pride of Lincoln, Whisby Road, Lincoln Red Lion, Church Street, Digby Reel Club, Southgate, Sleaford Royal Oak Inn, Royal Oak Lane, Aubourn Sleaford Cricket Club, London Road, Sleaford Sleaford Golf Club, Willoughby Road, Greylees Sleaford Masonic Buildings, Watergate, Sleaford Sleaford Rugby Club, Ruskington Road, Sleaford Sleaford Sports Association, Boston Road, Sleaford Ship Inn, High Street, Billinghay Solo Club, Market Street, Sleaford South Kyme Golf Club, Sth Kyme The Bell Inn, Far Lane, Coleby The Bentley Hotel, Newark Road, South Hykeham The Bustard Inn, Main Street, South Rauceby The Butcher & Beast, High Street, Heighington The Carre Arms Hotel, Mareham Lane, Sleaford The Five Bells, High Street, Bassingham The Gamekeeper, Newark Road, South Hykeham The Generous Briton, High Street, Brant Broughton The Green Man, Main Street, Norton Disney The Hume Arms, High Street, South Kyme

The Jolly Scotchman, Holdingham, Sleaford The Londesborough Arms, Middle Street, Metheringham The Loudor, Newark Road, North Hykeham The Mallards Hotel, Eastgate, Sleaford The Pack Horse, Sleaford Road, Beckingham The Plough Inn, High St, Skellingthorpe The Plough Inn, High St, Swinderby The Queens Head, Church Lane, Kirkby la Thorpe The Railway Inn, Station Road, Thorpe on the Hill The Red Lion, Middle St, Dunston The Lincolnshire Poacher Inn, High Street, Metheringham The Stones Arms, High Street, Skellingthorpe The White Hart, High Street, Metheringham Three Kings Inn, Salters Way, Threekingham Waddington Royal British Legion Club, Maltkiln Lane, Waddington Washingborough Hall Hotel, Church Lane, Washingborough White Hart, Church Street, Carlton le Moorland White Hart Inn, High Street, North Scarle

Blacksmith Arms, Sleaford Road, Bracebridge Heath Brant Road Social Club, Brant Road, Waddington Centurion, Newark Rd, N Hykeham Coach & Horses, Tattershall Road, Billinghay Coronation Hall, High Street, South Kyme Fox & Hounds, Newark Road, North Hykeham Golden Cross, Church Street, Billinghay Halfway Farm Motel, Newark Road, Swinderby Heckington Squash Club, High Street, Heckington Hykeham Sailing Club, Newark Road, North Hykeham Joiners Arms, High St, Welbourn Leadenham Polo Club, Church End, Leadenham Mill Lodge, Canwick Rd, Canwick Nocton Social Club, Main Street, Nocton Plough Inn, Church Lane, North Kyme The Barge & Bottle, Carre Street, Sleaford The Beer and Bean, Southgate, Sleaford The Black Bull, Rectory Road, Ruskington The Bugle Horn, Lincoln Road, Bassingham The Bull, London Road, Bracebridge Heath The Courthouse Club, Market Place, Sleaford The Horseshoes Inn, London Road, Silk Willoughby The Nags Head, The Green, Helpringham The Oak, High Street, Martin The Penny Farthing Inn, Station Road, Timberland The Plough, Lincoln Road, North Hykeham The Plough Inn, Main St, Wilsford The Red Lion, High St, Ruskington The Royal Oak, Brookside, Scopwick

The Royal Oak, Tattershall Bridge The Shoulder of Mutton, Church Street, Ruskington The Tally Ho Inn, Aswarby, Sleaford The Tempest, High Street, Coleby The Turks Head, High Street, Heighington The Venue, Market Place, Sleaford The Whichcote Arms, London Road, Osbournby The White Horse, Boston Road, Sleaford The White Horse Inn, Dunston Fen, Metheringham The Willoughby Arms Inn, High Street, Leadenham Three Horseshoes, High Street, Waddington Waggon & Horses, Rectory Lane/High Street, Branston Wheatsheaf Inn, Grantham Road, Waddington

3 Blankney Cricket Club Main Street, Blankney Bracebridge Heath Sports & Social Club, Grantham Road, Bracebridge Heath Harrows Inn, Lincoln Road, North Hykeham Heckington Playing Field & Sports Club, Howell Road, Heckington Hykeham PFA Sports & Social, Newark Road, North Hykeham Hykeham Social Club, Moor Lane, North Hykeham Kings Arms, Church Road, Martin Dales Marquis of Granby, High Street, Wellingore Red Lion, High St, Wellingore Red Lion, Newton, Sleaford The Bull & Dog, Southgate, Sleaford The Dovecote, Newark Road, Swinderby The Duke of Wellington, Lincoln Road, Leasingham The Jolly Scotchman, Holdingham, Sleaford The Star & Garter, Princes Street, Metheringham The Strugglers Inn, High St, Eagle

Manufacturers

Cooplands The Forum, North Hykeham Curtis of Lincoln Ltd, The Forum, North Hykeham F C Phipps (Butchers), Doddington Farm Shop, Doddington G Simpson Butchers Ltd, London Road, Silk Willoughby G Simpson, Cameron Street, Heckington Greggs, Southgate, Sleaford Hicksons, High Street, Bassingham J H Brown, Bristol Arcade, Sleaford K Anderson Butchers, High Street, Heighington K Anderson Butchers, Whisby Road, Whisby Moor Millstream Butchers, Millstream Square, Sleaford Munchbox, Newark Road, North Hykeham North End Butchers, Moor Lane, Leasingham Odling Brothers, High St, Navenby Picks Butchers Ltd, Main Street, Dorrington Southern & Thorpe (Butcher), High Street, Ruskington Triple D,Whisby Way, Nth Hykeham Ward Butchers, Church Street, Ruskington Welbourne’s Bakery, High Street, Navenby Welbourne’s Bakery, High Street, Ruskington

Bellamy’s Butchers, Jaguar Drive, North Hykeham Curtis of Lincoln Southgate, Sleaford J & J Southern (Bakery), High Street, Ruskington The Ticklebelly Lane Bakery, High Street, North Scarle Wetherills Butchers, Southgate, Sleaford

3 J A Andrews & Sons Ltd, High Street, Metheringham

2 Nags Head, High St, Heckington Rose & Crown, Watergate, Sleaford The George Hotel, High Street, Leadenham

1 The Thorold Arms, High Street, Harmston

Scores on the doors 775 ratings issued 531 are rated 178 are rated 48 are rated 10 are rated 8 are rated 0 are rated

5 4 3 2 1 0

Because of limited space, here we bring you only selected ratings. We have chosen the categories of business we believe are the most critical when choosing somewhere to dine out and shop - where good hygiene standards are the most critical to wide-scale public health. Other categories cover retailers, supermarkets, caterers, mobile caterers, care premises, schools, colleges, canteens, food packers and guest houses. A business can appeal and seek a re-inspection, so please look for any updates to the scores printed here. All the latest ratings can be found online at: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk www.food.gov.uk/ratings Updates are uploaded every fortnight. Winter 2014 newsnk 9

Our Economy

To promote the prosperity of North Kesteven

Fund to smarten-up Sleaford

Scope to spend up to £600,000 on shop fronts and streetscene

Grow LN6 bears Free parking boost to shops economic fruit

A new initiative will be launched in the spring to smarten up Sleaford’s shopping area and restore its unique characteristics. A grant scheme is being set up through a partnership of funders which would meet up to half of the cost of decorative and structural work to repair and renovate buildings and enhance their historical interest. With £150,000 coming from English Heritage and another £150,000 pooled by NKDC, the town council and county council, there will be up to £300,000 to invest in improvements to the Sleaford Town Centre conservation area. A key element of the scheme will be shop front improvements, for which grants of up to 50% will be available; giving a total potential spend within the town centre of as much as £600,000. The project was suggested by English Heritage in response to the whole of the Sleaford Conservation Area being classed as ‘at risk’, because of the cumulative impact of shops’ physical appearance, the effect of traffic and car parking, a lack of maintenance and inappropriate work being carried out.

Parking will be free in all of NKDC’s Sleaford car parks on Saturday, December 6 as part of a package to give local retailers a boost. As part of the Small Business Saturday UK, the District Council is waiving all charges for its parking facilities in Sleaford on that one day. The car parks covered are Money’s Yard, Church Lane, Eastbanks, Cogglesford Mill, Westgate Station Road and Market Place. Being the same time as the Lincoln Christmas Market, it is hoped that people will turn to Sleaford for their festive shopping and, having discovered its many delights, return often. Extra emphasis has been placed on getting essential information to small businesses on establishing or expanding, whether at home or in commercial premises. There have also been increased numbers of visits by Councillors to businesses in Sleaford and North Hykeham’s thriving LN6 sector to see the lasting legacy of the authority’s on-going work through its workspace provision and advice services. By aiming to boost local trade, the Council hopes to see more of people’s money spent locally.

Sleaford’s Southgate Cllr Mike Gallagher, Executive Board Member with responsibility for planning said the classification was nothing to be alarmed by, but would actually support an improved position by enabling this investment. “To now have the new Conservation Area Partnership Grant Scheme to support property owners in carrying out relatively minor works will have a positive, instant and lasting effect. “It fits well with the established objectives of the Sleaford Masterplan, the transport plan and emerging Local Plan, as well as the ongoing proactive support of the Council’s economic and development control teams.” The scheme will run for five years,

with the first grants likely to be in place in around 18 months time allowing time for establishing terms, promotion, application and start-up. Having agreed the principle, fine detail will be finalised by the spring. English Heritage will match the local contributions like-for-like up to a maximum of £50,000 a year. Improvements to shop fronts and the public realm – such as the Market Place, streetscene and alleyways – are regarded as key to the town centre fulfilling its potential in attracting a broader, better range of shops and facilities which would draw more shoppers and visitors and lead to increased job creation and retention.

The Grow LN6 partnership pioneering increased business confidence in and around North Hykeham is going from strength to strength. Early delivery of the agreed Action Plan has seen the adoption of a brand identity and progress on expanding provision of workshop units for new businesses. In partnership with other local councils and the LN6 Business Group LN6 is seeking to ensure that the maximum economic benefit from the area’s strategic location are realised. This includes recent success in securing improved rail provision at Hykeham station from next March. It is anticipated that announcements will be made soon about new investment in the area but these discussions are currently at an early stage. Future work of the partnership will include working to promote the 11 extra daily stopping trains to local businesses, becoming more involved locally with businesses and continuing to extol the area’s benefits for business. See www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/grow-ln6 Follow on Twitter @growln6

Industrial units at full capacity

Factory expands Sign of success Made in Sleaford

Another new company has moved to one of NKDC’s industrial units to helps its business grow, while another sees scope for expansion. Taking up the latest single vacancy within the Council’s existing portfolio of 77 units, AGM Complete Parts and Component Solutions’s new branch within a 1,250 sq ft space on Sleaford Enterprise Park, will bring an invaluable new automotive and auto-electrical service and supplies business to the area. They also bring three new job opportunities. Alongside this, existing tenant Imp Conservation has expanded into a further 750 sq ft of space at the

Food firm Tulip Ltd is expanding its Ruskington factory, increasing its production capacity by 20% and adding a further 45 full-time equivalent jobs. The £8m investment is underway, with an aim to be completed by April 2015. The Ruskington site is the UK retail sector’s largest supplier of scotch eggs and cocktail sausages, owned by The Danish Crown group, Europe’s largest pork producer and the world’s biggest exporter of pork. The cash injection will increase the production floor by 20% and see the installation of state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment. The investment will include upgrades to existing power, waste and refrigeration plant. Site Director Phil Wheatcroft said the investment locally was ‘testament to the hard work and commitment’ of everyone working at the Ruskington site and would ‘ensure that we can further strengthen our position as an industry leader in the production of fried savoury products for the retail market.’ Tulip is part of a healthy food and farming sector which accounts for more than 19% of all jobs in North Kesteven – four times the national average.

Reedspire Industrial Units. Both lettings were completed by the Council’s agents Hodgson Elkington, bringing the whole estate of workshop units back up to 100% occupancy where it has been for the past year. Cllr Marion Brighton OBE said: “We are always delighted to welcome expanding businesses into our units as that is their purpose, to support business growth. The letting of these units, immediately following the vacation of the previous tenants, has brought the NKDC portfolio back up to its 100% occupancy level and gives further weight to our vision to develop Sleaford and the District as open for business and good for growth.”

newsnk visits businesses across North Kesteven to establish firm facts about the local employment scene Members were impressed to learn of Northrop Grumman’s emphasis on developing science, technology, engineering and mechanical skills while visiting the Sentry programme at RAF Waddington. The company maintains the base’s AWACS fleet and works closely with local schools and colleges to support essential STEM education.

10 newsnk Winter 2014

North Hykeham signmakers Allen Signs has won the inaugural national British Sign and Graphic Association award for their work with another District business. Allen Signs, on Whisby Way, won the Vehicle Graphics of the Year category for their work on Branston Ltd’s new initiative to encourage shoolchildren to understand and enjoy potatoes more. They recreated a 17-year-old double decker bus as Billy Branston’s Amazing Potato Factory. The vehicle livery specialist applied a wrapping film to the exterior of the bus and covered the inside ceiling, walls and seating area with digital printed vinyl – completely reworking the bus into a fully functional, touring classroom, teaching children about the journey of potatoes. Branston’s communications manager Jackie Baker said: “Converting an old bus was a major challenge for all the team. Allen Signs did a great job and worked really hard to get everything done.” As reported in the last edition of newsnk Billy Branston aims to teach children across Key Stages 1 and 2 about a potato’s journey from field to fork via interactive insights and by engaging in cooking. Schools can book a visit from the bus by emailing billy@branston.co.uk

A car was the star when the focus turned to manufacturing at an autumn conference in Sleaford. Alongside the Bloodhound Supersonic Car, parts of which were made by hosts SHD Composites, NKDC launched its Made in Sleaford initiative to celebrate the productivity of local companies and craftspeople. The aim is to build the project into a festival of productivity next summer and autumn, into which businesses are welcome to participate. Sleaford is home to world-class manufacturers in sectors from engineering and composites to agriculture and food and incubates a thriving arts and crafts sector. Made in Sleaford will be a chance for businesses and inventors to showcase their wares, ideas and prototypes to the local community, potential manufacturers and investors. This first manufacturing conference helped businesses to make valuable contacts for breaking into supply chains and procurement, which is another area of focus for NKDC’s Economic Development Team. To raise your profile and promote your business to potential customers, supplier and recruits call the Economic Development Unit on 01529 308174 or email ecodev@n-kesteven.gov.uk

To promote the prosperity of North Kesteven

Hospital work for apprentices District teenagers found work on the regeneration of the historic landmark St John’s Hospital at Bracebridge Heath. As developers Mabec progress their £40m revival of the disused mental hospital into 183 luxury homes with new build houses in the grounds, six apprentices from North Hykeham and Lincoln, aged 16 to 18, were onsite. Their five-week work on the St John’s Village project was part of a joinery apprenticeship with Construction & Skills Solutions, provided through the social enterprise partnership Access Your Future Through Apprenticeships and Build A Future Training Centre. Project manager Dave Branley said it was important to invest in the workers of tomorrow and create a continual pool of talented craftspeople.

Unemployment in NK is lowest for six years Fewer than 1% claim jobless allowance

Unemployment in the District fell during the autumn to its lowest level in six years – back almost to a level of ‘full employment’. The number of people claiming Job Seekers’ Allowance has continued to fall to 800, around 1% of working-age residents. Last year it fell below 1,000 for the first time in five years. With levels reducing further to substantially below the regional and national average, Councillor Marion Brighton, Council Leader with Executive Board oversight for economic growth, said the District was now ‘back to what could be termed full employment,’ given the number of people available for work. With 82% of residents economically active, and of those 71% in full-time work, the District is regarded as having a high employment rate. There are currently only 300 people registered as unemployed in Sleaford and around the same number in North Hykeham, which makes recruitment difficult for some companies looking for specialist skills and attributes. The Centre for Economic and Business Research has found that over the last three decades North Kesteven has seen the UK’s fourth highest growth in the ‘production’ sector – employing 54% more people over that time. The ‘production’ classification includes agricultural machinery, a strong sector locally, quarrying, utilities and waste collection.

Our Economy

Council supporting households and businesses to meet carbon targets NKDC is committed to continuing its cut in carbon emissions by up to 40% by 2020. The new target extends the achievements the Council has made to date in cutting its carbon output by a challenging 21% over the five years up to last April – ahead of the Government’s target and saving £127,000 annually. With a number of projects set to come online in the coming months, significant strides are set to be taken early on. These include: > Delivery of surplus heat from the newly operational renewable energy plant to the Council’s main offices and Sleaford Leisure Centre > Removing computer servers from the Sleaford offices > Renting office space to the county council and Job Centre Plus. The Council’s sustainability team is also rooting out further efficiencies and high energy use across all sites and operations, including travel, and

there is an intention to fit photovoltaic solar panels on to the Council’s roof. In addition to its in-house work to reduce the Council’s own carbon outputs, the team is leading the way in helping businesses, organisations, community groups and households to reduce their outputs for broader District-wide reductions. A number of partners from these sectors have signed up to the Low Carbon NK Plan as everyone works towards an aspirational national reductions target of 80% by 2050, from the 2005 baseline level. Cllr Richard Wright, NKDC’s Executive Board Member for energy efficiency and sustainability, said: “The Council’s achievements in this area have been fantastic; not just on the carbon reduction side but also financial savings totalling almost £130,000 a year. “North Kesteven is walking the walk, making a significant difference and once again leading by example.”

Solar installation Energising plans

Get a scooter Get a life If transport is the only thing coming between you and work, studies or training, free scooter hire could help. Wheels 2 Work Lincolnshire is an affordable scooter hire scheme which gives people aged 16 and over and without alternative access to reliable transport, the freedom to travel wherever and whenever they want. It is especially suited to people struggling to get to work, college, apprenticeships or other training courses, or unable to take on extra shifts to earn more money. All of this can be solved with scooter hire from only £25 per week, which includes all servicing and repairs. There are a number of qualification criteria, including: > Resident in Lincolnshire > Aged 16 or over with your own full or provisional driving licence > You have a job, a job offer or a place in, education or training > It is too far to walk and not well-served by public transport options > Your have own bank account, £120 for your CBT and can afford a weekly payment of up to £30. Wheels 2 Work Lincolnshire has already helped hundreds of people in the area to get on in work and training. In Leanne’s case, having the flexibility to take on extra shifts helped her win promotion and for Georgina not only has she progressed at work but her health and social life have improved by being able to get about more freely. For details: call 01507 526778 visit www.wheels2worklincs.co.uk

Navigation Yard set for central place in town’s growth The Council has bought Navigation Yard at the historic core of Sleaford as a further investment securing the town’s economic growth. A scheme is now being drawn up for the operation of the six retail workshop units which have previously

been leased by the Council in support of craft-based businesses. The purchase includes peppercorn ground leases on the National Centre for Craft & Design and adjacent flats and represents significant potential for annual income.

Cllr Geoff Hazelwood, Executive Board member for property, said this was a rare opportunity to acquire the freehold of such a key central location where the Council’s main cultural facility was based and with potential for further retail growth.

Taking its community leadership responsibilities seriously, NKDC is now looking to generate some of its own electricity. Through its SustainNK operation, the Council puts a lot of emphasis on advising, supporting and raising awareness for residents, businesses and organisations around energy saving initiatives, energy generation and more-efficient use of resources. Building on its established record of promoting and embracing sustainable energy in its council housing and leisure buildings, the Council is now planning to install 52 solar panels on its Sleaford headquarters. The scheme has initial consent but formal planning permission is awaited. The aim is to put four banks of 13 panels in a horizontal row on the south side of the roof behind the Council Chamber, which is not overlooked, cannot be seen from the Listed part of the building or Eastgate and is the most effective place for the scheme’s efficiency. With an installation cost of £22,000, these would generate 12,350 kWh in energy which, based on the current tariff rate would deliver an annual saving of around £3,000 towards the costs of running the Council. Cllr Richard Wright, who has Executive Board oversight for sustainability at NKDC, said it was important that the Council lead by example and continued to pioneer and embrace new technologies that not only helped cut back on the environmental costs of energy production but also the actual costs.

In recent months four schemes have been approved on District farmland for the generation of renewable energy. There are more planning proposals in the pipeline and others are likely to follow on as the country comes up to speed with an EU requirement to generate 15% of its energy from renewable sources by 2020 – the current rate being 5%. These come on top of the new straw-burning power station at Kirkby la Thorpe generating 38 megawatts (MW) – enough power for 65,000 homes and supplying £2m worth of energy savings to five community buildings over 25 years. An anaerobic digestion facility approved between Holdingham and Leasingham will be capable of generating 499kw of energy by breaking down organic matter into biogas. Unanimous committee approval was given for a farm of 200,000 solar photovoltaic panels on 93 hectares of Blankney Estates land at Scopwick, with a generating capacity of 50MW. This is equivalent to the annual consumption of 9,000 homes. A further solar array is approved for Ewerby Thorpe where 100,000 panels on 53 hectares will generate 28MW of energy for 6,000 homes. And another, west of Branston – close to where Branston Ltd has its own pioneering renewable energy generation – will see almost 126,000 panels generate 15MW for a projected 3,600 homes, using 37 hectares of land. The cost of this one is stated as £15m to £20m.

Winter 2014 newsnk 11

Our Homes

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

Carry out carbon safety checks

Funds are available to help meet the costs of rent and council tax

People with fossil fuel and wood burning appliances in their homes are advised to have them checked by a registered engineer. Public Health England is making the national appeal as part of its awareness campaign on the dangers of carbon monoxide. This includes gas-fired boilers, heaters and cookers and gas fires. There are around 40 accidental deaths a year from carbon monoxide poisoning in England and Wales, with a further 4,000 people attending hospital each year with CO poisoning. Most of these are in the winter months, caused by faulty appliances leaking a gas which is difficult to detect because you cannot see, smell or taste it. In addition to having regular tests by registered engineers, householders are advised to fit alarms – compliant with European Standard EN 50291 – in each room with such an appliance and to ensure rooms are well ventilated.

People claiming housing benefit who are finding it difficult to pay their rent are reminded that they can apply for additional support from the District Council. In the current year £107,365 has been allocated to support people who are assessed to be in greatest need. This is a reduction on the £133,229 allocated by the Government last year, under the Discretionary Housing Payment scheme to help people cope with changes to housing benefit, including the spare room subsidy which reduced housing benefit if claimants had one or more spare bedrooms. A Discretionary Housing Payment can be used to help top up housing benefit where it is not covering the full rent, and people struggling to afford rent in advance for a new home can also apply for support. People in various circumstances have been helped, including: > Those affected by the spare

Energy switch North Kesteven householders who signed up for the latest round of the Energy Switch are set to save an average of £229. They switched on to an improved deal as a result of the county-wide participation in a national collective energy switch which attracts improved, market-leading tariffs from suppliers. NKDC has actively encouraged householders to register for the collective arrangements, which have the potential to reap individual savings of some hundreds of pounds a year. Of the 112 people who registered in October, 97% have the potential to save £50 or more if they choose to switch supplier as a result. The average saving is £229 and in general dual-fuel users with paper billing make the highest savings. There is no obligation for people to accept their personal offer, but if they do it is easy and straightforward and the new provider will take care of the whole process. As they become better known, the collective switching schemes are attracting more of the ‘big six’ suppliers and smaller independents to compete more aggressively for your custom through better deals. For the next auction, you need to register before February 2. Households can register their interest at anytime by visiting www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/switch and leaving their contact details. They will be contacted directly when a subsequent round of collective bidding is launched.

12 newsnk Winter 2014

Cllr Stewart Ogden opens Family+, in the company of Fay Nelson from the Foyer, Family+ project lead Ann Mcgirr, Asra service manager Dawn Cooke and NKDC housing needs manager Tracy Aldrich

Families settle in to unique new facility

Unit gives young parents a local solution Vulnerable young families now have stable accommodation in the District to help them settle into their new circumstances. With the opening of Sleaford’s Family+ facility at the Foyer, there is increased scope for specialist support and advice for new parents aged 16 to 25 who would otherwise find themselves homeless and potentially unable to access council housing. Up to now, clients – especially those aged below 18 who cannot get a council house tenancy – could only hope to get one of the existing four units countywide. But with the District Council having nomination rights on these four new flats, young adults in North Kesteven are much better-placed to receive specialist support and security. Building on the success of an initial pilot project flat set up to help expectant or new young parents who otherwise have nowhere to live, the four flats within Family+ aim to help parents re-establish their independence and resettle within the community. With each client receiving tailormade services and advice, they are helped to achieve their full potential as individuals and parents. Working with health visitors and midwives and engaging in clinics, play techniques, educational support and

much more, the Family+ provision offers key advice alongside the vital accommodation. Two of the four flats were allocated within two weeks of opening, with the other two under offer at the end of November. Opening the long-awaited units, Cllr Stewart Ogden, NKDC’s Executive Board Member with responsibility for housing, said: “These flats offer a great opportunity and will be the first steps towards independent living for local young families. They offer the right mix of accommodation, support and practical assistance to young people embarking on the minefield that is parenthood, enabling skills to be learnt to succeed in their tenancies as well as life as mums, dads and happy families.” Partners working to transform the former warden’s flat and spare space included Asra Housing, Sleaford Foyer, NKDC’s housing needs team and United Lincs NHS Trust’s midwives and health visitors. “Together we have achieved something new and exciting for the District, increasing the housing options available locally and strengthening important support networks,” said Cllr Ogden. The District Council made a cash contribution of £3,000 towards the project.

room subsidy in a number of ways > Those requiring help with a rent deposit or rent in advance > Those who have had to give up work to care for a family member Cllr Geoff Hazelwood, Executive Member overseeing housing benefit, said: “It is a key priority of the Council to support our poorest and most vulnerable residents. “There are a number of reasons why people might need extra help to pay their rent. Housing benefits are not just for those out of work but are also for people in work who are eligible for financial support. “For this reason, I urge anyone finding it hard to pay their rent to get in touch as we may be able to help.” The Council also has an Exceptional Hardship Fund available for anyone struggling to pay their council tax. For details call 01529 414155 or email benefits@n-kesteven.gov.uk Advisers can also help applicants with filling in documents.

Lincs Homefinder success More than 90% of people placed into North Kesteven’s council housing during the last year could demonstrate a strong local connection. Local association is a key factor in determining eligibility for council housing and housing association stock under the new Lincs Homefinder, which opens up the North Kesteven, Lincoln and West Lindsey housing registers to all. Of the 3,831 applications across the partnership area in the first 12 months from March 2013, 996 were received and processed by North Kesteven, in an average of 19 days each. Families and single people each made up around 36% of the total applications. There were 322 lettings of Council

tenancies, of which all but 30 had a local connection through current residency, family association, work or as previous residents. In total, 91.1% had local connections; 75.2% (242) of them currently living in NK. Four more had no local connection but were homeless and the other 26 without local connection were only eligible for the least popular, otherwise hard to let, more isolated properties. Cllr Stewart Ogden, Executive Board Member for housing, said the Lincs Homefinder scheme had worked well because the Council had been able to address local issues whilst still managing under-occupation through a flexible approach. See www.lincshomefinder.co.uk

Expertise expands to meet demand Consistently high demand for NKDC’s housing needs services and advice has lead to an expansion of the team. It is anticipated that requests for the expertise of housing needs officers will remain above 900 cases a year. As well as giving housing advice and helping avoid homelessness across all tenures – including owneroccupiers and private rentals – the team is responsible for: > Allocation of council tenancies; > Nomination to other registered social landlords; > The housing register; and > Cases of statutory homelessness. Cllr Stewart Ogden, Executive

Board Member for housing, said: “While cases relating to the Council’s role as landlord – allocations, nominations and maintaining the housing register – have remained constant, it is in the wider work of Housing Needs, in respect of housing advice and homeless prevention, where we have seen a particular surge in recent years. “There is no particular reason for this other than broader awareness of what we can offer as a Council; each case is complex and varied and may include family exclusion and relationship breakdown or financial hardship.

Our Homes

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

Sub-division built in to build

District’s hardline on fly-tipping puts it ahead of national picture

Curved houses which can be adjusted to meet residents’ accommodation requirements have been built by the District Council. With its track-record in building excellence and responding to local need, NKDC built into its development of 13 new homes at Northfield Road, Ruskington, the flexibility to subdivide by moving walls to suit demand for one or two bedroom houses. On the site of a former sheltered housing scheme, the two bungalows and 11 houses were built in a crescent. Developed through consultation with tenants, they were built to the Council’s own high standard with high levels of insulation in a bid to minimise energy costs for tenants. Cllr Stewart Ogden, Executive Board Member for housing, said this development, built without government funding, demonstrated the Council’s commitment to increase the availability of quality, affordable homes locally, aiming to add 500 new homes to its stock over a decade. They were built by D Brown in just ten months and quickly allocated to people who had been on the Council’s housing waiting list.

Disappointing and expensive as it is to deal with, fly-tipping is less of a problem in North Kesteven than across the country. The District Council has defied the national trend in fly-tipping statistics, with only a 5% year-on-year increase against a national rise of 20% . Between October 2013 and September 2014, NKDC dealt with 928 incidents of fly-tipping, taking action in 914 cases and prosecuting 14 having established strong evidence to take the perpetrators to court. Items included animal carcasses, vehicle parts, white goods and commercial waste – with general household waste occupying 43% of NKDC’s collections. Builder’s and commercial waste, tyres and asbestos were also significant problems. Across England in 2013/14 66% of fly-tipped waste was household refuse – nearly 563,000 incidents in total; one for every 39 households in England. The fact that 70% of the District’s fly-tipping incidents were found along highways – more than the national trend of 47% – illustrates the major issue of tippers driving into or through the District to dump illegally.

Flexible homes built with scope to change bedroom configuration

The new-look Northfield Road, Ruskington

Moving new year Meeting demand Thirty families will start the new year in new homes with the completion of the latest phases of NKDC’s new-build programme. The 26 new council houses at Bonner Close in central Sleaford – on the site of the former Bonner House – are due to be finished by Christmas and a further four at Princess Margaret Avenue, Metheringham by early January next year. The Metheringham project includes the 100th house built since NK pioneered new building in 2010. Work is also underway on six more at School Lane, Helpringham.

A 12-house extension to Kesteven Court in North Hykeham will be included in the forward plan for stock expansion next year. The full membership of the Council approved to bring the project forward as soon as possible in order to meet a high demand for council housing in North Hykeham, particularly one and two beds. Costs will be partially met from the £1m-plus Homes & Communities Agency award made to the Council earlier this year to support the delivery of 48 new homes over the next three years.

Cllr Richard Wright, who has Executive Board responsibility for environmental protection, said: “It cost the District Council £55,965 to deal with all the fly-tipping last year, nearly £30,000 on investigation the 914 cases. “This is a significant sum shows how committed we are to catching and prosecuting those who insist on maliciously littering our District. “We work extremely hard to keep our figures low, as we know that fly-tipping is not tolerated by our residents,” he said. “We offer good alternatives for residents to dispose of their waste and believe this is a huge contribution in us having figures so significantly below the national average.” Of the 14 cases successfully prosecuted, nine resulted in fines totalling £3,250. Recently two men were prosecuted at Lincoln Magistrates Court for dumping household waste at Meadow Lane, North Scarle. Jack Harmston of North Hykeham and Lewis Hall of Market Rasen both pleaded guilty and were collectively fined £580, with £300 court costs and £60 victim surcharges.

Over-55s’ residential block approved Closed house

Making a date with Whisby in 2015

Plans to include a 44-bed retirement block for the over-55s within a new residential scheme have been approved for Washingborough. One of NKDC’s planning committees gave unanimous support for the overall development of 92 homes at land off Church Hill, subject to amendments to an agreement for community infrastructure contributions. Details of the design will be dealt with through a further application after the outline principle was agreed. The other 48 homes on site would include substantial provision for lowcost starter homes, according to the applicants.

A series of stunning images taken by walkers and nature watchers at Whisby will help to keep the Nature Park in mind during 2015. They feature in the park’s annual calendar after being chosen as the winners in this year’s photo competition. The calendar is for sale now at Whisby’s gift shop, priced £4.99, and entries for the 2016 calendar will be welcome from March - so get out and about now snapping your favourite scenes of the nature park. Rachel Bernes’ Walk into Nature was chosen as the winner, ahead of Paul Sutton’s Family Meeting and Clea Butcher’s Sunset Spectrum, all pictured below. Highly commended were Neil Roberts, Dan Newton, Barry Pearce, Graham Roberts, Louis Sanguy and Kevin Bonser. The cover shot is Joanne Borrill’s Walking the Willow Walk; the visitors’ favourite was Ellie Roberts’ A Squirrel of Nuts and Vera Holmes and Phillip Lewis were also runners up. Call on 01522 688868 for details of submission to the competition.

Although there were 16 neighbours opposed, most parishioners at a public meeting had supported the development and the Parish Council welcomed the initiative to increase provision for the over 55s. Sums have been requested in support of additional education and healthcare facilities locally, bus stop improvements and open space, plus a requirement to ensure 35% of the development – 32 homes in total – meets criteria as affordable housing. Access to the retirement block will be from Church Hill and the larger site of two-storey houses will be served from Pitts Road.

Within a month of a new law taking effect, the Council has been the first to use it to stop certain people from entering a particular property. The Closure Order is in place for three months until late February. It was secured for the protection of the tenant and neighbours who complained of intimidation, noise and anti-social behaviour after people known by the tenant moved in uninvited and attracted an anti-social element to the flat. Community Safety Partnership chairman Cllr Mike Gallagher said the Council’s speed illustrated its proactive management of complaints.

Soundly-based Local Plan will help communities plan The Council’s Executive has formally confirmed its support for the aims, vision and priorities of the developing Local Plan. As one of four partners in the Central Lincolnshire partnership devising a joint package of overarching policies under which all planning applications will be considered for growth in North Kesteven, West Lindsey and Lincoln through to 2036, NKDC says it is essential to move towards the plan’s adoption by late 2016. Cllr Marion Brighton OBE, who chairs the joint Local Plan committee said that without soundly-based, publically-

endorsed long-term policies in place, developers are seeing an opportunity to put forward schemes which local communities and councillors would have difficulty fighting. But with a new, agreed and adopted plan, communities and planning authorities would be in a stronger position to make their case. “It is essential that growth must be in the right places, at the right pace and at the right time with infrastructure developed alongside so communities remain vibrant, sustainable and thriving. “Together, we aim to develop a plan on which we are chiefly agreed,

setting out how much housing is needed and where; detailing what we expect to accompany it in terms of healthcare, jobs, schools, roads and infrastructure; and setting out the rules for planning through to 2036.” “Growth has to happen and with a Local Plan in place we can direct that, but without one we don’t really stand a chance; we face a policy vacuum and a free-for-all with limited capacity for any of us to exercise control and caution,” said Mrs Brighton. Further public involvement in shaping the plan will be welcomed in 2015. For details see the website at www.central-lincs.org.uk

What do you love about NK?

Photography Competition – FREE ENTRY Capture what you love about NK, something in your village or maybe your favourite place to visit. We want to capture the distinctive character of North Kesteven from its heritage and history to its diverse landscapes and communities. Winning entries will be featured in our NEW calendar available from November 2015. First prize - a half day’s experience with professional photographer

Entries welcomed up to Friday, July 3 For more information and how to apply, contact 01529 308207 or email discovernk@n-kesteven.gov.uk

Winter 2014 newsnk 13

What’s On

Jabba the Beach Hut heralds warmer days

Architecture, seaside designs and domestic decoration give shape and form to exhibitions programme The National Centre for Craft & Design

Exhibitions Main Gallery Continues to March 20 Space Craft: Architecture meets making A new touring exhibition in the Main Gallery, developed by the Crafts Council, explores the relationship between architecture and making. Bringing together the disciplines of craft making and our built environment, it presents the work of ten makers inspired by architecture and architects that put the physical act of making at the heart of their work. Work includes ceramics, glass, jewellery, furniture, willow sculptures and an entire cityscape made of wood,

inspired by Grimm’s’ Fairy Tales. An exciting learning and events programme complements this exhibition, which – as with the rest of the centre – is free and open daily, except Bank Holidays. Lesser Known Architecture, running alongside is a Design Museum touring show that documents some of the UK’s hidden architectural gems and makes connections between architecture, craft and making. This is the first time that these independent touring shows from the Crafts Council and Design Museum are available to view side by side.

Architecture meets Making

Lesser Known Architecture

Terry O’Toole Theatre December 9 – 12, 7.30pm The Wizard of Oz NK School presents the classical musical with witches, wizards, ruby shoes and roads of yellow brick. Tickets: £7 & £5. December 13, 7.30pm Festive Favourites A delightful selection of seasonal music and carols from the RAF Waddington Voluntary Band. Tickets: £8.50 & £6.50. December 17, 7.30pm Hark, Hark Tight-packed harmony carols in the Sheffield tradition, old and new, to set you in the festive mood. Tickets: £12, £10 & £5. December 20 It’s a Wonderful Life - cancelled

January 14 – 17, 7pm & 2.30pm on Saturday 17 The Three Musketeers: La Pantomime! Resident theatre group ACTion’s ever-popular community panto. Tickets: £5 to £9, with family & group booking discounts. February 6, 7.30pm Youth Dance Showcase The annual showcase for artsNK’s Youth Dance

14 newsnk Winter 2014

01529 308710

www.nationalcraftanddesign.org.uk

February Half Term February 14 – 22 Bathing Beauties Winter Beach drop-in activities The mezzanine will be transformed into a celebration of beach architecture, as the touring exhibition Bathing Beauties, pictured left, finally comes home to Sleaford after three years on the road. Free drop-in learning activities throughout the week.

February 16, 1pm – 3pm Listen, Make and Create Popular, energetic workshops led by professional storyteller Kirsty Mead combining storytelling, music, movement and making so every child has something to take home. For ages 4-10, £8. February 17, 10.30am – 12pm Dinky Designers Monthly, fun craft and design sessions encouraging the

February 21, 12pm – 4pm Art Foundations Explore the basics of art and design with artist Kate Robotham in four workshops. This month: line, form and texture. For ages 16+, £22 per session or £80 for all four, £15 for under 18s.

Roof Gallery December 6 – February 8 The Handmade Home In the Roof Gallery the Northampton Guild of Designer Craftsmen, in association with The Örebro Crafts Guild from Sweden, champions crafted objects in our homes. The vitality and quality of a finely made craft object transcends fashion and style as a skilful craft worker transforms even the most humble object with an individuality, beauty and quality that raise it far above the merely functional.

of perfection not normally associated with hand-made ceramics, displayed in a refreshing way which pushes tension to the limits. King is keen to explore and learn from constructive critique from NCCD visitors.

Workshops December 6, 10am – 1pm Rolled Clay and Cut Paper Combine British and Swedish craft skills to make a personalised tile using paper cutting and clay skills. £25, inc materials and firing.

Window space Continues to March 29 Helen Pailing: Object a Day Pailing’s practice involves the transformation of everyday materials into sculptural  objects, installations and interventions.  A playful, intuitive collaboration between maker and materials which forms a large body of work made during her residency with the organisation Visual Arts in Rural Communities.

December 6, 10am – 1pm Swedish Wool Embroidery Swedish Artisan Guild member, Elisabet Jansson introduces Swedish folk art wool embroidery. £20, inc materials.

Project Space December 6 – February 8 Jane King Incident King’s slick surfaces and bright colours bring a level

For full exhibition listings, details of regular events, workshops and the season’s full learning programme pick up a brochure or see www.nationalcraftanddesign.org.uk

North Kesteven Centre, North Hykeham

December 21, 3pm Santa’s Little Helper! A funny, festive adventure with a very happy ending as Albert helps at Santa’s side. For little people aged 3+ and big people too. Duration 50 minutes. Tickets: £6, £20 for a family of four, or in the season deal.

Navigation Wharf, Sleaford

01522 870251

Programme, celebrating dancers aged 7 to 19, and popular groups kNacKer’d, redXco and Jumpstart. Tickets: £3 & £2. February 12, 6pm & 7.15pm Primary Schools’ Dance Showcase A celebration of children’s dance themed around transition to secondary school. Tickets: £3 & £2. February 13, 7.30pm Slim Panatella and the Mellow Virginians World-class mandolin, violin, guitar and bass bring jazz, swing, ragtime and blues from the 1930s to the 50s, plus original tunes! Tickets: £12, £10 & £5. £2 Jazzpac discount.

under-5s to explore the inspiring exhibitions, followed by lots of messy and creative play. For ages up to 5, £4.

December 13, 10am – 1pm Washed-up Wool Designer Craftsmen guild member Ruth Rignall expands knowledge of knitting and felting. Lots of ideas and different techniques suitable for all abilities. £20, inc materials. December 20, 1pm – 4pm Fantastic Felt Making Northampton Guild member

February 21 & 22, 10am – 4pm Machine Stitch Markmaking Textile artist Naseem Darbey gives a 2-day creative masterclass in free-hand machine embroidery. On the first day you will build up a portfolio of drawing techniques and then build these into three dimensions, building sculptural layers of wire and soluble fabric. For ages 12+, £90 & £45. Heidi Street-Ward guides the transformation of sheep’s wool into a fantastic felt picture. Suitable for all ages 6+ with wonderful creative results! £20, inc materials. December 21, 10am – 4pm Festive Willow Northampton Guild member Maggie Smith offers a full day making a willow wreath base and other Christmas decorations from willow. £45, inc materials, mince pies and mulled wine. January 10, 1pm – 4pm Young Design Portfolio Clinic Considering a creative career, applying to college, or preparing for exams? Gain advice on your portfolio in preparation for any interviews or coursework you may have coming up, or simply to talk through your ideas. Drop-in.

www.terryotooletheatre.org.uk February 21, 3pm Cirkus Spectakular A tender and touching show for all the family bringing the colourful, topsy-turvy world of circus to everyone aged 4 to 104. Tickets: £6, £20 for family.

February 27, 7.30pm Club Red – Highly Sprung A night of inspiring, original devised physical theatre by young people, for ages 12+. Tickets: £7 & £5.

March 5. 7.30pm TÂN – Harnisch-Lacey Contemporary dance, breakdance and parkour, explore themes of identity, freedom and transformation as Wales recaptures its cultural identity. Tickets: £12, £10 & £5.

March 14, 7.30pm TOTT Young Ambassadors Young people based at Terry O’Toole Theatre have been working to create this extra special event just for you.

March 7, 6pm & March 8, 1pm Showstoppers Spotlight Dance Studio presents musicals in dance, song and music. Tickets: £7.50 & £6.

March 21, 3pm Pitschi, A Kitten With Dreams Based on Hans Fischer’s award-winning book, this tale has delighted generations of children globally. For ages 3+. Tickets: £6, £20 a family of four.

March 12, 7.30pm Jesse Bannister Quartet Jazz as you’ve never heard it before! Touching on reggae, Bollywood and world music, this band wants to give you a good time. Tickets: £12, £10 & £5. £2 Jazzpac discount.

March 22, 7.30pm Jimmy Buckley Old style, traditional country music, original material and some impersonations, performing tributes to some of the greats, including Hank Williams, Charlie Pride and Merle Haggard. Tickets: £20.

What’s On

Whisby Nature Park & Natural World Centre Thorpe on the Hill

Education events

The Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust runs a range of events at its centre within Whisby Nature Park. Details and booking from the education centre on 01522 696926. First Saturday of the month: Junior Wardens, 10am – 1pm Practical hands-on tasks and activities for ages 10 - 16, £2: January 3, February 7, March 7 & April 4. First Wednesday of the month: Nature Tots, 10am – 11am Seasonal activities for the Under 5s, £2: January 7, February 4, March 4 & April 1. Second Saturday: Wildlife Watch and Wildlife Explorers, 10am – 12.30pm Outdoors fun for ages 5-12, £2: January 10, February 14, March 14 & April 11. March 28 to 13 April: Easter Egg Hunt, 10am – 3.30am daily Self-guided trail, £2 per trail.

01522 688868

www.naturalworldcentre.co.uk

Winter wonders on Whisby wanders

Christmas lunch and Boxing Day brunch add to a walk’s delights Winter is the most perfect time to step out into the great outdoors and discover the beauty of nature. This is especially easy to spot at Whisby Nature Park where seasonal changes on the reserve can be seen – birch trees revealing the pale skeleton of their branches and a wider selection of birds joining the summer chaffinches and tits at the feeders; tree sparrows, goldfinches, greenfinches or even siskins. The wildfowl on the lakes, which have been shedding their dull late

summer plumage, will reveal their true colours, making them easier to identify. Berries and fruits also show up more clearly against the increasingly bare hedgerows, attracting thrushes and blackbirds. So there is plenty to look forward to, with the car park closing at 7pm in winter. Car parking now costs £2 for the whole day, which gives free access to the park, visitor centre, toilets and children’s play facilities at Little Darters. Photo: Elizabeth Dunn’s Frosty Morning at Whisby, a winning entry for the 2014 calendar

Plenty of pies, pinhole photography and planets for all

Boardwalk cafe

Boardwalk Cafe Events January 26 to February 1 – National Farmhouse Breakfast Week: Celebrate with a full farmhouse breakfast. March 3 to 9 – National Pie Week: Try the delicious daily special pies. Happening Half-Term Activities Saturday, February 14, 11am to 12pm – Love birds: Design a pair of love birds to share with your Valentine. Wednesday, February 18, 11am to 12pm –The Secret Room: Inspired by the Trevor Gibbs exhibition, transform a shoe box into your very own secret room or secret garden. Sunday, February 22, 11am to 12pm – Bird masks: Create a colourful bird mask using textured papers and feathers. For children 4+, to be accompanied. Booking essential, £3.50 per child. Different Suns: Solargraphs and other work by photographer Keith James. Exhibitions & workshops Saturday, January 10 – Create a calendar: Design and make your 2015 calendar using a mixture of media and recycled materials. For children 4+, to be accompanied at all times by an adult. Booking is essential, £3.50 per child. January 19 to February 22 –

Whisby’s not only about the great outdoors, as there are many delights indoors too – not least the treats in the Boardwalk Café. There is quite a menu of options for getting together with friends, family and colleagues in the warmth of the café, coupled with a stroll over the Festive period. Christmas Lunch – Saturday & Sunday, December 6 & 7, 12pm to 2.30pm. Two course lunch £13.95 or three courses £15.95. Christmas Party Lunch – Mondays & Tuesdays, December 15, 16, 22 & 23, 12pm to 2.30pm. Two courses £13.95 or three courses £15.95. Christmas Party Dinner – Fridays & Saturdays, December 12, 13, 19 & 20, 7pm. Three course dinner plus entertainment, £24.95. Christmas Afternoon Tea – Served daily throughout December from 2.30pm. Tea for two £16. Boxing Day Brunch – Friday, December 26, 12pm to 2.30pm. Set brunch, £9.95. Details and downloadable menus: > At www.naturalworldcentre.co.uk > Call on 01522 688868 or > Email whisby@1life.co.uk > Book to avoid disappointment.

Abandoned Lincolnshire: Showcasing iconic Lincolnshire institutions from a bygone era in various states of dereliction. Local photographer Trevor Gibbs explores the urban landscape of uninhabited and derelict properties within Lincolnshire, showing how the environment has come to live in empty spaces within our towns and cities. There are two linked, two-hour workshops by Trevor: Sunday, February 1, for adults; Sunday, February 15, for ages 11+ Booking essential and take your own camera equipment to use. Saturday, February 3 – Morning Story Time: Part of National Story Telling Week, ideal for the little ones. March 1 to April 15 – Different Suns: A unique insight into the passage of time and the sun cycle over the landscape of the nature reserve. A photographic exhibition that explores views of the reserve under sun and moon; exposures recorded through the technique of solar exposure - solargrams. The show coincides with the 15th Worldwide Pinhole Photography Day and on March 20, at 9.46am, the UK will fall under a very large partial solar eclipse.

Keith will hold free drop-in talks on Saturday, March 7 and Sunday, April 11, from 12pm to discuss his interest in solargraphy and explain how you can create your own pinhole camera. The talks will last for around an hour. Book on 01522 688868. Also, two-part workshops about pinhole cameras, spanning two months to capture the sun’s movement within the nature reserve. First an introduction to creating a pinhole camera and positioning it; second part collecting the camera and printing the results captured. Schools can book for the weeks beginning February 9 and March 23. Individuals, aged 11+ will be able to book for February 20 and April 10. All 11am – 1pm. Booking essential. Space Weekend, in Astronomy Week Saturday, March 7 – Doodle Day: All-day free drop-in suitable for all the family. Doodle away on a paper carpet which will be displayed within the Centre. Theme: earth & beyond Sunday, March 8, 11am to 12pm: Transform paper plates and recycled objects into a scene out of this world. Theme: moons & mountains. > In all cases: booking and details on: 01522 688868 or whisby@1life.co.uk

Explore & discover the District for free Aviation goes Behind the scenes in 2015 The District Council’s visitor attractions will be open for free as part of the Discover Lincolnshire weekend on 28 and 29 March. The special pre-season weekend offers a chance to explore popular attractions for free and with a little something extra thrown in. At Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre, discover the history of RAF Cranwell, through interactive exhibits, archive film, story boards and artefacts. Take the

opportunity to view the new Nose Art exhibition and enjoy free refreshments. Discover the history of Cogglesford Watermill and Navigation House in Sleaford. Visit both to claim a free 500g bag of organic flour, milled at Cogglesford. Details of all attractions taking part will be available nearer the time at www.heartoflincs.com Find us on Facebook/heartoflincs or follow us on Twitter @discovernk

Behind the Scenes at College Hall, RAF Cranwell – Tuesday, February 24, 9.30am to 2pm. An opportunity to tour the iconic College Hall with curator Hazel Crozier guiding you through extraordinary halls, beautiful artworks and historic artefacts. Vintage bus travel, buffet lunch and chance to see the newly installed Nose Art exhibition. Meeting at Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre, £14 per person.

Battle of Britain Anniversary Lecture and Tour – Friday, July 31 and Saturday, August 1. Commemorating the anniversary and the District’s importance to one of the most famous battles of World War II. An insightful evening lecture by Dave Harrigan and day tour of linked airfields past and present. Prices and further details are to be confirmed. Register on 01529 308207 or email discovernk@n-kesteven.gov.uk

Festive events District-wide

The Natural World Centre’s annual Christmas craft fair is in its 13th year celebrating the festive period as well as supporting local artists and crafters. Through to Sunday, January 4, 10am to 4.30pm daily, the upper gallery will be filled with fabulous festive treats and stunning crafts including jewellery, glassware, textiles, homeware, Christmas wreaths, hampers, plus lots more from some of Lincolnshire’s finest craft makers. From beautiful handcrafted children’s toys to delicate handmade jewellery, it’s the ideal place to find unique gifts for all occasions. The Whisby centre also hosts its third Crackin’ Christmas Celebration on Sunday, December 14, 10am to 4pm with unique gifts and hand crafted items, mulled wine, mince pies and all the trimmings. Free entry. The event draws more than 1,000 visitors to enjoy stalls including arts & crafts, seasonal treats and more. This year there will be activities with the Terry O’Toole panto cast, Witham Valley Country Park team and artsNK, a mini food festival plus a free workshop for all ages to create your own Christmas card. In North Hykeham, the popular Nativity on the Green takes place on Wednesday December 10, from 5.45pm with performance by local school choirs, brass bands and dance groups; entertainment for all and a variety of Christmas goods on sale. In Sleaford the National Centre for Craft & Design’s December programme features a range of Christmas craft opportunities, detailed on page 14. On Sunday, December 14, 11am 4pm, enjoy Christmas in the Medieval way, with traditional decorations and children’s Christmas trail at Cogglesford Watermill. Free event. On weekends, 11am - 4pm, at Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre children can find reindeers which have lost their way to claim a prize. Free entry.

Winter weekends Throughout the winter the Council’s visitor attractions are open every weekend. Cogglesford Watermill – Saturdays and Sundays only: 12pm to 4pm. Navigation House – Saturdays and Sundays only: 12pm to 4pm. Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre – Saturdays and Sundays only: 10am to 4pm. Admission is free to all venues. Open on the weekends only until April 1. Call 01529 308102, email discovernk@n-kesteven.gov.uk or visit www.heartoflincs.com

Winter 2014 newsnk 15

CHRISTMAS NEW YEAR REFUSE / RECYCLING COLLECTIONS 2014 / 2015 Collection days will change for everyone this Christmas and New Year. To make sure you know when to put your wheeled bins out, please refer to this collection calendar.

North Kesteven District Council

Normal Collection Day

Revised Collection Day

Monday, December 22

Saturday, December 20

Tuesday, December 23

Monday, December 22

Wednesday, December 24

Tuesday, December 23

Thursday, December 25

Wednesday, December 24

Friday, December 26

Saturday, December 27

Monday, December 29

No Change

Tuesday, December 30

No Change

Wednesday, December 31

No Change

Thursday, January 1

Friday, January 2

Saturday, January 3

Bins out early

Normal collections

Side waste

Christmas trees

Please ensure that your bins are out by 7.30am on collection day as collection times may vary.

We will take waste left at the side of your bins for your first collection of the black and greenlidded bins after Christmas Day.

If in doubt please call the Refuse Hotline, for free on 0800 174499.

FESTIVE RECYCLING ADVICE

will resume on January 5, 2015. For garden waste collections refer to your calendar.

can be chopped up and placed in the brown bin for garden waste collection if you have one; otherwise take to your nearest household waste recycling centre at Sleaford, Leadenham, Whisby or Lincoln.

What to put in the green-lidded recycling bin and what to keep out

ITEMS NEED A QUICK RINSE AND SHOULD BE PLACED LOOSE IN YOUR RECYCLING BIN. GLASS BOTTLES & JARS PLASTICS FIZZY DRINK BOTTLES

✖

BATTERIES FOOD WASTE

PAPER AND CARDBOARD CARD & CARBOARD

WAXED DRINK CARTONS

TOPS/LIDS ACCEPTED METAL TOPS

PLASTIC LIDS

POLYSTYRENE CUDDLY TOYS SHINY WRAPPING

CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS

PLASTICS CHRISTMAS CARDS

FOOD TRAYS

ICE CREAM TUBS

MARGARINE TUBS

TIN FOIL

FOOD TINS

DRINK CANS

BISCUIT / SWEET TINS

ELECTRICAL ITEMS

SWEET WRAPS CRISP BAGS

BINS WILL NOT BE EMPTIED IF THEY CONTAIN ANY OF THESE ITEMS

CHRISTMAS TREES

LARGE PLASTIC ITEMS (e.g. TOYS)

IF IN DOUBT, LEAVE IT OUT

METAL

If an item isn’t listed visit www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/recyclingguide or call the waste hotline on 0800 174499 Food leftovers – For recipe ideas on what to do with spare sprouts and other edible leftovers, see the website www.lovefoodhatewaste.com

Excess fat from cooking your turkey should never be poured down the sink. It can be easily turned into a fat ball for birds and the cooked carcass hung outside for the birds to peck at.