Long Sutton dental practice sold to expanding group

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Long Sutton dental practice sold to expanding group
Long Sutton Dentistry in Lincolnshire has been sold to an expanding group. Set up by the previous owners, Kenny Doig, Jez Hyland, and Sam Wright, in 2013, it is located in the market town of Long Sutton, near Boston and Spalding in South Lincolnshire. Over the last 12 years, it has grown into a four-surgery practice and become a mainstay for the local community. The practice was brought to market to allow the sellers to concentrate on their other business interests. Following a confidential sales process with Tom Morley at Christie & Co, it has been sold to The Dental Design Studio. Dr Kenny Doig, former owner of Long Sutton Dentistry, said: “It’s reassuring to know that our staff and patients are in excellent hands, thanks to DDS’s outstanding track record of professionalism and expertise. The trust and confidence we feel stems directly from their proven capabilities. “We would like to express our appreciation for Jeff and Larry, who made every interaction a pleasure. Their approachability and professionalism ensured the process was not just straightforward but truly instilled confidence that we had made the correct decision to sell to a group rather than a large corporate.” Dr Jeffrey Sherer, Clinical Director at The Dental Design Studio, said: “We’re very happy to have acquired Long Sutton – our twenty-second dental practice. It is a fantastic practice with a great team, and we are so pleased to have it as part of our group.” Tom Morley, Associate Director – Dental at Christie & Co, said: “It was a pleasure to represent, Jez, Kenny, and Sam in the sale of Long Sutton, and I wish Larry and Jeff all the best with their new acquisition. Another successful sale in the East Midlands demonstrates to the market that quality private practices are continually acquired by aspirational groups.” Long Sutton Dentistry was sold for an undisclosed price.   Image credit: Christie & Co

More than ten tonnes of plastics removed from Lincolnshire beaches

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More than ten tonnes of plastics removed from Lincolnshire beaches

After clumps of burnt plastic ‘nurdles’ were washed ashore following an incident in the North Sea, teams from East Lindsey District Council have been cleaning up the plastic pellets from the beach.

As of Friday 28 March at 2pm, 10.18 tonnes of this material have been collected and brought to Lincolnshire County Council’s waste transfer station in Louth. Here, it will be bulked up and sent for safe disposal via energy from waste. Thanks to reports from members of the public, the clean-up operation has been able to focus on the areas worst affected and quickly remove the plastic pollution from the shoreline. This work continues as more pollutants continue to wash up. As crews focus on clearing the beaches and removing these pollutants from the environment, there may be a delay in emptying litter bins or street cleaning elsewhere in East Lindsey. If you see any of the pellets, please leave them where they are, keep children and dogs away, and report them so they can be safely removed. You can report ‘nurdle’ pollution online at www.north-norfolk.gov.uk/plastic-nurdles this will then be distributed to the relevant authority for clean up.  
Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Steven F Granville

Countryside Lincs brings fantastic displays and demonstrations this Sunday

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Countryside Lincs brings fantastic displays and demonstrations this Sunday
Taking place on Sunday 6th April between 10am and 4pm, Countryside Lincs promises fantastic displays and demonstrations, as well as interactive activities and workshops. New for 2025 is the Equine Display Area, featuring displays from Cleethorpes and Grimsby Riding for the Disabled and The Pony Club. Take a moment to enjoy performances from The Trickstars – as seen on Britain’s Got Talent. For those wanting to get hands-on, there will be free interactive indoor activities taking place in the EPIC and EXO Centre, including cookery workshops and traditional craft activities such as spinning and weaving. Children can also enjoy tractor and trailer rides, circus skills, livestock displays, animal handling and an Easter trail. The Equine Display Area will also offer a meet and greet with Tinkerbell the Mini Pony, as well as the chance to watch the NCPA Spring Pony Show. Hosted by the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society (LAS), a registered charity, the event aims to educate young minds about Lincolnshire food, farming and the countryside to foster a deeper understanding of where our food comes from. There are lots of activities for families to get involved with across eight indoor and outdoor zones, and visitors will even have the chance to take a selfie with the brand-new Lincolnshire Show tractor as we count down the days until the 140th Lincolnshire Show on 18th and 19th June. A jam-packed day filled with animals, activities, experiences and entertainment for all the family, it’s an event not to be missed! Advance tickets are available to purchase online now, priced at £12 per adult, £6 per child (under 2’s go free) and £34 for a family of five. Booking fees apply. On-the-day tickets are priced at £15 per adult, £8 per child (under 2’s go free) and £40 for a family of five. To find out more about Countryside Lincs and to purchase tickets, visit www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk/countryside-lincs.

Grand Central plans direct Lincolnshire-London rail service by 2026

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Grand Central plans direct Lincolnshire-London rail service by 2026

Grand Central has notified Network Rail of its plans to introduce a direct rail service between Lincolnshire and London, connecting Cleethorpes, Grimsby, Habrough, and Scunthorpe to King’s Cross.

The company will submit a formal application to the Office of Rail and Road (ORR), and pending regulatory approval, services are expected to launch by late 2026.

The proposed route would add over 775,000 new seats annually, improving regional connectivity and optimising underused rail capacity. Trains will integrate with Grand Central’s existing services via Doncaster, offering more travel options for passengers.

Managing Director Paul Hutchings highlighted the significance of restoring direct rail links to Cleethorpes, last available in 1992. The service aims to enhance economic ties between Lincolnshire and London, benefiting passengers and businesses.

The initiative follows London North Eastern Railway’s failed attempt to establish a similar route in 2023. Grand Central’s expansion could reshape regional transport and support economic growth in underserved areas if approved.

  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/den-belitsky

New car park to be created on Sleaford’s derelict ambulance station site

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New car park to be created on Sleaford’s derelict ambulance station site
A new car park is to be created on Sleaford’s derelict ambulance station site, offering additional free and low-cost parking. North Kesteven District Council has bought the old ambulance station on Kesteven Street to create additional public parking close to the town centre. Being easily accessed off Eastgate, one of the town’s main arterial routes, a significant advantage is that it can serve vehicles before they reach the one-way system, helping to address congestion, vehicle idling and car dominance in the centre. Through an early decision to offer the first hour for free, and charge £1.50 for up to three hours and £3.50 for longer, it will support workers, shoppers and visitors to the Hub and nearby leisure centre, in particular. Having now agreed to use the site for parking, the Council’s Executive Board was advised that plans and approaches will be developed to make the site available as soon as possible in order to respond to perceived parking need. Across District Council-run car parks, a freeze on charges, without any increases since 2019, continues into the forthcoming year. David Steels, Assistant Director of Environment & Public Protection who has overview of parking services, said that this new additional provision, coupled with the imminent replacement of parking machines and introduction in December of phone, text and app technologies to facilitate payment, were complementary measures enhancing parking provision, broadening customer choice and supporting the town’s economic renewal.   Image credit: North Kesteven District Council

Modernisations come to historic Boston Market

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Modernisations come to historic Boston Market

A series of modernisations and new initiatives are coming to the historic Boston Market to enhance the experience for traders and visitors.

To modernise and rejuvenate the market, Boston Borough Council are introducing brand-new Boston Market UK branded gazebos, replacing the old stalls. These vibrant gazebos, along with new branding and bunting, will give the market a fresh and inviting look, making it a more enjoyable place to shop and explore. To support traders and engage with the community, the market will launch a weekly promotion scheme on its social media accounts. Each week, a different trader will be featured, providing them with exposure and helping to attract more customers to their stalls. The rent for a pitch at the market is also becoming more affordable, with new incentives available for traders. This initiative aims to encourage more traders to join the market and create a diverse and vibrant trading environment. Boston Market UK will host three Teenage Markets on 24 May, 2 August and 16 August 2025. These events will provide young traders with a platform to showcase their products, contributing to the market’s dynamic atmosphere. Meanwhile, starting this month, a new Makers and Farmers Market will be held in the Market Place within the town centre. This market will take place on the last Saturday of every month until October 2025, from 9am to 2pm. It will feature a variety of local produce and handmade goods, offering visitors a unique shopping experience. David Smith, Markets manager for Boston Borough Council, said: “Boston Market is now somewhere you can find a variety of quality goods whilst enjoying a friendly chat with our traders. “Some of our traders have been on our market for over 20 years. Without them, and their continued support, Boston Market wouldn’t be the same, so I encourage the local community and visitors to come to Boston Market to shop local and be part of our new journey. “Whilst remaining as one of Lincolnshire’s largest outdoor markets, we have also now reduced our market fees which I’m confident will result in more traders joining the market, meaning a better shopping experience for the customer.”
  Image shows Boston, Lincolnshire – credit: Stock.adobe.com/Tony

Lincoln student accommodation to be converted into HMO and flats

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Lincoln student accommodation to be converted into HMO and flats

Portland Halls, a student accommodation block on Portland Street in Lincoln, will be converted into a house of multiple occupation (HMO) and flats following approval from the City of Lincoln Council.

C Student Services Ltd submitted the application to split the building into four units, including a seven-bedroom HMO on the ground floor, two four-bedroom flats on the first floor, and another four-bedroom flat on the second floor. The property, located near High Street, has housed students for over 20 years.

The council approved the plans with the condition that development must begin within three years. The application did not provide a reason for the change of use.

Since 2016, Lincoln has required special planning permission for HMO conversions to regulate unregistered and unlicensed properties.

The Petwood Hotel springs into action with new season of events

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The Petwood Hotel springs into action with new season of events
Woodhall Spa’s Petwood Hotel is springing into action with a new season of events. On Sunday 20th April, the historic venue will host a delicious Easter twist on its Sunday lunch menu, with roast lamb and Creme Egg brownie for dessert, served from 12pm – 4pm. Meanwhile, as spring takes centre stage, the Petwood’s gardens are coming to life with vibrant colour, and soon, its stunning rhododendrons will be in full bloom. Wander through the grounds, take in the award-winning Long Walk, admire the fountains and enjoy a slice of cake or coffee. The Petwood will also be hosting VE Day celebrations. Join the hotel on Thursday 8th May, from 4pm – 7pm, in the gardens for an afternoon of entertainment from Miss Sarah-Jane and The 78DJ to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day! While no booking is required, please bring your own picnic blankets and chairs. Food and drink will be available for purchase from the Terrace Bar.   Image credit: The Petwood Hotel

New nursery and improved classrooms for New Waltham school

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New nursery and improved classrooms for New Waltham school
New Waltham Academy is set to expand thanks to a £2.3 million refurbishment scheme that will create new classrooms and see the construction of a new nursery. The academy is relocating some classrooms and having new buildings added to provide the correct space for cohorts in the coming years. The scheme, managed by North East Lincolnshire Council’s delivery partner EQUANS, will construct new accommodation on land purchased from the neighbouring church over a decade ago. There will be a number of additions to the site, including:
  • Relocation of reception classrooms into new build accommodation which will have access to bespoke outdoor play and integral toilets
  • Relocation of two Key Stage 1 classrooms into new accommodation
  • Creation of a new staffroom
  • Creation of a specialist space to enable the academy to deliver a wide range of lessons such as nutrition, cooking, art and technology as well as small group intervention
  • A new build nursery to replace the current mobile accommodation which will include bespoke outdoor play and integral toilets
  • Reorganisation of circulation space to ensure pupils a more cohesive route around the site
  • Dedicated SEN Group space
  • Enhanced library space
Louise Clarke, co-head at New Waltham Academy, said: “This is great news for the school. We can’t wait to welcome not just new intake students but also our existing cohort to our brand new classrooms and nursery and we’re thrilled about that.” The project has been funded through the Local Authority’s Basic Needs allocation, Section 106 contributions, a contribution from the school and corporate resources. The Basic Needs allocations are capital funds released from Central Government to Local Authorities for the provision of school places. An Education Section 106 is a legally binding agreement between Local Authorities and housing developers to mitigate any impact that may arise to the school estate from new housing.   Image credit: North East Lincolnshire Council

Skegness hotel sold

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Skegness hotel sold
The Queens Hotel in Skegness has been sold to Sodhi Managements Ltd.
The family-run hotel has been owned and operated by Ran and Yuan since 2020, who said: “We are happy to pass the hotel to Sodhi Managements Ltd. “Skegness is England’s fourth most popular holiday destination, with over 1.4 million visitors each year, attracted to its sandy beach and seafront attractions including Nature land Seal Sanctuary, museum, aquarium and more. “There’s also the town’s annual carnival, arts festival and other activities, attracting people from all over the country. We wish Sodhi Managements Ltd every success in the future.” Matt Hill, Senior Business Agent at Christie & Co, who managed the sale process, said: “The Queens Hotel has been a very popular hotel opportunity, and demonstrates the strong demand we are currently seeing in the market for well-positioned and well-maintained businesses in tourist locations.” The hotel was sold off an asking price of £450,000.
  Picture shows The Queens Hotel. Image credit: Christie & Co

Food festival makes Market Rasen return

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Food festival makes Market Rasen return
Market Rasen’s Food and Drink Festival makes its return on Saturday 29th March, offering a feast of local flavours. Set in the heart of the town’s Market Place from 10am to 4pm, the festival provides a day filled with gourmet delights, live entertainment, and family-friendly fun. Organised in partnership with the Advocate Arms, Heneage Arms, and Market Rasen Town Council, this year’s event builds on the success of last year’s festivals, bringing together food and drink vendors. Matt Horsefield, head chef and owner of the Advocate Arms and Heneage Arms, said: “We can’t wait to welcome everyone back for another fantastic day of food, drink, and community spirit. Last year’s turnout was amazing and we’re hoping this year will be even better – so come along, bring your friends and let’s make it a day to remember.” Visitors can also sample local gin or a Lincolnshire pint, and live music from Pelham Road will keep the atmosphere abuzz. Nicola Marshall, West Lindsey Towns Manager, said: “This festival is a brilliant opportunity to showcase the best of our local producers while bringing the community together and attracting visitors to discover Market Rasen’s high street shops and businesses. “With great food and live entertainment, it’s the perfect way to spend time with family and friends.”   Image credit: West Lindsey District Council

Lincolnshire artists to showcase creative talents at contemporary craft exhibition

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Lincolnshire artists to showcase creative talents at contemporary craft exhibition
A new exhibition called Made in the Middle will arrive at Hub, Sleaford on April 5, showcasing the work of thirty-seven regional artists – two of whom are from Lincolnshire.  There will be every style of craft with subject matter as diverse as model robots made from junk to Asian Pop-Art dragons. The artists represent the region’s vibrant and diverse creative community and include both emerging talents and established names. 31 artists, ranging from 22 to 82 years old, were selected by a panel of curators and craft sector specialists. A further six artists have been invited by Guest Curator, Jazz Swali, with Curatorial Support from Marta Marsicka to emphasise the enriching cultural impact of global migration to the region. Their work highlights powerful stories about the world we live in. Featured artists from Lincolnshire include Robert Maurice King and Oxana Geets. Deirdre Figueiredo, Director at Craftspace, said: “In 2025, the end of the first quarter of the 21st century, the exhibition shows how artists are playing their role in evolving the cultural voice and identity of the Midlands. The curation of the exhibition gives artists an unusual opportunity to experiment, speculate and make work freely without commercial constraints and audiences will be amazed and inspired. “The exhibition is the ninth in the Made in the Middle series and will tour galleries across the Midlands into 2026 raising the profile of regional artists and providing an opportunity to sell. For the public and collectors, it’s a chance to commission a unique artwork or buy existing pieces to suit all budgets.”   Picture shows Oxana Geets. Image credit – Aleksei Geets

Community facilities get £100k funding boost at Hemswell Cliff

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Community facilities get £100k funding boost at Hemswell Cliff
Almost £100,000 in funding has been approved by West Lindsey District Council for a series of community projects at Hemswell Cliff. Councillors approved the funding at the Prosperous Communities Committee for projects aimed at enhancing sport, leisure, path works, and accessibility in the village. The £95,042 in funding was earmarked from the council’s Hemswell Cliff Investment for Growth capital budget. Chairman of the Prosperous Communities Committee, Cllr Lesley Rollings, said this latest award was part of ongoing funding set aside for the village. “This is a significant amount of money and is part of our ongoing commitment to improving the lives of residents in Hemswell Cliff and across communities throughout West Lindsey. It has been wonderful to see so many young people getting involved in various aspects of the community project, making signs and planting an orchard. “In the past Hemswell Cliff has experienced higher than average levels of anti-social behaviour and other crimes. However, in recent years, partnership work between ourselves, volunteer groups, the parish council, and the primary school, has shown what a difference can be made when everyone works together. “Improving provision available, particularly for young people, will play an important role in helping create a safe environment with lower instances and risk of crime.” The funding will support the delivery of works by Hemswell Cliff Parish Council, which aims to improve the accessibility of The Green in the heart of the village and improve sport provision in a bid to reduce the need for residents to travel to access such facilities elsewhere. Parish Council Chairman, Graham Prestwood, said: “We would like to thank West Lindsey District Council for their continued support of Hemswell Cliff. This work will result in improved access to green spaces, and places for people to meet, socialise and play.”   Image credit: West Lindsey District Council

Time running out for Lincolnshire artists to showcase work at The Usher

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Time running out for Lincolnshire artists to showcase work at The Usher

Time is running out for Lincolnshire artists to showcase their work to thousands of people in the city’s Usher Gallery this summer.

The deadline for submissions to The Usher Gallery Trust’s open exhibition, called ‘Art of the Now’ is Monday 7 April 2025. The judging panel will consider all work from Lincolnshire-based artists that has been completed in the last three years. Paintings, video, photography, textiles, drawing, collage, mixed media, works on paper and sculpture will all be accepted. Age and experience are no barrier to entry as the open exhibition looks to celebrate the wide variety of Lincolnshire’s art scene. Laura Garner, exhibitions and interpretations assistant at The Usher Gallery, said: “We’re incredibly excited to open up The Usher to showcase some of the best work from Lincolnshire’s amazing local artists. “We’ve already received lots of wonderfully creative entries but still have room for a few more so don’t miss the fantastic opportunity to display your art in The Usher. On top of that, there’ll also be five cash prizes up for grabs too! “We’re always blown away by how talented the county’s artists are, and we can’t wait to display all your fantastic submissions in all their glory.” Submissions are open until 7 April, and it is free to enter work.
  Image credit: Lincolnshire County Council

Lincolnshire County Council to withdraw from nuclear waste facility group

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Lincolnshire County Council to withdraw from nuclear waste facility group

Lincolnshire County Council’s leader has announced intentions to withdraw from Nuclear Waste Services’ Community Partnership.

This would effectively cancel the company’s consideration of the Lincolnshire coast for a Geological Disposal Facility (GDF). Cllr Martin Hill OBE, leader of Lincolnshire County Council, said: “When we took up Nuclear Waste Services’ (NWS, then called ‘Radioactive Waste Management’) invitation to join a working group in 2021, we did so with an open mind, knowing that residents themselves could make the decision as to whether it was right for the area. “We wanted residents to be able to understand the full extent of the opportunities and consequences that would come with the building of a GDF in Lincolnshire. “At that time, the site earmarked for the development was an old gas terminal in Theddlethorpe – a brownfield site. Since then, the area that NWS is considering for the entry point to the GDF has shifted to open farmland, a couple of miles up the coast and further inland. “This changes the very nature of the proposal and, understandably, raised further concerns within the local community. “Whilst we have tried to maintain an open mind towards the plans, we are now several years on from this first being suggested, and big questions still remain to be answered about the scale of the development and how this waste would get there. “We had planned to put the decision on whether to remain within the partnership to a public vote next year, but it has become increasingly apparent that the community is getting frustrated with the uncertainty and slow pace of this process. “Unless NWS can provide significant further details about their plans that would reassure the local community and comprehensively explain the benefits and costs, it is my intention to withdraw from the process altogether. “This will need to be a formal decision, taken at a meeting of the council’s Executive. “NWS require at least one of the local councils to remain involved in the working group in order to progress the Lincolnshire GDF option. Following East Lindsey District Council’s withdrawal from the group earlier this month, our decision would effectively cancel NWS’ plans to build a nuclear waste facility in Lincolnshire.” The company are clear that they need a ‘willing community’ to build this facility and other locations in the UK are being considered for a GDF.
  Picture shows Cllr Martin Hill OBE, leader of Lincolnshire County Council. Image credit: Lincolnshire County Council

Lincolnshire Wolds Outdoor Festival returns for fourth year

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Lincolnshire Wolds Outdoor Festival returns for fourth year
The Lincolnshire Wolds will be celebrated with the return of the Lincolnshire Wolds Outdoor Festival for a fourth year. The festival will take place from Saturday 17 May to Sunday 1 June, giving residents within the county and further afield the chance to appreciate the natural beauty of the Wolds. The Lincolnshire Wolds Outdoor Festival offers a wide range of unique experiences and a great opportunity to connect with the local community and this National Landscape. Throughout the duration of the Festival, over 100 different events will be available to everyone, with an activity day at the National Trust’s Gunby Hall opening the Festival this year. Planned outdoor activities range from guided walks, fishing, and water sports to cycling, navigation, dancing, gliding, and much more. Councillor Adam Grist, Portfolio Holder for Market Towns and the Rural Economy at East Lindsey District Council, said: “I am once again very appreciative for the beauty of the Wolds, and all the hard work that is going into bringing back the Lincolnshire Wolds Outdoor Festival for another year. “The Festival is a perfect opportunity to explore the great outdoors while supporting the local area and community at the same time. I encourage all residents who can do so to get involved in the activities and walks that will be available. “With over 100 events in total, there will be something for everyone.”
  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Gill

West Lindsey to see multi-million-pound boost from STEP project

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West Lindsey to see multi-million-pound boost from STEP project
West Lindsey’s economy could grow by over a £100 million for the next 40 years, according to a new report. The district is set to benefit significantly from the UK’s first prototype fusion energy power plant, with new research predicting long-term economic growth, job creation, and investment for the district. The ambitious project – Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production, known as STEP – is being led by UK Industrial Fusion Solutions Ltd (UKIFS) part of the UK Atomic Energy Authority group (UKAEA). Due to be built by 2040, it aims to revolutionise the way energy is generated thanks to cutting-edge fusion technology. Alongside the fusion facility, a skills centre and business park are also planned, positioning the region as a leader in clean energy innovation. A newly commissioned economic impact assessment reveals that STEP will bring substantial benefits to West Lindsey which includes: • An annual average of 605 construction jobs and construction will contribute £48 million to the local economy each year. • An annual average of 724 high-skilled jobs and operations will boost the district’s economy by £55 million each year. The report covers a timeframe of more than 45 years, from when planning began in 2019, through to 2065, however the majority of these benefits are expected to be from 2030 onwards. The economic impact assessment was commissioned by Nottinghamshire County Council, in collaboration with West Lindsey District Council, Bassetlaw District Council, and Lincolnshire County Council. It has also been funded in part by the UKAEA. Sally Grindrod-Smith, West Lindsey District Council’s Director of Planning, Regeneration and Communities said that this project represents a transformative opportunity for Gainsborough and the region. She said: “We are delighted that this economic impact assessment confirms that West Lindsey will benefit from substantial local economic growth, the creation of thousands of skilled jobs and significant investment in infrastructure and the local supply chain for generations to come. “STEP is a world-class initiative and will not only position our area at the forefront of clean energy innovation but also ensure long-term prosperity and sustainability for our community.” The regional and long-term economic benefits across the East Midlands STEP is expected to create include: • 2,976 jobs per year during construction, generating an annual economic boost of £236 million. • 6,440 operational jobs, adding £489 million per year to the regional economy. Paul Methven, CEO of UK Industrial Fusion Solutions Ltd (UKIFS), which leads the project, welcomed the findings. He said: “This is the first examination of the positive economic impacts of the STEP programme across the region and beyond. It gives a fascinating insight into the potential for STEP to deliver direct economic and social benefits and stimulate much wider opportunities across many sectors.” The in-depth report, produced by economic and finance specialists, Amion Consulting, models economic benefits spanning over 45 years, from the project’s inception in 2019 through to at least 2065. It highlights not only direct job creation but also increased opportunities for local businesses and supply chains, as well as higher disposable incomes due to well-paid jobs in the region.
  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Boykowit

Progress continues for new South Holland Health and Wellbeing Hub

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Progress continues for new South Holland Health and Wellbeing Hub

Work on the new South Holland Health and Wellbeing Hub continues to progress, with a series of key milestones taking place over the coming months as the project moves towards construction.

Following the granting of planning permission earlier this year, site surveying and preparation works at the Castle Sports Centre are due to begin in early May to prepare the site for development, with further early external works then due to get underway following the formal appointment of a contractor. Starting with external works will minimise the length of disruption to the existing Centre’s users as much as possible, keeping the facilities available over much of the summer months. Closure of the dry side is now expected to be in late August to allow the main construction works to begin, with the swimming pool facilities remaining open throughout. Temporary fitness suite and group exercise facilities will be available from this point at the Spalding Campus of Boston College on Red Lion Street, along with South Holland District Council arranging temporary facilities for indoor bowls activity to continue in Long Sutton. These plans would target the completion of construction in late 2026, with the new combined centre opening to the public in January 2027. The project, which is receiving £20 million of UK Government funding alongside further investment from South Holland District Council, will address health and wellbeing through the provision of improved sport, recreation and leisure facilities, alongside new health and wellbeing services and facilities for residents. This phase of works will include the creation of a single building containing two new swimming pools, village changing facilities, multi-sport hall, fitness suite, cycle and group exercise studios, health and wellbeing consultation rooms, children’s adventure play area and updated reception and servery areas. Around the rest of the site, it will see the creation of a new outdoor 3G pitch, park run circuit, community garden, running loop, additional cycling provision and improved car parking with electric vehicle charging points, along with necessary remedial works to the bowls hall. Councillor Gary Taylor, South Holland District Council’s project sponsor, said: “It is fantastic to see this transformational project taking shape, bringing high-quality leisure, exercise, sport and wellbeing facilities to South Holland and bucking the national trend. “With works beginning soon, we are taking a major step forward in delivering something that will benefit the whole community for generations to come, and I can’t wait to see construction taking place. We will keep residents informed of the progress made and will share more updates as we move towards construction and completion of this brilliant new centre.”

Lincolnshire Housing Partnership to invest £10m in energy-efficiency upgrades to homes

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Lincolnshire Housing Partnership to invest £10m in energy-efficiency upgrades to homes
Lincolnshire Housing Partnership (LHP) is set to deliver energy-saving upgrades to over 600 homes across Grimsby, Cleethorpes, and Boston after securing £5 million through the government’s Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund Wave 3 grant. LHP will match this funding with an additional £5 million, bringing the total investment to £10 million. This will be used to install energy-saving measures such as solar panels, improved insulation, and new heating systems. With these upgrades, LHP aims to lower customers’ energy bills, reduce carbon emissions, and improve the overall comfort of their homes. Charlotte Johnson, Executive Director of Property at LHP, said: “Securing this funding is a significant step forward in our commitment to creating warmer, more energy-efficient homes for our customers. “Whether it’s through improved insulation or better heating systems, these upgrades will not only help our customers cut their energy costs but also reduce the overall carbon footprint of our communities – making sure our homes are fit for the future.”   Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Jo Panuwat D

Daughter walks for Lincolnshire hospitals in memory of her father

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Daughter walks for Lincolnshire hospitals in memory of her father
A daughter is thanking hospital staff for her dad’s care by taking part in a charity fundraising walk in his memory. Kelly Hume, from Wragby, has signed up to the 10-mile Wolds Walk to raise funds and say thank you for the care the whole family received after her dad, Kevin, was rushed to Lincoln County Hospital in October 2024 suffering from sepsis. Kelly has nothing but praise for the medical team that looked after her dad. She said: “He was starting to respond to treatment, but unfortunately, he caught pneumonia. Due to other underlying conditions, dad worsened and 12 days later he lost his fight and devastatingly he passed away. He fought a hard and painful battle, and the medical teams were with him all the way fighting that battle with him. “The care he received and the support myself and my mum received from everyone at Carlton Coleby Ward was so comforting and very welcomed at such a terrible time, my world literally broke into pieces and my heart shattered.” Kelly and her mum were given two beautiful handmade hearts by the ward staff just after Kevin passed away along with his handprints. Two weeks later, Kelly, was rushed by ambulance back to the same hospital. As a diabetic, her body was struggling to cope with her condition, as well as trying to cope with the devastating heartbreak from losing her dad. Kelly has decided to take on the Wolds Walk 2025 organised by the United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity to give something back to the medical teams for being there when her family needed them. Taking place on Saturday 17 May, the 10-mile hike winds its way past ancient woodlands, hilltop farmlands and picture postcard villages before joining The Viking Way to climb to the top of The Wolds with its spectacular views of Lincolnshire. Charity Manager, Ben Petts, expressed his gratitude and said: “It is because of support from Kelly and others who are taking on the Wolds Walk that the charity is able to fund the extras that cannot be provided by the NHS alone.” Kelly sums up what completing the walk will mean to her: “At the end, I will look up to the sky knowing Dad is with me in spirit and I know I will feel a personal accomplishment as well as helping our amazing medical teams and everyone who gives care to us every day of our lives within the United Lincolnshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.” More details on how you can join the Charity Wolds Walk can be found on their website.
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