Three East Lindsey beaches have been recognised as amongst Britain’s best, as they are announced as winners of the prestigious Blue Flag and Seaside Awards for summer 2025.
Entering its 38th year, the award is given by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, recognising beaches and sites that have met the high standard required to be presented with a Blue Flag Award, which in East Lindsey are Mablethorpe, Skegness, and Sutton on Sea.
Blue Flag is an environmental education programme managed by Keep Britain Tidy on behalf of the Foundation for Environmental Education.
It is only presented to beaches with water which has achieved the highest classification as set by the EU Bathing Water Directive and has an environmental education programme. To qualify, each applicant must meet and maintain a series of stringent environmental, educational, safety and accessibility criteria.
Cllr Martin Foster, portfolio holder for operational services at East Lindsey District Council said: “We are absolutely delighted that Mablethorpe, Skegness, and Sutton on Sea have once again been recognised with Blue Flag Awards.
“It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our local teams, volunteers, and communities who take such pride in our coastline and shows how much effort goes into keeping our beaches clean, safe, and welcoming.
“These awards not only highlight the exceptional quality and cleanliness of our beaches but also reinforce East Lindsey as a top destination for residents and visitors.”
Keep Britain Tidy’s chief executive, Allison Ogden-Newton OBE said: “In England we are lucky enough to have some of the best beaches in the world. It’s wonderful to see the flags flying proudly over 3 beaches in East Lindsey, demonstrating their quality to residents and visitors alike.
“The awards are a credit to the collective efforts of beach and site managers, volunteers, residents and businesses who should take pride today in their tireless efforts to maintain, protect and improve some of our best-loved and most popular blue spaces.
“Visitors to a beach flying a Blue Flag can be assured the beach will be clean, safe and meet the highest environmental standards.”
Ayscoughfee Gardens refurbishes play area following South Holland District Council investment
Spalding’s Ayscoughfee Hall Gardens has reopened its popular play area, following a period of refurbishment and repairs through a £24,000 investment by South Holland District Council.
Work was required at the family favourite park after an act of vandalism last year, which resulted in the destruction of the cage swing as well as significant damage to the surrounding flooring.
However, now that work is completed, the swing and its safety surface have been completely replaced with new, high-quality installations. As part of the work the team has also carried out repair and renovations to the jeep equipment, ensuring its continued enjoyment for young adventurers for many years to come.
Councillor Henry Bingham, portfolio holder for assets and strategic planning, said: “It’s great that the team have been able to not only fix the vandalism but also get the area improved so that it can be enjoyed again.
“Mindless vandalism like this robs residents of the ability to enjoy these areas and it is good that this could be turned around so quickly ready for the summer months, and we remain committed to doing all we can to maintain and improve our community assets.”
King Charles III England Coast Path expanded in Lincolnshire, to provide unique wildlife walks
Three more sections have been opened at a unique wildlife walk in Lincolnshire, making it one of the most accessible countryside areas of the UK.
Lincolnshire’s section of the national King Charles III England Coast Path is a 124-mile-long walking route that runs from Sutton Bridge to Barton-upon-Humber, opening up the majority of the iconic Wash coastline to walkers. The route gives legal access to an incredible section of British coastline, and the wildlife around it, for the first time.
Walkers can now enjoy more than 90% of our county’s coastal path with the latest sections added ranging from Mablethorpe to Tetney in addition to the new North East Lincolnshire and North Lincolnshire sections to the Humber Bridge. This opening creates an almost continuous coastal route, with just two small gaps where a bridge is required near Gibraltar Point as well as a section around Immingham Dock.
Chris Miller, head of environment at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “With these latest additions to the King Charles III England Coast Path coming to fruition we can now provide one of the most spectacular walks anywhere in the country.
“This is the outcome of several agencies working together to give legal access to a unique part of the country for people to enjoy. There is a vast array of wildlife and topography that you only get on our coast and now anyone who wants to see it, can do so for free.
“Natural England, the Environment Agency, North and North East Lincolnshire Councils and the coastal district councils have all worked with us to bring their essential knowledge of the area to this project. I hope that many will take the opportunity to walk the route and enjoy what Lincolnshire has to offer.”
Because sizeable sections of the path are remote and can stretch for several miles, they operate without any public facilities or connecting walkways, so it’s suggested that walkers ensure they are self-sufficient for their trip.
Image credit: Lincolnshire County Council
New bin lorries to carry vital messages
Five colourful new refuse collection lorries carrying health and wellbeing messages are taking to the roads of South Kesteven.
The district council’s fleet already includes a pink lorry promoting breast cancer awareness and a blue lorry for prostate cancer.
Joining them will be freighters supporting five more major charities: Royal British Legion, Samaritans, Bowel Cancer UK, Kidney Research UK, and Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation.
Each is painted in the distinctive brand colours of the organisation whose messages they carry.
Council lorry supplier Dennis Eagle has supported the initiative with the bespoke paint finish on the freighters, which were already on order as part of the depot’s normal turnover.
Cllr Ashley Baxter, leader of South Kesteven District Council, said: “The charities we are supporting do life-saving work, each in their own way. It’s a privilege to be able to help get their messages out to residents via these new refuse vehicles.
“Our lorries are highly visible and visit every corner of our district. Our crews tell us that the public are really interested and engaged when they see them out and about. The arrival of the new wagons will provoke further conversations and hopefully make people more aware of the work of the various partner charities.”
Image credit: South Kesteven District Council
Gainsborough festival attracts public funding boost to support local arts
The Go Festival will return to Gainsborough on 14 June, with expanded programming and additional public funding aimed at boosting community engagement and creative output in the area. West Lindsey District Council secured funding from Arts Council England, enabling professional artists to collaborate with local groups through pre-festival workshops.
Supported by both Arts Council England and Gainsborough Town Council, the festival is expected to draw visitors with a full-day schedule of cultural programming in the town centre. Performances include interactive theatre, contemporary dance, community showcases, and family-friendly attractions such as storytelling installations and market stalls.
Local organisations like the Rotary Club and Trinity Arts Centre contribute to the line-up, while the extended programme underlines the region’s push to develop a more vibrant cultural economy. The festival will run from 11am to 7pm and aims to stimulate foot traffic, support creative businesses, and reinforce Gainsborough’s cultural infrastructure.
Organisers expect the event to build on the momentum from previous years while offering new opportunities for artist collaboration and community-led content. The initiative reflects growing recognition of the arts as a catalyst for local economic activity and civic engagement.
Image source: West Lindsey District CouncilSkydive campaign gains business boost to support Ukrainian children
A Lincolnshire-based charity initiative is scaling up efforts to support children in war-torn Ukraine. Twenty volunteers have signed up to take part in a tandem skydive fundraiser this May. The Boston Skyjive group, now in its third year, has seen participation quadruple since last year’s event.
Backing the initiative this year is Greencore, a food manufacturing company headquartered in Spalding, which is sponsoring 10 of its employees to join the skydive. Each participant will raise a minimum of £200 for Voices of Children, a Ukrainian charity providing psychological and physical support to children impacted by the ongoing war.
Greencore’s involvement includes a direct financial contribution and internal staff mobilisation for the skydive. Volunteers will cover their own skydive costs in addition to fundraising targets.
To date, the group has raised £12,800 for the charity through previous events. With expanded participation and corporate support, organisers aim to boost donations significantly this year.
The skydives will take place on 28 and 29 May at Hibaldstow Airfield near Brigg. Funds will aid the charity’s work across Ukraine, including frontline psychological services, rehabilitation programmes, and summer camps backed by the Ukrainian First Lady.
Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Joggie BotmaAshfield Park welcomes visitors to relaxed coffee morning
Ashfield Park, a charming community for the over 45s, is welcoming visitors on Thursday 29th May for a relaxed coffee morning.
Tingdene Parks will be putting the kettle on, having a few chats, and opening the doors so you can take a look around and see if park home living feels right for you.
Nestled on the outskirts of Scunthorpe with views over the Lincolnshire countryside, explore the move-in-ready homes at Ashfield Park and meet friendly residents.
Whether you’re just curious or thinking ahead, come and say hello.
For details and to register your interest visit: tingdene-parks.net/open-days-at-ashfield-park
South Holland District Council secures Age-friendly Community status
South Holland District Council has been named an Age-friendly Community, after a successful application to the UK Network of Age-friendly Communities.
An Age-friendly Community is a place that enables people to age well and live a fulfilling later life. It is a community where individuals can continue living in their homes, participate in valued activities, and contribute to their communities for as long as possible.
To celebrate South Holland’s Age-friendly status, the council is hosting three launch events on June 11 in collaboration with partner organisations. The launch events will take place at the following locations and times:
- Spalding – Tonic Health Wellbeing Hub: 10am – 2pm
- Holbeach – Tonic Health Wellbeing Hub: 1pm – 5pm
- Pinchbeck Community Hub: 11am – 3pm
Sunflowers offer low-effort, high-impact value for summer landscaping
UK businesses in the landscaping, gardening supply, and outdoor retail sectors may want to capitalise on the seasonal push to sow sunflowers—an easy-to-grow flower with high visual appeal and ecological value. With the sowing window open through late May, now is a commercially strategic time to promote sunflower seeds and related products.
Sunflowers are a fast-growing, low-maintenance option that thrives when planted directly into garden beds. They flourish in sheltered locations with adequate support, often reaching heights of five to twelve feet. Their large, colourful blooms are visually striking and serve practical purposes: they attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, and their seed heads later provide food for birds.
For businesses serving amateur gardeners, sunflowers are a proven favourite due to their ease of cultivation and strong visual payoff during the summer months. Multi-headed and branching varieties offer extended blooming periods and more garden impact per plant, making them an efficient choice for customers seeking high returns with minimal effort.
Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/gpointstudioLincolnshire invests in sand clearance upgrades for coastal walkways
East Lindsey District Council is allocating additional capital and operational funds to address ongoing sand accumulation on pedestrian walkways in coastal towns like Sutton on Sea and Mablethorpe.
The investment includes purchasing specialist machinery and recruiting two new staff members to manage sand removal more efficiently. These measures aim to maintain access and safety for both residents and visitors, particularly after stormy weather increases the amount of sand displaced onto promenades.
The council confirmed the funding is being finalised and is part of a broader effort to implement long-term maintenance strategies rather than short-term fixes. The ongoing sand build-up has presented operational challenges for businesses operating near affected beaches, underlining the commercial importance of a sustainable solution.
Image: Sutton-on-Sea – credit: Stock.adobe.com/mparrattThree East Lindsey beaches to fly Blue Flags again this summer
The Princess Royal to attend 140th Lincolnshire Show
Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal is to attend this year’s Lincolnshire Show, which is back for the 140th time on 18th and 19th June 2025.
Television presenter Matt Baker MBE, best known for his work on BBC’s Blue Peter, Countryfile and The One Show, will also be attending the event, which has announced an inspiring programme of events and performances.
Brand-new Main Ring act, the Knights of Middle England, a professional team of stunt riders, performers, actors and combatants, will be bringing an action-packed performance, and all things countryside will be showcased at the Show’s new Rural Voices Stage.
The Lincolnshire Show beach, using sand sourced from the Lincolnshire coast, and the Garden Show, which were both introduced for last year’s event, are set to return – bigger and better than before – as well as long-standing favourites including the Shetland Pony Grand National, LAS Schools’ Challenge, Floral Arts Competition and visits from canine friends with Jerry Green Dog Rescue.
The Lincolnshire Show is a celebration of all things Lincolnshire and rural life, with around 60,000 people expected to attend the two-day event.
Charlotte Powell, chief executive of the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society, said: “The Lincolnshire Show is always a significant event for the county, but it feels extra special this time as we celebrate our 140th Show.
“From the very first Show in 1869, the event has been a source of pride and celebration for everyone involved with the county of Lincolnshire, and we can’t wait for everyone to see all the hard work that has gone into this year’s event.
“It will be an absolute pleasure and honour to welcome Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal and Matt Baker MBE as guests for this year’s Show, as we once again celebrate all things Lincolnshire with tens of thousands of visitors.
“There will be familiar favourites, new attractions, exhibitors offering tasty local food and drink, and activities for all the family to enjoy. Whether it’s the vast range of farm animals and competitions that pique your interest, or the jaw-dropping displays and demonstrations, the 2025 Lincolnshire Show has something for everyone!
“We look forward to welcoming you all to what is sure to be another unforgettable Lincolnshire Show.”
The Princess Royal, who previously served as president of the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society and now holds a Lifetime Membership, will attend the Show on Wednesday 18th June, while Matt Baker will be attending on Thursday 19th June.
The new Rural Voices Stage, which spotlights all things countryside, will offer engaging panel discussions and expert-led networking, allowing people working in agriculture and related industries to deepen their knowledge of British farming, land management and sustainability.
Foodies will also be able to watch a series of masterclasses and demonstrations at the popular Lincolnshire Kitchen, as well as enjoying some of Lincolnshire’s finest food and drink with F.A.B and Good Grub Co. at Stockman’s bar.
Organised by the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society (LAS), a charity dedicated to championing the importance of food, farming and the countryside, the iconic Lincolnshire Show is a family-friendly day out that draws 60,000 visitors every year – including 6,000 school children and over 500 exhibitors. There are also around 2,500 animals at the Show each year. It is located just four miles from Lincoln city centre and spread out over 270 acres at the Lincolnshire Showground.
With Lincolnshire home to more than 4,500 farms, the Show remains true to its roots with a strong focus on farming and agriculture. All funds raised through ticket sales are invested in the LAS’ charity work, including the LAS Education Programme, and are reinvested in producing the Show each year.
APSS Group raises £650 for Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance at annual charity golf day
The APSS Group, incorporating both APSS and TPS Office Furniture, has raised £650 for the Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance during its annual Mini Ryder Cup Golf Day, held at Lincoln Golf Club in Torksey.
Now in its fourth year, the much-anticipated event brought together APSS staff, suppliers, and customers for a fantastic day of golf, networking and fundraising. The day was not only a celebration of friendly competition, but also a meaningful way to give back to a local lifesaving service.
The fundraising came through a charity raffle, with prizes kindly donated by Elite Office Furniture, Galaxy Insulation and Dry Lining Limited, Troax Group, Howdens, Shaw Contract, Nash Glass Ltd, 360 Recruitment Limited, and Lincoln Golf Club.
Among the standout prizes were a supercar driving experience, a five-hob induction burner, and a helicopter ride – a fitting tribute to the Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance.
Richard Mycroft, Managing Director at APSS, said: “It was a brilliant day all round – great company, great golf, and all for a fantastic cause.
“The Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance is a charity that means a lot to us. You never know when you or someone you love might need them. They provide critical care in the most urgent of situations, and we’re proud to support the incredible work they do.”
The APSS Group extends a heartfelt thank you to everyone who took part and contributed to the day’s success. The event continues to grow each year, uniting the APSS community while supporting a cause that truly makes a difference.
Paddling pool reopens in Cleethorpes with upgraded facilities
A free paddling pool in Cleethorpes has reopened for its sixth consecutive summer season, now featuring an upgraded central fountain. Operated by Your Community Hub, a community interest company managed by the team behind Cleethorpes Taphouse and Kitchen, the pool is open daily from 10am to 4pm.
The enhancements to the pool’s fountain, now higher and more prominent, are part of ongoing efforts to boost local footfall and offer accessible family attractions. The facility, previously run by the local council, has been operated by Your Community Hub since 2019 at no cost to taxpayers. The adjacent sandpit, also under their management, reopened in May 2023.
The site’s continued operation reflects sustained public engagement with free, locally run leisure assets. Businesses operating in tourism, leisure, and hospitality sectors may see opportunities tied to the increased foot traffic in the area during the summer months.
Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/simonD-Day commemoration walks offer historical insight at former US airbase
Twyford Wood in Lincolnshire, formerly RAF North Witham, will host a series of guided walks in June to mark the anniversary of the D-Day landings. On the night of 5 June 1944, the site served as a launch point for US Army paratroopers of the 101st and 82nd Airborne Divisions.
Participants will tour the preserved runways and learn about the covert operations that preceded the Normandy invasion. These included low-altitude flights across the English Channel to establish radio beacons and visual signals for the main Allied forces.
The initiative is part of South Kesteven District Council’s Soldiers from the Sky project, focused on preserving and presenting the region’s wartime legacy. The location, now managed by Forestry England, provides a rare opportunity to engage with WWII military logistics on site.
The free, pre-booked walks take place on 5, 12, and 19 June, starting at 17:30 BST and lasting approximately two and a half hours.
Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/GajusA new look and feel for The Old Bakery
There’s change afoot at one of Lincoln’s dining gems as The Old Bakery undergoes a complete refurbishment.
Director of business development & partnerships at Lincoln College, Mark Taylor, says: “We are really excited to be unveiling a new look for The Old Bakery following this refurbishment. The restaurant is a cornerstone of our employer-led operations here at Lincoln College.”
The transformation will see the currently unused entrance space turned into a bar and lounge area, serving up bar snacks, small plates, craft beers and cocktails for more casual dining. The remodeling will also open up the chef’s room, creating an atmospheric, intimate space.
Mark continues: “A finishing school for our advanced catering and front-of-house students, the restaurant gives them the industry experience they need to launch their careers. We are also proud that it remains the only not-for-profit venue of its kind in the region.
“We hope that our refreshed look and much-needed restoration gives both our loyal customers and new visitors a compelling reason to come along and enjoy our warm surroundings and delicious Lincolnshire-inspired seasonal menu.”
The improvements are funded by a £100,000 portion of the Towns Fund, a government scheme that aims to regenerate towns and deliver long-term economic and productivity growth.
In the meantime, diners wanting to try The Old Bakery’s menu can enjoy a pop-up experience at the Lincoln College campus’ own Sessions Restaurant, with service running from Friday 16th May to Tuesday 10th June.
Mark adds: “We’re so pleased to be able to continue serving our customers down at Sessions. It gives diners the chance not only to continue sampling our bespoke menu, but also a chance to visit our sister restaurant, which is also student-led and is housed in the historic Sessions House, a former city gaol and police station which has bags of character and will be a fitting home for The Old Bakery until we reopen on 21st June.”
Diners who eat at the weekend can currently enjoy 15% off with 25% off for members.
Lincolnshire Wolds Outdoor Festival drives tourism and local engagement
The Lincolnshire Wolds Outdoor Festival returns on Saturday, 17 May, and will run through Sunday, 1 June 2025, offering more than 100 events across the region. While aimed at leisure and tourism, the festival’s scale presents valuable commercial opportunities for businesses in hospitality, retail, tourism services, and rural enterprises.
The launch event takes place at the National Trust’s Gunby Hall, drawing in families with free activities, animal encounters, and local exhibitors, creating direct footfall for vendors and suppliers. The programme includes horse riding lessons, glider experiences, countryside walks, wellness events, and interactive outdoor activities.
The festival culminates at Stourton Woods with an open day featuring a mini farmers market, trail run, bushcraft activities, and a local wedding fair, designed to showcase regional producers, experience providers, and wedding industry suppliers.
Organised by Love Lincolnshire Wolds in partnership with several councils and rural networks, the event is strategically positioned to boost the visibility of rural businesses and increase visitor spend across the Wolds region. Local stakeholders include East Lindsey and West Lindsey district councils, Lincolnshire County Council, and other countryside and tourism development organisations.
Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/GillStamford appoints new Poet Laureate to support local arts programming
Ross Ayres, a therapist and spoken word artist based near Peterborough, has been named Poet Laureate for Stamford following a competitive selection process. South Kesteven District Council awards the honorary title annually as part of its efforts to engage the local creative sector.
Ayres has consistently contributed to the council’s Pint of Poetry events at Stamford Arts Centre. His new role will see him commissioned to write and perform poetry at civic events and other cultural programming across the town for the next year.
The appointment reflects a broader trend of integrating the arts into community engagement and public programming, providing opportunities for creative practitioners to partner with councils and local businesses.
Stamford’s next public poetry event is scheduled for 28 May at the Arts Centre, featuring a guest performance by playwright and lecturer James McDermott.
Image credit: South Kesteven District CouncilThe Royal British Legion gets ready to celebrate Armed Forces Day in Lincoln
The Royal British Legion (RBL) Lincoln, supported by Lincoln College and a host of other sponsors, is to celebrate Armed Forces Day in Lincoln on Saturday 28th June.
Armed Forces Day is a national event held on the last Saturday of June to recognise and thank the men and women of the British Armed Forces, including current and past service members, reservists, veterans, and cadets.
Chair of the City of Lincoln Branch Royal British Legion and Director of Estates at Lincoln College, Nick Pettit GM QGM, says: “This is going to be a really great day for the city. As well as a parade and band event in Lincoln Market Square, just off the Cornhill, we’ll also be running a day of fun over at The Drill, where there will be live music and food available for all.
“We wanted to ensure the future of the celebrations for Armed Forces Day and we’re really excited to be working with a range of very generous sponsors in order to make it happen. Armed Forces Day is really important to the people of Lincolnshire and so to be able to use The Drill and to make a day of it is really special and we can’t wait to welcome everyone.”
WWII veterans remember fallen Commonwealth comrades at International Bomber Command Centre
Commonwealth veterans from World War Two and Windrush laid a wreath and visited the spectacular Lancaster Bomber poppy display at the International Bomber Command Centre (IBCC) to remember their colleagues who perished during the conflict.
The visit by Jamaican veterans Ralph Ottey (101), Gilbert Clarke (98) and Sidney McFarlane (90) on Saturday (10th May) was one of a series of events organised as part of the VE80 Lincoln project to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day.
Ralph, an RAF volunteer, served as a driver with 617 Squadron at RAF Coningsby and RAF Woodhall Spa while Gilbert, also an RAF volunteer, serviced the radio and radar systems of British and American aircraft. Both have featured prominently in national VE Day commemorations, and Gilbert was seated next to Anne, Princess Royal during the celebrations in London on Saturday 3rd May.
Sidney was part of the Windrush generation who were invited to the UK to help rebuild post-war Britain. He joined the Royal Air Force in 1958, progressing from aircraftman to squadron leader. During his distinguished career, he was awarded three Commanders-in-Chief commendations for outstanding service.
VE80 Lincoln, which was a collaboration between Francourt Events, the IBCC, Lincoln Rugby FC and Sage Blue, honours the rugby players from the UK and Commonwealth, including many national and international players, who lost their lives in the conflict.
Sports, especially rugby, played a pivotal role in maintaining morale and fostering resilience among prisoners of war during the Second World War.
Director of Sage Blue and co-chair of VE80 Lincoln Sue Liburd MBE DL explained: “The VE80 Lincoln commemorations are more than just a reflection on history, they are an investment in future generations.
“The project is dedicated to ensuring that the legacy of World War II is never forgotten, using sporting activities as an innovative and engaging learning tool.
“By combining education, history, and sport, this initiative ensures that the stories of resilience, courage, and unity remain relevant and inspiring for years to come.”
As well as visiting the IBCC the veterans attended a Ceramic Poppy-Bluet Ceremony on 9th May at Lincoln Cathedral and a VE80 Rugby Festival at Lincoln Rugby Club involving over 150 young people from school rugby teams across the UK and France.
Other events held across Lincolnshire between 8th and 11th May as part of the VE80 Lincoln commemorations included:
- VE Day 80 Beacon Lighting and Dinner– A poignant ceremony on 8th May at the IBCC to mark this significant moment in history. There was also a free, open-air VE Day 80 Concert featuring the Blighty Belles.
- Heritage site visits– The Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre and IBCC hosted visiting touring U18 rugby teams and VIP guests for immersive experiences.
- Rugby & WWII Exhibition– Until the end of August the IBCC is showcasing a unique exhibition highlighting the connections between rugby and the Second World War featuring untold stories of service, camaraderie and sacrifice.
- Remembrance Thanksgiving Service– On 11th May the IBCC hosted a special service to conclude the commemorations with a message of gratitude and reflection.
Retailers recommit to Lincoln’s Waterside centre as £3m invested in rejuvenation
Joint venture owners Wykeland Group and Lincolnshire Co-op have rejuvenated Lincoln’s Waterside centre, delivering a £3m programme of investment and securing the long-term commitment of three major retail brands.
The investments by Yorkshire-based property development business Wykeland and Lincolnshire Co-op have been delivered in under two years since they acquired Waterside and have now resulted in a trio of high street stores renewing their leases.
Fashion and homeware retailer H&M has extended its lease at Waterside and committed to a major £2m revamp of the centre’s anchor store.
Next and The Body Shop have also each signed new leases, giving a major vote of confidence to Waterside and ensuring the three popular stores remain in Lincoln city centre for years to come.
New operators have also come on board, including luxury lifestyle brand Rituals, which is opening a new store at Waterside next month.
Hull-based Wykeland and member-owned Lincolnshire Co-op acquired Waterside in June 2023. Since then the owners have committed to a significant and ongoing programme of investment that has given Waterside a new lease of life.
This has included the creation of a new coffee shop at the heart of Waterside, operated by local independent operator Seven Districts Coffee.
Waterside’s joint owners are also investing to create a more attractive and welcoming frontage to the centre from Lincoln’s High Street, along the River Witham. This will enable an improved pedestrian flow by the riverside, into the centre and across the river into The Cornhill Quarter.
Two units on High Street have been acquired to form part of the centre and enable the reshaping of the entrance to take place, while Waterside has also undergone a rebrand.
These changes have also attracted more visitors into the centre, with footfall in 2024 up by three per cent compared to 2022, before Wykeland and Lincolnshire Co-op acquired Waterside, bucking the national trend.
Wykeland managing director Dominic Gibbons said: “Since acquiring the Waterside centre in a joint venture with Lincolnshire Co-op, we’ve invested significantly to ensure it remains a key destination for both local people and visitors to Lincoln.
“The new, long-term commitments by H&M, Next and The Body Shop reflect the strength of Waterside and the very positive reaction from tenants to the rejuvenation of the centre.
“Waterside’s footfall is buoyant, trading is strong and there’s a great deal of confidence in the centre’s future.
“The investments we’re continuing to make, with our partners at Lincolnshire Co-op, are enabling Waterside to buck the retail trend and play a key role in Lincoln remaining a highly attractive location.”
Kevin Kendall, head of property at Lincolnshire Co-op, said: “It’s been fantastic to work alongside Wykeland to bring new services into the area, as well as updating pre-existing ones.
“Our joint investment is reflected in the shopping centre’s success – long-term commitments from tenants and increased footfall are both great indicators of this.”
Waterside’s owners and H&M are now jointly investing in a £2m refit of the centre’s anchor unit.
Among other investments, frontages on a number of smaller units at the centre are being revamped and £60,000 has been invested to refurbish the customer toilets.
Image credit: John Aron Photography
