Green Growth Zone proposal to create conditions for thousands of jobs

Tess Egginton
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Green Growth Zone proposal to create conditions for thousands of jobs
North Lincolnshire Council is spearheading an ambitious proposal to establish a Green Growth Zone and create thousands of green engineering jobs. The proposal focuses on further enhancing the renewable energy sector, fast-tracking advanced manufacturing and driving innovation to create more high-skilled jobs and secure the long-term prosperity of the region. The Green Growth Zone will further position North Lincolnshire at the heart of the UK’s renewable energy revolution, driving development across Greater Lincolnshire and the Humber region by building upon the region’s strategic assets, including major renewable resources such as offshore wind, an established industrial base, and strong links to international markets via major ports. Cllr Rob Waltham, Leader of North Lincolnshire Council, emphasised the importance of the proposal for the future of the region. He said: “This is about more than just infrastructure; it’s about creating a better future for communities. The Green Growth Zone is an ambitious plan to deliver high-quality jobs, drive innovation, and secure new opportunities for residents. “While we are still at the proposal stage, the ambition is clear – North Lincolnshire will be a place where green energy and advanced manufacturing lead the way, offering sustainable futures for generations to come. “We have a unique opportunity to capitalise on the region’s existing strengths in energy and industry, while investing in new technologies and sustainable practices.” The Green Growth Zone is underpinned by key themes, including:
  • Innovation and research in hydrogen-injected blast furnace steel production
  • Investments in the South Humber Bank Quay and broader Strategic Employment Site Allocation
  • Development of advanced manufacturing to support game-changing sectors in energy
  • Creating a circular economy to sustain green energy and manufacturing industries
Cllr Waltham added: “This proposal will not only generate jobs but also support the long-term economic growth of North Lincolnshire, ensuring our residents have the skills and opportunities they need for the future. “We have a great deal of support from previous governments to invest in the infrastructure to create the foundations for this growth – now we are in a position to deliver, but we need ongoing Government support.”
  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Boykowit

Major investment made for new Christmas lights in Spalding

Tess Egginton
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Major investment made for new Christmas lights in Spalding
Spalding town centre will be merry and bright this Christmas, as South Holland District Council and Spalding Town Board announce a £70,000 investment in a variety of new festive lights. The investment comes from the initial funds from Long Term Plan for Towns, a new Government programme providing £20million over ten years to support chosen towns to improve their high streets. The new displays are designed to last for 10 years and will stretch across the town centre and Market Place, down Francis Street and Hole in the Wall and extending into The Crescent, a key area that businesses and residents have requested to see lit up in recent years. Investment in the look and attractiveness of the high street, especially tying in with events that bring more footfall, was a popular point raised as part of Spalding Town Board’s recent consultation, where over 500 local residents shared their priorities for the Long Term Plan for Towns funding. Among the new decorations will be almost 40 column displays that will stretch across the street, new string lights and a star topper for the town’s Christmas tree, column and maypole decorations and around 320 metres of icicle lights. The official switch-on of the new displays and tree will take place as part of the town’s usual Christmas Celebration, taking place this year on Friday 29 November. More information on the different free events and activities that will be part of the day will be shared in the coming weeks. Councillor Gary Taylor, South Holland District Council portfolio holder for community development, said: “It’s fantastic that we can make this major investment into getting Spalding looking festive and inviting this Christmas, and for many Christmases to come, and will be able to see the first real, noticeable impact from this significant piece of government funding. “We know there is a lot of work to take place over the coming months and years to get Spalding to the place we aspire for it to be, and that this covers a much wider variety of topics and issues than new Christmas lights alone. “However, we also recognise the importance of making the town somewhere appealing and attractive, where residents and visitors can come together to celebrate and enjoy events and support our local traders and businesses. By acting on this feedback to introduce new, beautiful and wider-reaching lights, we are confident that we can help contribute towards this ambition.” Robin Hancox, Chair of Spalding Town Board, said: “The Spalding Town Board is committed to working with the community to make a difference for the town. “Our consultation in the summer showed us that whilst there is pride in many aspects of Spalding, there is also a clear desire for a better town centre experience with people wanting to see improvements. “Funding the Christmas lights is just one small but significant way in which we can add to the town centre’s appeal, and ensure that everyone coming into Spalding during this festive season, and for many more years to come, has an even better experience. We are delighted to be able to support this first investment from the government funding into Spalding.”   Image shows Spalding. Credit: Stock.adobe.com/Steven F Granville

Planning consent granted to regenerate two Alford attractions

Tess Egginton
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Planning consent granted to regenerate two Alford attractions

Two heritage and culturally significant attractions are set to expand their offer and attract even more visitors to the Lincolnshire Wolds following the approval of planning consent.

On 3rd October, on determining two separate applications with unanimous decisions, East Lindsey District Council’s planning committee granted planning permission and listed building consent for Alford Manor House and the grounds of Alford Windmill. The consent marks a huge milestone for both projects which, once complete, will see new uses for each attraction, generating greater footfall into the town all year round, supporting the local economy, and safeguarding these heritage assets for future generations. Both sites, along with Spilsby Sessions House, are part of the Lincolnshire Wolds: Culture and Heritage Programme. The ambitious regeneration scheme is benefitting from £8 million funding from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to regenerate the assets to secure their future.
The permission for Alford Manor House will realise a new permanent, flexible event space which will see the temporary marquee removed that has been in place since 2006. The new function room will allow the Manor House to provide event space for up to 100 people. The consent also includes minor works to the car park and construction of a canopy to store large pieces of machinery for the Rural Life Museum and workshop. The consent for the Alford Windmill site includes a new visitor centre incorporating a café and shop, refurbishment of the Miller’s Cottage into a two-bed holiday accommodation, refurbishment of the Sail Store as an educational space, the pigsty to be converted into a children’s play area, refurbishment of the former shop to display Millwright tools, and landscaping throughout the site.
The approvals follow a period of public consultation, including local residents, Alford Town Council, Historic England, Natural England and Heritage Lincolnshire. The Council will continue to work alongside Lincolnshire County Council at Alford Windmill as the project develops. Cllr Graham Marsh, Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture at East Lindsey District Council,  said: “I am delighted the Council’s planning committee has supported these ambitious plans which will help secure the future for these attractions. “The Council is working collaboratively with Alford Manor House and Alford Windmill Trust as well as other partners to bring new uses and extend the visitor offer which is important for the local economy and to grow tourism opportunities in the Lincolnshire Wolds. “These attractions hold so much historic value for local people as well as wider East Lindsey. A lot of work has gone on behind the scenes to get to the milestone of planning approval today and I look forward to seeing these projects being delivered further over the coming months.” Cllr Adam Grist, Portfolio Holder for Market Towns at East Lindsey District Council, said: “Both Alford Manor House and Alford windmill are part of the fabric that makes Alford the historic market town that it is. I am therefore, delighted that these schemes have been given the go ahead to bring these plans to life. “The plans offer great potential to really impact the tourism economy of the Lincolnshire Wolds and bring visitors and holidaymakers to Alford and the surrounding Wolds. “These plans are hugely exciting and the benefits they bring will be far reaching for businesses and organisations in Alford and surrounding areas.”
William Silby from STEM Architects said: “We are pleased to see the planning officers and local councillors support the projects with a unanimous decision to approve both applications. “It has been a pleasure working with the rest of the design team, ELDC and the trustees at both Alford Manor House and Windmill. We are looking forward to continuing with the next stages of both projects. In particular, it is fantastic that these schemes will support the ongoing viability of the Windmill and Manor House and protect these beautiful heritage assets for generations to come.” A range of pre-construction work will now continue on both sites ready for work to start next year. A planning application for Spilsby Sessions House is due to be submitted later this year.
  Image credit: East Lindsey District Council

Enjoy free weekend parking in District Council-owned car parks in Newark this Christmas

Tess Egginton
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Enjoy free weekend parking in District Council-owned car parks in Newark this Christmas
Newark and Sherwood District Council is once again offering free weekend and Bank Holiday parking at all its managed pay and display car parks to support businesses and attract visitors during this festive season.
Before the weekend free parking was introduced last year, it was only Sundays where visitors could park for free. Now, free parking will be provided on Saturdays as well as Sundays starting from Sunday 24 November, coinciding with the Christmas Lights Switch On, running through to Sunday 29 December. It will also include free parking for Bank Holidays for Wednesday 25 December and Thursday 26 December. The aim is that the free parking will motivate residents to do their Christmas shopping locally this year, in an effort to support Newark’s amazing independent retailers and town centre. Those using the car park on one of the free days will still need to pick up a ticket when they park. Simply go to the parking machine to print your ticket for how long you plan to stay, and you won’t be charged if you park on the weekend during the offer period. Councillor Paul Peacock, Leader of Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “We want to continue this offer for residents and to take the extra step and further support residents and businesses this Christmas. “I urge all residents and visitors to Newark to seize this wonderful opportunity, explore our remarkable independent shops, and participate in the exciting events happening this year.” Councillor Claire Penny, Portfolio Holder for Sustainable Economic Development at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “It’s great we can launch this initiative yet again and it’s one that we hope will be a huge benefit for many living and working in the town. “Newark is a fantastic spot for shopping, grabbing a bite to eat, or family outings, so it’s wonderful that we can attract more visitors with this great offer.” Darren Bourke, of Masdings Designer Clothes shop on Middle Gate in Newark, said: “This is fantastic news for shoppers and local businesses alike. It will help to support town centre and High Street businesses to attract more customers in the lead up to Christmas which is a vital time of year for traders. “The convenience of parking and visiting the town centre on weekends along with free parking tickets will help bring more visitors and shoppers into our amazing town to experience all that is on offer at this time of year.” A number of festive events are set to take place in Newark this year, including A Likely Story – Historical Escapes on Friday 1 November, Newark’s Christmas Lights Switch On taking place on Sunday 24 November, this year’s Palace Theatre pantomime Aladdin between Friday 6 December and Tuesday 31 December and the Christmas Market and Traditions coinciding with the Steampunk Christmas Market on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 December. These are just some of the engaging events hosted in the vibrant town of Newark, which hosts activities all year-round and boasts a wide array of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. Enjoy exploring the town centre and the amazing events on offer under a magical Christmas canopy of lights, making this an excellent destination for a family outing which offers lots of great options to extend your visit, support local shops and enjoy a bite to eat or hot drink. The District Council managed car parks offering free parking include those located on Appleton Gate, London Road, The Wharf, Riverside, Riverside Arena and Castle House. The offer does not apply to resident and contract car parks.

Council harvests crop of Britain in Bloom Awards from the RHS

Stuart Pearcey
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Council harvests crop of Britain in Bloom Awards from the RHS
North Lincolnshire has picked up a clutch of prestigious Britain in Bloom East Midlands awards from the Royal Horticultural Society. The newly-developed Somervell Community/Inclusive Allotments in Scunthorpe scooped a major award – the RHS Judges Award for Community Focus. Elsham Parish Nature Reserve, which used to be an old quarry, also received a Judge’s Award. The site is owned by Elsham Parish Council. The judges said the site had been transformed into a wonderful wildflower and wildlife facility which, as it develops, would be fully enjoyed by villagers and visitors alike. Central Park in Scunthorpe won an award for Excellence in Horticulture and Standards. Recent work installing planters on local streets, including Britannia Corner, won a Bronze award. Cllr David Rose, Cabinet member for Environment said: “This is a marvellous achievement, and a welcome reward for the workforce who have put so much effort in over the past 12 months. North Lincolnshire’s green spaces are going from strength to strength. “It is particularly noteworthy that unused and neglected areas have been taken and transformed them into spaces from which the whole community can benefit.”

Huge West End show visits Newark this month

Tess Egginton
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Huge West End show visits Newark this month
The Palace Theatre Newark is getting ready to welcome a huge West End production to its stage this month. Bill Kenwright Ltd.’s national tour of Blood Brothers will be visiting their stage from Tuesday 22 to Saturday 26 October and there are just a handful of tickets left for each performance. Written by Willy Russell, the legendary Blood Brothers tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences. This production will see Vivienne Carlyle returning to the iconic role of Mrs. Johnstone, having received nightly standing ovations for her powerful and poignant performance in the West End production. Sean Jones and Joe Sleight return to the production as twins Mickey and Eddie, with Gemma Brodrick reprising the role of Linda. The superb score includes Bright New Day, Marilyn Monroe and the emotionally charged hit Tell Me It’s Not True, one of many reasons it is affectionately known as “the standing ovation musical.” To ensure that as many local people can enjoy this fantastic show as possible, a British Sign Language interpreter will be in attendance on Wednesday 23 October, enabling people who are D/deaf or hard of hearing to experience this amazing story to the fullest. Councillor Rowan Cozens, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Heritage, Culture and the Arts at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “It’s a wonderful step forward for Newark that such a well-renowned national tour has chosen to stop here. “The fact that tickets have been selling so well is brilliant too and really proves that there is an appetite for shows like this in the local area. I know that the Palace team are already in talks with a number of other similar productions so keep an eye out and make sure you don’t miss this chance to such an acclaimed West End show in your local theatre.” The remaining tickets can be booked online at www.palacenewark.com, or by calling 01636 655755 or visiting the Theatre from Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm.

Yarn bomb challenge was topping for Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance

Tess Egginton
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Yarn bomb challenge was topping for Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance
As part of the 30th Anniversary celebrations, Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance (LNAA) challenged nifty knitters to create the largest yarn bomb ever seen to spread the word about its vital life-saving work. And what a sight it was! Since May 2024, over 350 of helicopters have been spotted flying and landing in shops, parks, churches, offices, pubs and many other locations in communities across Lincs & Notts. They have been spotted as far away as The Wirral in Cheshire, on the ferry from Southampton to Isle of Wight and even in the cockpit of the Red Arrows! LNAA’s Volunteer Manager, Kate Kerrigan said: “We have been blown away by the support, not only from the many of people who created these masterpieces but also from the hundreds of supporters who contacted us telling where they had been spotted. “It has been truly fantastic to witness so many helicopters landing in so many different locations and every helicopter has played a part in raising awareness of the life-saving work that our pilots, doctors and paramedics do every day of the year. “As a charity, LNAA receives no direct government funding for its operations and relies on the support of every community in Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire to raise the £13million needed to operate 24 hours of the day, every day of the year.” The helicopters will now disappear from their locations to be stored in their hangars and receive some tender loving care before they take to the skies once again during the charity’s Hello Yellow Week birthday celebrations in May 2025.

East Lindsey businesses warned about new ‘licence expiry’ scam

Stuart Pearcey
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East Lindsey businesses warned about new ‘licence expiry’ scam
Businesses in the East Lindsey area of Lincolnshire are being alerted to a new scam being attempted in the area, where fraudsters posing as Council officials claim alcohol licences are about to expire. A spokesman for the Licensing Officers of South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership said: “The scam involves individuals falsely claiming that your Alcohol Premises Licence is running out or expiring. This is incorrect, as alcohol licences do not expire or run out. Any annual licence fees due will be handled by the Council through the usual annual invoice/reminder process. “These fraudsters can seem very convincing, sometimes having accurate information such as the fee amount or the names of real Council staff. If you’re ever in doubt about someone claiming to be from the Council, contact your local council directly to verify their identity. “We are committed to protecting our local businesses from fraudulent activities. Please remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour to ensure the safety and integrity of our community.” If you believe you’ve been targeted by this scam or have any relevant information, please report the incident to the Licensing Team at your local council, Lincolnshire Police on 101, and Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.

County Council demands answers from National Grid about pylon plan costs

Stuart Pearcey
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County Council demands answers from National Grid about pylon plan costs

National Grid is being pressured by Lincolnshire County Council’s legal department to share the data used to justify its claim that 400 pylons running through Lincolnshire are cheaper than seabed cabling.

The council believes the costing for the Grid’s proposal for pylons and substations across 80 miles of productive farmland between Grimsby and Walpole are fundamentally flawed. Officers have already requested official costings twice and have been ignored by the Grid, which has cited commercial sensitivities. The council, which is supportive of the need to route offshore renewables to UK communities to achieve net zero, believes the Grid’s ‘value for money’ claims may be flawed on the following grounds:
  • They are deliberately using out of date costings to justify pylons over seabed cabling.
  • They are ignoring indirect costs like the compensation they would need to pay to land and property owners, the extra infrastructure needed to allow for the maintenance of the network and the compensation that councils would claim for loss of tourism.
  • They have not considered other alternatives like investing in existing pylon networks to boost their capacity.
The council has formally requested a response from the Grid on these points by 29 October, ahead of official consultations planned for spring next year. Martin Hill, leader of Lincolnshire County Council, said: “We have been quite clear about the impact these proposals would have on the county if they came to fruition, and we deserve to have the full information to ensure that National Grid has truly considered all the options before decimating Lincolnshire’s countryside. “The county council is experienced with dealing with commercially sensitive information, so hiding behind this excuse simply does not make sense. “We believe their data is flawed, but if the Grid stands by the claim that pylons are a cheaper, they need to simply tell us how they have reached that conclusion – show us the figures. “Upgrades to national energy infrastructure need to be done properly, and we’re seeking assurances for our residents that every option is being properly considered.”

Sandringham Christmas Craft, Food & Gift Fair returns

Tess Egginton
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Sandringham Christmas Craft, Food & Gift Fair returns
Late November heralds the return of the annual Christmas Craft, Food & Gift Fair at Sandringham (Friday, Saturday & Sunday November 15th – 17th 10am – 5pm). There is a fabulous show in store for you with all the old favourites with new attractions and features. One of the leading attractions at this year’s event is the return of live ice carving, after an absence of 5 years. Some of the popular carvings were Santa’s Sleigh and the Post Box for delivery of letters to Santa’s Workshop. Set in the centre of the event is the new Christmas Village, where log cabins will house selected Craftsmen, Food producers, vendors and attractions. The central food court within this village area will have numerous Meet & Greet street entertainers, music and great street food to create a lively Christmastime environment. Moving further around the fair there is the Craft Village, a major display area with well over 100 Craftsmen, Artists & Designers displaying, demonstrating and selling a multitude of hand-crafted items and gifts. Keep walking and you arrive at Food Glorious Food; synonymous to Christmas is Food & Drink, such an important aspect of everyone’s Christmas enjoyment. Equally the Food Halls provide a fabulous array of food and drink from both regional and national producers which are bound to make your taste buds tingle, then pick up some menu ideas from chefs on stage to complete your enjoyment. Still talking about food, why not try some of the great Street Food on offer whilst relaxing to live music in the adjacent food court; a little chance to rest your feet. Lots more gifts and ideas abound in the various gift marquees and arcades that interlink the main show areas, many of the exhibitors being drawn from Country Fair exhibitors, so if you missed them earlier in the year, you have a second chance to catch your favourite stands. Enjoy all the fun of the fair at the Sandringham Christmas Craft, Food & Gift Fair. It’s Christmas time and they say Christmas it for children, and there is plenty of entertainment with Santa’s Magic Show, various puppet shows, Jesters, mischievous Elves and much more. Travel on the Christmas Land Train or decorate a biscuit in the children’s activity tent, then just join in all the fun of the fair. Enjoy the nice lively atmosphere that is created around the event with a wide range of live music including Jazz, Blues, Christmas songs by the Swingtime Sweethearts, Brass Bands, One Man Bands and of course a Singing Santa. So eat, drink and be merry at the Sandringham Christmas Craft, Food & Gift Fair. Adults £14, Over 65’s £13, Children £5.
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