40 new electric vehicle charging points to be installed in East Lindsey car parks

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Plans for 40 new electric vehicle charging points to be installed across East Lindsey in the coming months are underway, after the District Council was awarded a £150,000 grant by the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV).

The Grant, which is part of the second phase of OZEV’s Onstreet Residential Chargepoint Scheme, is designed to provide local residents who may not have access to their own off street parking facilities the opportunity to charge electric vehicles. Initial work has begun to install new charging points at the following locations, with work expected to be completed by April 2023:
  • Market Place, Tattershall – 4 x 7kW dual chargepoints
  • Princes Parade, Skegness – 4 x 7kW dual chargepoints
  • Lawn Car Park, Skegness – 4 x 7kW dual chargepoints
  • Marine Avenue, Sutton on Sea – 4 x 7kW dual chargepoints
  • The Hub, Mareham Road, Horncastle – 2 x 7kW dual chargepoint plus 2 x 22kW dual chargepoints
The installation works will cost a total of £204,000, with 75% of the costs covered by the grant funding and the remaining covered by BP Pulse, who are the district’s charging point provider procured via the ESPO Framework. The 40 new charging points will add to the 22 council points already available in East Lindsey car parks, situated in Alford, Coningsby, Horncastle, Louth, Mablethorpe, Skegness, Spilsby and Woodhall Spa. Councillor Martin Foster, portfolio holder for operational services, said: “I am pleased we have been able to achieve this funding from OZEV to provide this service for our car parks, which are central to our residents. The grant plays a vital role in helping us support our residents who own electric vehicles, giving them more options around the District to stop and charge their car.” Councillor Graham Marsh, portfolio holder for community safety, leisure and culture, and carbon reduction, said: “Our council is committed to reducing our carbon emissions and this will go some way in helping our residents be more energy efficient. Owning an electric vehicle will become more accessible and may encourage increased use of electric vehicles across our district.”

Radiators vs underfloor heating: which wins?

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There are many ways you can heat your home. Increasingly, many households are installing underfloor heating systems, however, the trend for using contemporary and stylish radiators is also on an upwards trajectory, but honestly, which is better? Lincolnshire Radiators Direct have compiled some facts to help us decide. The differences Let’s look at the fundamentals here, after all, not everyone has experienced underfloor heating before. Radiators by their very design are part and parcel of many homes and their functionality and style is something that means people often prefer them. Their practical use as both household heating units and convectors of heat means that even older models still function without much maintenance or extra cost. In many cases, they also provide warmth through their network of pipes too, whether these run under the floor or behind walls. Underfloor heating by its very nature is less conspicuous and offers a level of control that is unsurpassed. However, expense, maintenance, installation and cost can prove to be much more than traditional heating systems. Getting them installed When it comes to installation, getting a radiator replaced or fixing in a new one couldn’t be easier. Once all connections are secure and a unit is fixed to a wall, heat can be introduced and your home should be toasty within minutes. If larger, or more upright models are being installed, this can take a little more effort and the planning and execution can prove more challenging, but overall, it is generally easy. Underfloor heating of course is a more involved job. If you are installing into a new build, this can be pre-planned, but if you are retrofitting into an older home, it can be expensive, messy and disruptive. Installing a water-based system as opposed to a dry system also requires changes to plumbing and can present problems when it comes to floor level. Too much piping can mean an elevated floor where there was none before. Winner here? Radiators. Estimating efficiency Considering efficiency is key to cost and how you run your heating systems. The low temperatures that underfloor heating operates at can mean that a boiler doesn’t have to work very hard. Underfloor heating runs generally at 35C, but radiators run at a much higher 60-80C, which can be a drain on energy. What really makes a difference here is your insulation, no matter which option you choose, if you are losing your heat through your walls or roof, then any efficiency is lost regardless. Winner here? No clear winner, insulation matters. Long lasting? When it comes to radiators vs underfloor heating systems, the difference in maintenance costs is huge. Where underfloor heating is reliable and hidden, this comes at a huge inconvenience and cost if things go wrong. Upheaval in terms of lifting floors, clearing furniture and disruption to your daily life means that it can be incredibly inconvenient and costly. On the other hand, radiators are easily accessible, easy to maintain and can be isolated if things start to go wrong. Replacement is also relatively stress-free due to units having universal plumbing fixtures. Over time, replacing even several radiators can still be cheaper than forking out for expensive remodeling and other costs. Winner here? Radiators. So which is best? If we’re being honest, there’s no clear winner here, radiators are obviously the preferred choice for Lincolnshire Radiators Direct, due to the convenience, style and relatively low cost. However, it is understandable that if your house is well-insulated and you need the room, underfloor heating is a viable option. To find out more about their range of radiators, why not browse here? 

New solar farm proposed for North Kesteven, powering over 180,000 homes

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EDF Renewables UK and Luminous Energy have announced plans and a public consultation for Springwell Solar Farm, a proposed new solar farm with battery storage located between Lincoln and Sleaford in Lincolnshire. Springwell Solar Farm would provide enough clean energy to power over 180,000 homes every year – that’s the equivalent of around half of all the homes in Lincolnshire. Consultation on early plans for Springwell Solar Farm will run for six weeks from Tuesday 24 January. Feedback from local communities will help shape the plans for Springwell and identify potential benefits that it could support in the local area. EDF Renewables UK’s head of Solar, Ben Fawcett said: “At EDF Renewables UK, we’re passionate about creating a future where clean energy powers our lives. Springwell Solar Farm would produce much needed low-carbon electricity here in the UK, helping to power thousands of homes and businesses every year. “We are currently at a very early stage on Springwell, with local views vital to helping us develop our plans. We encourage everyone to get involved in the upcoming consultation to find out more about Springwell and let us know their thoughts.” Jolyon Orchard, CEO of Luminous Energy, said: “Our company was established to make a meaningful contribution towards mitigating climate change and we now have numerous renewable energy projects in development, under construction or operating across four continents. When we initiated this project, we recognised it provided a real opportunity to help the UK transition to net-zero. “We are looking forward to working with EDF Renewables UK and the local community to create a scheme that delivers affordable, clean energy.” As part of the consultation, members of the public are invited to a series of public exhibitions to meet the team behind Springwell and share feedback. The exhibitions will take place at the following dates and locations: Tuesday 31 January – Blankney Old School House (2pm –7pm); Wednesday 01 February – Scopwick Village Hall (2pm – 7pm).

Over 200 arrested for drink and drug driving during Lincolnshire Christmas campaign

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Lincolnshire Police officers have made 211 arrests as part of the Christmas anti-drink and drug drive campaign. This figure is up from 167 arrests during the previous year’s Christmas campaign. Inspector Jason Baxter, who leads the Roads Policing Unit, said: “We have made more arrests than last year, but I would be happy if we made no arrests as it would mean that the message is getting through to people that driving under the influence is not acceptable in our county. “We still have work to do in educating the public that as well as being a criminal offence, driving under the influence is a selfish act which endangers the lives of other road users.” Inspector Jason Baxter added: “Last year 48 people died needlessly on our roads – the aim of the Roads Policing Unit is to significantly reduce the number of people who are killed or seriously injured on Lincolnshire’s roads. We want to educate road users, promote road safety, and protect innocent road users across our county. “Drugs and alcohol impair your ability to drive safely – your reaction times are slower which can lead to poor concentration and your chances of being involved in a collision are increased, risking the lives of yourself and other road users. “Having a dedicated Roads Policing Unit means that we have more resource to patrol the roads in our county, and to keep residents safe. There is no excuse for drink or drug driving – this is a warning to anyone out there that if you are caught drink or drug driving any time of year, you will be arrested.”

Grimsby bridge to close for 11 months whilst Spencer Group gets on with its restoration

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Major restoration of Grimsby’s Corporation Road Bridge is to start in early February and mean the bridge will be closed for 11 months. The full refurbishment by Hull-based Spencer Group will include key structural works, as well as improvements to the aesthetic changes to the bridge – protecting the landmark for many years to come and preserve its heritage status. Councillor Stewart Swinburn, portfolio holder for environment and transport at North East Lincolnshire Council, said: “As part of its Grade 2 listed heritage status, it is important the bridge remains functioning and the mechanics are in full operation to ensure the council is satisfying the statutory obligations. “Corporation Road Bridge is a key landmark in Grimsby Town Centre and the Heritage Action Zone. These refurbishment works are going to safeguard this iconic landmark for many years to come and be a key contributor to the ongoing regeneration works in this area.” Joe DiMauro, project manager for bridges at Spencer Group, added: “Corporation Bridge is well known to Spencer Group employees and we’ll be able to involve some of our apprentices based in the Humber region, who also played a part in the tendering process. It will be a great experience for them to work with our established bridge refurbishment teams, helping to develop their knowledge and skills in this highly specialised area.” While the works take place, Corporation Road Bridge will be closed to all vehicles and diversion routes will be clearly signed. The bridge will remain open to pedestrians and cyclists, except during short periods when the contractor will need to test the lifting mechanisms and the bridge will need to be fully closed. A diversion route will be put in place while the bridge is closed to traffic. Motorists wishing to cross to the Sainsbury’s side will be directed from Westgate roundabout, along Pyewipe Road and onto Corporation Road. Larger vehicles will be asked to straddle both lanes at the traffic signals. Those heading to the east side of the bridge will be directed to Lockhill roundabout.

Man sentenced for abuse of position of trust

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A man has been sentenced to five years and four months in prison for abuse of position of trust after he started a relationship with a girl in his care. The relationship between Andrew Geeson, aged 27, of St Margarets, Quadring, and the girl, began when she was 14, with sexual intercourse occurring soon after she turned 16. The girl, who is entitled to full anonymity, had been placed in a children’s home in which Geeson worked. Investigating officer, DS Will Sibbet said: “Geeson was employed to safeguard and care for vulnerable children but instead he exploited his position of trust to abuse the victim over a sustained period of time. It has taken immense bravery from the victim to share her account and we applaud the courage of the victim in this case to come forward.”

ABP calls for public input on plans for green energy terminal at Immingham

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The public are invited to share their views on the proposed new Immingham Green Energy Terminal on the eastern side of the Port of Immingham, as part of Statutory Consultation on the project. ABP wants to build, operate and maintain the new green energy terminal. The proposed development also includes the construction and operation of a hydrogen production facility by Air Products. The proposed development includes a new jetty with up to two berths and associated infrastructure to be used for the import and export of bulk liquids. Air Products will construct and operate a green hydrogen production facility as part of the project. Submitting of the DCO application to the Secretary of State via the Planning Inspectorate is intended in Summer 2023. These proposals would create a brand-new hydrogen production facility in the heart of the Humber’s energy estuary. IGET would contribute to the Humber 2030 Vision, where the Humber Energy Board is driving forward change in our local industries, decarbonising the Humber and delivering clean energy for the future. The development proposals will constitute a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP) as per the Planning Act 2008, and therefore require an application for a Development Consent Order (DCO) to be made to the Secretary of State. Formal Statutory Consultation with the local community and key stakeholders will run until Monday 20 February 2023, with in-person consultation sessions taking place throughout the consultation period at the Immingham Civic Centre, Pelham Road, Immingham, DN40 1QF on these dates and times. Burton Hall at Immingham Civic Centre:
  • Wednesday 18 January 2023, 08:00-12:00
  • Thursday 19 January 2023, 15:30-19:30
  • Wednesday 1 February 2023, 08:00-12:00
  • Thursday 2 February 2023, 15:30-19:30
Old Library Building at Immingham Civic Centre:
  • Friday 17 February 2023, 12:00-16:00
  • Saturday 18th February 2023, 10:00-14:00

Man arrested in Scunthorpe on suspicion of attempted murder

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A 19-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following an incident in Scunthorpe on Wednesday 4 January.
Humberside Police received reports at around 7.45pm that the victim sustained a knife injury on Ancaster Court, Scunthorpe. The victim remains in hospital in a critical condition. Following enquiries, a man was arrested in connection with the incident on Thursday (5 January), and he remains in custody at this time whilst enquiries continue. DCI Simon Duffield said: “Understandably, given the nature of this incident, it will be concerning to members of the local community. However, we believe this to be an isolated incident with no wider risk to members of the public. “There will continue to be a high presence of police in the area whilst our investigations continue, and I would ask anyone with concerns or information to come and talk with our officers. “If you believe you have any information, please call our non-emergency number 101 quoting log 467 of Wednesday 4 January. Alternatively, if you would prefer to provide information anonymously, you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Investor snaps up latest phase at Leafbridge Business Park in Lincoln

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The latest phase of Lincoln business park, Leafbridge, has been snapped up by a private investor. Located on Station Road in North Hykeham, Leafbridge Business Park is owned by Leafbridge Limited and is being developed by Lincoln contractor, Stirlin. Stirlin has sold all 6 units off-plan in the third phase to a repeat investor client, which will all be made available to lease when they are build complete later in the year. Construction is well underway on the new phase, which will provide over 23,000 sq ft of employment space to support the local business base. The new units range in size from 3,000 to 5,000 sq ft, each benefiting from an electric sectional door, DDA compliant toilet facilities and ample parking. Tony Lawton, Managing Director of Stirlin, said: “Since the first units at Leafbridge were completed in 2021, we have seen a notable demand for new employment space in this location, particularly from our database of valued investor clients. “Leafbridge is situated in a very convenient, accessible location and is occupied by both local and national businesses, making it incredibly attractive to those seeking investment opportunities.” Jasper Caudwell, Chartered Surveyor for the site’s agent, Pygott & Crone, said: “Leafbridge continues to perform as Lincoln’s premier business park, which is cemented by the new delivery of over 23,000 sq ft of high-spec business space on behalf of a private investor. “The development has proven to be exceptionally popular, meeting the gap in supply of much needed business space with the first two phases experiencing strong uptake from both tenant and owner occupiers.” Tony Lawton continued: “Designs are continually being reviewed as we plan for further development on Leafbridge, so welcome all interested investors and businesses to get in touch with our team to discuss their requirements.”

Spalding man pleads guilty to murder

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The man responsible for the death of 52-year-old Darren Kirk has pleaded guilty to his murder. Wayne Rule, 46, of Cygnet Court, Spalding, fatally stabbed Darren and attempted to kill another man in his 40s following a disagreement over drugs. The violence began in the early hours of Monday 20 December 2021 and spread over two addresses. Officers were alerted to a report that the man in his 40s had suffered stab wounds at a property in Bowditch Road, Spalding at 12.26am. On arrival, they found the victim with multiple injuries in a bedroom, and administered first aid before he was taken to hospital. He named Rule as his attacker. Then, less than an hour later at 1.10am a second call came that a stabbing had taken place at Cygnet Court in Spalding. Officers immediately dispatched, and found Darren injured in the kitchen. He was sadly pronounced dead at 1.56am despite the best efforts of all those on scene. Wayne Rule was quickly identified as the suspect in that incident. Following several hours of negotiation by specialist officers at his address, which was also at Cygnet Court, he was arrested by 7am that morning. He has now pleaded guilty for the murder of Darren Kirk and the attempted murder of the man in his 40s. The case was heard before High Court judge, His Honour Judge Hirst, sitting at Lincoln Crown Court. Detective Chief Inspector Andy McWatt led the investigation. He said: “In December 2021 we were faced with a death and the attempted murder of two men which would have been wholly avoidable without the use of knives by Rule. He went to the addresses of both of these people and carried out his attacks. “This has been a long investigation and something which has been further drawn out for the victims’ families due to Rule’s refusal to accept responsibility. We are very pleased that today he has now admitted the charges of murder and attempted murder and will be sentenced by the courts later this month.” He will be sentenced on 16 January.