“Over the coming year, evidence from these local collaboration pilots will be the first step in understanding costs, benefits and risks from changing water management within lowland agriculture peat soils. The pilots will produce costed water-management plans, which will help us to balance our aims to reduce climate change impacts and flood risk, improve biodiversity and support sustainable agriculture.”
Crowle gets government cash to support peat preservation
The government has given £264,000 to explore how peat on Crowle Moors near Scunthorpe can be regenerated and flooding managed.
The money has been given to Reedness and Swinefleet Internal Drainage Board, and the research is expected to extend to Thorne and Goole Moors as well.
The award is part of a series worth a total of £1.3m intended to improve lowland peat soils, Peatlands are our largest terrestrial carbon store, however, as a result of centuries of drainage for agriculture, just 1% of England’s lowland peatlands remain in a near-natural state, and these drained peatlands account for 88% of all greenhouse gas emissions from England’s peat.
The projects will use government funding to improve the management of water on lowland peat and enhance understanding of climate change impacts and flood risk.
Philip Duffy, Chief Executive of the Environment Agency, said: “I was incredibly encouraged by the number of exciting applications to the Lowland Agriculture Peat – Water Discovery Pilot. They represent a diverse array of applicants, from across the breadth of the lowland peat areas.
Cleethorpes seeks town twinning veterans on golden anniversary of German link
This year Cleethorpes and the German town of Königswinter celebrate a half-century of twinning friendship – and to mark the historic year it’s hoped that those on the first exchange visit can be re-united.
Keith Brookes, Chairman of the Cleethorpes Trustees and a North East Lincolnshire Councillor, is hoping to involve as many people who went on the first trips to Königswinter as possible. He said: “I’m looking forward to seeing the celebrations in the year ahead. This bond between our two towns is an important one that we must never forget.
“It’s exciting to hear about the first visits and we would love for any teachers or students who were part of them to come forward and tell us their story.”
Anyone who was part of the first visits to Königswinter should contact keith.brookes@nelincs.gov.uk.
The twinning began in 1974 and was officially declared following a Town Twinning ceremony at Cleethorpes Pier Pavilion in March the following year.
Following the official signing, Cleethorpes Borough Council arranged for a number of schoolchildren to visit Germany in July 1976 and for members of the Grimsby, Cleethorpes and District Youth Orchestra to visit the following October.
Students and teachers from secondary schools across the borough of Cleethorpes spent four to six weeks in the German town with some fortunate enough to study with the local schools.
A number of visitors came from Germany to Cleethorpes throughout the year as well. In March, the Bürgermeister and a number of other dignitaries visited for four days, during which time, 20 schoolchildren and two teachers also came to the town.
At the beginning of April that year, seven school teachers visited Cleethorpes and worked alongside local teachers to help improve future exchanges.
Spring into Spalding as popular event returns
South Holland District Council will soon host a special springtime town centre event in Spalding – and a celebrity visitor will be making an appearance too.
Thanks to an award of £6,000 from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the council’s Communities Team has been able to bring back the Spring into Spalding event which also took place in 2022.
On Saturday, March 30 from 10:30am to 2:30pm, there will be something for everyone at the free fun-filled day of festivities.
Visitors will be able to sample the delights on offer at the Spalding Outdoor Market, have some good old fashioned fun on the vintage swing boat ride, watch some wonderful live performances on the stage, create something beautiful in the spring time craft corner, meet Sleeping Beauty and watch her perform on stage and have a photo with Peter Rabbit and a giant daffodil stilt walker as they join in the fun.
If you’re still looking for something to do, why not plant your own spring time flower or make a mini beast hotel at the Nature Lab, have a laugh in the Comedy Maypole Workshop and get inside the giant blossom globe or have a free spring themed face paint creation.
A new addition for this year’s event will take place in the South Holland Centre where Council Chairman Andrew Woolf will be hosting a Bake Off competition – which will be judged by Matty Edgell who won the Great British Bake Off 2023. Further details of how to enter the competition will be released shortly.
But that isn’t all! There will also be an Easter Bonnet Competition to get involved in and several super cute bunnies to look out for in the Bunny Hunt trail around the town shops.
Additionally, Broad Street Methodist Church will also be open from 10:30am until 2:30pm on the day with free craft activities and refreshments.
Councillor Tracey Carter, South Holland District Council Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Communities and Facilities, said: “I am really excited to see the return of this fantastic event.
“We are so grateful for the UKSPF grant which has allowed us to put Spring into Spalding on again for the community, especially as the last event was so well received.
“I’m sure the businesses will get into the spirit of the day too as we encourage people to get into the town centre and shop locally on our wonderful high street and support our brilliant market traders.
“Above all, I hope that everyone comes along on the day to make sure this event is a real success and that they all have a great time.”
Inspirational Lincolnshire hospital porter shortlisted for national award
A Lincolnshire hospital porter has been shortlisted for a national award and invited to a ceremony in London.
Porter Peter Quinlan, also known as ‘Snowy’ to his colleagues, originally came to work at Lincoln County Hospital for three months and is still transporting patients and goods around the site 23 years later at the age of 84.
Peter has been nominated for the Dennis Southern Lifetime Achievement Award at the National MyPorter Awards. This award is presented in honour of Dennis Southern, a porter who showed commitment, dedication, passion and care through his career and had a positive impact on every individual that met him.
This award is to celebrate him and the individuals within NHS portering services who embody Dennis’ morals, ethics and outlook.
Peter’s nomination said: “Peter has an infectious smile and warm personality that not only brightens up the day for patients, but also for all of the NHS colleagues that he meets throughout his shift.
“Peter says he loves being a part of such a great team, but the truth is that he is right at the heart of it. He says it is a privilege to be able to talk to patients and be able to put a smile on their faces during what is often a really worrying or stressful time.
“Snowy really is a wave of sunshine that passes through the hospital and brings a smile to the face of everyone he meets. He is also dedicated, committed, kind, caring, and passionate about his work and offers a quiet reassurance when needed.”
Peter has been invited to the awards ceremony in London on Wednesday 21 February where he will join the other nominees. More than 300 entries were received for the awards, showcasing the exceptional candidates for each of the 13 award categories.
Wayne McIntosh, Head of Facilities at United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust, said: “We all know how amazing ‘Snowy’ is. His energy and personality are amazing and an inspiration to us all.
“For him to receive this national recognition gives us the perfect opportunity to highlight his dedication and commitment to patients and colleagues at Lincoln County Hospital. It also let us publicly say a massive thank you. Good lucky ‘Snowy’ we are all rooting for you.”
Picture: Peter ‘Snowy’ Quinlan. Image courtesy of United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust
How Lincolnshire’s tech sector spurs local economy growth
Lincolnshire is rapidly becoming a hub for technological innovation, driving significant growth in the local economy. The tech sector has now taken centre stage, contributing to job creation, attracting investment, and fostering a culture of innovation that resonates throughout the region. This transformation is not just reshaping the economic landscape but also positioning Lincolnshire as a key player in the UK’s broader tech industry. As we delve deeper, we will explore the various areas of this growth, the challenges faced, and the future prospects that lie ahead for Lincolnshire’s tech sector.
The Rise of Tech in Lincolnshire
Lincolnshire’s journey towards becoming a tech-centric economy has been marked by strategic investments and a strong focus on innovation. The establishment of tech parks and incubators has provided a fertile ground for startups and established companies alike to thrive. These initiatives have not only attracted talent from across the nation but also spurred local employment opportunities. The growth in tech-related businesses, ranging from software development firms to specialised service providers highlights the diverse nature of the sector’s expansion. If you live in Lincoln, you can even book mobile phone repairs services such as Likewize, who can come to your business to repair phones or tablets. By embracing technology, Lincolnshire is not just diversifying its economic base but also enhancing its competitiveness on a national scale.
Impact on Local Economy
The tech sector’s expansion in Lincolnshire has had a profound impact on the local economy. It has led to an increase in high-skilled jobs, reducing unemployment rates and boosting the overall standard of living. Moreover, the influx of tech companies has stimulated other sectors, including retail, hospitality, and real estate, by increasing demand for services and housing. This economic dynamism, fueled by technological innovation, is creating a more robust and resilient local economy, capable of withstanding external shocks and adapting to the changing global landscape.
Fostering Innovation and Collaboration
At the heart of Lincolnshire’s tech sector success is a strong emphasis on innovation and collaboration. Universities and research institutions play a crucial role in this ecosystem, partnering with businesses to drive research and development. These collaborations have led to breakthroughs in various fields, from renewable energy to digital healthcare solutions, showcasing the potential of combining academic insight with entrepreneurial spirit. Furthermore, networking events and tech meetups provide platforms for knowledge exchange and foster a sense of community among tech professionals, encouraging collaboration and driving forward innovation.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Despite the significant strides made, Lincolnshire’s tech sector faces challenges, including access to funding, digital infrastructure development, and talent retention. Addressing these issues is crucial for sustaining growth and ensuring the long-term success of the tech ecosystem. Looking ahead, the focus will be on leveraging Lincolnshire’s strengths, such as its strategic location and quality of life, to attract more investment and talent. The future of Lincolnshire’s tech sector looks promising, with the potential to not only drive local economic growth but also contribute to the UK’s position as a global tech leader.
Image: Stock.adobe.com/DisobeyArt
Businesses invest £2.2m in North Lincolnshire
Dozens of businesses across North Lincolnshire have invested more than £2.2m after being backed with £300,000 Government cash.
More than 250 jobs were created and protected thanks to the scheme run by North Lincolnshire Council using money from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).
The businesses invested in new machinery, IT equipment, software, marketing support to attract new clients and a raft of green technologies including solar panels, LED lights and new efficient heating systems.
Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “We are working hard to support local businesses to create and protect jobs – thanks to this injection of Government cash we have been able to help dozens of businesses grow. Alongside the grant money the businesses have heavily invested themselves.
“A key focus was helping local companies go green and save on their energy bills with new solar panels making up a good number of the grants. This is part of our Green Futures strategy, joining up with forward thinking companies, schools and other organisations to reduce bills and the area’s carbon footprint.”
The businesses backed included those working in manufacturing, engineering, retail, hospitality and professional services such as accountants.
The next round of UKSPF business grants is due to reopen in the spring.
Image shows Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council
Council votes to launch fresh legal challenge of Government’s long-term asylum plans for RAF Scampton
The Home Office has confirmed it is looking to secure planning permission for the use of RAF Scampton for asylum accommodation for three and a half years from April.
In an effort to secure the longer-term use of the site, the Home Office has disclosed a new Environmental Impact Assessment Screening Direction to West Lindsey District Council. This was followed up quickly with a letter from the Home Office confirming that they intend to regularise the development on site through a Special Development Order (SDO).
The council has previously made its view clear that it is against this method of obtaining planning permission by way of an SDO, citing concerns over lack of transparency and opportunity for public consultation.
This has now come to a head as the council, acknowledged as a key stakeholder, was invited to provide comments on the SDO. It has now shared robust concerns with the Home Office over the inadequacy of the assessment of impact over an extended period of time.
Following the submission of the consultation response, the council confirmed it has launched fresh Judicial Review proceedings against the Environmental Impact Assessment Screening Direction on which the SDO application will rely.
The consultation response from the council highlights key deficiencies in the assessment, citing amongst other issues:
- Direct conflict with the Central Lincolnshire Local Plan and a fundamental undermining of the government’s own legislation and guidance.
- Harm to listed buildings, monuments and their settings.
- Inappropriate intensification of population in an unsustainable rural area.
- Unacceptable impact on strategic infrastructure including highways, health, education and utilities.
- Failure to meet requirements for the protection of important species and disregard for the new Biodiversity Net Gain requirements.
Community Diagnostic Centre a step closer for Grimsby as works get underway at Freshney Place Shopping Centre
The NHS’s Community Diagnostic Centre has started works on over 18,000 sq ft of space at Freshney Place Shopping Centre, with refurbishment works getting underway in preparation for a summer opening.
The new facility will provide the local community with better access to NHS services through its central location, providing a range of non-urgent test facilities, including non-obstetric ultrasounds, electrocardiograms, and X-Rays. It is aimed to provide 150,000 additional health checks a year and will remove the need to attend acute hospital sites.
Cllr Philip Jackson, leader of North East Lincolnshire Council, said: “We’ve been working on this with the NHS for some months now, and I’m pleased work is going to start on creating this new facility for our residents.”
Amanda Austin, centre director at Freshney Place, said: “The addition of the CDC to the centre sees Freshney Place become a multipurpose location. Combining retail and leisure with health, and other services, is in step with our plans to become a community focused destination, offering greater convenience and accessibility.
“We’re confident that the addition of such services will continue to drive footfall and occupation levels up; it’s a new and welcome chapter in the shopping centre’s long history.”
Hoardings have been erected and the CDC will be located in five currently vacant units on Baxtergate, along with Boots, Waterstones, HMV and Costa. It is expected to open this summer.
Image: Stock.adobe.com/smolaw11
Nunny’s Farm ready to welcome visitors back after difficult Winter
Winter has been a difficult time at Nunny’s Farm with flooding, storm damage and the loss of some favourite animals due to accidental poisoning, but that was so last year!
The team cannot wait to welcome visitors back to the farm. The current fundraising appeal, has enabled them to create some paths and this will continue as the funds come in. www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/Nunnysfarm
So, what are you waiting for? Visit the farm over February half term, take a walk around our 5 acres in the crisp air, stroke and feed our amazing animals, have a drink and cake in the tea room and look forward to Spring.
Nunny’s Farm opens on Saturday 10th February at 10am, entry is £4.00pp and you don’t even need to book, just come, and pay at the gate. www.nunnysfarmcic.org
‘Don’t make asylum seeker accommodation a postcode lottery’, says Council
The Home Office has been told by West Lindsey District Council that it can’t create asylum seeker accommodation on a postcode lottery based on the availability of crown land.
The robust comment from Council Leader Trevor Young is in response to news that the Home Office is seeking planning permission for the use of RAF Scampton for asylum seeker accommodation for three and a half years from April.
The Government is basing its application on an Environmental Impact Assessment Screening Direction which it hopes will form the basis of creating a Special Development Order as a route to planning consent.
Councillor Young is urging the Home Office to reconsider the SDO proposal. He said: “The Government has not only failed to understand the complexity of the site through its inadequate Environment Impact Assessment, but it has also failed to engage properly with local people throughout the process leading to significant anxiety within the community.
“RAF Scampton is wholly unsuitable for the purpose they propose and as such they need to engage in meaningful consultation with all future stakeholders to ensure a balanced and sustainable approach to addressing asylum seeker accommodation needs is developed nationally. It can’t simply continue to be a postcode lottery based on the availability of Crown Land alone.”
The council has launch new judicial review proceedings, and has told the Home Office it believes the plans
- are in direct conflict with the Central Lincolnshire Local Plan and a fundamental undermining of the government’s own legislation and guidance
- would cause arm to listed buildings, monuments and their settings
- would mean inappropriate intensification of population in an unsustainable rural area
- are unacceptable impact on strategic infrastructure including highways, health, education and utilities
- fail to meet requirements for the protection of important species and disregard for the new Biodiversity Net Gain requirements
