Solar farm decisions ‘deeply disappointing’ for Lincolnshire

Stuart Pearcey
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Solar farm decisions ‘deeply disappointing’ for Lincolnshire

Two senior county councillors have reacted to the news that the new Secretary of State has granted permission for two giant solar farms in Lincolnshire.

Permission for Gate Burton in West Lindsey and Mallard’s Pass in South Kesteven have been given permission to go ahead, despite considerable local opposition. Councillor Colin Davie, the county council’s executive councillor for economy and environment, said: “The news that proposals for giant industrial solar parks for both Mallard’s Pass and Gate Burton have been approved is deeply disappointing for all those who will have to live with these huge developments on their doorstep. “I have repeatedly said that these enormous infrastructure projects should not be dumped in our county, and ruin the quality of life of our residents. Our agricultural land should be protected and it plays a key role in our nation’s food security. But these pleas are not being heard by the Labour government now in charge of environmental policy.” Leader of Lincolnshire County Council, Cllr Martin Hill, added: “Be in no doubt that these are huge-scale developments that will change our county landscapes dramatically. Both proposals are expected to cover around 2000 acres each. The speed with which these decisions have been taken shows that this government is not prepared to listen to communities, local councils and all those fighting for our countryside. The sheer volume of paperwork associated with these proposals means that in no way could these be seen as carefully considered decisions.”

Heather Small – a veteran in the live music scene

Tess Egginton
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Heather Small – a veteran in the live music scene
Heather Small is a veteran in the live music and touring scene and year on year, Heather’s demand has seen her play shows not just in the UK but internationally. Heather became one of the seminal British voices of the 1990s, as part of M People, with hits such as ‘Moving On Up’, ‘One Night In Heaven’ and ‘Search For The Hero’ along with albums like Elegant Slumming, Bizarre Fruit, and Fresco, achieving massive worldwide success. Join us on Friday 27th September at Cambridge Corn Exchange to see her for yourself! Book today on https://www.cambridgelive.org.uk/cornex/events/heather-small

Coming soon to the Plowright Theatre: The Makings of a Murderer 2 – The Real Manhunter

Tess Egginton
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Coming soon to the Plowright Theatre: The Makings of a Murderer 2 – The Real Manhunter
Following sell-out shows nationwide, the UK’s top true crime theatre tour is back with a brand-new lineup! Featuring Senior Investigating officer Colin Sutton, who caught serial killer Levi Bellfield and ‘Night Stalker’ Delroy Grant. Join a chilling, thrilling night at the theatre as Colin, who was head of a Metropolitan Police murder squad tells the stories of how he caught some of the UK’s most evil murderers. In this all-new show, Colin, who the ITV drama series ‘Manhunt,’ played by Martin Clunes, is based on, will talk you through his remarkable career and what it is like to chase and catch a serial killer in a unique and one-off night at the theatre – for true crime fans and theatre goers alike. The Makings of a Murderer 2 – A Crime Thriller night at the Theatre! Touring Nationwide from Autumn 2024, the show comes to The Plowright Theatre, in Scunthorpe, on Sunday 8 September 2024.

Grange Farm Park celebrates new wedding licence, Tipi venue and wellness spa

Tess Egginton
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Grange Farm Park celebrates new wedding licence, Tipi venue and wellness spa
Grange Farm Park has announced a series of exciting developments that make it the ultimate destination for weddings and relaxation in Lincolnshire. Now officially licensed for weddings, the park proudly introduces a stunning new Tipi venue and the addition of a luxurious wellness spa. New wedding licence and Tipi venue Couples can now officially exchange vows at Grange Farm Park, surrounded by the natural beauty and serene ambiance that the park offers. The newly unveiled Tipi venue, an elegant and spacious structure, can accommodate sit-down receptions for up to 110 guests. This unique space perfectly aligns with Grange Farm Park’s dedication to creating bespoke festival-style weddings, allowing couples to celebrate their love in a personalized and memorable way. Bespoke festival-style weddings Specializing in bespoke festival-style weddings, Grange Farm Park empowers couples to design their dream day. Whether aiming for a rustic, bohemian, or modern theme, each wedding is tailored to reflect the couple’s distinct style and vision. The versatile Tipi offers a charming and flexible setting, ensuring every wedding is as unique as the couple themselves. On-site accommodation Grange Farm Park offers a variety of on-site accommodation options, ensuring guests can enjoy the festivities without the need for travel. From glamping pods and luxury lodges to cozy cottages, every guest will find comfort and convenience, enhancing the overall experience of the celebration. New wellness spa Adding to the excitement, Grange Farm Park is proud to unveil its new wellness spa. This serene sanctuary offers a swim spa, sauna and ice bath together with relaxation area all designed to rejuvenate and unwind, making it the perfect addition to the park’s offerings. Whether guests are preparing for the big day or simply looking to chill out, the wellness spa provides the ideal retreat. Book your dream wedding today With the new wedding licence, the addition of the Tipi venue, the debut of an exquisite summer menu, and the luxurious wellness spa, Grange Farm Park is set to become the premier destination for couples seeking a unique and enchanting wedding experience. For more information or to book a tour, please visit www.grangefarmpark.co.uk or contact its wedding coordinator at rebecca@grangefarmpark.co.uk.

New North Lincolnshire planning academy allowing people to earn as they learn

Tess Egginton
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New North Lincolnshire planning academy allowing people to earn as they learn
Apprentice council officers can develop their skills and train as in-house planners whilst completing their apprenticeships via the newly launched planning academy.   Chris Clark has enrolled on Sheffield Hallam University’s degree course in Chartered Town Planning whilst working at North Lincolnshire Council, and upon completion in three years’ time, will become a chartered professional with the Royal Town Planning Institute.  Planning apprentice Chris Clark said: “Within my first six weeks in my post I’ve learnt incomparably more than during my time at university. This is mainly testament to the patient guidance of my colleagues and more, the long-term investment in me from the council. Thanks everyone.   “After spending the first two weeks with the duty planning officers, weeks three to four with the planning support officers and since then having spent time with the case officers, this has provided me with a really strong foundation to build upon.  “I look forward to learning more and getting to know more people.”  He has joined fellow officers, Millie Arden, Deborah Oikeh and Matthew Gillyon who are all currently studying at Sheffield Hallam University alongside working in North Lincolnshire Council’s planning teams, with support and training provided.   Equivalent to a traditional postgraduate degree, the course sees the apprentices work and study part-time at Sheffield Hallam University so they can earn as they learn.   Cllr David Rose, cabinet member for environment and strategy cabinet member, said: “This is a great way for us to develop a longer-term approach to ‘growing our own’ and supporting young people at the early stages of their planning careers. This new approach to training and recruitment will benefit both the officers and those using the planning service.   “It’s an exciting time for the planning team as they adopt new approaches to how we develop staff and approach day to day challenges.   “I am thrilled that we have been able to launch the new planning academy to support our planning apprentices.  “The initiative is among the improvements we are delivering to improve the development management service for residents and applicants, which helps make North Lincolnshire Council a more attractive place to invest, live and work in.”  Millie Arden, who is in her second year of the apprenticeship, says: “There is always something new to learn and something new to test your knowledge, which provides an opportunity to develop your skills as a planner.  “The degree apprenticeship means I can gain experience working in practice whilst developing an in-depth knowledge of planning through the academic side of the apprenticeship. “I would recommend a career in planning because most days provide an opportunity for you to work on something different and no two days are the same. Planning is a great career if you are willing to learn new things and understand new legislation.”   Image: Deborah Oikeh, Jack Standerline, Chris Clark, Matthew Gillyon, Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, Cllr David Rose, Millie Arden, Rachael Major and Rebecca Leggott, Development Management Lead. Image credit: North Lincolnshire Council

New waste collection lorry to raise prostate cancer awareness

Tess Egginton
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New waste collection lorry to raise prostate cancer awareness
South Kesteven District Council’s (SKDC) latest addition to its fleet has been unveiled to raise awareness of prostate cancer. Prominent health adverts on each side of the eye-catching blue vehicle highlight the fact that one in eight men will suffer from prostate cancer. Latest figures suggest that 144 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every day. The lorry carries the Prostate Cancer UK 30-second risk check message that can save lives, along with a link to the charity website for more information. It will operate alongside a bright pink freighter launched last year to spread awareness of breast cancer. The risk of prostate cancer made headlines this year following King Charles III’s treatment for an enlarged prostate, prompting a surge in checks for the condition. Cllr Paul Wood, who represents the Viking ward on SKDC, discovered that he had prostate cancer through a routine PSA test – despite having no symptoms. An MRI scan showed there was a 50% chance he had prostate cancer and a subsequent biopsy confirmed that he did. Cllr Wood said: “I chose surgery to remove the prostate, had the operation in June 2023 and further tests confirmed that the cancer had not spread beyond the prostate. “I was very lucky, and I would encourage every man to take the risk of prostate cancer seriously, even if they have no symptoms.” Cllr Ashley Baxter, Leader of SKDC, said: “We are proud to be using a refuse freighter to deliver a vitally important new health message across the district. Our new freighter is eye-catching, not least for its colour but for the information which can literally save lives.” Prostate Cancer UK Chief Executive Laura Kerby said: “We’re so grateful for the brilliant support of South Kesteven District Council raising vital risk awareness for Prostate Cancer UK. “This brilliantly-branded truck puts us and our messaging at the heart of the local community and could be a gamechanger for those men and their loved ones affected by prostate cancer – a disease which affects 1 in 8 men in the UK. “An early diagnosis can save your life, so it is vital that men know their risk. Men are at higher risk if they are over 50, Black or have a father or brother who has had prostate cancer. Anyone with concerns should visit the charity’s online risk checker. “This innovative incentive will help drive home the dangers of this disease and help us save and enrich the lives of men with prostate cancer. We can’t thank everyone involved enough.” Jaspal Phull, Urology consultant at United Lincolnshire Hospitals Trust and Clinical Director for Surgery, said: “Understanding whether you may have prostate cancer starts with a discussion and in most cases a simple blood test. Some men will need specialist testing to see whether they have early prostate cancer. “In the UK 144 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every day. Age, ethnicity and family history play a significant part in this. Learn more about your prostate and beat this treatable cancer with early risk assessment and blood test detection.”   Image credit: South Kesteven District Council

Summer of fun at Rutland Farm Park

Tess Egginton
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Summer of fun at Rutland Farm Park
Rutland Farm Park is preparing for a summer of fun, with numerous family events throughout August. It begins on Saturday 3rd August with a charity fun day in memory of Les Large, a beloved member of the farm family. Taking place from 11.30 – 4.30, the event, supporting St Barnabas Hospice, will feature a bouncy castle, hook a duck, welly wanging, cake stall (donations welcome), wine or water (donations of wine welcome), and tombola, alongside food, ice cream and lots more. Business stands are also welcome with a pitch fee of £15 for the charity (to book email admin@rutlandfarmpark.co.uk). Meanwhile, on Monday 12th August, keep an eye out for Alice in Wonderland. And on August Bank Holiday Weekend enjoy princesses and pirates and themed activities, with children in costume receiving a free bag or bucket of animal feed to enjoy a hands-on experience with friendly farm animals (book online).
The events come on top of activities throughout the summer holidays, including woodland cooking on Tuesdays (11.30 – 3.00) and crafts in the pigsty on Wednesdays (11.00 – 3.00). Daily activities further include pony grooming (11.00 – weather permitting), guinea pig cuddles (11.30 & 3.00), and meeting and feeding the cows (12.00). For further information on Rutland Farm Park, an 18-acre working family farm in the market town of Oakham, visit https://www.rutlandfarmpark.co.uk/

SK Charity Cup football tournament gets ready for kick off

Tess Egginton
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SK Charity Cup football tournament gets ready for kick off
The draw has been made and fixtures confirmed for this year’s South Kesteven Charity Cup tournament. Organised by football fan Cllr Ian Selby, the tournament was first held in 2019 as a way of bringing communities together through sport. Now in its fourth year – the 2022 tournament did not take place due to Covid – the event has cemented its place in the South Kesteven sporting calendar. This year it will once again be providing competitive pre-season games for local sides – and raising money for local charities at the same time. Taking part will be the defending champions Sleaford Town, along with Grantham Town, Harrowby United and Deeping Rangers. Each club has nominated a charity to benefit from the fund-raising. They are:
  • Sleaford Town – Rainbow Stars
  • Grantham Town – Grantham Disabled Children’s Society
  • Harrowby United – Grantham Autistic Information Network
  • Deeping Rangers – Dementia Support South Lincs
The 2024 tournament will also be in memory of Grantham man Mick Massingham who sadly passed away late last year. Mick was a member of the Charity Cup Committee and long-time supporter of grassroots football in the area. Mick was involved in local football for more than 60 years. He was with Lincoln City as a teenager and his playing career also included spells with Grantham Town and Sleaford Town. Cllr Selby said: “Mick was a true legend in the local football world and it is a fitting tribute that this year’s South Kesteven Charity Cup will be played in his honour. “Not only has this competition raised thousands for local charities over the years, it also helps local clubs with vital pre-season training and contributes to some wonderful community spirit.” The draw: Saturday 13th July, KO 3pm Deeping Rangers vs Grantham Town FC Haydon Whitham Stadium, Outgang Road, Towngate East, Market Deeping Saturday 13th July, KO 3pm Harrowby United vs Sleaford Town FC JRL Brickwork Stadium, Dickens Road, Grantham Saturday 20th July, from 12 noon Final Fun Day 3rd / 4th place play-off kick-off 12 noon Final kick-off 3pm South Kesteven Stadium, Trent Road, Grantham   Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/anekoho

Boston Borough Council adopts new Street Art Policy

Tess Egginton
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Boston Borough Council adopts new Street Art Policy
A new Street Art Policy was adopted with full support by Boston Borough Council’s Cabinet at their last meeting. This policy aims to enable the development of street art in the borough, aligning with the Boston Town Centre Strategy & Action Plan 2023-2027.
The policy provides a safe space for local artists to create and develop street art while empowering the Council to remove art that does not meet the required standards. It is based on best practices from across the country and internationally. Cllr Sarah Sharpe, Portfolio Holder for Culture, said: “It is our intention to work with communities to ensure any proposed street art is suitable and representative of the place, creating a sense of ownership and enhancement to the space.” She added: “The policy also enables the potential for using street art to engage with young people and provides the opportunity to work with artists, developing their creativity in dedicated spaces rather than going down the route of illegal graffiti.” The policy will be tested with a pilot project involving the community and artists. Central Park has been identified as a potential location for this project, which is part of the effort to gain Green Flag Status.
  Image: Boston, Lincolnshire – Credit: Stock.adobe.com/Tony

Grimsby In Bloom to expand community facilities

Tess Egginton
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0
Grimsby In Bloom to expand community facilities
Grimsby In Bloom committee members and volunteers have revealed their plans for an extra piece of land which is in the process of being granted to them on a 99-year lease at the Duke of York Gardens. A Community Asset Transfer approved by North East Lincolnshire Council’s Cabinet means the group will be able expand into the large piece of land alongside their current Pavilion base, off Corporation Road, where they already provide a café, a garden room for community hire, a woodwork workshop and a small vegetable garden. The group welcomed Cllr Stephen Harness, North East Lincolnshire Council Portfolio Holder for Finance, Resources and Assets, along to the site to see what they have planned. The extra land, which is 51m x 34m, will allow the group to provide a flower and vegetable garden and a tree nursery, expanding their horticultural and environmental initiatives, and to build a small office for administration. The terms of the lease mean that they will be responsible for the maintenance of the site and will also be able to attract outside investment. Grimsby in Bloom is a community-focused initiative dedicated to enhancing the local environment, fostering community engagement and addressing societal changes in Grimsby. The group is keen to address community issues, such as social isolation, by providing a safe space for individuals to connect. They also offer mental health support through confidential counselling sessions, and youth engagement by providing practical workshops for children and scout/cubs groups. They provide environmental education by promoting gardening and horticultural activities to enhance the local environment. The group held a lease on part of the land between 2015 and 2020, but this asset transfer, at a peppercorn rent, will give them the opportunity to manage this larger site well into the future. North East Lincolnshire Council approved the transfer of the land at its Cabinet meeting in June following an extensive business case put forward by the group. The council considers proposals for Asset Transfer where certain organisations or groups can demonstrate they contribute significant social, economic or environmental benefits to the community. These benefits can be taken in lieu of monetary value demonstrated in rent. Councillors agreed that the proposal “provides a social return on investment at a far out-weighted monetary equivalent to otherwise proposed rent.” The lease will now be progressed. Grimsby in Bloom currently has 20-plus volunteers and a nine-strong management team. Chair Elaine Atkinson said the new lease and extra piece of land will allow the group to expand its facilities and also to incorporate a tranquility/friendship garden for older residents. “We are thrilled that we will now have more space to do what we want to do,” she said. “This extra space will allow us to show the community that we are not just about plants. “Gardening and horticultural activities are very much a part of what we do but we are here for wider community enhancement to provide a place where local people can come and join in or simply sit and feel comfortable, perhaps learn a new skill, and have some company if they want it. “The extra land will mean a lot to our volunteers as at present we only have a small strip down the side to grow things, but this will allow us to have a proper vegetable and fruit garden with polytunnels, and we also plan to create a dipping pond, a nature area and a wormery,” she said. Grimsby In Bloom also works closely with the DWP offering local people a chance to gain skills for employment. “We had two volunteers who we put through the food hygiene qualifications and they have now gone on to new jobs,” said Elaine. “We had another lady who was just walking through the park and now volunteers for us twice a week. We are always looking for more volunteers and we really welcome people from ethnic minority groups who can teach us about growing a greater variety of fruit and vegetables,” she said. One service user, Claire, said the group is providing a safe haven for her home-educated 13-year-old daughter to socialise and take part in activities which are helping to build her confidence. She said: “It helps me enormously to see my daughter progressing and just to know that she has people here that she can talk to.” Cllr Harness said: “Grimsby in Bloom has provided a comprehensive business case showing that they are community-focused and that they align with the Royal Horticultural Society’s principles to form a strong foundation as a vibrant hub, offering a range of activities, support, and events for the local community. “Moreover, their planned expansion illustrates a commitment to enhance and broaden the initiatives, fostering a sustainable impact on the local environment and community engagement. “We are very happy to grant them this lease, and they will now have full autonomy to concentrate on improving the sustainable provision of leisure and recreational use of the site, and to enhance the biodiversity of the area and make investment in the security of the site to deter anti-social behaviour.”   Image credit: North East Lincolnshire Council
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