Stuart Pearcey
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Farmers, landowners, and managers are being asked their opinions on how wildlife can be best conserved and enhanced across the landscapes of Greater Lincolnshire.

Their opinions will help develop a Local Nature Recovery Strategy that shapes how nature can recover, and which guides opportunities for funding to work with, or restore nature, on swathes of Lincolnshire through Biodiversity Net Gain and Environmental Land Management Schemes. Cllr Colin Davie, executive member for environment at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “Putting together a Local Nature Recovery Strategy for Lincolnshire will help to identify suitable locations for nature recovery activities in the future, and in turn, tap into funding for these activities that will help deliver the strategy’s goals. “With your help, the strategy has the potential to steer opportunities for nature-based solutions such as flood risk management and sequestering carbon through new trees, woodlands and healthier soils.” He added: “We need you to ensure The Greater Lincolnshire Local Nature Recovery Strategy is realistic and achievable, while still protecting food security for future generations.” He encouraged farmers and landowners to take part in a 15-minute survey on the Lincolnsire County Council web site.  

Free craft workshops support revamped Market Place in Grantham

Tess Egginton
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Free craft workshops support revamped Market Place in Grantham
Free craft workshops and wandering street performers will bring fun activities to the newly-revamped Market Place in Grantham. The drop-in events are open to all and will guide visitors as they create huge, colourful lanterns ahead of a community festival planned for the autumn. They will be supported by entertainment from professional theatre companies, bringing performance, puppetry and music to the streets. Deputy Leader of South Kesteven District Council, Cllr Paul Stokes, who is also Cabinet Member for Leisure and Culture, said: “It’s a real pleasure to be able to host a series of events and entertainment in Grantham town centre as we look forward to more of the same when the roadworks have moved away. “The pop-up workshops and street theatre will build towards a community festival and parade in October when the lanterns we create will be used to celebrate Grantham and its wide and diverse communities, their past and their future. “Participants will also be invited to share their memories of Grantham, which will form part of the final event, and we look forward to hearing their thoughts.” It is part of the activity connected with the rebuild of Market Place, supported by funding from the Future High Street Fund of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, which is bringing an open community space where people can meet, chat, eat and shop. Emilie Nunn, who is organising the craft workshops, said: “Everyone is welcome to join us as we get ready for Grantham’s Festival of Community by creating lanterns to form part of the Festival parade. “We’re also inviting people to pop along and share memories and stories of Grantham’s past during our free drop-in workshops. Everyone is welcome!” In addition to the scheduled workshops, Emilie is running two events with community groups who would find attending a drop-in event difficult, with the dates and venues to be announced. Pop-Up Community Workshop dates: The Clock, 12-13 Westgate, Grantham, NG31 6LT (10am-3pm)
  • Thursday 15th August
  • Wednesday 21st August
  • Saturday 24th August + Barmpot Theatre performances
  • Monday 26th August
  • Wednesday 28th August
  • Saturday 31st August + street theatre performances
Wyndham Park Visitor Centre (10am-3pm)
  • Monday 19th August
  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/lars

Something for everyone at Burghley this summer

Tess Egginton
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Something for everyone at Burghley this summer
Summer is in full swing, meaning there are lots of exciting happenings at Burghley this month. Something for everyone… There is a sensational season of summer events & experiences lined up for families looking for the perfect day out, or if you are looking for something a little different. Choose from a whole range of engaging and inspiring Children’s Workshops & Activities. Make It Mondays 5, 12, 19 August | £5 per child Time Travel Tuesdays 6, 13, 20 August | £5 per child Wild Wednesdays 7, 14, 21 August | £5 per child Beastly Boring Tours 5-17 August (excl. Fri & Sun) | £15 per person Look out for pop-up events included for free with an Admission Ticket or Annual Pass. Nature Trails in the Gardens 8, 15, 22 August | Included with Admission Storytelling in Hide & Secrets 9, 16, 23 August | Included with Admission Birds of Prey Day 11 August | Included with Admission Learn something new at an expert-led adult workshop. Sumi-e Japanese Ink Painting Workshop Wednesday 14 August Japanese Tea Ceremony Workshop  Wednesday 11 September Ikebana Workshop Thursday 12 September Sculpture Workshop 15 September The return of a summer favourite… The Summer Fine Food Market will be showcasing the best of local and international food and drink on August Bank Holiday weekend. Free admission and car parking at no charge. 10am to 4pm each day (24-26 August). The world’s greatest 5* equestrian event…Defender Burghley Horse Trials There is just over one month until the world’s best riders & horses compete for Defender Burghley glory in the historical grounds of the Parkland (5-8 September). Witness equestrian eventing at its best, experience the finest shopping and hospitality, and create unforgettable memories with family and friends. Everything you love at Burghley…one of the most magnificent stately homes in the country. Visit Burghley House | Open daily (excl. Fridays) 10.30am – 4.30pm Vibrant, atmospheric gardens filled with sculptures, surprises and sensational colour. The Gardens | Open daily 10am – 5pm. Endless hours of outdoor fun at Hide & Secrets Adventure Play! Adventure Play | Open daily 10am – 5pm. Want to visit Burghley again & again? Buy an Annual Pass today to take advantage of unlimited visits throughout the open season and experience everything Burghley has to offer, as often as you like. Temporary Changes to Parkland Access Parkland Access | 5 August to 20 September The central access route through Burghley Parkland is to be closed to pedestrians from Monday 5 August to Friday 20 September. The restricted access is in place to ensure the safety of Park users during the site build and breakdown periods for the 2024 Defender Burghley Horse Trials. The restricted area will be clearly signposted at key points in the Park. The Main Visitor Entrance at Pilsgate Lodges on Barnack Road is unaffected. Burghley House and all visitor facilities are open as normal, with the exclusion of the dates of the Defender Burghley Horse Trials (5-8 September) when all visitor facilities close for the event. Alternative Pedestrian Route | 6 August to 1 September and 10 to 20 September An alternative pedestrian route will be in place to provide access through the Parkland. The temporary pedestrian route operates 7am to 8pm from Tuesday 6 August to Sunday 1 September and Tuesday 10 to Friday 20 September. Please be aware this route is mainly on grass with some areas of uneven terrain. Look out for the pop-up coffee van along the way which will be serving up delicious drinks and snacks next to the beautiful Lion Bridge. The Parkland will fully reopen on 21 September.

New plan aims to plant 200,000 trees in Lincolnshire by 2026

Stuart Pearcey
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New plan aims to plant 200,000 trees in Lincolnshire by 2026

In a landmark event at the Bowthorpe Oak near Bourne – reputed to be England’s oldest oak tree – Lincolnshire County Council and the Woodland Trust have officially launched the LincWoods project.

This ambitious initiative aims to plant 200,000 trees across Lincolnshire by 2026, significantly enhancing the region’s green spaces and biodiversity. It will mean over 130 football fields’ worth of new woodland and 20,000 metres of new hedgerows. The Bowthorpe Oak is estimated to be over a thousand years old and boasts the widest girth of any oak to its kind in the UK at 13.38 metres. The county council and Woodland Trust’s partnership agreement outlines a collaborative effort to deliver the MOREwoods and MOREhedges schemes to landowners across Lincolnshire. Through this initiative, landowners can receive funding and support for planting trees and hedges, contributing to the county’s environmental goals. Cllr Martin Hill, Leader of Lincolnshire County Council, expressed his enthusiasm for the project. He said: “This partnership represents a significant step forward in our commitment to environmental sustainability. By collaborating with the Woodland Trust, we can profoundly impact our local landscape and biodiversity, ensuring Lincolnshire remains green and vibrant for future generations. In a thousand years, our descendants may well be standing in the shade of oaks planted by LincWoods. It’s an inspiring legacy.” Paul Woodgate, Outreach Officer for the Woodland Trust, highlighted the importance of community involvement. He said: “The LincWoods project is a fantastic opportunity for local landowners to play a crucial role in enhancing our natural environment. We are proud to support Lincolnshire County Council in this initiative and look forward to seeing the positive outcomes –  for nature, people and climate – of our combined efforts. There will be free tree and hedgerow pack giveaway events this Autumn.” The project offers substantial subsidies for tree and hedge planting. This funding from Lincolnshire County Council, combined with support from the Woodland Trust and Lloyds, ensures that the cost to landowners is minimised, encouraging widespread participation.

Lincoln’s London Camera Exchange organises unforgettable day of photography and wildlife at Yorkshire Wildlife Park

Tess Egginton
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Lincoln’s London Camera Exchange organises unforgettable day of photography and wildlife at Yorkshire Wildlife Park
Join an unforgettable day of photography and wildlife at the stunning Yorkshire Wildlife Park, organised by Lincoln’s London Camera Exchange. On Saturday 14 September (09:30 – 18:00), experience the thrill of photography with Canon cameras and lenses. Get an exclusive first look and hands-on opportunity to test the new Canon EOS R1 and Canon EOS R5 Mark II. There will be the latest photography gear from the EOS R series and RF lenses for you to try out during the day. Some items will be in high demand, so sharing may be necessary! Danny Green, Canon Professional Photographer, will be present to offer expert advice and techniques for capturing the perfect animal shots. Danny will also go through a presentation on the day talking about his work and why he uses Canon cameras and lenses. With limited spaces available, book now: https://www.lcegroup.co.uk/New/?Product=C1A6B18A-E62B-4BB5-B82B-1FA4FF48FD22 Ticket Price: £60, which includes access to Yorkshire Wildlife Park, the use of Canon equipment, hot & cold drinks throughout the day, and a meal at lunchtime.

Affordable food hub launches in South Kesteven

Tess Egginton
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0
Affordable food hub launches in South Kesteven
A national charity, The Bread and Butter Thing (TBBT) is launching its third food hub in Lincolnshire, bringing fresh, healthy affordable food to the area’s low income communities. Funded by South Kesteven District Council’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), and Comic Relief, the new hub will open at 1pm on Friday 9th August at West Grantham Community Centre. This is in addition to sister hubs already operating out of Market Deeping and Stamford. Cllr Rhea Rayside, SKDC Cabinet Member for People and Communities, said: “We are committed to supporting anyone who’s struggling in South Kesteven so it’s great to be working with The Bread and Butter Thing on the launch of their latest hub. “If you’re looking for fresh, healthy, food that eases the strain on the purse strings, we urge you to come and check out any of their food hubs. We are very fortunate to have them here at a time when so many families are struggling.” TBBT Chief Executive Mark Game said: “We’re delighted to be working with SKDC again and expanding our Lincolnshire offering. “We’re all about helping food budgets go further by providing our members with nutritious food that doesn’t break the bank. “We’re on a mission to make sure everyone has access to great food, improve diets, strengthen struggling communities and help save money. Our members tell us they can save up to £35 a week by shopping with us, which frees up budget for other household priorities.” At its weekly hubs, TBBT members can collect three bags of fruit and vegetables, chilled food and cupboard staples at discounted prices, to feed their families, improve their diets and save money for other household priorities. Members pay £5 for a single bag, £8.50 for a three-bag family package or £17 for a large family package of six bags. It is a low-cost weekly shop that provides essential produce for family eating – fresh fruit and veg, fridge favourites and cupboard staples that allow members to eat better and cook more.   Image courtesy of South Kesteven District Council

89,000 tonnes of rock armour delivered for Stallingborough sea defences

Tess Egginton
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0
89,000 tonnes of rock armour delivered for Stallingborough sea defences
Aggregate Industries, a building materials supplier, has delivered 89,000 tonnes of rock armour as part of the Environment Agency’s £29 million Stallingborough Sea Defence Improvement Scheme. Aiming to enhance coastal defences and protect critical infrastructure along the Humber Estuary, between the ports of Immingham and Grimsby, this ambitious project required 70,000 tonnes of granite to be shipped from Aggregate Industries’ Glensanda superquarry in Western Scotland via Immingham Dock. The granite, with each piece weighing between 0.3 to 1.0 tonnes, made its two-day sea voyage aboard the 90-meter-long Hagland Saga. Each of the 17 shipments carried approximately 4,500 tonnes. Upon arrival at Immingham, the cargo was swiftly offloaded and transported by road to the Stallingborough project site. Additionally, 19,000 tonnes of smaller grade rock armour, ranging from 60kg to 300kg, were sourced from the firm’s Bardon Hill quarry in Leicestershire and delivered in approximately 700-tonne loads. In collaboration with Jackson Civil Engineering, Aggregate Industries ensured a seamless delivery, overcoming challenges such as unpredictable docking times and the migration of vital bird species which limit works within the designated Humber Estuary site between April and September every year. Nick Gilbert, business development manager for Aggregate Industries, adds: “We are proud to have played a crucial role in protecting Stallingborough and its surrounding areas. “Our comprehensive network and methods enabled us to meet the logistical challenges of this complex and reactive project which effectively saw the equivalent of a quarter of the Humber Bridge’s tonnage seamlessly delivered and discharged, directly contributing to the safety and resilience of the local community.” The Stallingborough Sea Defence Improvement Scheme is the third phase of ongoing coastal improvements and is designed to provide a further 25-year design life to the current flood defence embankments. This project will see the repair and fortification of a 4.5km stretch – including some 3km of rock armour – with the works comprising resealing and improvements of existing revetments, some of which date back to the 1953 North Sea flood. This effort will safeguard 2,300 homes, vital infrastructure and industry, as well as precious habitats in the Stallingborough area. Nigel Priestley, Senior Project Manager for the Environment Agency, said: “Aggregate Industries have provided a great service to Jackson and the Environment Agency by supplying the smaller rock to allow installation to commence in 2023, and then the larger rock from Oban, through the winter, impacted by numerous storms, in time for a March 2024 start. “The option to deliver by boat from the UK has also saved a significant amount of carbon too and minimised transportation by road.” The granite used in this project, known for its durability and longevity, is an ideal material for modern sea defences. With a lifespan exceeding 100 years, these specialist aggregates are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and dissipate wave energy, mitigating soil erosion and maintaining the natural integrity of the landscape. Beyond its protective capabilities, the rock armour also promotes vegetation growth and facilitates habitat creation, aligning with Aggregate Industries’ commitment to environmental sustainability.

Council calls on firms to employ more ex-forces staff

Stuart Pearcey
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Council calls on firms to employ more ex-forces staff

South Kesteven District Council is calling on local companies to follow its lead in recruiting ex-military personnel.

Sixteen former Armed Forces individuals, mainly from the Army, now play key roles in the council’s waste and recycling and Street Scene teams.

They have transferred valuable skills developed from service with the Royal Logistics Corps, Infantry regiments, Royal Anglian Regiment and the Armoured Corps.

Others served with the RAF and the RAF Regiment, Royal Artillery, Royal Engineers and even the Household Cavalry. Service has included tours of Afghanistan, Iraq and Northern Ireland.

Two members of the council’s keen-eyed and effective CCTV team are also ex-Army – the Royal Artillery and the Grenadier Guards – and the council’s head of economic development is from an Armed Forces background.

Cameron Greene now applies service skills developed with the Army’s Royal Engineers to managing the council’s Street Scene operation.

He said: “We now have nine ex-military on the Street Scene team, all dedicated to getting the job done as they used to do for the Armed Forces.

“In many ways the council suits those who have served in the military. There is a clearly defined structure, opportunities to progress and a great team spirit.”

Waste team HGV driver Cheryl Miller served with the Royal Auxiliary Air Force. She said: “I drove Land Rovers, armoured personnel vehicles and Bedford four-tonners. I have always been a driver and have been able to transfer those skills.”

Cheryl, who initially gained her HGV licence to drive her family’s American motor home, joined SKDC during the Covid pandemic.

“My husband had an accident and I needed to work,” she said. “The Council needed drivers, I applied and here I am. I love the job!”

Another HGV driver, Mick Toms, served with the Royal Engineers. “I was in engineering after coming out of the forces but then went back into driving and this role really suits me.”

Cllr Richard Dixon-Warren, SKDC’s Armed Forces Champion, said: “Military personnel possess a wealth of transferable skills capable of enhancing any organisation.

“As a signatory to the Armed Forces Covenant and holders of the Ministry Defence Employers Recognition Scheme, we are extremely proud to have so many military veterans working for the council.

“I would urge any company looking to recruit at any level to take a close look at employing ex-services personnel. There are really helpful employment websites supporting any company or organisation that signs the Armed Forces Covenant as a pledge to support defence.”

Employers can also claim National Insurance contributions relief if employing a veteran in their first year post-service.

Operator named for Campus for Future Living in Mablethorpe

Tess Egginton
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Operator named for Campus for Future Living in Mablethorpe
East Lindsey District Council has named Acis Group as the operator of the Campus for Future Living in Mablethorpe. In partnership, the Council and Acis will bring the campus to life to deliver significant benefits to support the health and prosperity of the local community. The Campus for Future Living in Mablethorpe is East Lindsey District Council’s flagship project which will bring transformational health, wellbeing, research and community services to this area of the Lincolnshire coast for the first time, thanks to £8.6m government funding from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. The Campus consists of two, two-story buildings and open green space all within easy access for the people of Mablethorpe. Beyond the physical structure, the vision is about creating learning opportunities, new jobs, and support for the local community. Alongside a wealth of community-based services the campus will also offer a café facility for all to enjoy. Proposed plans for the Campus by Acis include a range of activities, networking space and room hire, with each initiative designed to make a tangible difference in the community. Sited close to the Marisco Medical Centre, Mablethorpe Children’s Centre, Platform Housing and Mablethorpe Community Hub, the campus is primely positioned to become a thriving centre that links services together, creates new services that support local need and offers opportunities for learning, research and wellbeing for generations to come. This flagship and internationally significant campus benefits from the commitment of the University of Lincoln and the Lincoln Institute for Rural and Coastal Health to use the Campus as a base to conduct research and learning into health inequalities affecting coastal communities. This is just the start of realising the potential of the Campus vision. In line with the original business case, the collaboration of even more local, regional and national partners is set to grow over the next five years as the campus offering becomes established. The partnership with Acis and the University of Lincoln further supports the original Mablethorpe Investment Plan which underpinned the bid for government funding to help turn health and medical challenges in this area into nationally significant strengths and opportunities to improve services and create jobs. Cllr William Gray, Political Lead for the Campus for Future Living at East Lindsey District Council, said: “I could not be more thrilled that East Lindsey District Council has secured Acis Group as a partner to bring the vision of the Campus for Future Living alive. Acis already has a well established background in supporting people into work, housing, education and skills, including in Mablethorpe, and now the Campus for Future Living will support Acis in providing even more opportunities for local people. “The Campus for Future Living is all about partnerships, all focussed on supporting people in Mablethorpe and the Lincolnshire Coast get the services and support they need. Mablethorpe has a very exciting future and by investing in the town through the support of government funding, a whole host of new opportunities are being created. “As well as the services being developed by Acis, I am also delighted the University of Lincoln and the Lincoln Institute of Rural and Coastal Health have committed to the future use of the Campus as a research and learning facility. “This is exactly the potential we want to realise for Mablethorpe – facilitating coastal health research, providing residents with greater access to health and wellbeing services they need on their doorstep, bringing more people to the town, creating social opportunities, growth and expanding employment and skills.” Greg Bacon, CEO of Acis Group, said: “This is an exciting opportunity that aligns perfectly with our commitment to enhancing services, skills and education within our communities. “In proud partnership with East Lindsey District Council, we will bring our knowledge and skills of delivering for local communities that we have grown across the Group over the last 25 years. We work in Mablethorpe and surrounding areas already through Community Learning in Partnership (CLIP) which has delivered there for over 15 years, and which joined the Acis family in 2022. “Acis are thrilled to lead this project in delivering future services and helping to make a bigger difference in these communities.” As part of this development, the existing CLIP centre on Seacroft Road will relocate to the new Campus, giving the team further opportunities to provide education, skills and wellbeing services. Potential future partners, including those in the health and education sector, recently visited the campus to visualise the facility in use and the benefits it will bring to Mablethorpe and coastal communities. The campus also provided a visit from hundreds of delegates from across Europe who attended the 13th EURIPA Rural Health Forum hosted by the University of Lincoln. The forum’s theme ‘Tackling Health Inequalities in Rural and Remote Communities’ saw high praise for the campus and the potential it offers in providing a welcome space for the community to access health and wellbeing services as well as coastal health research opportunities.   Image: The Campus for Future Living in Mablethorpe – credit: East Lindsey District Council

More than £100k awarded to Boston community projects

Tess Egginton
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More than £100k awarded to Boston community projects
Community projects, sports clubs, parish councils and village halls are set to flourish after more than £100,000 was awarded to them through Lincolnshire Community Foundation’s Grassroots scheme. The popular grants scheme has been funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), distributed by Boston Borough Council, and aims to support projects in bringing people together through many methods, including improving facilities and boosting volunteering opportunities. The GRASSroots scheme has now awarded almost £300,000 of funding to 20 projects across the borough. This, in turn, has leveraged additional match funding, meaning that the total investment in parish, village hall and community projects through the scheme in Boston has totalled more than £500,000. In this round, a total of £103,441 has been distributed among: The Community Growers CIC – Replacement of the timber frame, glass frame, doors and roof vent system of a glasshouse used for community planting activities plus internal paving. Wigtoft Village Hall – Renovations throughout, including re-decoration, new flooring and updating of toilets. Brothertoft Village Hall – Renovation works to the hall and addition of equipment including hot water heater, electric oven and renovations to toilets. Old Leake Community Centre – New suspended ceiling and hall redecoration. Thistles Market Garden, Sutterton – Purchase of a larger mini bus to enable more local residents to access the services offered by the Market Garden. Boston Tennis Club – Updating clubhouse seating and carpets. Wigtoft Bowls Club – Relaying the patio area and improving access to bowls green, to enable a greater range of residents to access the club. Steps To The Future Good Neighbourhood Scheme – Supply and enable craft activities. Councillor Anne Dorrian, leader of Boston Borough Council, said: “This UKSPF funded grant scheme has been extremely popular, and I’m delighted to see the profound impact it is having on many communities across our borough. “I want to congratulate the latest recipients, who I’m sure will make the most of the funding they have been awarded and will use the money to really make a difference to their communities. “We are lucky to have some funds left and I would encourage community organisations such as sports clubs, community learning clubs, parish councils and village halls to make contact with the Lincolnshire Community Foundation team and enquire about the next round of GRASSroots support because this is likely to be the final round.”
  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Chris Loneragan
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