April 2025 News
Welcome to the Town and Parish News from East Lindsey District Council. If you have any enquiries about any of the articles, please feel free to contact the communications team at communications@e-lindsey.gov.uk
A Greater Lincolnshire For All – parish councils invited to dedicated engagement sessions
Parish councils across Greater Lincolnshire are invited to attended dedicated engagement sessions to learn more about a proposal for Local Government Reorganisation.
The Leaders of East Lindsey District Council and South Holland District Council have jointly launched A Greater Lincolnshire for All, an ambitious proposal for the future of local government. They have written to parish clerks to inform you of the proposals.
The Government has asked for proposals from councils in response to Local Government Reorganisation. This would see the number of councils reduced and new authorities created.
A number of councils are submitting proposals by the end of November for the Government to decide on its preferred model for Greater Lincolnshire.
A Greater Lincolnshire for All which would see the creation of two equally sized unitary authorities covering the north and south of Greater Lincolnshire. These would replace the existing county council, two northern unitary councils and the remaining borough, district and city councils.
- Northern Lincolnshire Council - covering Lincoln, North Lincolnshire, North East Lincolnshire and West Lindsey
- Southern Lincolnshire Council - covering Boston, East Lindsey, South Holland, North Kesteven and South Kesteven
The proposal is being championed by East Lindsey and South Holland District Councils as the best possible model for the future of local government in the county with improved and easier to access local services, better value for money, an enhanced role for parish councils and greater opportunities to attract new investment and jobs.
A comprehensive series of events across the county will take place over the coming months allowing residents, communities, parishes and businesses to get involved with the proposal and have their say.
The events for parish councils include:
LALC conference, Wednesday 16 July, EPIC Centre, Lincolnshire Showground. Come and chat with us and find out more.
Monday 28 July, Virtual event, 6.30pm - Registration Form | Greater Lincolnshire
Wednesday 20 August, Virtual event, 6.30pm - Registration Form | Greater Lincolnshire
The events for the general public include:
- 6.30pm 30th July - virtual
- 6.30pm 12th August - Sleaford
- 6.30pm 18th August - Market Rasen Festival Hall
- 6.30pm 28th August - East Lindsey DC offices
- 6.30pm 9th September - South Holland DC offices
- 6.30pm 15th September - Virtual
- TBC - Lincoln
- TBC - Mablethorpe
Cllr Craig Leyland, Leader of East Lindsey District Council said: "The current system is complex, inefficient and confusing. A Greater Lincolnshire for All creates two new unitary councils responsible for delivering all council services - Northern Lincolnshire and Southern Lincolnshire - to replace current structures.
"It is a balanced and ambitious plan that simplifies local government and delivers better services and value for money for residents, communities and businesses. The pledges that we are setting out today will guide our approach and provide reassurance to those we serve. We encourage everyone to now get involved and to find out more about how A Greater Lincolnshire for All will benefit them."
Cllr Nick Worth, Leader of South Holland District Council commented: "A Greater Lincolnshire for All enables stronger local accountability, smarter use of public money, consistent, high quality public services and will create opportunities for our area's economy bringing in new investment and jobs.
"It gives Greater Lincolnshire a stronger voice - in government, in devolution negotiations, and in shaping the county's future for every community, business and resident. We now want to engage our residents, communities, parishes and businesses on this ambitious plan as it develops over the coming months and for everyone to have their say."
The engagement programme also includes:
- Public events and Q&A sessions with council leaders
- Online opportunities to ask questions and share views
- Roundtable discussions with local businesses, charities and public service partners
- Workshops and briefings for parish and town councils
- Targeted engagement with young people, carers, and service users
- Regular updates via a dedicated website, social media and newsletters
The proposal includes 10 public pledges made to the people and communities of Greater Lincolnshire that will act as the guiding principles as the area undergoes change:
- Continuity of services as local government changes in Greater Lincolnshire
- A commitment to all residents to keep them informed
- Protecting frontline staff working across the area
- Better value for money with savings directed to frontline services
- Accessible council services for all, delivered through council hubs across the area
- A single telephone number and website to access ALL council services in your area
- Improved services for vulnerable residents including housing, adults' and children's services
- Improved services for all children and young people, including education, training, jobs and transport
- Greater local decision-making including for all town and parish councils and enhanced area-based governance
- Closer relationships with all partners including the NHS, police, fire and rescue, education, and the voluntary sector to deliver better services
You can find out more about A Greater Lincolnshire For all here: HOME | Greater Lincolnshire
The Frequently Asked Questions can be found here: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS | Greater Lincolnshire
A survey for you to share your views is available here: GET INVOLVED | Greater Lincolnshire
A bright future unveiled in Mablethorpe as the Campus for Future Living officially launches
Over 400 people gathered in Mablethorpe on Thursday 12 June to celebrate the official launch of the Campus for Future Living - a landmark new development designed to boost health, wellbeing, skills, and innovation across the region.
Located on Stanley Avenue, the Campus is a bright, modern and welcoming space that stands as a symbol of opportunity for Mablethorpe and the surrounding villages. Owned by East Lindsey District Council and operated by Acis Group, the Campus represents a multi-million-pound investment in the area's future.
The building, made possible following £8.6m Town's Fund Government funding secured in August 2022, spans over 1,400 square metres and houses state-of-the-art facilities, training spaces, consultation l rooms, and a vibrant community café.
Read more about this story: www.e-lindsey.gov.uk/article/28437/A-bright-future-unveiled-in-Mablethorpe-as-the-Campus-for-Future-Living-officially-launches
New Seaview Colonnade to open with packed summer holiday programme for Sutton on Sea
Sutton on Sea's new Seaview Colonnade development will be getting off to a busy start over the summer holidays, with a packed schedule of different activities, workshops and classes for all ages and interests to enjoy.
The Colonnade, which will open in late July, will run its summer schedule from Tuesday 29 July until Friday 5 September, with sessions taking place five days a week between Tuesdays and Saturdays throughout the peak holiday period for families and visitors.
The activities, which include a combination of walk-ins, new sessions from existing local groups and special workshops commissioned through South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership's Story Tellers programme, cover a variety of interests and disciplines, including yoga, dance, theatre, puppetry, DJing and crafts.
Children's crafting sessions will include the opportunity to create a range of keepsakes, including jellyfish, suncatchers, bug hotels and kites, whilst Rhubarb Theatre will be bringing the family-fun with interactive workshops covering popular children's books including Dear Zoo, A Squash and a Squeeze and the works of Roald Dahl.
A popular Lincolnshire coffee shop, Seven Districts Coffee, is also coming to the Seaview Colonnade.
For more information about what’s on throughout the summer and booking places, see our website: www.e-lindsey.gov.uk/article/28527/New-Seaview-Colonnade-to-open-with-packed-summer-holiday-programme-for-Sutton-on-Sea
More than £340,000 awarded for the continuation of successful projects supported by the UK Shared and Rural England Prosperity Funds
Several projects funded by the UK Shared and Rural England Prosperity Funds (UKSPF/REPF) have been granted permission to continue running through an award of more than £340,000 from East Lindsey District Council.
In the Government's autumn budget, it was announced that the UKSPF programme would be extended into 2025/2026 for a final, transitional year on a reduced national budget.
As a result, this has extended the commitment to investing in business growth, improving pride in place, living standards, adult skills and increasing the number of residents in work across South and East Lincolnshire.
Several UKSPF and REPF supported projects have been selected for continuation, being included in East Lindsey District Council's Investment Plan as a result of their strong fit and/or track record of delivery during the 2023-2025 programme.
Find out about the projects involved here: www.e-lindsey.gov.uk/article/28423/More-than-340-000-awarded-for-the-continuation-of-successful-projects-supported-by-the-UK-Shared-and-Rural-England-Prosperity-Funds
Council gives green light for accommodation pod scheme in Skegness
On Thursday 3 July, East Lindsey District Council's Planning Committee gave the green light for the installation of accommodation pods in Skegness aiming to reduce homelessness and support vulnerable residents.
Having announced the plan back in January, the approval marks a significant milestone in the council's efforts to provide safe, dignified and transitional accommodation for people experiencing homelessness in East Lindsey.
Each sleeping pod is a secure, waterproof shelter and a pathway toward a more permanent housing solution to individuals in crisis, with a bed, chemical toilet and charging facilities all included inside.
The pods are designed to help people who have been rough sleeping and have complex needs, making hostel-style accommodation unsuitable. The council anticipates that the installation will begin taking place in late September and is expected to be completed with all 4 pods operational by the end of October.
The pod scheme will receive also receive a host of wraparound services, including health, housing and employment support to help individuals rebuild their lives.
South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership launches new 'Arts in Heritage' initiative
The South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership is looking for Expressions of Interest for a new pioneering creative story-telling programme, 'Arts in Heritage'.
Part of Story Tellers, the Partnership's Arts Council England NPO programme, the initiative aims to support work between local creative practitioners, heritage sites, organisations or places and people with heritage stories, traditions or research, to tell the tales from across South and East Lincolnshire in new and innovative ways.
This initial Call Out can cover up to £1,000 to support research and development. This can be used for various costs including artist's fees and time, heritage organisation's costs and time, travel and subsistence, necessary materials and access costs. It also covers site visits, training, and fees for professional support, such as a funding bid writer or other specialised services.
Find out more and apply: www.e-lindsey.gov.uk/article/28633/South-East-Lincolnshire-Councils-Partnership-launches-new-Arts-in-Heritage-initiative
Three beaches in East Lindsey will proudly fly Blue Flags again this summer
Three East Lindsey beaches have been recognised as amongst Britain's best, as they are announced as winners of the prestigious Blue Flag and Seaside Awards for summer 2025.
Entering its 38th year, the international award is given by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, recognising beaches and sites that have met the high standard required to be presented with a Blue Flag Award, which in East Lindsey are Mablethorpe, Skegness and Sutton on Sea.
Blue Flag, the world's most recognised award for beaches and marinas, is an environmental education programme managed by Keep Britain Tidy on behalf of the Foundation for Environmental Education.
It is only presented to beaches with water which has achieved the highest classification as set by the EU Bathing Water Directive and has an environmental education programme, and, to qualify, each applicant must meet and maintain a series of stringent environmental, educational, safety and accessibility criteria.
The Blue Flag and Seaside Awards are aimed at improving the quality of England's coastline and promoting the country's best beaches.
Lincolnshire Police Parish Council briefing session
Please find a link below for an upcoming briefing session for Parish Councils, hosted by Lincolnshire Police.
Meeting ID: 312 498 179 440 3
"A Whale of a Day" comes to Sandilands for interactive celebration of marine life and conservation
A Whale of a Day returns for another unforgettable free family day out from 10.30am - 4pm on Friday 25 July, bringing fun, education, and vital environmental awareness for children and young people.
After a successful event last year in Sutton on Sea, Circo Rum Baba's incredible 50-foot inflatable sperm whale is coming National Trust Sandilands (LN12 2RJ).
The experience, which is part of Story Tellers, the South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership's Arts Council England NPO project, will invite attendees to step inside this magnificent creature for an immersive and interactive theatre experience that will transport them to the depths of the ocean in 30-minute timeslots.
This exciting event is free to attend, making it accessible to everyone in the community although capacity within the whale is limited per timeslot.
Beyond the majestic whale, the event will offer activities for all ages, a delicious food stall, plus interactive stalls from fantastic local and national organisations dedicated to nature and the environment.
Find more information and book your slot online here: www.e-lindsey.gov.uk/article/28468/A-Whale-of-a-Day-comes-to-Sandilands-for-interactive-celebration-of-marine-life-and-conservation
Safety Advisory Group
If you’ve planned or helped organise events in the past, you may have come across SAG. The Safety Advisory Group (SAG) is a nationally recognised coming-together of multiple agencies to help and support organisers in planning, running, and reviewing events. There are two SAGs which cover the Partnership, East Lindsey and Boston/South Holland, and access to this group for help with planning your event is free.
At this sensitive time, it is becoming more and more important to ensure that the below agencies are aware if you are planning an event, and for the police, it is essential they are aware if your event has a military aspect to them.
Events of this nature include parades, Armed Forces Day events, Remembrance, VE and VJ Day, and anything else where members of the military may be present.
From a police perspective, these types of events require a different level of scrutiny, focusing more on counter-terrorism. Whilst the military should inform the police of any planned events in the area, the Councillor(s) inviting them should also make them aware. This can be done via communication with the SAG.
The current members of the Safety Advisory Group include the following, and more:
- Environmental Health
- Licensing
- Building Control
- Police
- Fire and Rescue
- the Ambulance Service
- Highways
- Emergency Planning
These agencies are there to help advise, support and direct you in the organising of your event for free.
To help the Police carry out an informed assessment of risk, they need to know the event is happening, what is planned, who has been invited and the approximate attendance. This information defines what level of action the Police will need to take, and earlier notification is better so they can ensure your event has the correct staffing/controls in place.
Further information on Safety Advisory Groups can be found on the following Council webpage: South Holland's Safety Advisory Group (SAG) - South Holland District Council
Horncastle Horse Fair – Saturday 9 August at Horncastle Town Centre
Step into the spirit of tradition at the Horncastle Horse Fair - a lively celebration packed with performances, craft workshops, inspiring talks, delicious food & drink, and a spectacular parade. It’s a fun-filled day for all ages, where history meets creativity in the heart of Horncastle!
Get a taste of something special at the Louth Food & Drink Festival - the town comes alive with delicious food stalls, live entertainment, and an unbeatable atmosphere. It’s the perfect day out for food lovers, families, and anyone who enjoys great vibes and local flavour!
Get ready for a summer full of fun, games and action-packed activities with the School’s Out team!
There are camps for Football, Cricket, and Multi Skills, as well as Gymnastics sessions and more.
Before booking:
- Check age ranges, medical information, permissions and location details carefully
- You can now book multiple camps per child in one go
- Only book if you're certain your child can attend – let’s make sure every space goes to a child who can enjoy it!
Online booking: magnavitae.org/schools-out-consent-form/
We are pleased to announce that Art Aspirations has now gone live. This is a vibrant new initiative taking place across six towns in East Lindsey this summer. We are currently seeking community-minded, creatively driven artists based in Louth, Horncastle, Spilsby, Wainfleet, Alford, and Wragby to lead a series of collaborative workshops and create a lasting public artwork in their town.
Artists with a strong connection to their chosen location and a distinctive artistic practice are encouraged to apply. The commission period runs from 24 July to 4 September 2025, and we are looking to appoint six artists, each working in a different medium, to reflect the unique character and aspirations of their community.
“This is more than just an art project,” says Project Lead Kate Giffen. “It’s about giving people a voice through creativity and celebrating the unique identity of each town. We’re excited to see how local artists and communities will bring their visions to life.”
Art Aspirations is supported by the East Lindsey Investment Fund (ELIF) and forms part of the wider Vital and Viable Towns initiative, which aims to enhance cultural engagement, foster community pride, and revitalise town centres across the district.
If you or someone you know may be interested in applying, please refer to the full project brief here: Art Aspirations is Coming to East Lindsey's Market Towns This Summer! - East Lindsey District Council
Below is a list of local grant funding opportunities. Find out more about them at www.e-lindsey.gov.uk/lggf.
UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF)
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund has been renewed for an additional year.
The fund, which is targeted at raising local growth and improving life chances, if delivered across three themes:
- Supporting Local Business
- Communities and Place
- People and Skills
The council's adopted Investment Plans are based on supporting successful projects delivered within the 2023-5 to either 'scale up' or sustain the impact realised for businesses and communities longer-term. They also have a substantial proportion of funds allocated for open grant distribution, available through three routes:
- The LCF GRASSroots Scheme (UKSPF funded) - Grants below £24,999 for Parish Councils, Village Halls and Community Projects (details below).
- Grants4Growth and Advice4Growth- Grants below £24,999 and technical growth advice for local businesses (details below)
- Communities and Place Open Grant Scheme -Grants above £25,000 for larger, strategic community development projects serving multiple Wards of the Council (Not yet open for applications - details and a prospectus to be announced in early Summer 2025).
UKSPF GRASSroots Grant Scheme
A continuation of the popular grant scheme, which has been funded by UKSPF and REPF, which has already supported more than 100 projects across South & East Lincolnshire.
This scheme provides opportunities for organisations to deliver projects that bring people together and improve community facilities. This could be by creating opportunities for people taking part in new activities, getting involved in volunteering, supporting digital connectivity or long-term sustainability and resilience of community organisations across South & East Lincolnshire.
Grants of up to a maximum of £24,999 available.
Grants4Growth & Advice4Growth
Grants4Growth will continue to support local businesses to invest in their future awarding both capital and revenue grants to Small & Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the SELCP area looking to grow.
Advice4Growth provides access to a team of Business Advisors who are able to help businesses overcome challenges, identify growth opportunities and achieve growth objectives.
East Coast Community Fund
The East Coast Community Fund is part of the community engagement programme for Ørsted's Race Bank and Hornsea 1 offshore wind farms which are located off the Yorkshire and Lincolnshire coast. To be eligible to apply for a grant your project must be located, and be for the benefit of communities, within the funding area.
Grants from £1,000 up to £50,000 are available.
South & East Lincolnshire Community Lottery
Raise money for your good cause in the South & East Lincolnshire Partnership area.
At least 60% from each ticket sold goes to support South and East Lincolnshire, and there's a chance to win the £25,000 jackpot every week!
Tickets cost £1, and there's a draw every week.
Lincolnshire Community Foundation
The Lincolnshire Community Foundation is passionate about improving the lives and wellbeing of ordinary people throughout Greater Lincolnshire. They seek to achieve their mission through building long-term endowment, grant making, social investment, advice and practical support.
ELDC Social Isolation Grant
A one-off grant payment to support community groups and hubs who are helping residents tackle social isolation can now be applied for. Groups are eligible for between £100 and £2,000 from our social isolation grant.
South & East Lincolnshire Crowd Fund (Spacehive)
The South and East Lincolnshire Crowd Fund is an innovative online crowd-funding platform where residents, local business, the council and other organisations can all pledge money alongside each other to crowd-fund projects that improve their area.
Household Support Fund
This Government funded scheme aims to support vulnerable households with the cost of essentials such as food, clothing and utilities.
In East Lindsey, grants will be made available to community larders, food banks and charities supporting people in hardship.
The public application scheme will be administered by Lincolnshire community Foundation and will be open to low-income households from July 2025.
Priority will be given to households who are in most need or whose circumstance is causing financial pressures. For example, loss of employment, relationship breakdown, bereavement, health diagnosis, caring responsibilities.
Details of the scheme will be updated at: Household Support Fund - East Lindsey District Council
For more information please contact: householdsupportfund@e-lindsey.gov.uk
Council gives green light for accommodation pod scheme in Skegness
On Thursday 3 July, East Lindsey District Council's Planning Committee gave the green light for the installation of accommodation pods in Skegness aiming to reduce homelessness and support vulnerable residents.
Having announced the plan back in January, the approval marks a significant milestone in the council's efforts to provide safe, dignified and transitional accommodation for people experiencing homelessness in East Lindsey.
Each sleeping pod is a secure, waterproof shelter and a pathway toward a more permanent housing solution to individuals in crisis, with a bed, chemical toilet and charging facilities all included inside.
The pods are designed to help people who have been rough sleeping and have complex needs, making hostel-style accommodation unsuitable. The council anticipates that the installation will begin taking place in late September and is expected to be completed with all 4 pods operational by the end of October.
The pod scheme will receive also receive a host of wraparound services, including health, housing and employment support to help individuals rebuild their lives.
Spilsby Sessions House to be respectfully restored and reopened
East Lindsey District Council's planning committee has unanimously approved both planning permission and listed building consent for the Spilsby Sessions House regeneration project. This decision marks a significant milestone in the journey to bring new life to the historic building.
Spilsby Sessions House, along with Alford Manor House, form the Lincolnshire Wolds: Culture and Heritage Programme an ambitious regeneration initiative supported by £8 million in funding from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. The programme aims to secure the future of these historic sites through thoughtful restoration and adaptive reuse.
Once complete, the restoration will introduce new uses for Spilsby Sessions House, increasing year-round footfall in the town, supporting the local economy, and preserving this important heritage asset for future generations.
The approved plans for Spilsby Sessions House include major repairs and adaptations to enable its use as a cultural and arts venue, as well as a versatile daytime community space. A new café, also part of the plans, will provide a welcoming environment for both local residents and visitors, enhancing the building's role as a vibrant community hub.
More on the project: connectedwolds.co.uk/spilsby-sessions-house/
Grimsby to Walpole - The Project involves the construction of approximately 140 km of new overhead transmission lines from Grimsby to Walpole, associated new substations in the vicinity of Grimsby, Mablethorpe, Spalding Tee-Point in South Holland District and Walpole, and other associated required works. National Grids Statutory Consultation started on Wednesday 11 June and closes at 11.59pm on Wednesday 6 August 2025.
The consultation material and details of consultation events are available on National Grid’s website at nationalgrid.com/g-w.
Meet your new Community Resilience Officer, and what it means for you - a letter from Kimberly Pickett
My name is Kimberley Pickett. I'm excited to be your new Community Resilience Officer for Lincolnshire. I've just started this job, and I really want to work with all of you in our towns and villages.
My main job is to help local groups, parishes, and people like you make our communities stronger. We call this community resilience. But what does that actually mean?
What is Community Resilience?
Simply put, community resilience is about how ready a community is to handle tough times. This includes how well we can:
- Get ready for problems before they happen.
- Deal with problems when they come.
- Get back to normal after something difficult has happened.
These "tough times" could be anything from bad weather like floods or heatwaves, to power cuts, or even things like a widespread illness – I'm sure you can all remember the COVID-19 pandemic.
A strong, resilient community is one where:
- People know about possible dangers and what they can do to keep themselves and their neighbours safe.
- Local people help each other, looking out for friends and neighbours.
- We know what skills and help we have in our community, and can use them when needed.
- There are simple plans to help everyone get through hard times and recover quickly.
Why is Community Resilience Important?
Our emergency services (like fire, police, and ambulance) and local council do a great job. But they can't be everywhere at once, especially during big emergencies. This is why community resilience is so important. When communities can help themselves, we can:
- Make problems smaller: Communities that are ready can stop bad things from causing too much harm or disruption.
- Recover faster: Knowing what to do locally helps us get back to normal more quickly.
- Build stronger communities: Working together in tough times helps us all feel more connected.
- Help those who need it most: We can make sure that people who are more vulnerable get the help they need. How Can You Get Involved? My role is to support you and your community in becoming more resilient. This could mean:
- Helping you create simple community emergency plans.
- Finding training for your group.
- Helping you find and strengthen local support networks.
- Sharing good ideas from other resilient communities.
I'm really looking forward to meeting many of you soon and working together to make East Lindsey even stronger and more resilient. Please feel free to get in touch if you have any questions or want to talk about community resilience in your area.
More information about community resilience can be found here: https://www.lincolnshireresilienceforum.org/resilient-communities-programme/
Parish Portal
Our website contains a specific area for Town and Parish Councils to access key information and contacts within the Council and the services they are responsible for.
The Portal includes key contacts for you in our services.
Parish Portal - East Lindsey District Council
Subscribing to this e-newsletter
If you’d like someone else to receive the e-newsletter please email communications@e-lindsey.gov.uk with the relevant email address.