Your Lincoln - Autumn 2016

Businesses back fair pay campaign > P16 - P17 P10 > A history of Hartsholme P12-13 > Help shape our priorities for your city

Autumn 2016

City of Lincoln Council works hard to serve you – our residents and businesses – and we have four main priorities to make sure everything we do supports our aim. These are:

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Save time, do it online!

Grow the local economy – By encouraging investment and promoting existing business we can build a more prosperous future for the city and its residents Increase the supply of affordable housing – Provide more affordable housing through planning and building more council homes

Lincoln Transport Hub Local news Central Market

Reduce poverty and disadvantage – Protect and support our most vulnerable residents

Digital champions

A fit for purpose council – Working more efficiently with reduced funding to provide essential frontline services

Supporting young people Hartsholme park

Look out throughout this magazine for stories that show what we are doing to achieve these.

Have your say Meet the Mayor Boultham Park Living wage Small business support

Housing

Keeping the streets clean…Our dedicated Enforcement Officer issued more than 300 fixed penalty notices in six months as part of a crackdown on littering and dog fouling in Lincoln city centre.

Your councillors

Obtaining copies in alternative formats

Dispelling myths around Islam

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What’s on

If you have difficulty in understanding anything in this document, please go to City Hall, Beaumont Fee, Lincoln or any other Council office, where we can call in an interpreter for you through the Big Word Services.

Rogue landlords

Polish

Would you like to see your photo on the cover of Your Lincoln? Send it to communications@lincoln.gov.uk

Keep up to date with the latest council news by following the official twitter account @lincolncouncil.

The council also has a facebook page at www.facebook.com/TheCOLC. Get the latest news, interesting photos and city facts straight to your timeline.

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Your Lincoln is delivered to every household in the city and, due to our postal system, to a small number of properties outside of the City of Lincoln Council boundary. We hope residents outside of the city enjoy the magazine, but if there is a problem, please call 01522 873384 and we’ll do our best to resolve it. All information is correct at the time of printing.

This publication can also be made available in large print, or electronically. Please call: 01522 873829.

Advertise with Your Lincoln.

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If your company would like to take out an advert in the next edition of the magazine, please email communications@lincoln.gov.uk for rates. The magazine comes out three times a year and is delivered to every home in the city council’s boundaries so could be an excellent opportunity for your business.

Save time, do it online!

Lincoln.gov.uk – redesigned, refreshed, relaunched!

You contact the city council in many ways; face to face, by phone, email or social media, but increasingly more of you are choosing to use our website - www.lincoln.gov.uk.

In the past 12 months more than 600,000 people took advantage of 24/7 access to council services and information online.

Our website has been completely rebuilt with a focus on how you want to access our information and services. It has been designed to work across a range of devices including mobile and tablet – which accounts for more than 50 per cent of the annual visitors to the site.

We are continually developing our online services and you can now apply, report or pay for a number of services online. The introduction of these online services means the website is now the quickest and easiest way for anyone to get in touch with us.

Some of our most popular services include: • Find your bin collection date • Reporting a move • Reporting an issue in Lincoln, such as dog fouling, graffiti or flytipping

We have also just launched a repair tracker - a tool that enables housing tenants to view details of appointments for repairs at their property. This can be found at www.lincoln.gov.uk/repairtracker Leader of City of Lincoln Council, Councillor Ric Metcalfe, said: “Many people use the internet regularly in their daily lives in areas like shopping, banking and entertainment - and they expect us to provide the same level of customer service.

“We are striving to make it as easy as possible for customers to interact with us, whether that’s to pay a bill, apply for something, tell us about a problem, or just find information, and the newly redesigned website goes a long way towards us achieving this.”

The new website www.lincoln.gov.uk Need help getting is now live and our message to Lincoln online? residents is – if you want to save time, Read about our then do it online! digital champions on page 8

The faster way to apply, report and pay…

You can use our website to:

Apply

• For benefits • For an apprenticeship • For a market stall, or other business unit • For a council house • For a job

Report

• Anti-social behaviour • Benefit fraud • Dog fouling • Fly tipping • An abandoned vehicle

Pay

• Council tax • Garden waste Collection service • Planning fees • Rent • Car parking and other fixed penalty notices

www.lincoln.gov.uk

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The future’s bright as transport schemes come together Work is set to start on the site of a £30 million transport hub for Lincoln, the latest in a series of projects that will ease congestion and transform the city.

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With a state-of-the-art new bus station, is an incredibly exciting scheme that will 1,000 space multi-storey car park and move Lincoln city centre into the 21st pedestrian plaza, the ambitious Lincoln century, ensuring the potential for future Transport Hub scheme will revitalise the city growth, creating an attractive and connected centre. gateway to the city and making it an even At the time of going to print, City of Lincoln better place to live, work, visit and do Council was awaiting final confirmation business. on £11 million indicative funding from the “I know many people will be glad to see Department for Transport. Once received, our current bus station demolished. A new the project is ready to go ahead. facility is long overdue and will be able to The site of the cope with even more hub will be closed to than the seven million allow archaeological “This is an incredibly exciting passengers who use excavations to take the bus in Lincoln scheme that will move Lincoln each place, before the year. existing, outdated bus city centre into the 21st century” “We’ve received station is demolished. a huge amount of A temporary bus support for the hub station will operate in Tentercroft Street for scheme and I hope people will be patient the duration of the works. while this vital work is underway. It would It is hoped Lincoln will have a brand be impossible to achieve something of this new hub by the end of next year subject to scale without any disruption, but we will do funding being received. all we can to keep this to a minimum.”

Council Leader Ric Metcalfe said: “This The city council continues to work closely with partners Lincolnshire Co-op, Network

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Rail, East Midlands Trains, Lincolnshire County Council, the Department for Transport, and the Greater Lincolnshire Local Enterprise Partnership to make the scheme a reality.

The hub is the largest of a number of projects currently underway that will transform the city, easing congestion, improving the lives of residents, and attracting more visitors and investment.

Lincolnshire County Council’s East-West Link Road and Eastern Bypass schemes will help to improve traffic flow, while Lincolnshire Co-op’s Cornhill Quarter is set to regenerate the Sincil Street area. In addition, Network Rail has completed the High Street footbridge and has confirmed plans for another footbridge in Brayford Wharf East.

Network Rail is also working on plans for phase two of the transport hub scheme, which would see the addition of a dualpurpose footbridge allowing access to the train station while linking Tentercroft Street and the city centre.

A 240-space cycle hub at the station is set for completion in September.

Hop on a Hirebike

How will the work affect me?

For the duration of the work (expected to last around 18 months) Oxford Street, Norman Street and Pelham Street underpass will be closed, and there will be no access from Melville Street.

Thornbridge, Sincil Street and the NCP Oxford Street car parks will also close to make way for the development.

Alternative weekend parking is available at Siemens.

A temporary bus station will operate in Tentercroft Street, and a new taxi rank will operate from St Swithin’s Square.

Businesses will be open as usual and access to Lincoln Central Railway Station will be maintained throughout the works.

For more details and further information on diversions alternative parking go to www.lincoln.gov.uk/transporthub

Beat the traffic and avoid the cost of parking – hop on one of Lincoln’s 100 Hirebikes and get cycling.

Hirebike was set up three years ago and now has 19 docking stations in the city.

Marketing Manager Jo Kyne said: “We’ve had brilliant take up. One of the great things about on-street bike hire is that you can take a bike one way and travel back another way. With a hirebike, you only have to go one way, unlike taking your own bike.

It’s easy to sign up. Go to www.hirebikelincoln.co.uk and join as a casual or annual member. You can add as little as £5 credit to a casual membership and you are off and away.

You’ll then have access to transport any time you are in Lincoln. Casual hire is £2 an hour.

Annual members get the first 30 minutes free of every journey, then it’s only £1 an hour after that.

There’s a broad network from Burton Waters to Skellingthorpe Community Centre, to the shopping areas of Lincoln to Hykeham Train station. People also often take a hirebike not to go anywhere in particular, but just for some fresh air and exercise.

You can follow hirebike on Twitter and Facebook, or sign up for the newsletter to hear about any new offers or new docking stations joining the network.

Jo added: “We are on a mission to encourage more and more people to use the scheme, making greener and healthier travel choices. We hope to expand the network too and see more people enjoying the fun of cycling, and leaving their cars at home!”

Visit www.hirebikelincoln.co.uk for more information and how to join.

www.lincoln.gov.uk

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National action on dangerous substances The council has welcomed recent legislation banning the production, supply and importation of potentially dangerous drugs in the UK.

The National Psychoactive Substances Act came into force in May, giving police greater powers to tackle the trade in NPS – formerly known as ‘legal highs.’

Recognising the emerging issues associated with NPS, last year City of Lincoln Council was the first authority in the UK to ban the public consumption of these substances in Lincoln city centre through a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO).

Sam Barstow, Service Manager for Public Protection and Anti-Social Behaviour, said: “We welcome this legislation and are pleased the problems associated with and caused by these dangerous substances have now been recognised on a national level.

“Our PSPO is aimed at tackling the anti-social behaviour caused by the public consumption of New Psychoactive Substances and we will continue to work closely with Lincolnshire Police to enforce this.

“This new act is a positive step toward tackling the root of the problem.”

The Act has also been welcomed

by Lincolnshire Police and Lincolnshire County Council’s Trading Standards department.

Peace Walk Nearly 200 people came together to spread the message of peace in Lincoln this summer, taking in two of Lincoln’s most famous landmarks.

The Lincoln Interfaith Peace Walk saw people from all ages, races and religions walking from Lincoln Cathedral to Lincoln Castle and back again to raise awareness of the importance of peace in difficult times.

The crowd walked slowly while holding tea lights and messages of peace, eventually gathering near the Poppies: Wave at Lincoln Castle where a multi faith prayer was heard.

The walk was organised by Jasmit Phull, Co-Chair of the Lincoln Interfaith Forum, and was assisted by City of Lincoln Council.

Speaking before the Peace Walk, Jasmit said: “It is no use sitting and discussing peace, we need to inspire our community and the world at large by example, action and togetherness.”

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Green Flag Awards recognise Lincoln parks once again Two of Lincoln’s parks were recently recognised once again by the prestigious Green Flag award scheme.

Hartsholme Country Park and the Arboretum have been named as two of the best parks in England and Wales for another year after impressing the Green Flag award experts.

Our parks are among a record-breaking 1,686 parks and green spaces this year to receive an award – the mark of a quality park or green space.

Caroline Bird, Community Services Manager at City of Lincoln Council, said:

“It demonstrates a real commitment by our teams to keep the parks at their best throughout the year, allowing us to provide a welcoming, clean and safe environment for both visitors and residents to enjoy.

“We would like to thank the many volunteers who have helped towards the upkeep of the parks over the years, which shows we value the input of local communities in promoting our green spaces.”

Woodland restoration

Lincoln’s largest woodland area is set to be restored as part of a project that will help thousands of young people gain valuable skills.

Social enterprise Hill Holt Wood will manage the Hospital Plantation site – a 45.3 hectare area of woodland either side of the A46 between Doddington and Skellingthorpe roundabouts.

Using National Lottery funding of around £1 million, Hill Holt Wood will support young people to take part in the project to restore the woodland to a condition that can be enjoyed by local residents.

Over five years the project aims to engage more than 3,000 young people and certify 800 youngsters in a variety of skills that will help them into employment.

Council Leader Ric Metcalfe said: “The Hospital Plantation site is of great environmental significance for the city and we have long held an aspiration to improve its management to protect and improve biodiversity, while providing an area for recreational activity.”

Hill Holt Wood secured the funding through the Big Lottery Fund as part of the Our Bright Future programme, which provides opportunities for young people through environmental engagement.

Beat your winter energy bills

Get crafty at Lincoln’s Central Market Creative folk can pick up a bargain at a new monthly craft market.

On the last Saturday of each month, Sunbeam Craft and Gift Fairs will be setting up stalls in Lincoln’s Central Market, adding even more variety to the existing range of high quality goods and services on offer.

Whether you’re into sewing or cardmaking, painting or something else crafty, you can pick up all sorts of materials and handmade gifts at the new monthly market.

Claire Ellis, of Sunbeam, said: “Sunbeam is very happy to be joining the permanent market traders once a month. We will be bringing 24 lovely stallholders to each event, offering a wide range of handmade and small trade items at great prices.

“There will be a variety of items including jewellery, cards, sewn homeware items, plaques, knitted items, handbags, sweets, ceramics, glassware, photography and so much more.”

The craft market is a monthly addition to the regular offer you can find six days a week – Monday to Saturday – in the Grade II listed Central Market. From pet food and supplies to second-hand books, clothes and shoe repairs, and now visitors can

buy fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as plants and flowers, outside in City Square.

Antony Angus, Recreational Services Team Leader at City of Lincoln Council, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Sunbeam to the Central Market and look forward to seeing them each month.

There was a lot of interest in the first event and we hope people continue to come out and support the market to help it become the thriving, sustainable market we want it to be.

“The addition of the fresh produce and plant stalls outside in City Square has proved popular and this is all great news for starting to encourage more footfall to the area.

“We’re on the lookout for more specialist markets and are keen to hear from anyone interested in taking a stall.

Meanwhile, we’re continuing to work on plans to improve both the indoor and outdoor spaces.”

Looking to trade?

A market stall is a great way to start a small business, or as a personal presence for an online business.

A variety of stalls are currently available.

For more information go to www.lincoln.gov.uk/centralmarket

Dates for your diary Find Sunbeam Craft and Gift Fair in the Central Market: 24 September 26 November 29 October 17 December

We all know how expensive heating your home can be, so get ahead of the game and see if you could save money on your energy bills.

Lincolnshire Energy Switch is a collective scheme – the more residents and businesses that sign up, the better deal energy suppliers can offer.

It’s free to register, and there’s no obligation to accept the offer, so there’s nothing to lose.

Councillor Ric Metcalfe said: “Winter may be the last thing on people’s minds right now, but this is an ideal opportunity to see if you could save on your energy bills ahead of the colder seasons.

“Even if you’ve registered for the scheme before it’s worth signing up again. It only takes a few minutes and could save you hundreds of pounds.”

Registration closes on 10 October. You can do this online at www.lincoln.gov.uk/switch, or free phone 0800 048 8439 from 8am to 5.30pm, Monday to Fridays.

Be part of Lincoln Christmas Market

The organisers of Lincoln Christmas Market are on the hunt for local talent to add some festive feeling to the popular event.

Running from 1 to 4 December, the market is expected to attract around 250,000 visitors and is a great opportunity to showcase your talent.

Past performers have included carol singers, a Ukelele band and short sketches.

Claire McDowall, Principal Culture and Events Officer at the city council, said: “Festive buskers are a great addition to the market and a wonderful way for local people to get involved and add to the atmosphere.

“All we ask is that there is a ‘Christmassy’ feel to all performances.”

To express an interest go to www.lincoln.gov.uk/festivebuskers

www.lincoln.gov.uk

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Switch to Direct Debit for a chance to win £5,000

Life couldn’t be simpler when you pay your council tax by Direct Debit.

Just think of all the benefits! You’re in total charge, but it’s all automatic so it saves you time. You can relax because everything is worry-free, safe and secure. You can spread the cost across the whole year, and you can enjoy the peace of mind of never forgetting – and never being late – to pay your council tax.

Switch to Direct Debit now and be entered into the free prize draw.

Visit: www.directdebit.co.uk/ nationalcounciltax for more information, to view the prize draw terms and conditions and the Direct Debit Guarantee.

U Can…get online with the help of a digital champion

Whether you want to pay your council tax, find a job or apply for benefits, our digital champions are here to help you.

Bright sparks celebrated as engineering festival returns Did you know Lincoln was home to the world’s first factory lit by electricity?

Our historic city has played a vital role in engineering history, and Lincoln’s most well-known engineering masterpiece – the Cathedral – will host a free celebration of this heritage from 5 to 7 May next year.

Last year, more than 8,000 people took part in have-a-go activities, met today’s engineers and technologists, and had the opportunity to find out more about career and study opportunities with world-leading organisations based in and around Lincoln.

So get the date in your diaries and don’t miss see the Engineering Timeline: a 50ft long display of the history of engineering, how it has impacted the world and the part our city played. Find out more at www.visitlincoln.com/spark

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Adam McGrath has been volunteering at City Hall for a couple of months, helping people use the public access computers.

He said: “With everything moving online now there are a lot of people who are going to get left behind if there aren’t people to help them. If you haven’t grown up with computers or used them regularly, trying to do things online can be quite challenging.

“I help people with a wide variety of things, such as registering for universal jobmatch, looking for and applying for jobs and submitting CVs. “I’ve also helped people access council services, such as signing up to garden waste collections. Some people don’t have their own computers at home, but some people do and just aren’t confident using the services. Once they’ve been helped through the process they can see how easy it is and will be able to do it from home next time.

“I also volunteer at a fortnightly job club held in City Hall, where I help people improve their skills in Office software and write their CVs.” While helping others search for work, Adam himself is also looking for employment, and hopes his role as a digital champion will help him find a new position.

He said: “I don’t want to sit at home doing nothing and I’m enjoying volunteering - it’s a nice thing to do. It also gives you recent work history, which is better than having a big gap on your CV and shows you are proactive. Not only that, but it helps to maintain skills, such as customer service and IT, so it’s good for your CV.” Lincoln resident Adam is one of several digital champions who volunteer at City Hall.

Martin Walmsley, Head of the Shared Revenues and Benefits Service for City of Lincoln and North Kesteven District Councils, said: “Doing things online is often quicker, cheaper and easier than the alternatives, and we want to do everything we can to make sure people can get online.

“Computer skills are so important nowadays, both in our working and personal lives. Digital champions are a great idea because not only do they help others to improve their skills and make their lives easier, but at the same time, by volunteering they are helping themselves.

“We know of several volunteers who have gone on to find permanent jobs thanks, in part, to their experience volunteering.”

If you’re interested, please contact Rob Kay at robert.kay@lincoln.gov.uk or call on 01522 873767.

There are 20 self-serve computers at City Hall and another two for public use at St Giles Neighbourhood Office in Swift Gardens

The Mayor of Lincoln Yvonne Bodger formally opened The Network with a ribbon cutting with, from left to right: Gail Dunn, Chair of Trustees for The Work, the Mayor, Cllr Rosanne Kirk, the city council’s Portfolio Holder for Social Inclusion and Community Cohesion, and Ben Barley, Chief Executive of Voluntary Centre Services

One-stop shop launched for city’s young people Whether you need support with searching for a job, training opportunities, housing or financial advice, young people can now find it all under one roof.

The Network opened in City Hall earlier this year and offers a ‘one-stop shop’ providing a variety of support services, helping to develop skills and knowledge among young people so they can take part in training and education and gain employment.

It also aims to raise awareness among employers of the positive impact of investing in young people.

Gail Dunn, Chair of Trustees for The Network, said: “We hope to provide a wide range of services and opportunities that will help young people to overcome barriers and progress.

“We believe there is a need for a place where young people know they can get information, advice and access support services to help them progress into education, training or employment.

“By establishing a one-stop shop offering face to face support in the city centre we can offer this support to help young people and set them up for a promising future.”

The Network is part of the new Public Services Hub at City Hall, and can be found on the ground floor, via the Orchard

Street entrance.

City of Lincoln Council has been investing in young people through apprenticeships and training for more than 20 years and is one of the partners in the charitable organisation, which has been set up following research carried out on the local barriers to youth employment in Lincoln.

Research was carried out through discussions with young people, employers and the organisations delivering training in the city and identified the need for more support.

Councillor Ric Metcalfe, Leader of the city council, said: “The Network is a fitting addition to the services already on offer at the Public Services Hub. “Research carried out across the city has shown there is a need for more joined up services to engage with young people not in education, employment or training.

“Young people are our future and it’s vital we provide the opportunities they need to progress in life. I’m positive The Network will provide a valuable one-stop shop for people who might otherwise not know where to turn.”

Young people have a voice in our city Children may not be able to vote, but they are still encouraged to get involved and tell us what they think Lincoln needs.

Councillor Helena Mair is City of Lincoln Council’s Children and Young Person’s Advocate – a role designed to encourage children and young people to have their say and learn how they can influence events where they live.

Cllr Mair said: “It’s about listening to our younger residents, making sure they have a voice and engaging with them. Young people are incredibly important and it’s essential we hear what they have to say.

“There’s already a lot of good work going on in the city to increase opportunities for young people. I‘m keen to support that and make sure any issues are being addressed and this is an area we continue to develop.

“Throughout the year I hope to get out into communities, talking to our younger residents and making sure their voices are heard.”

The council already supports the Children’s University, which encourages 5-14 year olds to try new experiences, explore new interests and learn new skills. Children can take part in accredited activities at Hartsholme Country Park and the Guildhall.

Cllr Mair would love to hear from any children and young people about issues concerning them, or ideas for their area.

You can email her at helena.mair@lincoln.gov.uk

www.lincoln.gov.uk

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Get back to nature at Hartsholme Country Park

Timeline:

1846 – Lincoln Waterworks Company established.

An oasis of countryside within the city of Lincoln, Hartsholme Country Park is the perfect choice for the whole family to relax and unwind.

Whatever your age, interests or abilities, Hartholme has something to offer. A children’s play area, a fun and interesting events programme, an orienteering course, café, guided walks and nature trails - or even just a gentle stroll around the scenic grounds.

The popular park has been awarded the Green Flag eight years in a row, recognising it as a high quality green space.

Today, visitors to the park can enjoy the Victorian landscaped gardens, a large lake, woodlands and grasslands, with many features, both natural and built, surviving from the original landscaping of Hartsholme Hall in the 1860s.

Used as a reservoir, officers’ mess and stately home, the 170-year-old park has a rich and varied past.

A short history of Hartsholme

The park began as a lake providing water to several hundred homes in the city.

Its large and picturesque landscape made it an ideal home for Lincoln’s richest and most affluent and in 1862, Joseph Shuttleworth, one of the city’s most powerful businessmen at the time, commissioned the construction of Hartsholme Hall and Estate.

The Hall included a stable, lodges and staff quarters. It went through a variety of owners before enjoying its heyday under the

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ownership of Lord and Lady Liverpool, who bought the estate in 1906.

Under their tenure the estate was expanded to cover 2,000 acres, which included walkways along the lake, a boathouse and even tennis courts. Lord and Lady Liverpool sold the estate in 1939.

During the Second World War, the hall was used as an officers’ mess while the grounds were used for military training and to accommodate barrack blocks for other army ranks.

By the end of the war, Hartsholme Hall was in a sadly neglected state, and the estate had experienced damage during the war years. The estate was bought by the city council in May 1951 and investments were made to restore the park to its former glory.

However, Hartsholme Hall was damaged beyond repair and it was sadly demolished in the same year.

The only buildings that now remain from that time are the boathouse and the stable block, which is now the visitor centre.

Hartsholme was designated a Country Park in 1974, and to this day it still attracts thousands of visitors every year who relish its landscaped gardens and beautiful lakeside walks.

1848-9 – Hartsholme Lake excavated, with water being fed from Prial Drain.

The lake covered 25 acres and held 23 million gallons of water. The new lake supplies water to 733 houses in the city.

1862 – Construction completed on Hartsholme Hall for Joseph Shuttleworth, co-founder of the Clayton & Shuttleworth heavy engineering company. The hall included a stable block, cottages for employees, lodges and glasshouses.

1883 – Joseph Shuttleworth dies. The Hartsholme Estate is sold to his former business partner, Nathaniel Clayton. It is then sold again to Colonel Thomas Harding, who makes a number of improvements.

1906 – Lord Liverpool purchases the estate and enlarges it so it covers more than 2,000 acres. He did not take up residence until the 1920s.

1939 – 1945 – During the Second World War, Hartsholme Hall was used as an officers’ mess, and the estate was used for military training. Following the war, the hall begins to deteriorate, becoming home to many squatters and war veterans.

1951 - The estate is bought by the city council.The main block and the kitchen block of the hall are demolished, and work begins on restoring the estate.

1974 - Hartsholme Estate is designated a Country Park.

The Hartsholme Pod has landed!

What’s on

For those interested in finding out more about the park, you can join the Park Rangers on a History Walk as part of the Lincolnshire Heritage Open Days event on Friday 9 September from 11am until 1pm. It’s free to join, but please book ahead.

From building bug boxes to bird watching, willow weaving and making Christmas wreaths, a variety of events run regularly at the park. To book for any activity or to find out more call 01522 873735 or email hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk Turn to pages 22-23 for more information on the activies below. An events programme for 2016 can also be found online at www.lincoln.gov.uk/hartsholmecp

September Lincolnshire Heritage Open Days History Walk – Free!

September 9, 11am to 1pm

Toddler Time - £3.50 September 16, 10am to 11am

October Toddler Time October 21, 10am to 11am - £3.50

Mask Making - £3.50 October 25, 1pm to 2.30pm

Halloween Trail - £2.50 October 22-31, 12pm to 3pm

Pumpkin Carving - £3.50 October 27, 1pm to 2.30pm

Visitors to Lincoln can now experience a new type of accommodation, as Hartsholme Country Park opens its first camping pod.

Installed in July, the pod gives visitors the option to have a roomy, dry camping stay without the need to tow a caravan or bring a tent. It offers sleeping for two adults and two children, tables and chairs, a porch area and an electric hook-up.

Donald Nannestad, Portfolio Holder for Recreational Services and Health, said: “This is a first for Hartsholme and, depending on its success, we hope it won’t be the last.”

“Hartsholme Country Park is a lovely place to stay, and this new pod gives people a comfortable option if they don’t happen to own a caravan or motorhome.”

Camping pods are handmade using quality birch and pine wood and are treated and varnished to ensure a long life. The pod is built around arched frames, with a series of pinewood panels forming the body.

It has been provided by local company Lincs Pods, a family business who have been in joinery since 1948.

November Bird Watching for all – Free!

November 6, 10.30am to 12.30pm

Willow Weaving November 6, 1pm to 3pm

December Christmas Wreath Making December 4 & December 6 / 10am-12.30pm and 1.30pm-4pm

Find us online!

Prices are per person and booking is essential unless otherwise stated. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

You can now find Hartsholme Country Park on Facebook! Simply search for the park or visit www.facebook.com/ hartsholmecp for the latest news, events and photos.

Please ‘like’ our page and share your photos and visit to the park with us.

www.lincoln.gov.uk

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Shape our priorities for Lincoln What would you like to see happening in your city over the next three years?

City of Lincoln Council is currently deciding its key projects for 2017 through to 2020 and we want to know what’s most important to you.

These will then be prioritised in our next Strategic Plan, which seeks to deal with the most pressing issues in the city by setting out what we hope to achieve, why, and how we will do this.

Like many cities and districts, Lincoln faces a number of opportunities and challenges. Since 2010 there have been significant funding reductions, while more and more people look to the council to provide them with support and services.

However, this has provided an opportunity for us to review how we deliver services, making sure we provide high performing, value for money services with residents at their heart.

We want to hear your views to ensure the plan not only meets the needs of the city, but matches the aspirations of the people we serve.

Through the following developing priorities we hope to make the most of the many opportunities for us as an organisation, and for the city of Lincoln: • • • •

Driving growth for all Making great places for all Delivering housing for all Providing opportunities for all

Alongside these, we also have a priority to maintain high performing, cost-effective services in everything we do.

How can you be involved?

On the following page we have identified a number of projects we’re looking to deliver over the next three years.

Please choose the three most important to you from each priority, and this will help to determine our three key projects in each priority over the next three years.

Please post your responses to The Policy Unit, City of Lincoln Council, Freepost NEA 10667, Lincoln, LN1 1DD, or you can make your choices online at www.lincoln.gov.uk/strategicplan

The closing date of the consultation is 23 September 2016.

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Have your say

Please choose up to three projects in each question Q1. Driving Growth For All

Q4. Providing Opportunities For All

Building a strong and prosperous future for Lincoln by maximising opportunities in areas such as heritage, engineering and education, to attract further investment resulting in economic growth, more employment and improved infrastructure, which in turn will help tackle poverty and create wealth.

Build upon partnerships between the public, private and voluntary sectors to make sure all our residents can access services, and address key causes of financial exclusion and deprivation. With more than 4,000 children in low income families, and an estimated 13,000 residents earning below the Living Wage, helping families into well-paid work will be vital.

Complete the Public Realm Strategy – working with partners to improve public spaces spaces in the city centre Develop the Western Growth Corridor – plans for new homes, businesses and amenities Develop and implement a Park Ward regeneration scheme Implement a strategy for the markets and a plan to transform City Square

Grow the existing apprenticeship scheme at the council to provide more opportunities for young people Continue the development of the Public Services Hub at City Hall, allowing access to several services in one place Promote bulk energy switching to lower energy bills for residents

Build Lincoln Transport Hub – a new bus station and car park in Lincoln city centre

Help financially vulnerable residents by supporting third sector service projects such as food in school holidays, distribution of white goods etc.

Produce an investment prospectus for Lincoln to promote the advantages of basing a business in Lincoln

Reduce hate crime by encouraging an increase in reporting levels Encourage our contractors and suppliers to invest in their local communities to tackle local issues

Q2. Making Great Places For All Developing the right kind of ‘place’ is essential to support a vibrant economy, attract tourists and to create somewhere where people want to be and live.

Please tell us a bit about you: Age

Restore Boultham Park

Under 16

16-24

Work on a masterplan for Hartsholme Country Park

25-34

35-44

Improve and expand allotment provision

45-54

55-64

Introduce upgraded CCTV technology

65-69

70+

Male

Female

Offer more opportunities for volunteers to improve local green spaces Sustain high standards of street cleanliness and open space management

Postcode:

Q3. Delivering Housing For All Demand for housing is increasing. A good quality home provides safety and enables people to become part of a community, and to have a sense of belonging. We need to work with partners to build more homes and improve the quality of housing in the city.

Deliver and facilitate at least 400 new homes by 2020 Aim for 20 per cent of any new housing built to be affordable Improve the quality of homes in the private rented sector Improve energy efficiency in homes to tackle fuel poverty Deliver new modern, supported housing for older people

Please help us understand the area you are from by entering at least the first four digits of your postcode - and preferably the whole code.

Thank you for taking part.

Please return this form to: The Policy Unit, City of Lincoln Council, Freepost NEA 10667, Lincoln, LN1 1DD, or complete it online at www.lincoln.gov.uk/strategicplan

The closing date of the consultation is 23 September 2016.

Work with the private sector to deliver more housing

www.lincoln.gov.uk

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Getting to know…

the Mayor of Lincoln Yvonne Bodger Councillor Yvonne Bodger was re-elected this year to serve Minster Ward on the city council.

Although she was born in Middlesex (now Berkshire), Cllr Bodger’s family moved to the small Lincolnshire Fens village of Eastville, near Spilsby, when she was very young.

She went to the village school and attended the local church, before moving to Lincoln in 1966.

Throughout the years Cllr Bodger has been involved as a volunteer in schools and playgroups, and worked in the NHS in Lincoln for 15 years. She was also a director of the YMCA, served as a governor at Monks Abbey School and as a councillor for both the city and county councils.

Here we find out a bit more about her…

To start with, what does being the Mayor of Lincoln mean to you?

It’s a dream come true. An achievement my mother would be proud to boast about to her family and friends!

What are you most looking forward to in your year as Mayor?

Lincoln has a unique and varied history and the Mayor and civic party plays its part in linking the past to the present by celebrating what was and highlighting the dedication of many groups who work so hard to make living in Lincoln such a delight.

I’m most looking forward to meeting all the diverse groups of people who have requested we visit them. It is an opportunity to highlight their cause and to promote their dedication and hard work.

Why do you think the position of Mayor is still important?

The Mayor and civic party are the link between the business of running this great town and its people. It personalises it.

Each time we respond to a request for us to visit we learn something new about the many services these groups give to Lincoln and its residents. All are genuinely grateful and delighted to receive a visit from the civic party and make it such a pleasure for us all to meet them.

It is the people who make the visits so special. It is the people of Lincoln who are its strength.

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Correct as of February 1 2016

What kind of music do you like to listen to?

My interest in music is wide and varied but always melodious and sometime very amusing.

Vivaldi Four Seasons, songs from the shows Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, Calamity Jane, Carousel. Amusing songs with great lyrics - Captain Beaky with Keith Michell, anything from Michael Flanders and Donald Swan, At the Drop of a Hat and At the Drop of Another Hat, particularly The Gasman Cometh. Any rousing Miitary music, particularly the RAF March.

If you could have one meal right now, what would it be?

My meal right now would be a prawn cocktail followed by baked salmon with fresh vegetables and a lemon sorbet to finish served with a nice Merlot wine.

What’s your favourite book?

My favourite book is A Town like Alice

by Nevil Shute - it is a story of courage in adversity, determination to survive and a longed for outcome at the end.

Who are the people who have inspired you the most?

My mother who instilled in me my love of books and music and that good manners cost nothing.

A local man called Bob Withers who was a contemporary of Chad Varrah when he started the Samaritans in Lincoln. Bob was one of Chad’s first listeners and consequently taught me

the very necessary skill of listening to what people say and hearing what they mean. An essential skill when we started Befrienders in Grief and Loss in Lincoln.

Tell us a bit about your chosen charity. Why this one? How much do you hope to raise?

My Charity is the British Heart Foundation, which is a cause close to the hearts of all the Civic Party.

It does such sterling work supporting individuals, sponsoring a research fellow, and raising awareness of just how many people are affected by heart conditions If anyone wants to support our charity no amount is too small or too great - a coffee morning in your home with a few friends or a ‘Bag it and Beat it’ day.

For more details regarding making a donation or hosting a charity event for the Mayor please contact the Civic Office at civic@lincoln.gov.uk or call 01522 873507.

If you could have dinner with one person, living or dead, who would it be?

I would love to share a meal with Joyce Grenfil and Victoria Wood.

Boultham Park project given green light A multi-million pound regeneration of Boultham Park by partners City of Lincoln Council and the learning disability charity Linkage has been given the go-ahead.

Let us take your garden waste

Work will start soon on a much anticipated restoration and building programme at the 50-acre park after the Heritage Lottery Fund agreed changes to the £4 million project.

The plans will involve converting the former coach house into an education centre as well as building a café, horticulture centre and restoring park features. The work will also introduce some lighting and will feature improved pathways, CCTV, signage and seating.

The Heritage Lottery Fund and Big Lottery Fund ‘Parks for People’ scheme have confirmed their £2.7 million grant for the latest proposals, which had to be revised following the original submission when cost estimates for the de-silting of the lake rose dramatically.

The council is now working with local residents and park users on finding alternative funding for the lake work.

Linkage Chief Executive Valerie Waby said: “This confirmation by the National Lottery is an important confidence boost for our plans for Lincoln. We have long wanted to start providing further education services for students with learning disabilities in the city, and Boultham Park will be a very attractive base.”

Caroline Bird, Community Services Manager at the city council, added: “At last the restoration of Boultham Park can go ahead. We plan to have contractors on site shortly and big changes will soon be evident.

This will be great news to park users and the community, and we thank them for their patience and support.”

Community involvement in Boultham Park has soared since the original grant announcement was made back in 2013, with local organisations helping to improve the landscape by building a Centenary Garden to mark the anniversary of the start of the First World War, plus litter-picking, special events and the introduction of a toddlers’ activity session.

A £250,000 appeal to match-fund the Lottery grant now stands at more than £100,000, led by volunteer and retired Lincoln businessman, Philip Barnatt.

For more details of the community events at Boultham Park go to www.boulthampark.co.uk or call 01522 503197.

Our Garden Waste Collection Service continues to go from strength to strength, with more than 15,000 households across the city signed up so far this year.

Charging for the scheme enables the council to keep providing it, with the aim that only those residents who use the service pay for it. While the high level of support has helped make it a success, the council continues to subsidise it at a time of continued austerity.

We want to get closer to a position of full cost recovery for the service and so have increased the charges this year – the first time since its inception three years ago.

This year, the cost of the service is £30 per year – less than 60p a week - for a 12 month service of fortnightly collections until 30 June 2017.

Additional bins are charged at £12 per year each.

You can sign up to the service quickly and easily at www.lincoln.gov.uk/garden The Garden Waste Collection Service accepts grass cuttings, leaves, hedge trimmings (max 2.5cm diameter), flowers and plants, twigs (max 2.5cm diameter) weeds and natural Christmas trees.

The service runs annually from 1 July but you can sign up at any time of the year.

www.lincoln.gov.uk www.lincoln.gov.uk

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Businesses back fair pay campaign Ruddocks Print & Design

It motivates staff, saves on recruitment costs and can help your reputation. Three local employers explain why they think paying the Living Wage is good for business, and good for Lincoln.

Set by the Living Wage Foundation, the Living Wage is set according to the basic cost of living. It’s voluntary and, at £8.25 per hour, currently stands at £1.05 more per hour than the national minimum wage.

There are currently 23 businesses on the Living Wage Register in Lincoln, and several are getting behind the city council’s campaign to encourage more employers to do the same.

Council Leader Ric Metcalfe said: “It’s about giving a fair day’s wage for a fair day’s work. I can understand why some businesses may be cautious about signing up, but in the longer term it has been shown to bring numerous benefits. It’s great to have the support of local businesses who have seen this to be the case. Paying the Living Wage is good for employers, good for staff, and good for the city.”

To find out more go to www.lincolnagainstpoverty.co.uk/livingwage

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www.lincoln.gov.uk

Two members of staff received a pay rise when Ruddocks signed up to pay the Living Wage last year.

Managing Director Paul Banton – who is also President of Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce – said: “I felt it was the right thing to do.

“In terms of recruitment, it helps to be paying a reasonably good wage. If you’re negotiating to employ somebody you’re not starting off in the best place for either of you.

“It helps with retention for the same reason. You wouldn’t get loyalty if you paid people really poorly. If people don’t have enough to live on they will look elsewhere - it’s about feeling valued. People come to work for us and they stay. If you’re good with people you get that back tenfold.

“My advice to other businesses is that you should pay the Living Wage if you can afford it. There are businesses that are really struggling but I would argue that if you’re employing staff, your staffing ought to be set at the right level to pay people correctly.

“I don’t believe pay is the main criteria for staff happiness but I do believe poor pay is a big driving factor in staff leaving. People will stay in a good place if they can afford to live and that’s what the Living Wage is doing.

“If more businesses sign up to pay the Living Wage that would be good for Lincoln.

If you’ve got a stable business that can only help Lincoln’s economy grow and be successful. I think we’ve got our own challenges, particularly around retention of graduates. If we pay decent wages it will help to keep that talent we’re nurturing here in the city.

“Someone told me Ruddocks has got a really good name in this city for treating people right. If we weren’t paying people well it would be detrimental to that reputation we’ve worked so hard to build.”

Support for small businesses Social Change UK

Since founding the social research and campaign business five years ago, Director Kelly Evans has always paid the Living Wage, in line with her philosophy that small things have the biggest effect.

She said: “I don’t want to see any of my staff feeling like they’re in a state of poverty because that will have an impact when they come into work every day. I think paying staff what they deserve makes them feel more motivated.

“Business needs to balance profit with responsibility. That responsibility is also to your staff and paying them a decent wage they can afford to live on.

“For us, it’s part of what we stand for. If motivating and retaining staff is fundamental to your way of doing business then you really should consider the Living Wage because it’s an important tool to recruit and retain staff.

“Paying the Living Wage will cost you slightly more than the national minimum wage, but statistics show the costs involved in finding, replacing and training new staff are likely to be higher if you don’t.

“I’ve had staff who have been able to move out of shared accommodation, buy their own property, buying cars, have more of a life. Those are the kind of things that are motivating. It’s not the salary -it’s what they can do with that. You want staff to come in and feel motivated to do the best job they can when they’re here.

“In Lincoln we need to attract more people to come to the city to work here and we also need to try to retain some of the people who come here to study but go to other cities thinking they’re bigger and better. Actually Lincoln is a great place to work and it’s affordable to live here.”

Voluntary Centre Services

Voluntary Centre Services supports volunteers and voluntary and community organisations across West Lincolnshire.

Chief Executive Ben Barley believes paying the Living Wage increases staff loyalty and productivity, and shows potential funders the organisation values its workforce.

He said: “It reflects the value of the staff and what they contribute to the organisation.

That’s the main thing, and we’ve found it works really well for staff retention. We don’t have much of a staff turnover, which is really positive. Whenever we do recruit, we generally have good applicants.

“I’d like to think paying the Living Wage has a positive effect on staff morale and staff work harder as a result. We see our staff show a real commitment to the organisation - that shows in what they give in terms of productivity, which in turn contributes to what we can deliver as an organisation.

“It’s mainly about valuing your staff, showing them you value the work they’re doing and what they contribute to the organisation.

“In the community and voluntary sector funding is always the biggest issue for us and it shows as an organisation we are committed to our staff and supporting them and that might have an impact on our funders.

“If more organisations signed up it would give a positive perception of the businesses within Lincoln, showing that people can come and work in the city and earn a decent wage without having to move out of the area to find higher paid employment.”

In Lincoln we’re fortunate to have among the highest number of independent businesses in the East Midlands, providing residents and visitors with vital goods and services.

It’s well-known that getting a small business up and running isn’t easy, so City of Lincoln Council is doing its bit to help people wanting to set up their own company.

Councillor Neil Murray, Portfolio Holder for Planning Policy and Economic Regeneration, said: “Small businesses play an important role in the local economy, and often offer excellent value for money, and different goods and services than the national chains. Their local knowledge is often a huge bonus too.

“Unfortunately they are the first to struggle when times are hard, which is why we have a Small Business Support Team to help encourage more startups in Lincoln and help existing small businesses to grow.”

The team can help with: • Business start up • Funding • Operating a food business • Property searches • Meeting and conference room hire • Business rates advice • Guidance on planning • Licensing The team also manage two office workspaces at Greetwell Place and The Terrace. Operated on a not-for-profit basis, they provide office space within easy reach of the city centre.

You can email them at businessservices@lincoln.gov.uk, call 01522 845976, or find out more at www.lincoln.gov.uk/businesssupport

www.lincoln.gov.uk

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Home is where the heart is A good home is essential for good health – that’s why City of Lincoln Council has made it a priority to provide more affordable homes and improve the quality of both public and private sector housing across the city.

Nowhere to hide for irresponsible landlords

Severe over-crowding, faulty electrics, no fire alarms…these were just some of the issues faced by housing enforcement officers during a crackdown on substandard rental homes in Lincoln.

With the recent boom in buy-to-let properties has come a greater awareness of ‘rogue landlords’ – companies or individuals looking to make maximum profit through minimum effort.

This can mean failing to meet safety regulations, putting the lives of tenants and those living close by at risk.

Over a 10-week period, five housing enforcement officers – funded by a £96,000 grant from the Department for Communities and Local Government – inspected 881 homes in the city.

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The results were varied, with 110 enforcement actions taken against irresponsible landlords, including issuing informal notices, improvement notices emergency prohibition orders and carrying out dawn raids at two suspect properties where the team were refused entry.

In one case, the officer could see past the person answering the door and was concerned for the safety of the tenants. With the help of a warrant, officers discovered the property was maintained to a very low standard, overcrowded and lacking facilities for the eight people living there. A prosecution is currently underway.

Councillor Pete West, Portfolio Holder for Housing at the city council, said: “A total of 15 prosecutions are currently pending and the team has done an extremely worthwhile job in checking the quality of homes and ensuring landlords take the necessary action to bring their properties up to an acceptable standard.

From building much-needed new homes, to modernising old ones, and tackling ‘rogue landlords’, there’s a huge amount going on in Lincoln to make sure a safe, warm home is a reality for everyone.

“Poor quality housing can be dangerous for tenants and their neighbours, and it’s important we continue to help improve the standard of private rental sector housing in Lincoln.”

The grant also paid for translation services to enable the team to engage with as many people in the area, where more than 16 languages are spoken, as possible.

Shuttleworth House was officially reopened on 19 May by The Mayor of Lincoln Yvonne Bodger.

Shuttleworth House has gone green!

Thankfully, it hasn’t been covered from top to bottom in bright green paint, but it has become a lot more eco-friendly since it reopened in May. The flats in Shuttleworth House used to rely on electric storage heaters, which were expensive and inefficient. These have been replaced by a new biomass boiler, which will be cheaper and save around 10,640 tonnes of carbon.

Residents should now start to see significant savings on their fuel bills. All flats have an energy monitoring meter installed, which will enable tenants to keep an eye on their heat and hot water usage and costs.

The project has also included the installation of effective insulation in the walls and ceilings, improving the ventilation system and replacing windows and balcony doors.

Bob Ledger, Strategic Director of Housing and Communities at City of Lincoln Council, said: “This exciting project has seen the city council invest £3.2 million in refurbishing the tower block.

“As well as extending the life of the building, these improvements go some way to creating a more sustainable city.

“The work has gone incredibly well and we are very proud of the outcome.”

Council Leader Ric Metcalfe added: “Providing good quality, affordable housing for people who need it is one of our priorities and the improvements at Shuttleworth House will help tenants for years to come.”

Plans approved to build more council homes With the completion of 20 council bungalows in Birchwood in March – all of which have welcomed their first tenants – the council has announced exciting plans to build a further 500 affordable homes in the next five years.

Through a new wholly-owned council company, housing association partners and the council itself, the new properties will help reduce the council’s housing waiting list and provide more choice for those renting properties across all income levels.

It will also offer some low cost homes for sale.

Council Leader Ric Metcalfe said: “It’s no secret that, nationally, we are facing a severe housing crisis due to the lack of affordable homes on the market.

“Here is Lincoln we see the real effects – we have more than 3,000 people on our council house waiting list, little choice at market rent levels and too much poor quality housing for rent in the private sector.

“By creating our own housing company we can tackle all these issues, providing more good quality, affordable housing to address the urgent need in the city.”

Work is currently underway on 16 new council homes in Ermine East.

The two, three and four-bed houses in Blankney Crescent are the latest phase of a £15 million scheme to build 150 council houses in six years.

Built to a high energy-efficiency standard, the homes will be economical to heat to help keep down tenants’ bills.

www.lincoln.gov.uk

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Council welcomes youngest member City of Lincoln Council welcomed its youngest councillor in May this year.

At the age of just 20, Business and Management student Thomas Dyer was elected by residents in Witham (formerly Bracebridge) Ward to represent them for the next three years.

We asked him a few questions to find out more about how he became interested in the city council, and why more young people should get involved.

Why did you want to become a councillor?

I’ve had an interest in politics since a young age. While at university I managed to get involved with the local Conservative Association and, after speaking to councillors, it made me realise the difference they can make in their communities.

Especially being a younger councillor I hope to become the voice of young people on the council to give our city better representation.

What do you hope to achieve?

Already I have achieved so much in my community, I’ve managed to resolve numerous problems for constituents.

The work of a councillor is never done and there is always a new challenge that needs to be solved.

Your councillors

Do you think more young people should consider becoming a councillor, and what advice would you give them?

I definitely recommend to any young person to get involved.

If anyone is considering standing for election or would like some information you can contact me via my details on the council website – www.lincoln.gov.uk - and I will answer any questions you have. It would be great to see more young people who are interested in politics getting involved with the running of our great city. @cllrthomasdyer

/cllrthomasdyer

Did you know you can find out more about your own councillors, including how to contact them and details of their ward surgeries, by going to www.lincoln.gov.uk/councillors

Abbey Ward

Castle Ward

Birchwood Ward

Hartsholme Ward

Kathleen Brothwell T: 530289 kathleen.brothwell@lincoln.gov.uk

Donald Nannestad (Deputy Leader) T: 545831 donald.nannestad@lincoln.gov.uk

Paul Gowen T: 687717 paul.gowen@lincoln.gov.uk

Ron Hills T: 878352 ronald.hills@lincoln.gov.uk

Rosanne Kirk T: 684990 rosanne.kirk@lincoln.gov.uk

Andrew Kerry T: 07879 474548 andrew.kerry@lincoln.gov.uk

Eddie Strengiel T: 884688 edmund.strengiel@lincoln.gov.uk

Biff Bean T: 07767 432090 biff.bean@lincoln.gov.uk

Witham Ward

Park Ward

Thomas Dyer T: 07910 928504 thomas.dyer@lincoln.gov.uk

Chris Burke T: 279427 chris.burke@lincoln.gov.uk

Keith Weaver T: 871075 keith.weaver@lincoln.gov.uk

Sue Burke T: 279427 sue.burke@lincoln.gov.uk

Jane Loffhagen T: 07587 285132 jane.loffhagen@lincoln.gov.uk

Helena Mair T: 520662 helena.mair@lincoln.gov.uk

Fay Smith T: 875817 fay.smith@lincoln.gov.uk Peter West T: 528010 peter.west@lincoln.gov.uk

Boultham Ward Gill Clayton-Hewson T: 803793 gill.clayton-hewson@lincoln.gov.uk Gary Hewson T: 803793 gary.hewson@lincoln.gov.uk Ralph Toofany T: 885802 ralph.toofany@lincoln.gov.uk

Carholme Ward Tony Speakman T: 528222 tony.speakman@lincoln.gov.uk Karen Lee T: 546065 karen.lee@lincoln.gov.uk Neil Murray T: 873533 neil.murray@lincoln.gov.uk

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What are the current issues that matter to people in Witham Ward?

The issues in Witham vary from area to area. Residents have a wide range of concerns, including anti-social behaviour, dog fouling, overgrown trees, littering and parking to name just a few. Every week brings something new.

Correct as of 1 August 2016

Jim Hanrahan T: 415791 jim.hanrahan@lincoln.gov.uk Loraine Woolley T: 543889 loraine.woolley@lincoln.gov.uk

Minster Ward Liz Maxwell T: 07463 584823 liz.maxwell@lincoln.gov.uk Yvonne Bodger T: 520083 yvonne.bodger@lincoln.gov.uk Naomi Tweddle T: 07495 536790 naomi.tweddle@lincoln.gov.uk

Moorland Ward Bob Bushell T: 870625 bob.bushell@lincoln.gov.uk Geoff Ellis T: 683620 geoff.ellis@lincoln.gov.uk Adrianna McNulty T: 07950 885430 adrianna.mcnulty@lincoln.gov.uk

Glebe Ward Jackie Kirk T: 07531 022876 jackie.kirk@lincoln.gov.uk Richard Metcalfe (Leader) T: 720960 richard.metcalfe@lincoln.gov.uk Patrick Vaughan T: 534044 pat.vaughan@lincoln.gov.uk

Party Key: Labour Conservative

The Anguish of Muslims Imagine being taught your whole life to always be honest, kind and friendly, to never speak ill of others or lie, to work hard at school and in your job so you can earn an honest wage and be useful to society, to help others as much as possible, to be kind to your parents, family and neighbours, to try to reconcile two arguing people, to be humble and patient, to love and forgive....

And why? Because you are a Muslim; one who submits to God alone, and these are the actions that please God according to your religion, Islam.

Imagine falling in love with your religion because it makes logical sense to you, and you believe it guides you to being a better person, and because it gives purpose to your life. Your purpose being to strive to be the best person you can be, to please God. As a result, you see the harmonious order it brings to your life, relationships and dealings with others.

Then imagine your disbelief and horror at the worst atrocities possible being committed in the name of your religion. You are horrified at the brutality, and you struggle to reconcile the actions with the alleged ideology behind them, because the Islam you follow emphasises peace and holds human life as sacred. Nevertheless, for some reason, everyone suddenly thinks that killing innocent people is what your religion actually teaches! Consequently, people begin hating you and your religion, and to top off matters, they start viewing YOU with suspicion. How would you feel? Saddened, hurt, exasperated, scared, eager to change public perception?

The key message of Islam is to worship and obey only one entity alone, the Being that made and sustains the Universe - Allah.

We believe we are followers of the message of all of the Prophets including Abraham, Moses and Jesus, as we believe they all brought the same simple message - to worship the Creator of the Universe alone and to please Him by doing good deeds. We believe the Quran and teachings of Prophet Muhammad guide us on what constitutes the good deeds that please Allah.

Unfortunately, there is so much negativity about Islam everywhere these days. From broadsheets to tabloids to social media, the story is that ‘Islam is an abhorrent and evil religion’. The sad reality is that people now probably link ‘Islam’ with ‘terrorists’. This Hafsah Qureshi was born and could be because media rhetoric often suggests that if anyone becomes a practising raised in Lincoln. She attended Muslim and is devoted to their religion and Washingborough Primary School conservative in their views, they are likely to followed by the Priory LSST be ISIS sympathisers and potential terrorists.

Secondary School. She is currently This association is totally incorrect.

a doctor working in Lincoln and lives with her husband and one year old son.

Then Mayor of Lincoln Andy Kerry, Strategic Director of Communities and Environment John Latham and Civic and International Partnerships Manager Kate Fenn with hosts in Tangshan.

Chinese twin city honours Lincoln Part of a memorial garden in Tangshan has been named after Lincoln in recognition of the cities twin status.

At the invitation of Ding Xiufeng, Mayor of Tangshan Municipal People’s Government, a small delegation from Lincoln joined 30,000 guests at the International Horticultural Exposition from April 27 to May 1.

During the Exposition, the newlydeveloped 22 square km garden was opened to commemorate the 40th anniversary of an earthquake that hit Tangshan on July 27, 1976, taking the lives of hundreds of thousands of people.

The remembrance garden includes the Lincoln Garden of the United Kingdom, named to mark the city’s association with Tangshan.

The delegation was made up of the then Mayor of Lincoln, Andrew Kerry, City of Lincoln Council’s Strategic Director for Communities and Environment John Latham and Civic and International Partnerships Manager Kate Fenn.

Cllr Kerry said: “It is a huge honour for the UK garden to be named after Lincoln and this was a very memorable occasion.

It was a privilege to be invited to represent Lincoln at the opening.

“The people of Tangshan have done an admirable job in rebuilding the city and this garden is a fantastic way to commemorate those who lost their lives in the earthquake.”

Lincoln has been involved with Tangshan since 1988. The association brings several benefits, including international students and business relationships that provide a boost to the local economy.

www.lincoln.gov.uk

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What’s On September Lincolnshire Heritage Open Days History Walk

Lincoln Antiques & Collectors Market

Join the park rangers on a walk to learn the history of Hartsholme Hall. This event is free. Booking is essential.

Browse and buy antiques, art and collectables from the Lincoln Antiques & Collectors Market taking place on Castle Square.

Hartsholme Country Park September 9, 11am to 1pm

01522 873735 hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk

01522 690444 office@unique-auctions.com

The Great War Remembered

Lincoln Book Festival

Museum of Lincolnshire Life September 10 – January 3, 2017, 10am to 4.30pm

An exhibition on display at the Museum of Lincolnshire Life exploring the Conscription, Objection and the Rise of the Tank.

01522 782040 lincolnshirelife_museum@lincolnshire.gov.uk

Bubble Rush

Boultham Park September 11, 10am

Lincolnshire’s first ever Bubble Rush promises to have families bursting with excitement. In this foam party meets 5k, children and adults will be blasted with coloured, frothy foam. The event has been organised by Andy’s, Lincolnshire’s only children’s hospice providing care for children with progressive life-limiting illnesses. Entertainment starts at 10am, and the Lincoln Bubble Rush will begin at noon.

The Collection September 26 – October 1, 6.15pm to 8.30pm

Hear from acclaimed authors at The Collection in a fascinating series of talks around themes of history in Lincoln and beyond.

07713581814 lincolnbookfestival@aubournhall.co.uk

October Lincolnshire Day

Various locations October 1, All Day

To celebrate Lincolnshire Day on Saturday 1st October 2016 there are some great activities to enjoy in Lincoln.

01522 545458 visitorinformation@lincolnbig.co.uk

01472 571268 www.andys.me.uk

Lincoln Half Marathon

Toddler Time

A 13.1 mile route including Lincoln’s most famous sights including Lincoln Cathedral, Lincoln Castle, and the Brayford Waterfront.

Join the park rangers and dress to get messy for seasonal activities for the under 5’s. £3.50 per child. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Booking is essential.

01427 718888 info@osbevents.com

Hartsholme Country Park September 16, 10am to 11am

01522 873735 hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk

King John Returns

Lincoln Castle September 17 – 18, 11am to 4.30pm

Join King John and the Barons as they discuss the merits of the 13th century Magna Carta document on a day of living history and medieval entertainment at Lincoln Castle.

01522 782040 lincoln_castle@lincolnshire.gov.uk

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Castle Square September 18, 10am to 4pm

www.lincoln.gov.uk

Citywide October 2, 9.30am to 6.30pm

High Street Farmers’ Market Lincoln High Street October 7, 9am to 4pm

This conveniently located market is the perfect way to add a delicious taste of Lincolnshire to your weekend.

01522 545458 visitorinformation@lincolnbig.co.uk

The Spires & Steeples Challenge The Lawn October 16, 8.30am to 5.30pm

A charity 26-mile run or walk from Lincoln’s Cathedral Quarter to Sleaford.

01522 694353 EventsOfficer@1life.co.uk

Toddler Time

Hartsholme Country Park October 21, 10am to 11am

Join the park rangers and dress to get messy for seasonal activities for the under 5’s. £3.50 per child. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Booking is essential.

01522 873735 hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk

Lincoln Sausage Festival Lincoln Castle October 22, 10am to 5pm

Celebrate all things sausage, including the famous Lincolnshire sausage, at the Lincoln Sausage Festival.

01522 782040 lincolnsausagefest@btinternet.com

Halloween Trail

Hartsholme Country Park October 22-31, 12pm to 3pm

Prepare to be scared out of your skin on our creepy Halloween Trail. £2.50 per person. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Booking is essential.

01522 873735 hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk

Mask Making

Hartsholme Country Park October 25, 1pm to 2.30pm

Come along to our mask making event and make a scary mask in time for the spookiest day of the year! £3.50 per person. Booking is essential 01522 873735 hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk

Pumpkin Carving

Hartsholme Country Park October 27, 1pm to 2.30pm

Join the park rangers to design and carve your very own jack-o’-lantern to ward off the evil spirits. £3.50 per person. Booking is essential.

01522 873735 hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk

November Artists’ Market

Castle Square November 5, 10am to 4.30pm

The Artists’ Market offers visitors the chance to view and buy a variety of unique pieces of artwork and crafts.

01522 545458 visitorinformation@lincolnbig.co.uk

Bird Watching for all

Hartsholme Country Park November 6, 10.30am to 12.30pm

Join local RSPB members to discover the many species of birds which reside here throughout the year. Free of charge.

Booking is essential 01522 873735 hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk

Willow Weaving

Hartsholme Country Park November 6, 1pm to 3pm

Join the park rangers to make your very own garden obelisk out of willow for your climbing plants. Charge to be confirmed.

Booking is essential.

01522 873735 hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk

The Rise of the Tank

Museum of Lincolnshire Life November 15, 2pm to 3pm

On the centenary of the first appearance of tanks on the battlefield, a WWI historian gives an illustrated talk on the development and use of the tank in WWI. 01522 782040 lincolnshirelife_museum@lincolnshire.gov.uk

Christmas Lights Switch On

High Street / St. Mark’s Square November 17, 5.30pm to 8pm

Start the countdown to Christmas at the annual fun-packed Christmas Lights Switch On at St Marks Shopping Centre and on Lincoln High Street.

01522 545458 visitorinformation@lincolnbig.co.uk

‘Light up a Life’ Torchlight Procession

Cathedral Quarter December 1 - December 4

Lincoln’s Cathedral Quarter is taken over by stalls, entertainers and seasonal themes for four days of festive entertainment and shopping at the famous Lincoln Christmas Market.

01522 873503 www.lincoln-christmasmarket.co.uk

Christmas Wreath Making

Hartsholme Country Park December 4 & December 6 / 10am-12.30pm & 1.30pm-4pm

Join the rangers and try your hand at this traditional Christmas craft and make you very own wreath for your home. Charge to be confirmed. Booking is essential.

01522 873735 hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk

Join St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice to celebrate, remember and reflect during the festive season.

01522 540300 becky.otter@stbarnabashospice.co.uk

Craft Market

The Strait will be full with stalls, arts and crafts, local produce and activities including face painting for kids.

Lincoln’s Craft Market offers bespoke, and beautifully hand-crafted ornaments, jewellery and pottery.

01522 525307 goodieslincoln@googlemail.com

Lincoln Christmas Market

Our Lady of Lincoln Church November 22, 6.15pm to 9pm

Fête on the Strait

The Strait November 12, 10am to 4pm

December

Lincoln Cornhill November 26, 9am to 4pm

01522 545458 visitorinformation@lincolnbig.co.uk

Lincoln Ice Rink

City Square November 26 – January 1, 2017, 10am to 9pm

Get your skates on at Lincoln’s outdoor, city centre ice rink for a truly festive experience.

01522 717118 icerink@lincolnbig.co.uk

All events listings are supplied by the venues and are correct at the time of printing.

www.lincoln.gov.uk

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