Winter 2010

newsnk

Open all hours guide to online services

The newspaper for all North Kesteven residents

Bringing play closer to home

With residents and facilities spread across a vast area, North Kesteven District Council is always seeking more effective ways to help customers access services. Many are detailed across these four pages to keep you connected from the comfort of your own home

Talking newsnk The news, advice and essential information provided through newsnk which helps you make the most of your Council and your District is now being made available in an audio format.

Developed chiefly to assist blind and partially sighted residents of North Kesteven, it is available on the Council’s website as a digital MP3.

This makes it easy to listen to on a computer and it can even be downloaded to listen to on the move.

In partnership with the Sleaford and District Talking Newspaper, NKDC is now recording newsnk.

Each quarter the new edition will be recorded and uploaded at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk.

The first edition will be available by mid December, accessed via a link from the homepage.

Building on the success other leaflets and publications could be made available in the same easy listening audio format.

It will be recorded by Council officers & Members and copied onto USB memory sticks for posting to the Talking Newspapers’ existing network of listeners and others who need to access newsnk in this way.

This is an exciting new development for everyone involved, coming six months after the Talking Newspaper switched from tapes to The NK Access Group has operated for 20 years, focused on improving the lives of anyone who is disabled or mobility restricted – wheelchair users, those with reduced physical mobility, the blind and the deaf.

It is funded through a small grant from the Council but operates independently to give expert advice and encouragement to people with mobility impairment and businesses in need of disabilityfriendly adaptations.

Council officers provide the backbone, but the majority of members are volunteers and wheelchair users themselves an excellent example of a local partnership.

Details from Hugh Johnson at NKDC on 01529 414155.

digital to serve its weekly audience better.

Based on the positive response to the digital switch in May, Chairman Barbara Roberts anticipates a warm reception for an audio newsnk.

“People say how much clearer and sharper the sound is on digital and how they enjoy getting more than we could fit onto a tape,” she said.

Each Wednesday readers takes their turn to read articles from the Sleaford newspapers, other useful public information such as police safety advice and an instalment in a 12-week serial.

On tape they were limited in what they could squeeze onto two sides of 45 minutes, but now the memory stick can take much more material the offer is expanded to meet Receiving audio news helps people to remain alert and active"

demand for sports, gardening tips, obituaries and other interest.

The listeners were all equipped with playback boxes loaned by the Talking Newspaper, taking to them like ducks to water said Barbara.

The same devices will be used to listen to the audio newsnk, whilst

Sleaford Talking Newspaper chairman Barbara Roberts, left, with Teresa Glendinning and Margaret Greetham anyone who is not a recipient of the weekly service can listen online.

The material reaches 80-odd registered customers across the area in distinctive yellow packets, posted for free as a service to the blind and partially sighted.

People access the free-to-use Talking Newspaper by being referred, recommended or nominating themselves and the extra sense of wellbeing they derive from the weekly news briefing is evident.

“When we switched over to digital I went to see them all to explain how it works and check they were okay with it. The compliments we received were very heartening and it was a delight

to see and hear how people felt that receiving their weekly news instalment helped them to remain alert, active and young at heart.

“People say they find it easier to use the USB stick than the tape as there’s no turning over or spooling, the sound quality’s better and there are no time limits on the content.”

Councillor Susan Waring, NKDC’s Executive Member for equality, diversity and harder to reach groups, was the first to volunteer as a reader of newsnk.

“As an executive member of the South Lincolnshire Blind Society I am very aware of the benefits people get from having an informative, reliable and entertaining Talking Newspaper

service each week,” she said.

“I hope that this new way of accessing information on what their Council is doing is enjoyed by our blind and partially sighted residents and helps to involve them more in our services.”

It’s 26 years since the Sleaford and District Talking Newspaper was set up through gifts from the Rotary Club of Sleaford and it is maintained primarily through generous legacies.

If you would like to receive the Talking Newspaper contact Barbara Roberts on 01529 488488.

To access the Council’s audio newsnk go to www.n-kesteven. gov.uk or to have it on a stick call 01529 414155.

Mobility boost for Sleaford shoppers Free-to-use mobility scooters are available to help shoppers and visitors get around Sleaford more easily.

Now located at the Hub and the Citizens Advice Bureau, the Sleaford Shopmobility scheme is available seven days a week during trading hours.

It provides improved accessibility for anyone who is disabled or mobility restricted; fitting in with the prime aims of the NK Access Group which runs it.

User Gill Daniels (pictured right) said the scooters were a great advantage to people who found

it difficult or tiring to walk long distances, especially when burdened with shopping or at busy times.

She was also impressed with the provision of a map detailing suitable routes for the scooters, instructions on their use and other useful accessibility information.

“They are especially good for people who may have a scooter at home but who can’t easily put it in to the car for use in the town.

To be able to park at the Hub or in Money’s Yard and have the scooter brought to your car is a real advantage and an expression of the Access Group’s level of

thoughtful care,” she said.

There are three battery operated self-drive scooters and one standard wheelchair available for use, for three hours at a time.

Booking is always advised.

Those at the Hub can be accessed 10am to 3.30pm seven days a week; and from the CAB, Monday to Friday, 9am to 3.30pm.

Users do not have to be registered disabled, but simply to have mobility problems.

Registration is not required to borrow a scooter, simply two forms of identification like a passport, driving licence or bus pass.

Winter 2010 newsnk 9

Winter 2010

All aboard as fun and activities are rolled out to every corner of North Kesteven

NKDC awarded for its environmental homes leadership

The Pod is a mobile play centre which is travelling around the District running activity sessions for children and young people aged up to 16.

Since taking to the road, the afternoon and evening sessions have proved to be a huge hit in Billinghay, Washingborough, Brant Broughton, Ruskington, Waddington and South Kyme.

The bus has also called in at Skellingthorpe, Heckington and Screddington, bringing active play closer to home.

The distinctive black and orange vehicle – sporting a splat logo in purple and blue - is operated by NKDC’s leisure service provider Leisure Connection. It was provided through a £200,000 grant from the BIG Lottery Fund and funding from NKDC and Leisure Connection.

With a 42 inch plasma TV, console games, a Blu-Ray player, four computers, a mixture of arts and crafts activities, as well as sports, story books, outdoor games and adventurous play, it offers something for all interests.

The first of two daily sessions at each location is from 2.30-5.30pm for children aged from the tiniest tots to 12.

From 6-8pm there’s a session for 13-16 year olds where movies, video games, computing and other fun activities are rolled out.

Every six to eight weeks a new set of communities will be served and apart from the Christmas break, The Pod will continue to run through all of the school holidays.

The NK Youth Council has been involved in suggesting The Pod’s name, content, décor and stopping-

The innovative straw houses pioneered by NKDC have been rewarded as a leading example of environmental best practice.

With one pair built and tenanted and another set underway, the Council is the first in the country to use straw as the basis for council houses.

The Green Apple Environmental Award was presented by The Green Organisation, an independent, non-political, non-activist, non-profit environment group dedicated to recognising, rewarding and promoting environmental best practice.

It was collected on behalf of the Council by Leader Cllr Marion Brighton, OBE and Chief Executive Ian Fytche at a ceremony in the House of Commons.

Cllr Mrs Brighton said: “It was a thrill to have the excellent work and passion invested by everyone involved in the project celebrated, and for our commitment in providing affordable homes of the highest standards to be recognised in this way.”

“These houses have been an important project for the Council as it leads the way with sustainable development and we are gratified by the interest shown in them from across the country,” she said.

"We are also proud to report that our straw houses are the first of any homes built under the Local Authority New Build programme to be completed, signed off and tenanted."

off locations, which Councillor Susan Waring, Executive Member with responsibility for young people, said ensured it would have wide appeal.

“This is a fantastic facility and the enthusiasm our teenagers, parents and younger children have already shown is very encouraging. I am confident it will be a real hit.

“The beauty of a mobile play scheme like The Pod is that it can visit a range of locations where there’s identified need and provision can be targeted across the age range.

"It parks up at a community centre or playing field and literally opens its doors to offer outdoor sports, indoor safe-play, crafts, computers and consoles.

“There’s as much on there as we could fit, whilst ensuring a relaxed and comfortable environment for teenagers, younger children and parents with toddlers all to meet at appropriate times,” said Cllr Waring.

Links with ExtremeNK and ArtsNK could also lead to arts and action based activities like drama or parkour.

There is also an opportunity to book the vehicle for community use on Sundays.

During term time, sessions run 2.30 - 5.30pm for up to 12-year-olds and 6-8pm for 13 to 16-year-olds.

During holiday time sessions run 2 - 7pm for all ages.

To find out where The Pod can be found in 2011 and on Sundays: >> Pick up a timetable from a parish office or Community Access Point >> Search for The Pod on Facebook 01522 870252 playNK@leisureconnection.co.uk

Wishlists are written on walls – page 3

Hop on board!

The current timetable brings The Pod close to you at Brant Broughton Village Hall Thursday December 9, 16 Ruskington Parkfield playfield Friday December 3, 10, 17 South Kyme, Hume Arms Tuesday December 7, 14 Waddington Village Hall Saturday December 4, 11, 18 Washingborough Community Centre Wednesday December 8, 15

Eight-year-old Isaac Stainsby in Billinghay (pictured top) is as thrilled with the play options availble on The Pod as the Council's Executive Board members (below)

Students take charge of Council budget – page 4

 01529 414155 / 01522 699699  info@n-kesteven.gov.uk

Free insulation for your home – page 15 www.n-kesteven.gov.uk

Managing Change

inside Your priorities for Your Council Share your hopes and aspirations for how the Council can best serve you 5

newsnk

is your newspaper

The newspaper is edited by the Communications Team at North Kesteven District Council.

Each issue costs approximately 8p to produce.

Editorial Phone: 01529 308116 Email: communications@n-kesteven.gov.uk Address: North Kesteven District Council District Council Offices, Kesteven Street, Sleaford, Lincolnshire NG34 7EF Council Enquiries Phone: 01529 414155 or 01522 699699 if calling from a Lincoln number Minicom: 01529 308088 Emergency: 01529 308308 or 01522 699650 Website: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk Email: customer_services@n-kesteven.gov.uk Lincolnshire County Council: 01522 552222 INFO-LINKS North Hykeham North Kesteven Centre, Moor Lane, North Hykeham, Lincoln LN6 9AX INFO-LINKS Metheringham 15a High Street, Metheringham, Lincoln, LN4 3DZ Billinghay Cottage & Parish Office The Old Vicarage Cottage, Church Street, Billinghay, Lincoln, LN4 4HN Branston Connect Branston Community Library, Station Road, Branston, LN4 1LH Heckington Parish Office Eastgate, Heckington, NG34 9RB Navenby Village Office 19 High Street, Navenby, Lincoln, LN5 0EN North Scarle CAP 14 Chapel Lane, North Scarle, LN6 9EX Osbournby Village Hall London Road, Osbournby, Sleaford, NG34 0DG Skellingthorpe Village Office Lincoln Road, Skellingthorpe Community Centre, Lincoln, LN6 5UT Swinderby CAP Swinderby Village Hall, Bulpit Lane, LN6 9LT The Witham Office 16 Torgate Lane, Bassingham, Lincoln, LN5 9HF Waddington Parish Council High Street, Waddington, Lincoln, LN5 9RF Washingborough Civic Office Fen Road, Washingborough, Lincoln, LN4 1AB

This document is available in large print, Braille, audio, electronic formats such as CD, or in a different language.

Printed on Recycled Paper

2 newsnk Winter 2010

Moving Sleaford Forward Radical ideas to support Sleaford’s growth and development 6 Talking News The Council launches an audio version of newsnk online 9

Safer cycling New route bridges the A17 to help cyclists across 13 Greener Christmas Ideas to reduce the environmental impact of your festivities 15 Winter walks Great ideas for getting out and about this winter 18-19

13

In anticipation of reduced financial support from Government, North Kesteven District Council is ensuring it reflects residents’ spending views as it prepares next year’s budget Work is underway in earnest as the Council shapes its spending plans for the coming years.

Around two-thirds of the Council's net spending is met from central Government, with the remaining third coming through Council Tax payments.

Net expenditure in the current year is budgetted at around £13,682,000 with £8,778,000 contributed through Government grant.

The Government's recently announced Comprehensive Spending Review clearly indicates that grants to local councils are going to be reduced significantly over the next four years.

The proposal is to cut this by 27% over four years. How this affects North Kesteven District Council will only become clear when the formula grant is announced, in early December.

Ongoing budget consultation workshops are being held across the District to involve council tax payers in the budget process.

These were very successful last year, with 78% of participants thinking the spending plans and tax proposals were 'about right', while 9% were prepared to pay more.

The workshops are just one part of the Council's public involvement strategy, which also includes a Viewpoint Panel of around 1,300 people. If you would like to get involved with this, call 01529 308237 and ask for the Research Team.

Council Leader, Cllr Mrs Marion Brighton OBE said: Although we have anticipated a reduction in Government grant for some time, only when the spending formula comes through can we see clearly what it means locally.

We have been working on the premise of having to find £2.5 million and are now looking carefully at how to achieve that without compromising the level of service our residents appreciate.

We expect our workforce will reduce over the coming years, but aim to achieve this as people retire or leave rather than through redundancy.

Having the smallest staff of any authority in the county, 380 serving 109,000 residents, we are already highly efficient and that makes it even harder to affect further cuts.

Having consulted widely on our priorities, by involving the public so closely in the process and by having already found £337,000 of ongoing savings from recent service reviews, we are ahead of the game.

We run a very tight ship at North Kesteven and deliver excellent value for money as we focus on the economic development, community wellbeing, housing and environmental concerns our residents share.

Only by working through this together can we hope to get the best long-term results for North Kesteven."

Singing for supper raises £500 Guests chomping on chine and enjoying a hearty laugh raised more than £500 for the two care charities adopted by Council Chairman, Cllr Sue Howe.

In celebration of Lincolnshire Day, she hosted a Chine Supper in Skellingthorpe where the village choir, Judy Theobald, retired village farmer Bob Scarborough and Roy Frith’s quiz entertained the 68 guests.

Cllr Howe (pictured right) said people were very generous with their talents and their gifts, including Daisy Made ice cream which was served following a feast of stuffed chine and Lincoln Red Beef from Papworth Butchers in Coningsby, Poacher cheese and plum bread.

In November a fashion show supported

by M&Co, Sleaford Clothing, HH Cox, Avon

Cosmetics and Littlest Things costume jewellery raised a further £350.

This will be followed up by a Burns Supper on January 21 where all of the traditional festivities, haggis, piper and Scottish dancing will be included in the £22 price.

Cllr Howe said, “I sincerely thank everyone for their support and generosity in helping to make these fund-raising events such a great success. As well as raising our spirits they have raised in excess of £850 for Diabetes UK and Candles, a cancer care group set up by two Skellingthorpe women after their successful battle against breast cancer.”

Tickets for the Burns Supper are available from the Civic Office on 01529 414155.

Offers of sponsorship or entertainment welcomed too.

Chief Executive Ian Fytche said: We have a clear vision, clarity of purpose, and robust financial plans for North Kesteven. We are confident that the Council is equipped to meet the challenge, to continue the delivery of excellent services and remain focused on our priorities for the District.

The work we have already undertaken suggests a viable plan to achieve a balanced budget over four years is within reach.

Despite the financial challenges that lie ahead, our commitment is to maintain, and enhance our services. We will also be doing everything we can to ensure the budget process is fair, transparent, and open for everyone to contribute ideas through consultation."

News Focus

Sleaford pool redevelopment plan NKDC is making a splash with plans to rebuild Sleaford swimming pool as a first-rate leisure centre ready for use in Olympic Year, 2012

Artist's impression of the preferred pool option, at East Banks Plans are being drawn up for a £6m redevelopment of Sleaford’s ageing swimming pool on the existing site.

The aim is to have the new leisure centre operational by the end of 2012, exactly 140 years after the outdoor lido – which still forms the basis of today’s pool was opened at East Banks.

The existing Sleaford Leisure Centre has reached a stage where it is difficult to meet customer

standards and expectations and significant investment is needed in repairs and maintenance.

To respond to demands for an enhanced facility in the town centre, the Council is now working to draw together a package of external support and borrowing to deliver a new complex, jointly with the Sleaford and District Indoor Bowls Club.

One further advantage would be the use of free heat delivered by the Kirkby la Thorpe straw-burning

power station, saving £40,000 a year over 25 years.

Further opportunities for savings and increased income driven by increased use are also being factored in.

The Council’s Executive Board has supported progress on the scheme and if the Council agrees to proceed at its December meeting, funding applications will be submitted to sporting and leisure bodies with the aim of a final decision in March.

Kids spell out community wishlist through graffiti art

Cllr Dennis Roberts, Executive Member with responsibility for the capital programme, said it was early stages but if funding opportunities materialised over the winter months as hoped, there could be rapid progress.

“If everything goes according to our hopes and expectations construction should be starting at East Banks by the autumn of 2011, ready to deliver a first-rate leisure centre in Olympic Year,” he said.

Election Countdown As soon as you get your 2011 diary you may want to note some important dates affecting your ability to vote.

There are elections on May 5 to elect all members to North Kesteven District Council for the next four years, and possibly a referendum on parliamentary voting reform.

Anyone wanting to stand for the NKDC elections must do so before noon on April 5, with nominations opening on March 21.

Deadline to register or amend any postal voting requirements is April 15 and changes affecting proxy votes must be made by April 26, with medical emergencies accommodated up to 5pm on polling day.

Anyone interested in knowing about the election process and being a potential candidate can find out more by attending a briefing on March 14 or call Cliff Robinson on 01529 308245.

Best Kept Small Village applauded The County’s Best Kept Small Village is once again to be found in North Kesteven.

In its first year of entry, South Kyme took the title in the Community Lincs competition this autumn.

North Kesteven Council Leader Cllr Marion Brighton said: “South Kyme residents have shown us

that even with a small community, providing everyone works together with determination and consistency, it is possible to achieve the top prize.

“Congratulations to all the residents on their success, which is well deserved.”

Metheringham came third in the class for large villages.

Refuse collections respond to reduced garden waste demand Children from schools across a wide stretch of North Kesteven used graffiti as a way of detailing their desires for the communities in which they live.

When 50-plus eight to 11 year olds from 13 primary schools between Washingborough and Billinghay met to tell local authorities how they wanted services to be developed for them, they were able to express themselves creatively.

Using play, colouring tasks, chat and the chance to draw on a

designated graffiti wall, many shared concerns about litter, smoking in public and speeding traffic.

Wishlists include more bins in all of their areas, more parks, skate and parkour facilities, wider roads at Timberland Fen, zebra crossings, enhanced recycling facilities and more, better shops and pubs.

The outcome from the Primary Parliament Project impressed officers at the Council so much that the graffiti wall is being showcased in the Metheringham Info-Links up

to January 10, followed by a month in the Sleaford office lobby.

Cllr Susan Waring, Executive Member for young people, said, “It was a most interesting and valuable way to find out directly from the children how they’d like things to change to improve their daily lives.

“We consult widely within our communities to ensure we reflect local wishes but too often the younger children don’t get to have their say. We are able to change that now,” she said.

The timetable for emptying your brown wheeled bin has been changed for the winter months.

Through to February 28, the brown bins are being emptied once every four weeks.

Executive Member responsible for environmental services, Cllr Geoff Hazelwood, said: “Residents responded very positively when we did this last year, appreciating the cost savings and environmental benefits associated with every home receiving four fewer lifts of their brown bins over the winter.”

The brown wheeled bin should be used for grass, weeds, hedge

cuttings, leaves, clean straw, flowers and plants, twigs and small branches and you can put your Christmas tree in too, if sawn into small lengths.

If you generate more garden waste than your brown bin has capacity for, it can be taken to the household recycling centres at Mareham Lane, Sleaford, Whisby or Great Northern Terrace, Lincoln, and Leadenham.

The dates are detailed on the collection calendar and can be download at www.n-kesteven.gov. uk or call the refuse hotline on 0800 174499

Winter 2010 newsnk 3

News Focus

Students aim to spend £2.5m of Council cash Teenagers across North Kesteven developed an insight and better understanding of the workings of the District Council by spending £2.5m of its money Although the money was all make-believe, the situation was very real during two Local Democracy Week events for secondary school students.

All 100 pupils took the place of Executive Board Members, other councillors and tenants in determining how to invest the Housing Revenue Account on improvements to the housing stock.

The students fully grasped the complexities and realities of juggling value for money and environmental considerations, with Government expectations, tenant aspirations and budgetary constraints.

Interestingly, the young ‘tenants’ were most keen on securing roofs, guttering, lighting and communal safety and less interested in new kitchens and bathrooms which are the most wished for item by most real tenants. They were also

Nathan Sealey, Year 8, Carre’s Grammar School “It was interesting to find out how it all works and how one group, the Executive, has the final decision with everyone else able to feed into that but having to accept the result.

It showed how not everyone gets their way and that not everyone can."

keen to promote maximum use of environmental measures in distributing the £2.5m.

Those acting as Executive Members listened carefully to all of the spending proposals put forward by the different groups and, just

Oliver Beacock, Year 8, Carre’s Grammar School “I found it fun, interesting and really worthwhile. It was a good way to learn about how the Council makes its decisions and takes its actions. It’s obviously really difficult being a Councillor because there’s so much to consider.”

as it happens in reality, adjusted their policies to ensure maximum and most effective benefit for the greatest possible number of tenants.

Councillor Stewart Ogden, whose Executive brief covers

Shannon Phillips, Year 9, St George’s College “I was part of the Executive and that was really good because we had the final say and we’re able to take account of all the different views. I learned quite a lot about how the Council works and how hard it is to be a Councillor.”

housing, was impressed by the students’ understanding.

“The Housing Revenue Account is not the easiest thing for anyone, but in all cases they applied logic and clear principles as they figured out the best way to spend the money,” he said.

“Each group fully understood their part in the process, took their responsibilities seriously and made some very sensible suggestions.”

Councillor Susan Waring, Executive Member with responsibility for young people’s services, said the students had ‘a strong understanding of the constraints the Council has to work within and the considerations that lay behind every decision that affects their lives’.

“It was also valuable for us to gain an insight into the way young people view our services and what is important to them,” she said.

Rebecca Gough, Year 9, Girls’ High School "I think it’s a really interesting way to find out what people have to do behind the scenes. You don’t really think how hard they all work so that people can live in a council house and everything that goes into providing such a good service."

Voting’s on the cards for 18 year olds A birthday card is being drawn up to encourage young people approaching 18 to make sure they register to vote.

The ‘coming of age’ greeting will be sent to all 18 year olds to remind them of the need to be on the electoral register if they intend to vote.

District teenagers were invited to design the card through a competition launched during Local Democracy Week.

Registering to vote means you can have your say in elections and referenda, the next District and parish polls being in May, and it can also help you with a credit rating.

Visit: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/ vote for more information.

Harriet Fawsitt-Jones, Year 9, Girls’ High School “Nothing was as simple as we’d first thought, because of all the different areas of concern. It’s also hard thinking about what’s best locally and what’s best to satisfy legal requirements whilst balancing the budgets and tenants’ demands.”

Henry Coombes, Year 10, Branston Community College “The day helped me to understand how the Council makes its decisions and how hard the choices the Councillors make are. And it was interesting to hear the financial side as everyone's talking about that just now.”

Help, support and treatment Along with confidential, flexible and confidential advice these are available from Young Addaction to help young people (and their families) cope with a drink or drugs problem

Working at your own pace and making your own choices, Young Addaction will build an individual package to help you cut down, stop and stay safe You can talk to someone about your own or somebody else’s drug or alcohol use by calling 01522 301307 or the 24 hour freephone number 0808 131 1113

www.addaction.org.uk 4 newsnk Winter 2010

News Focus

Our Economy, Our Homes, Our Landmark project Communities – your priorities Our Community: for your Council Our Plan From the start of April, delivery of all Council services will be focused into three key priorities defined by you Throughout the summer many consultation events have been held across the District with residents, businesses and staff to redefine the themes under which NKDC prioritises plans and delivers its services to you.

Three principal areas were identified to reflect the main challenges facing the District in the short to medium term. These were: >> A sustainable rural economy – to encourage development, support business growth and develop tourism. >> Housing and planning – to develop plans for the future growth of North Kesteven, provision of new communities, affordable housing and community infrastructure. >> Sustainable communities – to promote the wellbeing, safety and health of NK’s 100 flourishing communities.

These have been abbreviated to the priority headings Our Economy,

Our Homes and Our Communities to replace the five current themes.

Council Leader, Cllr Marion Brighton said, “The new focus will make it easier for every aspect of the Council’s work to identify with the key purpose of enhancing the District as somewhere to enjoy life, leisure time and work, and for residents to appreciate at a glance the efforts the Council is making to this end.”

Partners in areas like health, education, police, social enterprise and the voluntary, community and private sectors are closely involved too and will focus their work along similar lines.

"The three headlines of Our Economy, Our Homes and Our Communities accurately reflect the focus of North Kesteven District Council in all that it does, and with our partners following similar themes I have every confidence of us effecting long lasting results for our residents," said Cllr Brighton.

If you have aspirations for your economy, homes and communities, the Council needs to know what they are.

This will help guide the formation of an action plan to ensure each priority area delivers services that meet your expectations.

As we write the community plan we want to ensure it takes full account of what your priorities are; maybe for leisure activities, giving a helping hand to those most in need, more jobs or community cohesion.

The Our Economy priority will cover transport, digital connectivity, a sustainable rural economy, business promotion and growth.

Our Homes will encompass the Council’s role as a housing provider and its work in promoting quality affordable homes.

Our Communities will take on all of the current Community Wellbeing challenges relating to the health and welfare of residents.

Please tell us your suggested actions by contacting community partnerships manager Luisa McIntosh on luisa_mcintosh@nkesteven.gov.uk, call 01529 308196 or through the website.

Executive arrangements Following District-wide consultation, North Kesteven District Council will be slightly amending the way it is governed at a senior level.

A change in legislation forced the authority to review its executive arrangements and to choose between two models of executive governance.

In mid December the Council will formally adopt a new style of Leader and Cabinet.

This is very similar to the Executive Board operated at North Kesteven for the past eight years, with the main change being that the Leader remains in office for four years instead of being appointed annually.

The new arrangements will come into effect on May 8, 2011, in the week after the District elections.

More detail can be found at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk

Building of a landmark project to dramatically reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill could start in February.

The Waste Recycling Group has been chosen to design, build and operate an Energy from Waste facility on 3.1 hectares of land at North Hykeham.

It could be up and running by May 2013, creating 33 jobs in addition to those generated by the construction.

It would take 150,000 tonnes of waste which remains after recycling and would otherwise head to landfill.

It will provide electricity into the National Grid for up to 15,000

homes as well as heat for use in new local homes and businesses.

North Kesteven District Councillor Geoff Hazelwood, who is deputy chair of the Lincolnshire Waste Partnership, said that even without the energy benefits from the incineration scheme, the financial benefits amount to tens of millions of pounds over the life of the project by avoiding the cost of spiralling landfill taxation.

Waste Recycling Group emerged as the successful bidder from 10 firms. It says it will continue to work with the Community Liaison Group to allow scrutiny of both the construction phase and day-to-day operations.

Online applications A new addition to the Council’s website makes it easier to access planning applications and get involved in consultation from the comfort of your own couch.

If you are interested or concerned in any planning application within the District, Planning Online allows you to search, view and comment and also to see every document and comment relating to it.

It’s like having the whole case file at your disposal 24/7, with everything accessed by the click of a button.

You can look back over historical application records, view documentation associated with new applications, leave your comments online and request notification of a decision. You can even create a personal account and manage

your interest in multiple planning applications.

Cllr Mike Gallagher, Executive Member for planning, said: “In its first six months Planning Online has been much used and welcomed by people who feel more involved in the planning process. In that time 82,000 people visited the site, gaining access to applications and documents they may otherwise not have sought out if they had to come to one of our offices.

“They have felt more empowered to voice their opinion, in many cases had their minds eased and welcomed the enhanced transparency and openness of the whole planning process.”

The site also links through to find further advice and guidance on the planning process. www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/ planningonline

Perfect paws award Pets in the District are in safe hands, with the Council being recognised by the RSPCA for its good practice and guidance towards its tenant’s pet ownership.

The animal charity gave NKDC its Housing Bronze Footprint community welfare award after the Council showed that its policies and procedures met specific guidelines and went above and beyond its basic service requirement to ensure high animal welfare standards.

Cllr Stewart Ogden, Executive Member for housing,said: “This is a great achievement. An animal’s welfare is extremely important and as the landlord it is our responsibility to make sure that this is kept to a high standard.”

As well as animal care standards there are controls in place to prevent irresponsible pet ownership which can

Winter 2010 newsnk 5

Sleaford Masterplan

Moving Sleaford forward together

Consultation continues

An opportunity to help shape the way Sleaford develops and functions into the middle of the century is moving to its final stages Ideas put forward for inclusion in the Sleaford Masterplan formed the basis of debate and discussion over two days in late November as a continuation of a massive consultation.

That process to draw up a long term vision for the town now runs to January 7, after which all suggestions will be analysed and assessed for inclusion in the final blueprint.

The Masterplan has been commissioned by NKDC, using its own funds and sums from the county council and the Homes & Communities Agency, to set out a framework and strategy for the way in which Sleaford could change and grow over the next 25 years.

Sleaford’s recent doubling in population and forward growth means the town centre is unable to fulfil its potential and satisfy demand and desire for services and facilities.

To address this and equip the town for the challenges of the next generation, the Sleaford Regeneration Group has involved various groups, statutory agencies and representative forums in suggesting changes.

These became the basis for questions being posed at the event: >> Could Southgate be pedestrianised in part, in full or just during the day? >> Should the current one-way system revert to two-way traffic? >> What would happen if central car parking was removed and transferred to the edge of the town centre? >> Is there scope for redeveloping Money’s Yard for retail, leisure or other use? >> How could the Market Place be better used as a central open space? >> Where could 4,000-plus new homes be located – on the

edge of town or in surrounding villages? >> Could relocation of the three secondary schools reap wider benefits? >> Can the River Slea be used more effectively or innovatively? >> Are there areas of the town in need of protection or ripe for regeneration?

When taken together these scenarios – and others - could unlock the economic potential of the town centre; revitalise trade; open up scope for more leisure opportunities; ease traffic flow; lead to more appropriate locations for larger businesses; encourage greater use of public transport; and attract more visitors, shoppers and investors.

Regeneration Group chairman Canon John Patrick said the group’s members had valued their input to date and encouraged others to get involved.

“Having a forum in which to pose these questions has really excited people, bringing them together to express their enthusiasm, agreement and disagreement with some of these thoughts and to say what it is they want the future of Sleaford to look like,” he said.

“We’re not just looking at tomorrow or next year but for the next 10, 15, 25 years. That gives a time frame to be ambitious and aspirational; to move roads, bring in new homes, businesses and retailers and open up new possibilities.”

NKDC Leader, Cllr Mrs Marion Brighton, OBE, said “It’s important for people to realise that nothing is agreed and set in stone. Now that people have seen the wider picture full of opportunities and options which could, when taken together, reap potential benefits, they need to say what they want to happen, where and how.”

Facebook-ing up to future

Speaking out for the future of Sleaford

SOCIAL networking sites Facebook and Twitter opened up new possibilities for public feedback on the Sleaford Masterplan.

Both formed part of the Council’s engagement strategy to encourage residents to speak up and get involved in discussion, raise issues, suggest ideas and even post pictures of the towns’ good and bad aspects.

As the Masterplan moves towards completion and adoption, the latest news can be picked up using both Facebook and Twitter and you can continue to use them to share your views on transport issues, economic development, green space, leisure facilities or whatever matters to you in the town.

Become a Friend of the Masterplan: www.facebook.com/ sleafordmasterplan or follow us on twitter at www.twitter.com/sleafordplan

6 newsnk Winter 2010

Thousands of people have been engaged in drawing up the vision for Sleaford’s future.

Through the Sleaford Regeneration Group membership of private, public, voluntary and community representatives, a student group, Facebook, Twitter, media promotion, wide targeted community consultation and the two day public exhibition at The Source, there has been widespread awareness of the process.

That now continues with scope to view options for consideration at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/ masterplanconsultation and to feedback your views up to January 7.

After that everything will be considered, analysed and assessed by the consultants to shape the final Masterplan report as a long term vision for the town.

The aim is to have this approved by the funding partners NKDC, Lincolnshire County Council and the Homes & Communities Agency, by the Spring ready for it to be used to help attract and steer inward investment, change and growth over the next 20 to 25 years.

Park and ride using the train, pedestrianising Southgate, a bowling alley and a cinema are on the wishlist of Sleaford’s younger residents for the town’s future development.

A group of students from Carre's Grammar and Kesteven & Sleaford High schools presented a reflection on what young people want the Masterplan to deliver.

They photographed the good and bad aspects of Sleaford and commented on what could be done to make things better.

Further ideas included pushing chain stores to the edge of town and concentrating specialist independent retailers centrally, cheaper and more frequent buses, improved arcades, smarter shops, a hospital and streetscape sculpture.

These were presented alongside wider views at The Source to provoke further thoughts and feedback to help in drawing up the Masterplan.

Chairman of the Regeneration Group, Canon John Patrick said: “The students gave a clear, eloquent and precise presentation which added another dimension to discussions which are taking place among all sectors of the wider Sleaford community.”

Members of the NK Youth Council also made their thoughts known, suggesting a museum, better promotion of the Sleaford Castle site, a small shopping centre, a cap on the number of charity shops allowed, a university campus and trams.

Consultant Mike Sharp said that since these were the people who would be living in Sleaford when the initiatives enabled by the Masterplan came forward it was 'really important' they gave their ideas.

Young people are being given a permanent place on the Regeneration Group to keep such ideas flowing into the future.

Managing Change

Working together we can make better places Working together, North Kesteven, West Lindsey and the City of Lincoln councils are drawing up a strategy for the future development of homes, business and recreational opportunities across Central Lincolnshire Our surroundings play a major role when deciding where to set up home, where to school our children, walk our dog or which route to take to work.

This is why the Central Lincolnshire Joint Planning Unit has spent so much time and effort over the past couple of months finding out what matters to you where you live over, in order to identify growth areas across the North Kesteven, West Lindsey and Lincoln areas.

Market stalls, information centres, access points, questionnaires, newspaper

advertising, Facebook and Twitter have been the forefront of public consultation throughout Central Lincolnshire since October.

With your opinions gathered, a Draft Core Strategy can now be formed with you in mind.

This will consider: >> A Sustainable Central Lincolnshire: Ensuring people and communities are flourishing, prosperous and healthy, and playing their part in maintaining natural resources. >> A Low Carbon Future: Major reductions in energy use and

carbon emissions are urgently needed and the strategy could help minimise the need for unnecessary travel, energy and water use and encourage low carbon initiatives. >> Growing Central Lincolnshire: Central Lincolnshire needs to grow significantly over the next 20 years which can bring increased employment, new facilities and improvements in energy, water, transport and services like schools and surgeries. >> Promoting Strong and

Prosperous Communities: To support local services and facilities in local areas, meeting local housing and regeneration needs and stimulating the local economy. >> A Quality Environment: Managing the natural and built environment, protecting and making the most of these assets >> The Lincoln, Gainsborough and Sleaford areas: This is where a substantial proportion of the growth needs to be directed.

The Core Strategy will detail how much and where, based on an

understanding of the constraints, opportunities and the needs of local communities.

To have your say and find out more: Email talkplanning@nkesteven.gov.uk Call 01529 308233 Search for Central Lincolnshire Joint Planning Unit on Facebook or Twitter at www.twitter.com/talkplanning

Council homes for a new era Fraud alert award Fifteen new council houses being finished off around the District are a million miles away from the norm in terms of style, sustainability and finish.

Many people have said how the semis which are newly built at Wellingore, North Hykeham, Ruskington and Sleaford are more attractive than many built for private sale or letting.

All of the new houses being built by the Council – the first in 30 years – are fitted with solar water heating, rain water harvesting, ground source heat pumps and other sustainability measures to ensure the Council meets the Government’s Code 4 for thermal improvement and low running costs.

The same standards applied to the two straw houses at Waddington and will apply to the other straw houses at Martin and the next round of 16 homes in Sleaford, Ruskington and Branston.

Cumberland Avenue, Wellingore NKDC is leading the way on the Government’s renewable technology demands by meeting Code 4 which means tenants can save an average of up to 44% in running costs – improving their well being and reducing their carbon footprint.

Cllr Stewart Ogden, Executive Member for housing, said: “The fact the Council is meeting Code

4 of Government standards shows how determined we are.

Building affordable housing which helps residents understand our aim and work towards being more sustainable is a great achievement.”

It is hoped that other developers, housing associations and registered social landlord partners will follow this good-practice.

Match-making an empty home into your home A new scheme is being rolled out to help match people in need of housing with empty homes in their area.

Every district except South Kesteven is involved in The Lincolnshire Empty Homes Project which is chiefly concerned with private houses that have stood empty for six months or more.

The project mainly deals with problematic properties and helps owners to bring them back into

use by highlighting opportunities for financial, legal and logistical assistance.

And now a match-making aspect brings together people looking to buy and sell to speed up the process.

Within Lincolnshire there are around 4,163 long-term-vacant private properties – 616 of them in North Kesteven. Meanwhile there are 20,850 households on waiting lists in the county, 1,583 of them in North Kesteven.

The project has had direct involvement on six of the 116 longterm-empty homes brought back into use in NK during its first year and scores more are in progress.

Cllr Stewart Ogden, Executive Member for housing said: “This is a great opportunity to get some of the empty homes in our District back into use and to assist people in need into a long-term home.”

Find out more about the service at www.lincsemptyhomes.org.uk

Blowing the whistle on housing cheats can benefit the wider community and reward you too.

In line with a Government initiative to tackle social housing fraud the Council is raising awareness of tenancy fraud.

Without realising it you could be living next door to someone who’s committing social housing fraud.

Unlawful subletting, false applications and transferring tenancies without a landlord’s consent are all examples.

If you are aware of any of these circumstances, you can report it anonymously and help the

Land call for homes Landowners in Leasingham and Potterhanworth are being asked to come forward if they have land that could meet local housing need.

A Rural Housing Needs Survey is underway in each village and if demand is proved, land will need to be found to meet that.

But landowners need to respond promptly to have their sites considered for affordable housing development. Small sites for between five and 15 homes are of particular interest.

Registration forms are available on the Council’s website under ‘affordable housing’ or call Jemma Empson on 01529 414 155

hundreds of people who are waiting on the Council’s housing register.

Successful prosecution and regaining the property for re-letting could net you a £250 reward.

Cllr Stewart Ogden, Executive Member for housing, said such fraud was not a big problem locally, but nationally 3% of social housing was fraudulently occupied last year.

“It is important for residents to realise that failure to speak up impacts on people who are in desperate need for housing.”

To report housing fraud, call the Duty Housing Officer on 01529 414155

STAND UP TO BE COUNTED 2011 is Census year across England and Wales, the ten -yearly audit of who lives where.

Accurate Census data is essential to ensure North Kesteven gets its fair share of funding and services are shaped to meet local needs.

To ensure that accuracy, the Office for National Statistics is looking for local people to act as field staff for the 2011 Census.

If you are interested, find out more and apply at www.censusjobs.co.uk

jemma_empson@n-kesteven.gov.uk

Winter 2010 newsnk 7

Community Wellbeing

George benefits from one-stop shop contact First Contact provides quick and easy access to a range of support and benefits for the over 60s With so many sources of help, advice and support for the over 60s, finding it can be confusing.

But through the co-ordinated efforts of NKDC, the police, fire, NHS, Age UK, county council and voluntary bodies a one-stop shop is close at hand.

George Dyson, pictured, is typical of scores of older people living in their own homes more safely and with greater comfort thanks to a shared partnership involving NKDC. Aged 90, he has maintained a high level of health and independence – delivering newspapers in his community up to last year- but recently began to have some difficulty getting around at home.

Age UK – one of the many partners in the unified First Contact initiative – made the initial call and following the completion of a First Contact checklist with George, many of the partners have shared their aim of helping him to remain independent in his own home.

First Contact is a partnership offering older people a single point

of contact for information and advice from several different services.

That one initial contact has led to a series of lifestyle improvements including a seat for the shower

which benefits both George and his wife, a wheeled walking frame which assists getting around the house, his bed has been raised and a small, bed guard installed for extra security at night.

The Lincolnshire Home Improvement Agency has given falls prevention advice and fitted a safety rail at his back steps.

A pensions advisor was able to get George’s pension income increased. He also received a transport pack and is now registered with the request-based Call Connect Plus bus service and he also benefits from NKDCs Visiting Support Service.

Call First Contact on 01522 782172 or go to www.firstcontact.org.uk to register for easier and quicker access to services and help on pensions, transport, health and social care.

Call for a free copy of the Good Life Guide, packed with tips on well-being for the over 60s.

Garden centre trip could change your life Leaving the house on December 14 could quite literally change your life.

The NK Health Trainers will be at Ruskington Garden Centre between 11am and 3pm offering a

free health check session to all.

It’s all optional but you could have your weight, body mass, fat, muscle and visceral fat levels checked and also pick up general advice on healthy eating, physical

activity, smoking cessation and reducing alcohol consumption.

Consuming 5-a-day and the physical benefits of gardening will be discussed plus an opportunity for one-to-one help referrals.

Maybe lighting your tree's not such a bright idea

Find out how much electricity you use and what every appliance costs to run by taking up NKDC’s offer of a free energy monitor.

Shaping up to be Fit for Life

Shovel snow the safer way

The success of the Health Trainer programme operated through NKDC has led to it being expanded for at least another six months.

Extra funding will enable the Health Trainers to continue working with people wanting to make healthy lifestyle changes in eating, increased physical activity, stopping smoking, alcohol reduction and more.

The Health Trainers run Fit for Life, which has already been a massive success in Billinghay and Sleaford where families' eating and recreational habits have been transformed through 12 weekly sessions looking at diet, exercise, healthy home cooking and working towards a healthier life.

In the spring a third Fit For Life course will take place in the Bracebridge Heath or North Hykeham area.

From March 2 it will continue every Wednesday in term time through to May 26.

If you're over 18 and want to be a part of it, call Andy or Debbie on 07798925860 or 07733368676.

Carol Willingham who enjoyed the first Fit For Life course can’t recommend it highly enough and suggests talking to the friendly health trainers Debbie and Andy if you’re even just thinking about it.

“Give it a go. You might find, like I did, that it’s a great start to finding ways to a healthier life and to feel better about yourself, and its also quite a lot of fun!”

The Primary Care Trust which provides the funding hopes to secure more cash for an extension through to September 2013.

In winter the natural reaction is to clear snow and ice from your own and neighbours’ paths and driveways to enhance the safety and wellbeing of your immediate community.

However it became clear last year that many people were put off doing so because of fears of being sued if someone slipped.

To assure residents that this is not only a considerate but also a kind action, the Council has sought out advice.

The Snow Code guidance says: >> There are no laws stopping you from clearing snow and ice from paths outside your property, to your property or public spaces >> Be careful and use common sense to make sure you don’t make it more dangerous than before >> It’s easier to work with fresh snow than compacted ice, so start early >> Don’t use hot water which may replace the snow with black ice >> Be a good neighbour and clear other people’s too >> Spread salt (table or dishwasher salts or even sand and ash) on cleared areas to help stop ice reforming >> Focus on steps and steep gradients >> Deposit the shovelled heaps away from paths and drainage channels

You and Your

Mobility Scooter

advice to help Information and er journey ensure a saf out “I would be lost with lifeline” my scooter, it’s my kington Gillian Snoxell, Rus

For a month you can see what everything costs in cash, energy and environmental impact, which helps to identify where savings can be made Book a monitor for collection at your nearest community access point by emailing sustainNK@n-kesteven,gov.uk or calling 01529 414155.

North Kesteven Seniors

8 newsnk Winter 2010

North Kesteven ership Local Strategic Partn

An advice leaflet to inform safer operation of mobility scooters has been launched.

With an ever rising number of scooters on the streets and the re-launch of Sleaford’s Shopmobility, there was concern at the absence of an established code of practice.

But with support from the Lincolnshire Road Safety Partnership and NKDC, scooter user Jill Snoxell has drawn up a useful, simple and clear leaflet.

“I’ve used a scooter for some time now and have always been astonished that there’s no Highway Code advising safe practice. I’ve always been conscious of the problems encountered by mobility scooter users and the potential for problems with pedestrians and other road users “Hopefully this guide brings together common sense and good practice to make scooter use safer for everyone.

The leaflet is essential reading and covers Highway Code, insurance requirements, registration and road use.

It’s free at NKDC offices, from the Road Safety Partnership or through NK Seniors and other county Senior Forums.

With residents and facilities spread across a vast area, North Kesteven District Council is always seeking more effective ways to help customers access services. Many are detailed across these four pages to keep you connected from the comfort of your own home

Talking newsnk The news, advice and essential information provided through newsnk which helps you make the most of your Council and your District is now being made available in an audio format.

Developed chiefly to assist blind and partially sighted residents of North Kesteven, it is available on the Council’s website as a digital MP3.

This makes it easy to listen to on a computer and it can even be downloaded to listen to on the move.

In partnership with the Sleaford and District Talking Newspaper, NKDC is now recording newsnk.

Each quarter the new edition will be recorded and uploaded at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk.

The first edition will be available by mid December, accessed via a link from the homepage.

Building on the success other leaflets and publications could be made available in the same easy listening audio format.

It will be recorded by Council officers & Members and copied onto USB memory sticks for posting to the Talking Newspapers’ existing network of listeners and others who need to access newsnk in this way.

This is an exciting new development for everyone involved, coming six months after the Talking Newspaper switched from tapes to The NK Access Group has operated for 20 years, focused on improving the lives of anyone who is disabled or mobility restricted – wheelchair users, those with reduced physical mobility, the blind and the deaf.

It is funded through a small grant from the Council but operates independently to give expert advice and encouragement to people with mobility impairment and businesses in need of disabilityfriendly adaptations.

Council officers provide the backbone, but the majority of members are volunteers and wheelchair users themselves an excellent example of a local partnership.

Details from Hugh Johnson at NKDC on 01529 414155.

digital to serve its weekly audience better.

Based on the positive response to the digital switch in May, Chairman Barbara Roberts anticipates a warm reception for an audio newsnk.

“People say how much clearer and sharper the sound is on digital and how they enjoy getting more than we could fit onto a tape,” she said.

Each Wednesday readers takes their turn to read articles from the Sleaford newspapers, other useful public information such as police safety advice and an instalment in a 12-week serial.

On tape they were limited in what they could squeeze onto two sides of 45 minutes, but now the memory stick can take much more material the offer is expanded to meet Receiving audio news helps people to remain alert and active"

demand for sports, gardening tips, obituaries and other interest.

The listeners were all equipped with playback boxes loaned by the Talking Newspaper, taking to them like ducks to water said Barbara.

The same devices will be used to listen to the audio newsnk, whilst

Sleaford Talking Newspaper chairman Barbara Roberts, left, with Teresa Glendinning and Margaret Greetham anyone who is not a recipient of the weekly service can listen online.

The material reaches 80-odd registered customers across the area in distinctive yellow packets, posted for free as a service to the blind and partially sighted.

People access the free-to-use Talking Newspaper by being referred, recommended or nominating themselves and the extra sense of wellbeing they derive from the weekly news briefing is evident.

“When we switched over to digital I went to see them all to explain how it works and check they were okay with it. The compliments we received were very heartening and it was a delight

to see and hear how people felt that receiving their weekly news instalment helped them to remain alert, active and young at heart.

“People say they find it easier to use the USB stick than the tape as there’s no turning over or spooling, the sound quality’s better and there are no time limits on the content.”

Councillor Susan Waring, NKDC’s Executive Member for equality, diversity and harder to reach groups, was the first to volunteer as a reader of newsnk.

“As an executive member of the South Lincolnshire Blind Society I am very aware of the benefits people get from having an informative, reliable and entertaining Talking Newspaper

service each week,” she said.

“I hope that this new way of accessing information on what their Council is doing is enjoyed by our blind and partially sighted residents and helps to involve them more in our services.”

It’s 26 years since the Sleaford and District Talking Newspaper was set up through gifts from the Rotary Club of Sleaford and it is maintained primarily through generous legacies.

If you would like to receive the Talking Newspaper contact Barbara Roberts on 01529 488488.

To access the Council’s audio newsnk go to www.n-kesteven. gov.uk or to have it on a stick call 01529 414155.

Mobility boost for Sleaford shoppers Free-to-use mobility scooters are available to help shoppers and visitors get around Sleaford more easily.

Now located at the Hub and the Citizens Advice Bureau, the Sleaford Shopmobility scheme is available seven days a week during trading hours.

It provides improved accessibility for anyone who is disabled or mobility restricted; fitting in with the prime aims of the NK Access Group which runs it.

User Gill Daniels (pictured right) said the scooters were a great advantage to people who found

it difficult or tiring to walk long distances, especially when burdened with shopping or at busy times.

She was also impressed with the provision of a map detailing suitable routes for the scooters, instructions on their use and other useful accessibility information.

“They are especially good for people who may have a scooter at home but who can’t easily put it in to the car for use in the town.

To be able to park at the Hub or in Money’s Yard and have the scooter brought to your car is a real advantage and an expression of the Access Group’s level of

thoughtful care,” she said.

There are three battery operated self-drive scooters and one standard wheelchair available for use, for three hours at a time.

Booking is always advised.

Those at the Hub can be accessed 10am to 3.30pm seven days a week; and from the CAB, Monday to Friday, 9am to 3.30pm.

Users do not have to be registered disabled, but simply to have mobility problems.

Registration is not required to borrow a scooter, simply two forms of identification like a passport, driving licence or bus pass.

Winter 2010 newsnk 9

We're open all hours Onlin

North Kesteven District Council aims to be as accessible as possible, with its extended opening hours and network of Info-Links and Community Access Points ensuring you’re never more than five miles from advi and help. Through the wonders of the Web we are open – virtually – all hours Twenty four hours a day, every day of the year, you can look up information or order a service at a time that’s convenient to you.

There are links and pages at www.nkesteven.gov.uk that cover pretty well anything you might want information on, from reporting a faulty street lamp to registering to vote, many of which are brought together through the Virtual House page which makes it quicker and easier to find what you want online.

Sports Field Links to details of NKDC’s swimming pools, leisure centres, Leisure Connection which runs the service plus outreach activities and non-council run facilities and clubs.

There’s also access to information on Countryside NK activities and events, Stepping Out Walks, the countryside ranger service and the County Council’s sports development section.

Street Light Links to a form for reporting faults and gives information on who has responsibility for street lighting in various situations.

Pothole Links to County Council’s roadworks section for a list of current highways work, road closures and fault reporting opportunities.

Abandoned car Gives details on who makes the decision on whether a vehicle is abandoned and who takes what action, the consequences of not acting and the process for reporting and removal.

Bonfire Links to details on air quality, plus advice on what should and shouldn’t be burned and when, smoke control areas, when to have a bonfire and also manure and slurry smells.

Trees Links to details of NKDC’s tree officers, tree preservation orders, trees in conservation areas, planning applications affecting trees and hedgerow regulations.

There’s also advice on development constraints, high hedges and council powers to deal with complaints about high hedges.

Solar panel This links to the details of renew availability of g to identify suita generating heat

Building Foundations Links to Planning Online, which enables customers to search, view and comment on planning applications online, including seeing those dating back to 1974.

The section also includes advice and links relating to allotments, rights of way, planning advice, land use, statutory register for common land, village green, listed buildings etc.

Fridge Details of the collection of large and bulky items, furniture, fridges, freezers and other electrical items are at the Waste and Recycling section at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk A request form can be downloaded and details given of items that cannot be taken, charges and concessions.

There are also details of the Sleaford and District Furniture Recycling Project.

Student This is an external link to the County Council’s student support section.

Cyclist This links to the County Council and Lincs Road Safety Partnership who have responsibility for cycle safety.

Manhole Links to sections on drainage and sewers; what to do to clear blocked sewers, responsibilities for cleaning out and repairing watercourses and the difference between public and private sewerage.

10 newsnk Winter 2010

Wheelchair This links to details about accessing disability grants that may help to finance adaptations in the home for access, heating or easing use of the bathroom.

Hedge This is an exte link to the Lan Registry webs

ne

d its ice

e SustainNK section with wable energy sources, the grants and an application able technologies for t or electricity for your home.

ernal nd site.

The Virtual House can be easily found on the Council's website, by clicking on the link in the left hand menu on the homepage or going straight to www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/virtualhouse

Housing This links to a comprehensive section detailing all aspects of delivering affordable housing and ensuring decent accommodation for vulnerable people.

It includes a hotline for emergency situations, charged at local rates on 01529 308308 or 01522 699650.

Window This gives access to information about Building Regulations and applying for permission to replace a window or to have the work certified.

An application form can be downloaded and contact details are given for the Building Control section.

From the comfort of your couch You can do all this at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk Access maps of the District with GIS, Geographic Information System

Make a planning application

Appeal against a car parking penalty notice

Notify a change of address for Council Tax

Apply for a Temporary Event Notice

Pay your council bills Pay for Land Charge searches

Apply for a Council Tax exemption Bin Details of refuse service, the collection calendars and dos and donts for recycling are detailed in the Waste and Recycling section at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk You can also order larger bins, get assistance on bin-day and find out when and where recycling centres are open in the area.

Conservatory This gives detailed advice on the planning process, pre-application advice and planning proposals.

BBQ The food safety section explains the team’s work, responsibilities and coverage, complaints procedure, food sampling and enforcement. There are food safety hints and tips, details on regulations, the food hygiene star awards, health and safety at work, the safest ways to cook on a BBQ, food and pesticides and advice on food hygiene to prevent food poisoning.

Notify a change in benefits

Put your community group online

Apply for a job with the Council Report an abandoned vehicle Book sports and leisure facilities

Report anti-social behaviour

Calculate Housing and/or Council Tax Benefits

Report dangerous and derelict buildings

Check your Council Tax or Business Rates balance online

Report a dead animal Report a dog fouling problem

Check your refuse and recycling collection day

Report a faulty street light

Check your rent balance online

Report fly tipping

Claim for a discretionary housing payment

Report flyposting Report graffiti

Click through to the service areas detailed in the Virtual House, featured alongside

Report a heating repair Report a housing repair

Comment on the Council Complain about a premises licensing issue Contact your district and county councillor

Report a missed refuse collection Report suspected benefit fraud Report a waste spillage

Rat Links to details of the Council’s pest control policies and arrangements, fees and contractor details for domestic and business treatments plus online and phone request service.

Dogs Links to information on the Council’s stray dog collection service, out of hours contact, kennelling and recovery procedure and the need to report dangerous dogs or animals obstructing the highway to the police.

Reporting and enquiries about lost dogs can be done online. There is also a link to an external registration service and advice on what to do about lost and dangerous dogs, and taming an animal if it’s noisy.

Bus stop Links to information about public transport, bus shelters and community transport plus details on applying to the county council for a bus shelter.

Services detailed include Dial a Ride, Shopmobility and public bus routes.

Dog bin This gives details on the law relating to dog fouling, prosecution and punishment and scope for reporting offences online.

Discover how to get the most from the NKDC website Download a Local Authority Local Search request form Find your nearest .. information source

Report vandalism Search for committee agendas, reports and minutes of Council meetings Search, view and comment on planning applications

Focus on fraud awareness Get your event in the what's on guide

See videos about NKDC, local events and attractions Submit event details

Locate local health facilities like doctors, hospitals, dentists

View a short film detailing access to services

Make a complaint Make a payment

View the TodayNK DVD showcasing the District

Winter 2010 newsnk 11

A day in the life of...

... a Community Access Point

One-stop-shop, advice service, directory enquiries and occasional therapist – Kim Crawford at the Waddington CAP is typical of staff at all 11 CAPs in doing it all I have no idea what an average day is. We can get reports of dog mess in the village, broken street lights, rats in gardens… you name it.

And we also get the rewarding moments of appreciation and praise. We never know who’s coming through the door next!

Waddington’s Community Access Point was one of the first to be opened, in 1999, and I’ve been here for seven years, working up to assistant clerk.

I like to think I’m a superorganised font of all knowledge – from kick-boxing classes to painters and decorators. My ‘little black book’ is always open on my desk, with numbers for pretty much everything and everyone – some people think we’re directory enquiries!

We take bookings for the Redwood Drive Community Centre for groups such as the Brownies and LIVES; as well as for the Village Hall.

The CAP also deals with the

cemetery and we have to actually mark out the plots with stakes for the burials.

Community Access Points are scattered across North Kesteven, ensuring that no-one has to travel more than five miles to access information and services relating to District, county, parish or town councils. They really are a onestop shop for reporting problems, obtaining help or advice, seeing planning applications, collecting concessionary fares and picking up tourism leaflets.

People really seem to value us being here as it saves them a long or difficult journey in to the main council offices in Sleaford or Lincoln.

They started out where the District Council saw potential for working with parish councils, where there was an existing parish office and grew from there.

In the first 10 years the CAPs were open it was estimated that the 129,139 people who were helped saved more than two million miles

of travelling, which was obviously a benefit in time and cost savings.

In addition to the 11 CAPs there are the Info-Links offices NKDC runs in North Hykeham and Metheringham.

Smiles and support, Kim offers it all

It sometimes amazes me how quickly we’re able to resolve things.

Just the other day, a local councillor popped in with his two dogs to report some broken glass in a field.

I called the dog warden Tony Goss who was covering for the parish handyman and it was cleaned up immediately.

Usually Tony would be cleaning up dog mess and catching offenders – his presence alone is a valuable deterrent to would-be offenders and there is a noted decline in reported cases of dog-fouling when he’s around and about.

We do get complaints about young people hanging around the village. We’re doing a lot more for the young people to keep them entertained which includes hosting the District playbus The Pod on its inaugural outings.

The problem is there’s not much for the kids to do – the Youth Club is only open two days a week and there’s not much else. I have two daughters, so I can understand

where the young people are coming from.

One big issue we faced recently were some travellers camped out in a local field. I had to go to the site every day to put up a notice to leave the land, as they kept being taken down.

It turned out they were staying there because they were passing through when one of their group became ill and was admitted to hospital.

You can’t help but sympathise and they were given a week to move on.

The District Council is always firm but fair in these circumstances but it does take up a lot of our time because the public understandably complains.

I think people appreciate that in the main the CAPs are staffed by parish clerks and that they’re always dealt with by someone who understands the issues affecting them, who knows the area well and can respond effectively and efficiently."

Need a helping hand with your bin?

Plea for LIVES groups

If you or someone you know struggles to get their bins out for collection, a free and friendly service can take the strain.

The capacity for refuse crews to give an ‘assisted collection’ in cases where disabled, ill, incapacitated or recovering residents cannot cope with wheeling their bins to the edge of their property, is a muchwelcomed gesture.

Around 1,280 people benefit from the help every week.

People only need to call the Council to have their situation assessed and for the local collection crew to make any

Life-saving first-aid volunteers are needed to complete coverage of Lincolnshire’s ‘fourth emergency service’

adjustment to accommodate them.

There are many cases in which people could be eligible for permanent or temporary assistance, including disability, heart or breathing conditions that make it difficult to wheel their bins, dementia, or if they are recovery from illness or an operation.

The Council can also arrange for bags to be used instead of bins where access and safety are issues.

The caring nature of NKDC’s refuse crews often draws compliments.

Council officers were recently told by the refuse crew of a woman who was getting confused with

putting out the right bin, often wheeling the wrong one down the road in pursuit of the vehicle.

After an officer got in touch and arranged for assistance, her daughter extended her thanks to the crew for taking the time to report this.

Cllr Geoff Hazelwood, Executive Member for environmental services, said, “All crews show such care every day of the week and when someone takes the time to call and thank them it buoys us all.

“We pride ourselves on the level of service we provide our residents and feel that this is a factor in their enthusiastic response to recycling.”

The Witham Community Access Point in Bassingham has moved...

You can now access information, advice and service at The Old Doctor’s Surgery 16 Torgate Lane, Bassingham LN5 9HF. Open Monday to Thursday, 9.30am to noon. Details of all other CAPs ares on page two.

12 newsnk Winter 2010

There are 100-plus LIVES groups county-wide who responded to more than 13,000 999 calls last year, administering support within three to five minutes of the call.

They are specially trained and are often the first on the scene of a stroke or heart attack.

There are 18 well-established groups of LIVES responders within North Kesteven, with four more identified as needed to centre on Leadenham, Beckingham, Osbournby, and the Welbourn, Wellingore and Brauncewell area.

With LIVES responders being based in the same community as

the person needing assistance, they can be on the scene very quickly, which is very important in a large, rural county like Lincolnshire.

“With the chances of survival decreasing by 10 per cent for every minute without any treatment, the first few minutes before, during or after a cardiac arrest, stroke or heart attack are critical to survival, which is why we are so keen to ensure full coverage for the North Kesteven district,’’ said LIVES coordinator Stephen Hyde.

At least five responders and a coordinator are needed to set up a group. Details on 01507 525999, or www.lives-responders.co.uk

Better Connections

Safer cycling steps up a gear at the A17 Safer cycling and walking is now assured between Sleaford and Leasingham with the opening of an enhanced bridge and path link across the A17.

As further work continues to complete the new route all the way through to the town, the key element which makes it safer and easier to cross the bypass on foot, on a cycle or with a wheelchair is open for use.

It is proving to be indispensible, especially to school children who would otherwise have to negotiate their way across Holdingham roundabout.

A path now runs alongside the A15 from Leasingham and across a field to the bridge, which has

been reconfigured to make it fully compliant for disabled access, including rest areas. The path currently finishes behind the new houses at Holdingham but will be extended up to Carre's Grammar School.

This local Connect2 link is paid for through a £225,000 grant as part of a bigger £50m Lottery award for 79 similar community schemes.

Other funds are provided by NKDC, the county council and Cycling England.

The community steering group spearheading the project is chaired by District Councillor Mike Gallagher who said, “Completion of this part of the project is a key achievement which allows for free and easy movement for local

walkers and cyclists between Leasingham and Sleaford.

“Having identified the problems associated with crossing the A17, the District Council has worked to resolve this. Now anyone travelling by foot or cycle in this area is no longer isolated or put in danger by the A17, but can cross with ease.”

Many pupils at Leasingham’s St Andrews Primary School have already discovered the delights of the access bridge.

Deputy Headteacher Judith Bentley said, “It is already proving to be a really useful and safe way to connect the village to Sleaford and as more parents and pupils use it, it will help make the school environment safer.”

Concessionary bus passes Management of the concessionary bus passes enjoyed by 19,000 District residents will transfer to the county council in April.

Until then, all matters relating to the passes will still be handled by NKDC and your current pass will remain valid up until its expiry date.

Only when your pass expires, or if you are a new applicant after April 1, will you have to apply to the County Council.

Across the county, applicants

are encouraged to do this by post, online, or through a single faceto-face contact point at City Hall in Lincoln.

It was a Central Government decision to transfer responsibility for administering the bus pass to county councils in a bid to simplify the process and reduce the amount of negotiations with bus companies.

The District Council has run a travel token scheme for 25 years, choosing to give people the

alternative of £22 worth of travel tokens if they didn’t want to take up the free bus pass for use across England.

The new legislation no longer allows District Councils to control alternative concessions and as part of the change these alternatives to the bus pass will no longer be available from April.

Application forms and information leaflets are available from the District Council offices, libraries and online.

Get mobile Lincoln Eastern Bypass with your mobile CallConnect customers can now book their seat any time, anywhere, through their mobile phone.

Smart phones can access www. lincsinterconnect.com through an application, to make a reservation, 24/7and even on the move.

CallConnect links villages to the main bus routes and can be booked for journeys that suit your needs, making it better for the environment and more convenient.

It’s an on-demand service, allowing customers to book buses to collect them at a pre-arranged time.

For details about CallConnect or the new app, call 0845 234 3344, text ‘CallConnect’ to 82727 or visit www.lincsinterconnect.com

Clarity on the Government’s funding intentions for the Lincoln Eastern Bypass will be given in January.

Supported by North Kesteven District Council, and approved by the county council the £130m scheme is currently on hold as the Government reviews its spending priorities.

The route would bring the existing city bypass round to join

the A15 south of Bracebridge Heath with links to the Washingborough and Heighington roads.

The scheme has been placed among 35 others all needing further investigation before the £600m is allocated.

County highways officers remain optimistic for their cause since they have made a strong business case and others have been cancelled outright.

Leasingham pupils helped to launch the new bridge crossing

The Concessionary Bus Pass Scheme is changing…

Central Government has decided that from 1st April 2011 responsibility for bus passes will transfer from the District Council to the County Council.

So what does this mean?

• There will be no changes to the current system before March 2011.

• Current bus passes will still remain valid until their expiry date.

• Financial constraints will mean some discretionary elements such as taxi tokens and rail card contributions will cease.

• The way you apply for a new bus pass will be different. From April you must apply by post, or alternatively apply in person at City Hall in Lincoln (this applies for all district areas).

• The option for making applications and renewals on-line is also being developed.

• These options will give you a choice in how you obtain your pass but please do not apply any earlier than 21 days in advance of the due date.

• Application forms and an information leaflet about the scheme will be available from Libraries, Local District Council Offices, other key access centres and online.

For further information visit: www.lincolnshire.gov.uk or alternatively contact: Lincolnshire County Council, Accessibility & Policy Unit, City Hall, Lincoln, LN1 1DN

North Kesteven District Council

Are you digitally connected?

If you are suffering from poor mobile phone or Broadband connections, the Council is keen to help.

The Council knows there are a number of broadband “not spots” in the District and wants to work with communities and businesses on initiatives to improve digital connectivity. To do this, we need to hear from residents in those areas affected by poor or no broadband connection, and also poor mobile phone coverage. Ashby de la Launde and Digby are already working to resolve their connectivity issues, but the Council wants to encourage more communities to come forward. Please get in contact: Call 01529 414155 and ask to speak to Luisa McIntosh or Sue Chambers.

We’d also value your comments on the Council’s own website.

To get involved in a focus group on improving it and have your say, email communications@n-kesteven.gov.uk

Winter 2010 newsnk 13

Vibrant Economy

Council finds new use for railway station Conversion creates new workspace and offices in Sleaford Travelling to work will take on a new dimension at Sleaford Railway Station in the New Year as businessmen and women choose to loiter at the station instead of hopping on a train.

By setting up their own businesses in workspaces close to completion, within a refurbished vacant area of the railway station building, they will be on track for success.

Working in partnership with Network Rail and East Midlands Trains, North Kesteven District

Council, has taken a 15-year lease on 2,000-square-feet of station space for conversion into between eight and 11 offices and workshops, ideal for start-up businesses, crafts and small enterprises.

The £100,000 refurbishment was part-funded by Lincolnshire County Council. The new Sleaford Station Business Centre space should be available to let in January 2011 through agents Hodgson Elkington.

Over the lifespan of the project it is hoped to create up to 25 jobs and up to 15 new businesses.

“As well as encouraging fledgling new businesses, we hope that by taking a lead in this area we can brighten up this part of the town and promote more interest here,” said Cllr Marion Brighton, OBE, Leader of the Council who has oversight of economic regeneration.

“The railway station is an important historic building and a gateway to Sleaford and this work will help to give people arriving in the town by train the right impression of a vibrant town.”

On track for better business growth at Sleaford's railway station

Siemens move is great Rate relief support for news for Teal Park small firms worth £350 North Kesteven District Council’s faith in bringing forward the area’s biggest business park has been rewarded with the decision of engineering giant Siemens to move a significant part of its operations there.

Siemens has confirmed its intention to move its turbine servicing department to purposebuilt units at Teal Park, North Hykeham.

Relocation will transfer 540 employees from the company's city centre sites and secure a high profile tenant for Teal Park on which to build.

A formal deal is yet to be struck but Siemens anticipates work on the new site beginning in the middle of next year for completion by summer 2012.

Siemens’ move to the new 80-acre park alongside the A46 bypass outside Lincoln, was made possible by the Council’s approval

to swap the development phases so that smaller-scale businesses could develop ahead of a larger anchor tenant.

It also leaves the door open for Siemens to relocate the rest of its operations and 900 staff to Teal Park if it chooses to in time.

Council Leader, Cllr Marion Brighton, OBE said, “We welcome any relocation that retains the company within the area, due to their importance to our local economy, and will continue to support them and all other enterprise however possible.”

Teal Park is being developed

by Taylor Lindsey in association with the county council's economic development unit.

After giving planning permission last December, NKDC approved a re-phasing of the development stages this autumn which has enabled Siemens to come forward as the first key tenant.

Small firms in North Kesteven are urged to step forward for a rate relief top-up worth an extra £350 on average.

North Kesteven District Council has already granted small business relief to more than 1,000 businesses to help them through these difficult economic times.

This is delivering a benefit totalling £357,000 on top of the standard relief it offers.

But the Council is keen for other small business owners who feel they may be eligible to come forward for support.

The additional relief is effective through to September 30, 2011 - bringing benefits across two financial years – as a result of a temporary change in Government legislation.

Businesses already getting rate relief have had their bills automatically readjusted for this year and next.

Council Leader Marion Brighton said this extra support measure was being offered to small businesses specifically, because they were the enterprises which were suffering most and could benefit most from the extra relief.

Qualification criteria >> Your business occupies one property with a rateable value below £12,000. >> The total rateable value of business properties is below £18,000. >> With a rateable value below £6,000, you will temporarily get 100% relief. >> Rates are slightly reduced for properties between £12,000 and £18,000.

Find out more about Small Business Rate Relief and your entitlement by calling the Council on 01529 414155 or 01522 699699.

North Kesteven’s

Available January 2011 Information about: >> Eating Out >> Accommodation >> Caravanning and Camping >> Tourist Sites >> Events

Pick up your copy from NKDC outlets.

To advertise your business in the visitor guide please contact Pip Batty, Communications & Media Manager.

Tel: 01529 308167 Email: Pip_Batty@n-kesteven.gov.uk in association with

14 newsnk Winter 2010

Sustainable Future

Help can cut insulation costs to zero Free and discounted insulation are available to District residents wanting to reduce their fuel bills Help is at hand to find an affordable way of beating the cold this winter.

The Home Energy Lincs Partnership (HELP) provides free home insulation for the over-60s and people on certain benefits.

Discounts are available for all other homes subject to eligibility.

HELP is a partnership between the county council and the district councils like NKDC, with support from the Energy Saving Trust.

With almost £2m available over two years for loft and cavity wall insulation in homes, the goal is to help home-owners reduce energy use and cut fuel bills.

One of the first to benefit was Alan Greaves, from Heighington, who had the cavity walls, loft, pipes and water

tank insulated in his home.

The work took six hours and cost just £128 – a quarter of what it would have cost without the HELP help.

“My old loft insulation was put in 27 years ago so it was in a poor state, but the new installation’s fantastic. It was well fitted and is already saving me money,” he said.

Cllr Geoff Hazelwood, Executive Member with special interest in environmental affairs, said HELP’s aim was to provide top quality home insulation for 20,000 people over the scheme’s two years.

“It’s open to anyone to apply and the savings on offer are substantial, both in the cost of the installation and reduced heating bills year after year,” he said.

If you're not eligible for the free

deal, it will cost just £49 and £79 for wall and loft insulation respectively, making it the best ever deal An average three bedroom semidetached house can save over £270 a year on heating with proper insulation, which represents a cost saving in just the first year.

Denise Marsdon, manager of the Energy Saving Trust’s East Midlands advice centre, said: “Not only will people save money at a time when they need it the most, this will also go a long way toward helping to reduce CO2 emissions.”

Canvassers – carrying proper identification – are working in the area offering this opportunity to residents. Or you can get more information from the Energy Saving Trust on 0800 512 012.

Alan Greaves, right, offers his insulation installer a welcome cuppa

Carbon cutting action plan set out

Shedding light on good solar deals

Leftover savings

A series of suggestions to help residents achieve reduced fuel bills through improved energy efficiency has been drawn up.

The District-wide carbon management action plan outlines what the Council will do to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and ways to work with partners to do the same within the community.

This is a further step towards a sustainable future for the District, with NKDC acting as a community leader and service provider.

Residents of North Kesteven are estimated to account for 7

North Kesteven District Council is urging householders to be vigilant when approached by solar panel salesmen.

The Clean Energy Cashback scheme, known as feed in tariffs, has led to an increase in firms offering solar photovoltaic panels for homes.

After receiving a number of complaints about the number of companies cold calling in the District, the Council has found many are giving misleading advice and are not offering the best deal.

There are many great benefits to

You can protect both your purse and your planet by discovering the Love Food Hate Waste themes.

The national campaign, backed

by NKDC, seeks to help people make better use of food leftovers, to generate further meals and reduce what’s both thrown away and what’s bought in the first place.

Details of the campaign including lots of handy tips and easy-to-make tasty recipe ideas are available at www.lovefoodhatewaste.co.uk The initiative is promoted by WRAP, the Waste and Resources Action Programme.

tonnes of carbon per person over a year, which is on par with the UK average. Home, business and transport use each account for a third of total emissions.

Already in 2010 average fuel savings among the 105 staff and members who have had smarter driving lessons has dropped by 14%; housing stock is being brought up to meet or exceed national targets; energy monitors are available to residents for free loan and many other initiatives are underway.

The Council has committed to cut carbon by 25% over five years.

installing solar PV, and to ensure residents get the best possible deal the Council suggests calling the Energy Saving Trust for free, impartial advice on freephone 0800 512 012.

Confused by the many options for buying renewable energy?

Contact the SustainNK team for advice on reputable and trusted suppliers.

Call 01529 414155 or www.n-kesteven/sustainnk

Snowflakes

Inspire your children’s creativity by crafting decorations with them for Christmas In the latest in a series helping you to make the most of your newsnk – whilst also bringing environmental and cost savings – here’s a crafty idea for creating festive cheer.

With this new edition now with you, why not recycle the last one into eco-friendly and economic home decorations which are the height of fashion this season?

Take one adult, a child or two, paper

scissors, an old edition of newsnk, a stapler and string. >> Pick the most colourful page or pages for a larger snowflake.

Fold the page back on itself (like a concertina) until you have a strip as wide as the sheet of paper but only 2cm deep. >> Cut two small triangles at the midpoint, making sure you don’t cut all the way across. Tie with string or staple to form

the centre of your snowflake. >> Cut random triangles, scoops or shapes into each side of the strip, alternately. >> Now open it up and staple or tape each side together, tying a string for hanging. >> Allow plenty of time to experiment different cuts and the final shapes they create, sizes and options for decorating with glitter, tinsel or ribbon woven through the holes.

You can save up to £50 a month by throwing away less food. Find out how at lovefoodhatewaste.com

These simple tips can also help you reduce the environmental impact of your celebrations – and save a bit of money - too >> Buy things with less packaging. >> Reuse wrapping paper for next year >> Recycle your cards. Through high street retailers The Woodland Trust collects

and recycles millions during January, generating new products and new trees. >> Gift unwanted presents to charity shops. >> Compost any vegetable peelings.

>> Recycle as much as possible. >> If you do buy a cut Christmas tree, cut into small pieces and put it in your brown bin for composting.

Winter 2010 newsnk 15

Community Safety

Fewer crimes in North Kesteven North Kesteven Community Safety Partnership

Levels of crime in this area are among the lowest in the country, which is inspiring a stronger partnership drive to combat it even further This autumn North Kesteven was ranked eighth best out of 324 councils for the total number of incidents reported to the police per 10,000 population.

The research was carried out by Experian for the BBC and assessed all sorts of data like earnings, qualifications, house prices, professions and quality of life factors to determine each District’s resilience to economic downturn

and Government cuts.

Cllr Mike Gallagher, Chairman of North Kesteven’s Community Safety Partnership, said, “With the eighth lowest crime rate in the county, North Kesteven strongly out performed all other areas in Lincolnshire.

“This is a credit to the strong partnership which works hard in this area in a determined and co-ordinated way to beat crime in

the District and which will go from strength to strength as we aim to get to the first position.”

“This sort of figure is another aspect to what makes North Kesteven so attractive for people living here and looking to invest,” said Cllr Gallagher.

He said much of the CSP’s work and diversionary activities organised for for young people contributed to the success.

Don’t let the criminal enjoy Christmas at your expense Christmas is a busy time of year for everyone, including the criminal, but with most crime being opportunistic, it can be prevented by taking some simple precautions. >> Lock presents out of sight in the boot and always ensure the car’s locked, even if you’re only away for a few minutes. >> Never leave your keys in the ignition whilst your vehicle is

unattended. Cars are often stolen whilst left running to defrost the windows. >> Take handbags, bank cards, mobile phones and sat nav systems with you away from the car. >> Park in a well lit area or an attended car park. >> Keep doors and windows locked at all times, even when you are in the house.

>> Keep presents out of sight. Large piles of gift wrapped goodies under the tree which are visible through a door or window are tempting to thieves. >> Discarded packaging outside advertises all the new goods indoors. >> Leave lights on and close the curtains when going out to imitate occupancy. Set burglar alarms.

Painting over the cracks of community disorder An area of Ruskington has been given a brighter and safer aspect through a project involving offenders paying back for their crimes.

A Lincolnshire Probation Trust Community Payback team was engaged in repainting a wall at Pinfold Way that had become an offensive eyesore and smartening up fences, railings and the wider area.

The Joint Action Group, which is the CSP’s operational arm, funded materials for the Community Payback programme where offenders are required, by court order, to carry out tasks on behalf of the community.

Tenants of the nearby council houses were delighted with the result, saying the graffiti had

16 newsnk Winter 2010

given the area an unjustified air of neglect and decay and had affected community pride.

Councillor Mike Gallagher, Chairman of the North Kesteven CSP which brings together various agencies to achieve stronger and safer communities, said: “This project is a visible expression of a strong partnership all working towards local aspirations for the benefit of residents.

“Community Payback’s participation is vital to the message we aim to put out, that petty crime is a form of neighbourhood nuisance that doesn’t pay. But through the team's work we hope to inspire a greater respect for communities and communal areas that are safe and attractive for all to enjoy.”

Heading up the Joint Action Group, which is the delivery arm of the CSP’s direction and priorities, is Richard Wright, Placement Manager for Lincolnshire Probation Trust Community Payback Team “My role as JAG chairman is to ensure we’re meeting the CSP priorities; reacting to local problems with multi-agency solutions.

The JAG membership comes from all the agencies that encounter issues in the community, including police, probation, NKDC, PCT, children’s services, Sleaford BID, trading standards and voluntary services.

Partnership working and joint intervention is often crucial to providing an answer. You get a great sense of achievement when someone comes to you with a problem and you are able to solve it through direct action. Something as simple as removing graffiti can have an enormous impact on residents feeling of well being.

It’s not always appreciated that North Kesteven is one of the safest and lowest crime areas in the country to live.

Going forward, the focus of the CSP is quite simply - to make North Kesteven an even safer place to live and work.”

Safer drinking Guidelines saying a man should drink no more than three or four units of alcohol a day and woman just two or three have existed for many years.

But advice on the consumption of alcohol by under-18s is much newer and not so widely known.

In readiness for the Festive Season and in line with its theme on reducing alcohol mis-use linked with the night time economy, the North Kesteven Community Safety Partnership is keen to ensure all parents and teenagers in the District are aware.

The Chief Medical Officer says: >> An alcohol-free childhood is the healthiest and best option; >> No alcohol should be drunk before the age of at least 15; >> If alcohol is consumed between 15 and 17, it should be with parental or carers’ guidance or in a supervised environment; >> If 15 to 17 year olds do drink, it should be infrequent and certainly not more than once a week; >> Drinking by 15 to 17 year olds should never exceed recommended adult daily limits and should really be below this on days when they do drink.

Further information on alcohol and young people is available from Young Addaction on 01522 301307 or www.lincs2alcohol.co.uk

News Focus

Make your move!

Three more classes are being operated by Vitality, offering exercise and movement to music for the over 60s.

They focus on gentle exercises, increasing flexibility and strength, while also improving posture, coordination and independence. >> Methodist Hall, Chapel Lane, Ruskington, every Monday from 11am to 11.45pm. A gentle seated class ideal for people with mobility issues. >> Methodist Hall, Chapel Lane, Ruskington, every Monday from 12.15pm to 1pm. A more active class with dance and movement. >> North Kyme Village Hall, every Monday from 9.30am to 10.30am. A mixture of both seated and active routines.

Each class costs £2.50, including tea and coffee. They are subsidised and approved

by NHS Lincolnshire. Booking and details on 01529 411194 or email louise.thompson@ leisureconnection.co.uk.

mynk Where do you live in the District?

This is my third time based at RAF Waddington and as the Station Commander I live in the married quarters on the base. During my previous postings to the Station I lived in Bracebridge Heath

Witham Valley Country Park takes flight A new identity linking a network of open spaces in and around Lincoln has been unveiled, so look out for it in the coming weeks and months.

The distinct logo featuring the silhouette of two butterflies has been adopted by the Witham Valley Country Park and will soon be appearing at each of the parks and areas of woodland that make up the country park.

space, biodiversity and health and wellbeing.

With its new identity more people will become aware of the Witham Valley Country Park, the links between its constituent parts and improved accessibility to this beautiful and diverse network of open space.

Sam Horsted from North Hykeham greatly appreciates the linking of the various areas into a

larger amenity and hopes cycling provision will be improved too.

"As a family we're really keen on cycling and love the facilities at Whisby and Hartsholme especially, so everything that makes it easier to access and enjoy them is really welcome," she said.

The County Park area spreads across the boundaries of North Kesteven, West Lindsey and Lincoln city.

Website promotes area’s Concerned about crime? rich aviation heritage A new website promoting the area’s fascinating aviation heritage has been launched.

This is the latest stage of the Lottery-funded project Aviation Heritage Lincolnshire which aims to boost visitor numbers to aviation sites across the county.

The project is also part funded by North Kesteven District Council and Visit Lincolnshire to unite aviation attractions.

The website at www. aviationheritagelincolnshire.com

gives information on aviation attractions, events and news and is the home of the new aviation trails developed in partnership with NKDC. NKDC Council Leader, Cllr Marion Brighton, said, “People travel the world for our aviation heritage and we hope that by working ion partnership with AHL we can raise the area’s profile and boost the local visitor economy at a time when the thirst for aviation knowledge is at an all time high.”

Name: Group Captain Chris Jones Job title: Station Commander, Royal Air Force Waddington

How did you end up living here?

We moved to the area, as so many do, through work and chose Bracebridge Heath to be close to the LSST school.

If you could recommend one place in the District to visit, where would it be?

RAF Waddington has a proud and distinguished history so my choice would have to be The Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Trail. The Trail takes in many of the county’s key aviation locations, current operational and closed historic air bases, museums, memorials and sites of interest and it will soon feature RAF Waddington!

What’s the best thing about where you live?

Great views, great countryside, great City, great history - all on the doorstep.

Which District Council service do you value most and why?

It has to be environmental waste management - the opportunities for recycling are second to none.

What does North Kesteven mean to you?

A fantastic, friendly place to work and bring up my family.

These include Skellingthorpe Old Wood, Hartsholme Country Park, the West and South Commons in Lincoln, Tunman Wood, Boultham Mere and Whisby Nature Park.

The Witham valley Country Park is not one big area but a connected network of managed outdoor space spanning 26,000 acres with cycling and walking links to other recreational areas, promoting improved accessibility to green

Photo: RAF Waddington station photographers

Practical tips on making you and your home safe against crime are being offered to residents of sheltered housing.

North Kesteven District Council, working with Lincolnshire Police and Neighbourhood Watch, has already held talks on crime prevention, personal safety and recognising a scam in Metheringham and Sleaford.

The sessions are on Monday, January 10 at Kesteven Court, North Hykeham, and Thursday January 27 at Pinfold Way, Ruskington; both at 10am in the Community Room.

For details of the community safety visits, see www.n-kesteven.gov.uk

Hate Crime Strategy In association with county-wide partners, NKDC is promoting the Lincolnshire Hate Crime Strategy to combat hatemotivated incidents.

This initial multi-agency approach to the problem includes Just Lincolnshire, a newly unified organisation championing equality and diversity issues, the police and local authorities.

Hate crime is a victimization of someone based on the reality or perception of race, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or just dressing in a certain way.

Fuelled by jealousy, ignorance,

misconception, intolerance, hostility and hatred, it is just as likely to occur in rural areas as towns and cities.

Due to the nature of hate incidents no one agency alone can deal with them in isolation.

Therefore partnership working is central to the right approach.

The strategy sets out the group’s approach to tackling hate crimes and incidents across the county and will empower communities to take positive action.

There is a 24-hour help line available on 0800 1381625

Investing just a couple of minutes could make a lasting difference for the county’s LGB&T community...

Kaleidoscope and Just Lincolnshire are looking at the needs of Lincolnshire’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender residents.

NKDC is a supporting partner in the survey which will help to guide the authority on the way it provides services to meet all needs. It’s a totally anonymous survery but it will have a significant positive impact on service delivery.

Access the survey at www.surveymonkey.com/s/lgbt2010 or www.justlincolnshire.org.uk from the LGB&T link.

For a paper copy call Just Lincolnshire on 01522 836159

Winter 2010 newsnk 17

What’s On

Stepping Out to step 900 years back in time At the turning point of the year step back in time, in the footsteps of the Knights Templar at Temple Bruer North Kesteven’s Stepping Out Walks are designed to help you explore the District and discover its many treasures. With that in mind there's none better than the Temple Bruer walk.

This six mile walk takes you along Roman roads, passed pill box reminders of the old RAF Wellingore airfield and the evocative remains of the Knights Templar Preceptory at Temple Bruer.

The original Preceptory built in 1160 featured a rounded nave supported by eight pillars to imitate the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.

One of two towers remains, as a fascinating piece of our ancient history. The tower is cared for by Heritage Lincolnshire and is open to the public at all times. Once inside you can explore the two floors of the tower where even the graffiti carved into the stones by air men from the former RAF Wellingore has an air of history.

The lime heath’s remaining

1. Park carefully at St John the Baptist Church, located between the A15 and A607 near to Temple Bruer. Follow the waymarked track on the opposite side of the road. After half a mile you reach a junction of paths.

2. Turn left along the farm track towards the Preceptory, gwlimpsed in the distance.

3. From Temple Farm there is the option to reduce the walk to three miles by turning right along Temple Road towards Cocked Hat Plantation (rejoining at Point 6).

The longer route carries straight on, taking the footpath opposite for about 1¼ miles to Brauncewell.

Billinghay Mondays, 10am @ The Children’s Centre, Billinghay Sleaford Tuesdays, 1.10pm @ Sleaford Leisure Centre Whisby Life Trails Wednesdays, 11.30am @ The Natural World Centre Ruskington Wednesdays, 1.30pm @ All Saints Church, Ruskington Leasingham Thursdays, 11am @ The Duke of Wellington pub, Leasingham

Call Donna Lill on 01522 870252 or email NKHealthandSports@leisureconnection.co.uk

Watch out for new CountrysideNK events leaflet Keep an eye out for Countryside NK’s 2011 events leaflet, due to be released in January.

They’re packed full of ideas for great family events, ranging from shelter building and a fungi foray, to guided walks and family fun days, all free of charge. If you’d like

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native flora and fauna includes gorse, field scabious and rock rose gracing the wide verges.

All of these historic delights can be enjoyed on the Knights Templar Walk which winds across the heath on lanes and footpaths.

North Kesteven Social Strollers The North Kesteven Social Strollers’ health walks continue through the winter months enabling you to get out and about on an easy-going short walk.

During the autumn the programme was accredited

by Walking for Health, which means that it meets guidance on standards, safety and support for new walkers.

Scheme co-ordinator Donna Lill said this latest achievement would hopefully boost awareness and confidence among walkers to enjoy the health benefits and get encourage volunteer health walk leaders.

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to receive a copy, please register your interest with Theresa Hobbs, Countryside Promotion Officer, on 01522 694353 or email Theresa. hobbs@leisureconnection.co.uk They will also be available at all of the usual leaflet outlets and Council information points.

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Knights Templar Preceptory Tower

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Knights Templar Walk starts here

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Cocked Hat Plantation

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4. Turn right out of Brauncewell along Long Lane for about 1¼ miles until you see a grassy track leading off to your right.

This is Ermine Street and part of the Viking Way. 5. Turn right here and follow the course of the old Roman road for about a mile up to an area of trees on the right known as

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Cocked Hat Plantation.

Here you can turn right along Temple Road back towards Temple Farm and retrace your steps back to the car park.

Or continue straight on, crossing Temple Road, until a way marked road leads off right. Here on your left is the site of RAF Wellingore dating back to 1917.

Take off for aviation talks and tours Bookings are being taken for a range of talks and tours that celebrate the District’s aviation heritage.

On January 27, Phil Bonner will discuss the contribution made by aircrew from the British Empire who flew from Lincolnshire in World War 2. Event at Branston Hall Hotel. Tickets £5 each.

Get behind the scenes at RAF Waddington and RAF Digby on January 28, with station tours, lunch and afternoon tea. £30 per person.

Mike Hodgson will detail the

contribution of Bomber Command at the Washingborough Hall Hotel on February 18. £5 per person.

Fascinating lectures, an informative tour and a delicious lunch are included in a symposium at RAF College Cranwell on March 9. Tickets to be confirmed.

Details and booking on 01529 414155 or email Deborah_ Roberts@n-kesteven.gov.uk

New indoor climbing facility at NK A new indoor climbing wall at the North Kesteven Centre is satisfying demand from hardened climbers and recreational rookies.

The ExtremeNK project is co-funded by the Foundation for Sports & the Arts and Leisure Connection.

The new climbing room offers vertical and overhang challenges giving 14 separate roped lines or 28 different routes to explore.

Four further traverse lines provide

different climbing experiences and specially designed macros on the side routes providie an extra experience for hardened climbers.

The facility saves local climbing enthusiasts having to travel for a top of the range climbing challenge.

It also caters for casual use and specific sessions for 9 to 19 years.

Details from the NK Outreach team on 01522 870252 or email extremenk@leisureconnection. co.uk

7. Turn right onto this track and continue for about a mile passing Griffin’s Farm on your left until you reach a junction of paths.

8. Turn left back to St John the Baptist Church and your car.

Cultural Olympiad festival of arts Communities, village groups and schools along the Spires and Steeples route are being encouraged to step forward with ideas for a huge arts festival.

In keeping with the Cultural Olympiad – a nationwide celebration of arts and culture in the run up to the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games – artsNK is preparing the SaFire Festival.

This will be a series of events staged with and in the villages along the B1188, between May and October 2011, co-ordinated by arts NK in association with Districtbased Rhubarb Theatre Company.

ArtsNK wants to involve as many groups as possible District-wide, devising projects that fit with the Olympic values. They could tie in with the festival or be entirely independent fringe events within a magnificent programme of events.

ArtsNK is the central point of support and advice to foster project ideas and help dreams become reality.

For details and discussion, contact Marion Sander on marion. sander@leisureconnection.co.uk or call artsNK 01529 410595.

What’s On

Activities to keep you active during winter Terry O’Toole Theatre Saturday December 18, 3pm

The Lonely Giant Puppets and performers weave theatrical magic to bring to life this delightful story of loneliness, new-found friendships, and the ridiculous things Giants have to do to find true love!

Original music, a cast of colourful puppets, and talented puppeteers, conjure a show suitable for anyone aged four and above.

Terry O’Toole Theatre, North Hykeham. Booking on 01522 870251 or www.terryotooletheatre.org.uk Saturday December 18, 1pm to 2pm

Tuesday, January 18 to Saturday 22

Family Puppetmaking Workshop

by Peta Duncombe Join brave Jim Hawkins aboard the good ship Hispaniola for a swashbuckling tale of high drama, low cunning, villainous skullduggery and some very bad jokes.

A family-friendly production from ACTion@TOTT, the company in residence.

Performances, 7pm each night with Saturday matinee at 2.30pm Tickets £9 and £7, family of four for £28.

Have a go at making your very own hand puppet using everyday bits and bobs. A fun interactive workshop for children of all ages and their adults!

‘Treasure Island the Panto!’

Swim School

Eco courses at Hill Holt Wood

Swim School for four years and above starts at Sleaford Leisure Centre and the North Kesteven Centre, North Hykeham, on January 5.

Instructors will teach all the skills and techniques of swimming, so they can swim competently on their own.

Lessons for new beginners and those with experience in the pool take place throughout the week to suit everyone.

Prices start at £4.20 per session

If you’ve ever wanted to build a rammed-earth eco hall, fancied building a straw house or thought about forestry, Hill Holt Wood has the know-how.

Hill Holt Wood at Norton Disney, which provides the Council’s WatchNK countryside warden and flytip clean-up services, is offering free weekend day-courses.

There’s an introduction to environmental conservation and another in green construction

Take the splash now to enrol children for swimming lessons

Sleaford Leisure Centre on 01529 303081 North Kesteven Centre on 01522 883311

The Hub Saturday, December 11, 10am and 3pm

The Hub Christmas Craft Market A fantastic opportunity to source unique, high quality gifts and crafts directly from a wide range of East Midlands artists.

Between 10am and 3pm, indulge in handbags, textiles, ceramics, glassware, mosaics, gifts and homeware, plus many more seasonal arts and craft.

There’ll be live music from local school choirs, hand bell ringers and the Sleaford Ukulele Orchestra and the chance to marvel at the skills of craft demonstrators and try your own hand at craft workshops throughout the day.

Meanwhile CountrysideNK will host a Christmas tree decoration session on nearby Lollycocks Field where children can create craft decorations to adorn a tree for the season.

So, whether it’s choice Christmas gifts or a pleasant family day out you are after, the Hub’s Christmas Craft Market will have it all!

which tackle topics like coppicing, rhododendron removal, willow weaving and pond maintenance or earth composting toilets and reed bed grey water filtration.

There are dates on January 22 and 29; February 5, 12 & 26; March 5; April 30; May 7, 14 & 21; and June 4 & 11. Each course is limited to eight spaces so book early.

Details on 01636 892836, email admin@hillholtwood.com or www.hillholtwood.com

Christmas in North Hykeham North Hykeham will be festive to the core this Christmas, with the town council hiring trees to spruce up the shops.

The decorated town businesses will set the scene for a shop window competition also being organised by the Town Council and for a Nativity on the Green, on Wednesday December 15.

From 2pm there will be a farmers’ market, stalls and a hog roast in advance of the main event at 6pm, with a brass band, school performances, the Hykeham Twirlers and African drummers.

Fireworks, a fun fair, welly wanging and a visit from Santa will add to the fun where there will be a collection for the charity FAB, Families’ Activity Breaks, providing holidays for bereaved Service families. > Until January 2, there is free entry to an exhibition of great crafts and gift ideas at the Whisby Natural World Centre.

The Hub, Sleaford. Details on 01529 308710 or email hub@leisureconnection.co.uk

December workshops Saturday December 18, 1pm to 3pm

Christmas card and ornament decoration Personalising Christmas for all ages. £1.50 per card or ornament.

Sunday, December 19, 1pm to 3pm

Christmas stocking decoration Personalise a stocking to save Santa’s confusion. Fun for all ages. £6 Monday, December 20, 1pm to 3pm

Precious Metal Clay festive necklace Make your own silver snowflake necklace with easy to use clay.

All resources and instruction provided. £15 per person, best to book.

First Saturday of each month 2pm to 3pm

Walk and Talk Gallery Tour Staff guide you around the Hub, National Centre for Craft & Design, explaining the exhibitions and displays and answering any questions. £2 per person.

‘Class of 2010’ Each year, The Hub National Centre for Craft & Design invites the best art and design graduates from UK universities to exhibit in the Roof Gallery’s annual show ‘Class of…’

Full of innovation, fun and thought provoking new works, the gallery features fashion and interior accessories, toys and sculpture from 15 graduates.

You may even find a special Christmas gift as some of the exhibitors’ work is on sale in The Hub shop.

With its history as a seed warehouse it is appropriate that The Hub is nurturing new talent through the Class of 2010 exhibitions, window space and innovation prize. The ‘Class of 2010’ exhibition runs to January 9.

The first Hub exhibition of 2011 will see the Roof Gallery filled with works by the Contemporary Crafts Network.

Developed, created and selected especially for this exhibition, pieces will showcase textiles, glass, ceramics, jewellery, stonework and other artistic specialities.

For the first time artists have worked with other members of the group in new partnerships or contrasting media like glass and textile.

The show runs from January 15 to February 13, 10am to 5pm seven days a week, with free entry. Many exhibited items are for sale.

Pete Moss Past, Present and Future Large scale public art commissions carried out by schools feature alongside internationally acclaimed ceramicist Pete Moss’ own work At the time of his 70th birthday, The Hub National Centre for Craft & Design in Sleaford, stages some of Moss’s collection, celebrating his life and work.

His studio is in Lincoln and he has spent 30 years of his artistic life working and teaching in the region.

This exhibition brings together work from 1964 to the present day, with many new pieces for sale.

The show also reflects his work as an educator, with five large-scale public art commissions created by young people and adults from St Francis School in Lincoln, Bishop Grosseteste University College, Branston Community Collage, Ash Villa School in Sleaford and Sure Start family centre sitting alongside Moss’ personal collection.

Up until January 16.

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Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre

Whisby Natural World Centre

The Hub National Centre for Craft and Design

Cogglesford Mill, Sleaford

ExtremeNK activities for young people

Mrs Smith’s Cottage, Navenby

Navigation House, Sleaford

Stepping Out countryside walks Welbourn Forge

Refuse and recycling services

Providing affordable housing and improving homes

North Kesteven District Council, Kesteven Street, Sleaford, Lincolnshire NG34 7EF 01529 414155 customer_services@n-kesteven.gov.uk www.n-kesteven.gov.uk