SKtoday
for residents of South Kesteven Spring 2025
FULL STORY: Page 15
Welcome
Here is the latest issue of SKtoday, packed full of news and updates from South Kesteven District Council. Remember, you can read SKToday online by visiting www.southkesteven.gov.uk/sktoday
If you have any feedback about the magazine or any content you would like to see in future issues please get in touch.
For even faster news and updates why not follow us on social media? We’re on all the popular platforms, including Twitter and Facebook. Find them all at www.southkesteven.gov.uk/getsocial
SKtoday editorial communications@southkesteven.gov.uk
General enquiries
01476 40 60 80
Council Offices
Grantham
The Picture House, St Catherine’s Road, Grantham, NG31 6TT
Bourne
South Kesteven Community Point Abbey Road, Bourne PE10 9EF
You can apply, pay, report and contact us on our website for a range of services and find the latest NHS and Government guidance. www.southkesteven.gov.uk
Nice to know •
Prepare to make your vote count
On Thursday 1st May, elections will be held for Lincolnshire County Council and the Greater Lincolnshire Mayor.
The county council’s main responsibilities cover social care, education, highways, recycling and the environment.
The mayoral role is being created under a devolution deal for Lincolnshire designed to transfer more power to local decision-makers. ready to vote if they want to have a say in who represents them.
Polling cards will be sent out to those registered to vote ahead of the election, although these are not required when you vote. Simply go to your usual polling station and give your name and address to the staff there.
However, voters must take photo ID to the polling station or they will not be issued with a ballot paper.
A full list of accepted documents can be found online at: www.southkesteven.gov.uk/voterid
Polling hours are from 7am to 10pm, and counting the votes will begin after the polls close.
To take part, residents must be registered to vote by midnight on Tuesday 15th April. Visit www.gov.uk/register-to-vote to register, particularly if you have recently moved or are turning 18. The website will ask for your date of birth and National Insurance number in addition to the usual details of name, address, previous address and nationality.
Local Returning Officer and SKDC Chief Executive Karen Bradford said: “Local elections are organised and run by the SKDC elections team, who administer the election and ensure they should, and are carried out fairly, legally and correctly.
“Polling station staff are there to help and to answer any questions you may have. Please be patient while they check photo ID.”
There are new rules for returning a postal vote. The easiest way is to use Royal Mail via a normal letterbox so please ensure this is done in good time so the vote is received by 1st May.
Postal votes can no longer be posted in the SKDC letter box at the council offices as they will be rejected. They need to be handed in to an authorised officer at the main council office in Grantham during office hours or at a polling station on election day before 10pm.
The great outdoors beckons
Thank heavens for springtime. The evenings are once more stretching out, allowing us to enjoy the great outdoors –and hopefully the sunshine too.
This is reinforced by the abundant displays of tulips springing up around our beautiful district to commemorate the anniversaries of the final days of the Second World War as part the council’s Soldiers From The Sky project. You can read more about this by turning to page 8.
I enjoy walking – as well as the occasional jog – and it’s well known that an active lifestyle is important for everyone. This is why leisure facilities are so important.
During the past two years this council has begun to address the maintenance backlog in our leisure centres and, in fact, many of our other buildings including arts centres and car parks.
We have also installed solar panels on the roofs of some of our buildings, both council housing and
is
By Cllr Ashley Baxter, Leader of South Kesteven District Council
public buildings, to reduce financial and environmental costs.
Of course, public parks and open spaces around the district are also maintained by your district, town and parish councils for the enjoyment of all. Many of these facilities have been improved by South Kesteven’s share of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. This funding has also supported local
businesses and community groups to become more sustainable.
You may have seen headlines about local government reorganisation. At the end of ast year, the Deputy Prime Minister announced the biggest shake-up of local government in 50 years.
The plan is to create new unitary authorities which will deliver most of the services currently delivered by the existing county and district councils.
Many options are being suggested by the discussion and debate, but whatever solution unfolds it seems certain that South Kesteven will be replaced by a larger council, taking in new towns and residents from a wider area, although details have yet to be agreed.
Be assured that your elected councillors and officers on the staff of South Kesteven are determined to ensure a smooth transition without disruption to the important services we provide.
Solar panels installed at the Meres Leisure Centre, Grantham
Waste collection service scoops national award
Households in South Kesteven dispose of around 50,000 tonnes of waste every year –but with your help, much of this is being repurposed for recycling.
We have 21 bin lorries on the road crewed by 65 staff, out in all weathers to take your waste and recycling away.
They collect bins from some 71,000 homes and businesses and pass this to Lincolnshire County Council for disposal.
And this work was recognised with SKDC being named the Most Improved Performer for waste collection services at the national Association for Public Service Excellence Performance Networks Awards 2024.
During the past year South Kesteven’s waste and recycling services have undergone a major transformation, including the introduction of separate paper and card collections, a kerbside battery recycling service and bringing modern, new vehicles on stream.
In all, some 40% of what SKDC takes away is recycled or composted, with around 59% sent to the energy from waste plant in North Hykeham to be turned into electricity. The remaining 0.5% is sent to landfill.
SKDC Cabinet Member for Environment and Waste,
Cllr Rhys Baker, said: “Everyone from the crews, out in the open in all weathers, to the unsung heroes in the office have worked together to officially make SKDC the most improved waste service in the country.
“I must also thank our residents for their patience and work on recycling in particular.”
Since introducing the separate purple-lidded bins for paper and cardboard, we’ve collected 4,000 tonnes of high-quality paper products that are sent to a processing plant, where it is pulped, washed and pressed, becoming newspaper in as little as a week.
Alongside the roll-out of the purple-lidded bins, residents have worked hard to put only the right things in their other bins too.
On average more than 90% of the items in the mixed recycling bins are exactly the materials we’re looking for – a figure which is up from around 65% prior to the roll-out.
Cllr Baker added: “I am proud to belong to a community that wants to look after the environment, dispose of waste responsibly, and support our hard-working crews.
“New investment in equipment and vehicles already has the green light, and SKDC’s new depot opens in late 2025 to provide space, facilities, and technology to support a growing district.”
Food for thought A
ll councils across the UK must introduce weekly food waste collections before the end of March 2026.
Around 1.3kg (2.8lbs) of food waste per week is expected from each property, amounting to a possible 320 tonnes a year.
It will be collected by SKDC and taken to a waste transfer station before there is enough to be taken to a local anaerobic digestion plant, where it will be treated and turned into a soil conditioner, with by-product gases being turned into electricity.
It’s estimated that households in Lincolnshire dispose of between 30,000 and 35,000 tonnes of food every year. All that food is currently sent to our energy from waste plant; if it were all recycled it would boost Lincolnshire’s recycling rate by 7%.
Expect to see more details about how and when food waste collections will be introduced in your area in the coming months.
Meanwhile, find tips for making the most of the food you buy at www.lovefoodhatewaste.com
Reduce, reuse, recycle:
The recycling message is an important one, but there are two even more environmentally friendly ways to manage waste: reducing the amount we create and reusing as much as possible
Depot project moves forward with foundations laid for the future
Builders are on site at Turnpike Close in Grantham, where the council’s new depot is starting to take shape.
It will be home to 250 staff from waste and recycling, street scene, street cleaning, and parks maintenance teams. Housing repairs and maintenance teams will also work from the site, which includes an extensive workshop to maintain the council’s vehicle fleet.
Work during the winter months has involved a ‘cut and fill’ process at the site to level the land for construction.
Preparations are now under way to bring forward the drainage and foundations work across the site as the next step.
Cabinet Member for Property and Public Engagement Cllr Richard Cleaver said: “Through the autumn we completed the Stage 4 design and bio engineering for the project, ready for when our contractor Lindum Group moved onto the site before Christmas.
“Groundworks have been undertaken now, so people may have spotted the excavators and staff on site; it’s good to see some real movement there on such an important project.
“Work is due to run through to October this year with a view to commencing a four to six-week mobilisation period, which will involve moving the old depot to the new site.”
Lindum Construction Manager Tom Damarell said: “Lindum Excavations has successfully completed the ‘cut and fill’ process, which prepares the site for drainage and foundation installation.
“The public will see a real difference as the structure begins to take shape. Work is progressing well, and we’re on track with the programme.
“We are very happy to be collaborating with South Kesteven District Council on this project. Construction of this new depot builds on our well-established relationship, which has seen us successfully deliver more than 20 projects over the last ten years.”
The current depot at Alexandra Road, Grantham, was built in
the 1970s and is at the end of its operational life. It is no longer fit-for-purpose, has no room to expand and therefore does not support the council’s current and future operational needs.
The new depot building has been designed to be sustainable, economic and efficient in terms of energy and operation
There will also be charging points for the councils growing fleet of electric vehicles, which save money on fuel costs.
Facilities will include a training suite, a canteen and drying areas for staff.
The Alexandra Road depot will remain operational until the new site is ready.
21 bin lorries
65 staff on the road
9
The depot at Turnpike Close, Grantham, is taking shape
Record-breaking panto runs signal season of success
More than 11,000 tickets were sold for Beauty And The Beast’s run at Grantham’s Guildhall Arts Centre, making it the venue’s highest-grossing pantomime of all time.
In Stamford, the first professional in-house pantomime, Mother Goose, saw an almost completely sold-out season at the Stamford Arts Centre, with over 1,800 tickets sold.
Both Arts Centres are operated by South Kesteven District Council and are enjoying a resurgence in audience numbers as residents take advantage of theatre, drama, music, comedy and film – right on their doorstep.
It wasn’t only Mother Goose that proved popular at Stamford in the run-up to Christmas.
A string of sold-out shows included Dickens’ Theatre Company’s A Christmas Carol and the Arts Centre’s resident amateur company, Stamford Shoestring Theatre, which sold out an entire run of Jack Absolute Flies Again.
The Albion Christmas Band sold out the venue for the second year running, all supported by popular silver screen dates for blockbuster films Wicked, Paddington In Peru, Conclave, and Royal Opera House Screenings of Cinderella and The Nutcracker.
The spring programme, which runs to the end of April for both venues, boasts a variety of events
and activities suitable for all ages and interests.
Coming up in Stamford is a family-friendly storytelling and craft workshop (22nd Feb) followed by an Easter Craft Morning (17th April). The popular Jazz In The Cellar Bar continues with Me And Mr Jones (11th April). Pianist Pascal Rogé visits the Ballroom (12th April) for an evening selection of France’s finest.
Then, in both Stamford and Grantham in March, Sherlock Holmes is back for The Last Act, where Dr Watson and Holmes return to Baker Street to resolve the final mystery of an epic career.
In Grantham, direct from London’s West End, psychic medium Stuart Michael pays a visit to the Guildhall Theatre (22nd March). And for young ballet fans, The Princess and the Frog returns, with the promise of a postshow dance workshop (5th April)
For full listings go to: www.stamfordartscentre.com and www.guildhallartscentre.com
Cllr Paul Stokes, Deputy Leader of SKDC and Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure, said: “It is incredible to see such outstanding audience numbers and I hope that the visitors who have joined us over the festive season will return throughout the year to enjoy the fantastic programmes we have on offer.”
In Grantham, all 61 panto performances were entirely sold out, including school visits, relaxed and British Sign Language interpreted performances.
Stamford’s run of 12 shows included references to the town, as well as scenery designed by local artist Karen Neale.
Beauty And The Beast at Grantham’s Guildhall Arts Centre
Stamford Arts Centre Guildhall Arts Centre
On right path as shoppers embrace Grantham town centre
More public events and dedicated specialist markets are set to continue the turnaround of fortunes of Grantham town centre as we build on recent success.
December saw an invigorated Saturday outdoor market for the town, with a Christmas Fayre, gingerbread trail, free parking and support for Small Business Saturday, working with local traders to attract more visitors.
Evidence presented to SKDC committees supports the progress of the council’s action plan and endorses a proposed calendar of events, working right across the district.
In Grantham, each first Saturday of the month sees a Craft Market, with a Farmers’ Market every second Saturday. Preparation is under way to boost this with an Antiques Market and an Outdoor Food Market on the third and fourth Saturdays. A regular Youth Market and Vegan Market are also planned.
Watch this space for more details – and check our social media for upcoming events!
This builds on visits by street theatre performers since December, completion of town centre roadworks and new stallholders joining the market.
Council Leader, Cllr Ashley Baxter, said: “The booming numbers show the increasing popularity of Grantham Market and related town centre shopping.
“This is why there are more stalls on the market and there are more places opening.
“SKDC offered continuous support for businesses affected by roadworks last year including regular engagement with traders and three major public events in the newly completed Market Place, which showed how smaller markets and bespoke markets are possible.
“We have an action plan in place to make it even better and build on what has already been achieved.”
Overall footfall is shown to have increased by 22 per cent year-onyear and a study is under way to establish what might best improve further.
New car parking tariffs at SKDC car parks are already in place, offering one hour of free parking (two at Wharf Road in Grantham).
Plans to introduce incentives to new market traders and grants to support small business marketing are also moving forward.
“Once new traders start at Grantham market we are more confident than ever that they will
see the opportunities offered and want to stay,” said Cllr Baxter.
Stamford’s outdoor market’s strong offering continues to make it a genuine destination for shoppers and tourists alike with around 70 traders stretched along Broad Street and Ironmonger Street, complementing the town’s many bespoke outlets.
The Farmers’ Market stands every Friday on Stamford High Street.
A smaller market is also held each Saturday in Red Lion Square and High Street with around 20 traders.
In Bourne, a small market is held every Thursday in the car park behind the Corn Exchange building, where traders, both casual and regular, make their pitch according to their rota.
They offer fruit and vegetables, fresh fish, cakes and pies, cheese, bread, and flowers. On the first Thursday of each month, extra traders set up selling honey, goat curries, candles, and natural dog treats.
Cllr Baxter said: “We are working with Bourne Town Council and the traders to find the best way to improve Bourne’s offering, accessibility and visibility, with a view to expand Bourne Market in 2025.”
The revival of Grantham Market is under way
Tulips planted to honour airborne forces
Stately homes, churchyards, primary schools and public parks have all joined in a growing international Airborne Tulip Memorials trail.
More than 2,400 eye-catching maroon tulips have been planted as part of South Kesteven District Council’s Soldiers From The Sky project.
It’s funded by National Lottery players through The National Lottery Heritage Fund to commemorate a unique chapter in the district’s military heritage.
Men of the British 1st Airborne Division trained with allied paratroopers from America and Poland and flew from airfields at Barkston Heath and Saltby for Operation Market Garden – the battle of Arnhem – in September 1944.
Tulips colour-match the distinctive beret worn by British airborne forces.
Bulbs have gone into council owned Wyndham Park, the Paddocks and the Heroes Commemorative Orchard in Grantham, Grimsthorpe Castle, Harlaxton Manor, churchyards and village open spaces.
Planting Wyndham Park tulips with SKDC staff, elected members and Street Scene
Bulbs were made available to communities, and primary schools were quick to take up the offer, with pupils at Belmont School, Barrowby, Denton, Ingoldsby, and South Witham busy planting.
Stamford School pupils planted at an historic memorial to Polish WW2 troops in the school grounds where Clapton House hosted the Polish Medical Parachute Regiment.
More than 1,000 officers and men of the Polish First Independent Parachute Brigade were based in and around Stamford in 1944 and trained locally before embarking from RAF Saltby.
Debbie Nicholls, SKDC Armed Forces Officer, said: “Airborne forces gathered here in 1944 to train and eventually depart for Arnhem from local airfields.
“These tulips will add their own distinctive splash of colour to a story forever linked to South Kesteven.”
Cheshire man Darren Kay, whose grandfather fought at Arnhem, started the international memorial trail in the Netherlands at sites around Arnhem.
Tulips planted in honour of airborne forces
Guard of honour on duty for crash memorial unveiling
Amemorial has been installed commemorating American combat veterans killed in a mid-air collision just before Christmas 1944.
The commemoration at Carlton Scroop is a further example of South Kesteven District Council’s commitment to honouring the district’s WW2 heritage.
The seven veterans who died had survived the worst actions of WW2 and their tragic story will feature in the council’s National Lottery Heritage Fund project – Soldiers From The Sky.
Around 100 people attended the unveiling ceremony, with American and British military and an RAF Guard of Honour.
It was held 80 years from the day of the collision, which also mortally wounded the squadron’s canine mascot – a Dalmatian dog called Major Jerry that was flying in one of the aircraft.
Debbie Nicholls, SKDC Armed Forces Officer, said: “This story perfectly illustrates the importance of South Kesteven’s military heritage. The memorial will be a lasting tribute to amazing men who fought as our allies.”
Both Liberator aircraft had taken off from RAF Barkston Heath on a training mission carrying crews who had survived combat on American bombers and Troop Carrier Command C-47 aircraft that dropped paratroops. Three men survived.
Local author David Bristow tells the full story in his book, What Happened To You Lazy Lou? The title is the name of one of the aircraft and was prompted by a narrow escape for his father, then
a pupil at Carlton Scroop Primary School, as one of the aircraft narrowly missed the school.
Ernest Ward Jnr, the son of survivor Tech Sgt Ernest P Ward, travelled from Texas to help unveil the memorial - funded by Simon Hutton, whose family owns the village golf course.
It followed Simon’s meeting with David at the launch of the council’s Soldiers From The Sky airborne heritage trail last August.
David Bristow’s book is available on Amazon.
The memorial unveiling at Carlton Scroop
Night shelter offers safe haven when temperatures dip below freezing
Anight shelter facility to assist with short-term accommodation provision has been opened by South Kesteven District Council in partnership with Grantham Ark.
The shelter has a four-bedroom flat, with two beds in each room giving a capacity of eight occupants.
During the activation of Severe Weather Emergency Protocol in January, when rough sleepers were provided with accommodation to get them off the streets, individuals were given space in the shelter, which also offers bathroom and kitchen facilities with basic food provision.
SKDC Cabinet Member for Housing, Cllr Virginia Moran, said: “I am delighted our new facility to help rough sleepers was opened in December in partnership with Grantham Ark.
“We aim to make this provision available to all those who qualify and those without priority need when the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol is in place.
“It has been a resounding success and those we have helped have really appreciated the opportunity to speak to support staff in a more informal setting.
“Depending on uptake we will consider opening a further shelter in the south of the district in the future. Hotel accommodation is not always suitable, there are limited options to access food and often the hotels the council can access are outside of the main towns and difficult for people to travel to.
“The new accommodation also costs less than providing hotel rooms, and this helps our budget go further in helping some of the more vulnerable people in our district.”
There is a volunteer support worker on site each evening and first thing
each morning to signpost individuals to further support and provisions they can access during the day.
SKDC has funded overnight security staff to ensure the safety of the people placed and the wider community.
Cllr Moran added: “Face-to-face support helps people transition back into settled accommodation, either through our own Choice Based Lettings system or into private rented housing.
“In its first month alone the shelter provided 117 bed spaces to 17 different people. We have arranged permanent homes for six residents and more are set to move into settled accommodation in the coming weeks.”
Grantham Ark protects and supports local people who are experiencing homelessness after being launched in 2020 by Father Stuart Cradduck of St Wulfram’s Church in Grantham.
Could you help create a drama in South Kesteven? Call goes out for new film locations
Did you know that TV and film directors love to swoop on locations around South Kesteven for the perfect backdrop to their drama?
Burghley House, Harlaxton Manor and Stamford town centre have doubled up for period drama, DC Comics action or pacy thrillers.
There is now a new impetus to add to the list, through South Kesteven District Council’s Set-Jetting partnership with Lincolnshire County Council. The project was given a kickstart through a £55,000 Shared Prosperity Fund grant from SKDC. It’s in response to the growing – and financially valuable – trend among visitors increasingly influenced and attracted by film and TV show locations.
Latest figures put film-related screen tourism as worth £892m to the UK annually, with Lincolnshire and South Kesteven keen to reap the economic rewards.
Many blockbusters have already been filmed locally, with details in the panel on these pages, giving new visitor attractions for tourists to the area.
The Council Leader, Cllr Ashley Baxter, said: “We need the public’s help to find potential new film locations, and these can be anything from distinctive hideaways to landmark homes, historic buildings or something off the beaten track that might not be an obvious venue. Even old barns and farmyards might match a film script.
“We know that South Kesteven is already a famously film-friendly district. Its natural beauty and distinctive architecture lends itself so well to what film-makers need to see through the lens.”
Send your suggestions for film locations to discover@southkesteven.gov.uk
They will be added to the council’s SK Film Friendly Proposition available to industry professionals, producers, crew, location managers and commissioners to attract production companies.
A tourism showreel will be created to illustrate productions around the district that are already in the can, with footage of locations as visitors can experience them, with bespoke itineraries to guide them.
Burghley House near Stamford, a stunning example of Georgian architecture:
• 2005 Pride and Prejudice
• 2006 The Da Vinci Code
• 2023 The Flash
• 2025 Frankenstein
• Elizabeth: The Golden Age
Grimsthorpe Castle
• 1994 Middlemarch
Harlaxton Manor, a neoElizabethan folly built in 1837, now home to Harlaxton College
• 1971 The Ruling Class
• 1999 The Haunting
• 2017 Victoria
Stamford town:
• 1980 Space
• 2005 Pride and Prejudice
• 2013 My Mad Fat Diary
Hayley Toyne, Growth Manager for LCC’s Visitor Economy Team, said: “South Kesteven has a huge amount to offer and we look forward to helping welcome more film cameras to this amazing district.”
Understanding your Council Tax bill
Council Tax bills for the financial year 2025/26 are landing on doormats across the district. Want to know more about your bill and how the charges are calculated? This example shows the different elements that make up the bill. The Parish/Town precept shown is the average across the whole district. To find out exactly how much you will pay, look out for your bill arriving in the post.
Council Offices
The Picture House
St Catherine’s Road Grantham NG31 6TT
Tel: 01476 406080
Website: www.southkesteven.gov.uk
MR A N OTHER COUNCIL OFFICES
THE PICTURE HOUSE ST CATHERINE'S ROAD GRANTHAM NG31 6TT
Your Band D Council Tax bill for:
COUNCIL OFFICES, ST CATHERINES ROAD, GRANTHAM, LINCS, NG31 6TT
Bill date: March 2025
Bill period: 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026
Property ref: 10007272849
Why have I received this bill?
This bill has been issued as it’s the start of the Council Tax year.
Your Council Tax bill explained
1. The person(s) liable for Council Tax and the contact address.
2. Your Council Tax account number. To help us deal with any queries you may have please use this number when contacting South Kesteven District Council.
3. The date the Council Tax bill was issued.
4. The financial year the Council Tax bill relates to.
5. The property reference number.
6. The valuation band of the property. This determines the amount of Council Tax you pay. Band D is the average Council Tax. If you live in a property in another valuation band the amount you owe will be calculated as a proportion of a Band D.
7. The address of the property that the Council Tax bill has been issued for.
8. The reason for the bill being issued.
9. This is the period of liability the bill relates to.
10. The balance payable once any reductions have been applied.
11. Account details for the bill. Any discounts, exemptions, payments or Council Tax support that have been awarded are shown here. If your circumstances change, please contact us straight away.
12. The current payment instructions.
13. This shows a breakdown of the amounts due along with the dates the amounts are due. To avoid receiving a reminder or losing the right to pay by instalments, please try to make these payments on time. If you do find paying your Council Tax bill difficult, please contact us straight away.
14. This part of the bill shows how the money collected is split between us and other public sector organisations
in South Kesteven. SKDC is the billing authority. This means we are responsible for collecting Council Tax – not just for our organisation – but also for Lincolnshire County Council, the Police and Crime Commissioner (who holds the budget for Lincolnshire Police) and town and parish councils in this area. Most of what we collect is passed onto these authorities – we keep about 9 pence of every pound we receive to help fund the services we provide.
15. This shows the percentage increase from the previous year for each of the organisations.
16. This shows the average percentage increase overall.
17. This shows any additional important information. Information about discounts, an outstanding balance or a liability order from the court for an unpaid debt would be included here.
Please note: If you have signed up for e-billing, your bill will look different to the one shown, but the information will remain the same.
Council Tax helps pay for public services provided not just by South Kesteven District Council, but also Lincolnshire County Council and town/parish councils. It is also used to fund Lincolnshire Police.
Your Council Tax bill will show how much you are asked to pay towards the costs of public services in your local area, not including the NHS.
Bills are sent to every household in March detailing the amount the county council, Police and Crime Commissioner (Lincolnshire Police), South Kesteven District Council, and your town or parish council predict they will need to meet the costs of services they provide in 2025/26.
SKDC is the billing authority and collects the payments on behalf of each of these organisations, retaining only around 9% of the total. Its share of the total for a Band D property is £189.37 to pay for services it is responsible for –equivalent to around 9 pence in every pound.
Contacting the council
You can contact the council about Council Tax in a number of ways. You can:
Call our Customer Services Team 01476 40 60 80
• Use our self-service portal. Registering on the portal means you can contact us with a general enquiry about your account, upload documents to support an application, apply for a single person discount, make payments and many other things. https://www. southkesteven.gov.uk//council-tax/counciltax-and-benefits-self-service-portal
• Go to our website https://www. southkesteven.gov.uk/council-tax
Tourists and shoppers to benefit from more town centre parking spaces
Work is starting to improve parking provision in historic Stamford, which welcomes visitors year-round for its attractions and shopping.
The Cattle Market Car Park, off Wothorpe Road, is being extended to provide an extra 146 spaces, including electric charging points and accessible spaces.
The £550,000 investment was given the green light by South Kesteven District Council following a wide-ranging car park survey that clearly showed the need for an extension.
The site currently offers 275 spaces with a further 15 accessible spaces.
Cabinet Member for Property, Cllr Richard Cleaver, said: “We are pleased to finally be able to take some positive action to benefit the people of Stamford and the town’s many thousands of visitors.
“Because of the rich history which we all love, options for parking in the centre of the town are limited and what is already in place simply does not support peak visitor numbers.
“Demand in some car parks is forecast be over 100% of capacity and there are currently very few alternatives during the busiest times of day.
“In addition to serving local needs, Stamford is one of South Kesteven’s key tourist destinations and this long-stay car park extension will contribute towards the town’s economy now and in future years. It is just a short walk over the Meadows and within easy reach of the town centre.”
A tourism event in Stamford attended by councillors and local business produced feedback that parking and accommodation were seen as two major issues.
There is also an intention to create a new bus pick up at the car park entrance.
Visitors may see some changes while the work progresses, to allow
for safe movement of traffic and construction vehicles.
For regular car park users, season tickets can be purchased for use at long stay car parks, offering a significant discount on the daily parking charge.
Drivers can download the RingGo app to pay for their parking, in addition to cash or card options: www.myringgo.co.uk
Blue Badge holders park free in any SKDC car parks.
Street parking and permits are operated by Lincolnshire County Council.
Parking Season Ticket information: www.southkesteven. gov.uk/seasontickets
Free parking in Grantham
New car parking charges were introduced in SKDC-run car parks in January, offering drivers short stay free parking in Grantham in a bid to boost the local economy.
The Wharf Road multi-storey now offers two hours free, in line with the independently operated ground level spaces. One hour’s free parking is available at Grantham’s short stay car parks in Guildhall Street, Watergate, Welham Street and Conduit Lane.
Cllr Richard Cleaver on the site of the Stamford Cattle Market car park extension
Swinegate, Grantham takes shape
Affordable housing build passes half-way point
New homes being built on derelict brownfield land in the heart of Grantham have now passed the half-way point of construction.
The 20 units, at Swinegate, consist of one and two-bedroom affordable apartments for rent.
High quality affordable housing like this is needed in towns throughout the district – and across the country – which is what prompted SKDC to develop the land in partnership with Lindum Group.
Using up brownfield – or unused former industrial or housing – land to help build homes for those who need them most is just one of the ways SKDC is boosting its social housing stock.
The council also makes use of small pockets of land under its ownership, buys back housing sold under the Right to Buy, and works with developers to purchase new builds as soon as they go on sale, securing good value for taxpayers in the process.
The Corporate Plan 2024-27 sets out how SKDC will meet the mission “to ensure that all residents can access housing which is safe, good quality, sustainable and suitable for their needs and future generations.”
Cabinet Member for Housing, Cllr Virginia Moran, said: “Good housing is a key theme which runs alongside our work to create and enhance vibrant, attractive towns and villages where people want to come to live and work.
“We are determined to do what we can to mitigate an average loss of more than 40 homes a year to Right to Buy and now, for example, use a hybrid approach to replace them by acquiring properties off-plan on larger developments across the district, as well as building our own.”
The first phase at Swinstead Road in Corby Glen, being delivered by David Wilson Homes, made four new three-bedroom properties immediately available to those on SKDC’s Choice Based Lettings system. SKDC has secured 36 more new homes there in seven phases up to June 2028.
The housing acquisitions budget was increased in 202425 to include an additional £1m to buy the affordable properties direct from developers, part of
SKDC’s continuing work to ensure sustainable, affordable, and highquality housing is built.
Other recently completed developments of affordable housing, for those on the council’s housing register, include four units at Elizabeth Road, Stamford and five bungalows at Trinity Road, Stamford.
SKDC’s own new-builds include:
• Corby Glen new builds Phase 2: Under construction (below left)
• Swinegate, Grantham: Due for completion in July
• Larch Close, Grantham: Building due to start this springtime on 21 new homes
• Wellington Way, Market Deeping: Planning permission submitted for 14 new homes
• Gorse Rise, Grantham: Plans for six units were submitted in January
• Kesteven Road, Stamford: A 14-unit build is envisaged, which requires planning permission
• Bourne End Road, Colsterworth: Potential nine-unit scheme is at the design stage
Tree planting campaign supports biodiversity
The council planted 68 trees over the winter to play a part in supporting biodiversity across the district.
There are a range of species matched to the local conditions and climate change scenarios, and they include a mixture of native and nonnative species.
It follows adoption of SKDC’s new Trees & Woodland Strategy, agreed earlier this year, which encourages planting the right trees in the right place for the right reason.
Planting took place in Grantham, Stamford, Bourne, Market Deeping and Deeping St James between December and March, thanks to funding that covers planting and aftercare. Community volunteers have also stepped up to ensure the trees survive the transplanting process and deliver benefits to communities.
Cabinet Member for the Environment, Cllr Rhys Baker, said: “A key focus in the Environment Act 2021 is around biodiversity and what public authorities must do to consider how to conserve and enhance biodiversity in their areas. This covers both our duties as a local authority and the local planning authority in South Kesteven.”
As a public authority, the council must:
• Consider what we can do to conserve and enhance biodiversity
• Agree policies and specific objectives
• Act to deliver policies to achieve the objectives
Cllr Baker added: “This planting project is just part of our efforts
to meet the challenges of climate change, and helps the district council to support biodiversity and increase resilience to potential extreme weather events in the future.
“Planting trees of any kind brings valuable ecosystem benefits such as providing natural habitats, limiting the impact of heatwaves in urban areas, filtering pollution and contributing to flood prevention.
“Trees also play a positive role in the wellbeing of communities and residents. As such, we are appealing for community volunteers to step forward to support with watering and upkeep in the early stages.
“As the climate changes, we need to act to ensure that future generations can continue to benefit from our trees long into the future.”
The past year has seen a number of trees planted across the district, thanks to funding from the Coronation Living Heritage Fund, which will meet the cost to set up 31 small community orchards. Fifty new trees were planted on SKDC-managed open spaces in Grantham, Stamford, Bourne and Market Deeping.
Park volunteers help with tree planting programme
Harnessing power of the sun
Solar panels to increase energy efficiency for council tenants are now installed at more than 158 homes.
The upgrades, which will reach 367 properties in all, will result in lower energy bills and a warmer, more comfortable home at zero cost to residents. We’ve also put external wall insulation onto 26 properties and 54 homes have benefited from a new air source heat pump.
How YOU can help
Get composting! It’s an inexpensive, natural process that transforms kitchen and garden waste into a valuable and nutrient rich food for your garden and is easy to make and use.
Know your carbon footprint!
The WWF Footprint Calculator is a great tool which can help you understand your own personal carbon footprint: https://footprint.wwf.org.uk
Think energy efficiency at home! Installing measures to improve your home’s energy efficiency will help you save carbon as well as reduce how much you spend: https://tinyurl.com/toptipsSK
Help wildlife! Gardens cover more land than UK national parks. See 12 ways to grow a low-carbon garden: https://tinyurl.com/lowgarden
Reuse and recycle! Reducing the waste you generate lowers your carbon emissions. Choose food items that don’t come in as much plastic or packaging, and plan meals so less food is wasted.
Help your business become greener! There are several websites you can access in the UK to gain funding for your business to become greener: https://tinyurl.com/greenerGOV
It’s part of our work on a £7.26m energy efficiency upgrade scheme, which includes money from the Government’s Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund, to target the poorest performing properties based on their current EPC rating.
A major project to save energy and reduce running costs at Grantham Meres Leisure Centre was completed in the autumn.
A £399,000 grant from Sport England’s Swimming Pool Support Fund helped bring an additional 574 solar panels to the venue. We’ve already brought low-carbon heating to the Meres to reduce carbon emissions there by some 550 tonnes per year –8% of the council’s total carbon emissions.
How the council aims to cut carbon emissions
The council has set up a working group to help steer its biodiversity plans and make firm plans. Officers from a range of departments with different specialities take part.
It aims to achieve the following objectives and provide regular updates to the Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee.
We want to fully understand the current health of the natural environment in the district and identify areas of improvement.
We will set out the council’s remit to influence the natural environment and improve biodiversity.
Officers are ready to consider our role as a planning authority alongside new expectations for Biodiversity Net Gain at new developments.
Help your business become greener! There are several websites you can access in the UK to gain funding for your business to become greener: https://tinyurl.com/ greenerGOV
Community support is just the ticket
Community hub volunteers at the Thorold Arms pub in Marston are raising a glass to LotterySK for helping them to support village life.
In The Deepings, a different group is benefiting from its lottery ticket sale income for their Men In Sheds group – another community support project.
Both are recent sign-ups to South Kesteven District Council’s community lottery – raising almost £327, 000 for local causes in the last six years – and both are set to benefit from lottery ticket sale income.
Cllr Paul Stokes, SKDC Deputy Leader, said: “We are really proud to see just how much LotterySK is helping different community groups and organisations across the district.”
In Marston the pub was bought through community shares and re-opened in 2019. It’s been refurbished and is now a community hub within the pub, including a restaurant and quiz nights, outreach Post Office, a book club, shop and two B and B guest bedrooms.
The hub, with 40 volunteers supported by paid staff, is now an integral part of village life, helping to prevent social isolation and offer a meeting place for neighbours, friends and visitors.
With more than 70 lottery tickets in play, they are fast approaching their initial £2,600 target towards costs of running the hub.
In The Deepings, Men In Sheds members are supporting another important community, meeting every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
Mostly retired, their backgrounds range from architecture, electrics and carpentry to accounting. The Shed allows them to pool talents and skills on projects and help others to learn at their Swires Garden Centre base in Market Deeping.
Woodwork, metal work, repairs and up-cycling - even filling sandbagsmembers will take on anything the community asks for, accompanied by a cup of tea in good company.
Members are generally from within a 12-mile radius and new faces always welcome.
• £1 tickets
• Weekly Draw for £25,000 • Register to raise money or choose who to support at www.lotterysk.co.uk
Deepings Men In Sheds members
Sandra Allen, Carly Giles and Rachael Lane outside The Thorold Arms
Make 2025 memorable with SK Community Fund
Community groups can make this year extra special with project funding from the SK Community Fund.
Grants of up to £5,000 are available to constituted community groups and charities, with a smaller grants scheme offering up to £2,000.
South Kesteven District Council’s Community Fund programme has awarded funding grants totalling more than £782,000 since 2015.
The council is particularly keen to support projects or events tackling loneliness, and improvements to community buildings and amenities.
The last funding round awarded grants of almost £12,000 and there will be another three funding rounds during 2025, starting in May.
Latest awards granted:
Foston Village Hall received £3,228 for improvements to old and deteriorating lighting and emergency lighting with LED lighting set to reduce its bills.
Grantham Creates received £4,965 for equipment to produce community and amateur artwork displays in empty units and shop windows around the town centre.
The new Rolling Stones Colsterworth New Age Kurling Group received £1,005 for new
indoor kurling sets to be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities.
St John’s Church, Spitalgate, received £2,691 to improve toilet facilities and water supply, benefitting visitors to the Community Fridge and Warm Hub.
Cllr Paul Stokes, SKDC Deputy Leader said: “We are urging communities to apply for funding to really make a difference to their plans this year.
Community groups can apply for up to 80% of eligible costs
to a maximum of £5,000, with the remaining 20% as a required applicant contribution.
The small grants scheme can fund 100% of project and event costs up to £2,000, with no match funding required. This scheme is only open to groups that hold £10,000 or less of financial resource.
Community Fund enquiries and application forms from: communityfund@ southkesteven.gov.uk
“We are extremely proud to have helped so many communities with project funding and we look forward to helping more in 2025”
Darren Whiting with Grantham Creates’ new printing press
South Kesteven Skills Summits 2025
Events inspire the district’s future workforce
Hundreds of students were invited to explore their future career pathways at events held in Grantham and Stamford.
Skills Summits held at Grantham College and Stamford College in February brought together local businesses with 16 to 18-year-olds looking to embark on the next step in their future.
The events were delivered by South Kesteven District Council in collaboration with The Careers Hub, in partnership with the Greater Lincolnshire Local Enterprise Partnership, who together drive progress with key employers committed to improving careers across the local area.
Young people aged 18 to 21 who are being supported in finding work by the Department of Work and Pensions were also invited to attend.
Cllr Ashley Baxter, Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Finance, HR and Economic Development, said: “The enthusiasm and engagement at these events was fantastic to see and shows that South Kesteven
is a place where ambition and talent can thrive.”
Businesses and organisations attending the events included National Trust, Lincolnshire Police, University of Lincoln and Bakkavor. Students gained an insight into what the world of work might look like for them and spoke to future potential employers across a range of different industries here in the district.
Representatives from SKDC also met students to discuss working in local government and some of the roles on offer that young people might not know exist.
For employers, it was a chance to network and consider ways to expand and strengthen their workforces by partnering with education providers.
Skills bootcamps, apprenticeships and bespoke programmes are just some of the ways that education can help businesses to thrive.
By connecting potential employers with our future workforce, we’re strengthening the local economy, supporting businesses and ensuring that every young person in the district has the opportunity to build a bright and successful future. – Cllr Ashley Baxter, Leader of SKDC
Toilets reopened in town centre
Refurbished public toilets at Conduit Lane in Grantham reopened in January after extensive refurbishment by SKDC.
The project, funded by the £4.1m Grantham Future High Streets Fund, included new fixtures, fittings, replacement windows and doors, full redecoration, and an accessible toilet for visitors with additional needs.
Cllr Richard Cleaver, Cabinet Member for Property and Public Engagement, said: “I am delighted to see the refurbished toilets at Conduit Lane reopen for public use after a number of years.
“The much improved facilities are a fantastic addition to the town centre and demonstrate the council’s commitment to enhancing Grantham’s offer to visitors and residents.
“Alongside our other improvement projects, the toilets will help to provide vital facilities in the town – increasing footfall, supporting our local businesses and creating a more welcoming environment.”
The reopening marked another step in the council’s broader investment programme aimed at revitalising Grantham town centre, including improvements to the Market Place and Station Approach.
The toilets are 20p to use, via a contactless payment, and open from 10am-2pm and 9am-4pm on Saturdays. The accessible toilet can be opened using a radar key.
Other facilities are available in Abbey Gardens and Wyndham Park Visitor Centre.
Bus travel made easier with new digital signs
Digital information boards are on their way to bus stations in South Kesteven to give passengers up to date information for their travel.
The first will be in Bourne and Stamford, with Grantham expected to follow.
The information boards will display real time information on bus times and what time the next bus will be arriving.
Cabinet Member for Property, Cllr Richard Cleaver, said: “We have been working with the county council during the past few months to agree the location, design and paperwork for the installation of these boards so that they can bring a better experience for everyone using the buses.
“We hope that this, in turn, will increase the use of public transport and therefore help contribute to the councils’ ambitions to reduce their carbon footprint.”
Work is expected to be complete by the end of March.
Lincolnshire County Council will be responsible for keeping the information up to date as well as the ongoing maintenance and running costs of the boards. It is one of a number of recent improvements carried out our town bus stations.
Off-street parking orders have ensured no unauthorised parking in the areas used by buses.
And a refurbishment of Bourne Bus Station’s shelters has resulted in a brighter, safer area for passengers This included repainting, removal of graffiti, replacement of damaged glass and replacement of roof sections at North Road.
The refurbished toilets in Conduit Lane, Grantham
what’s on
Arts across South Kesteven
Enjoy live events at our fantastic Arts Centres and venues. With something for everyone, now is the perfect time to support and take part in the arts across the district.
Concessionary prices in brackets
SHERLOCK HOLMES: THE LAST ACT!
THURSDAY 20TH & FRIDAY 21ST MARCH, 7:30PM
GUILDHALL ARTS CENTRE & STAMFORD ARTS CENTRE
The year is 1916. Drawn from two years of Sussex retirement for the funeral of his friend, Dr Watson, Holmes returns to Baker Street to resolve ‘the last act’ of his epic career. A theatrical evening then unfolds, with fourteen characters, all played by Nigel Miles-Thomas in a tour de force performance. As the play concludes the great detective reveals a shocking secret.
n TICKETS: £16 (£15) | SUITABLE FOR AGES 12+
KEVIN PRECIOUSTHE RELUCTANT TEACHER
THURSDAY 3RD APRIL, 7:30PM
GUILDHALL ARTS CENTRE THEATRE
Whilst wrangling with disinterested kids in various Secondary Schools in Sussex during the day, Kevin increasingly pursued the business of stand-up comedy at night… inevitably something had to give. The show is a funny overview of the pitfalls and pratfalls that go with Kevin’s former profession of teaching; with a bit of pedagogical stuff (ooh-er) thrown in for good measure.
n TICKETS: £14 (£12) | SUITABLE FOR AGES 16+
EMPIRICAL
FRIDAY 4TH APRIL, 7:30PM
STAMFORD ARTS CENTRE BALLROOM
Join the multi award-winning UK jazz ensemble Empirical for a performance of their album ‘Wonder Is The Beginning’. Empirical’s trademark combination of complex, thoughtful writing and spontaneous improvisation is enabled by the absolute trust that comes from years of collective music making and is at the heart of what makes Empirical stand out consistently on the musical landscape.
n TICKETS: £20 (£18)
THE PRINCESS & THE FROG
SATURDAY 5TH APRIL, 2PM GUILDHALL ARTS CENTRE THEATRE
Join us for an exciting introduction to dance and theatre where tickets are just £5! After sell out tours around the UK, Let’s All Dance Ballet Company is delighted to return with this beautiful, classical ballet to charm audiences young and old. A lovely production and a heartwarming tale with the theme of friendship at its core. A post show dance workshop with the cast is also available for just £2!
n TICKETS: £5 STANDARD | £2 DANCE WORKSHOP
SUITABLE FOR AGES 2-8
THE MYSTERY OF STAMFORD ARTS CENTRE
THURSDAY 10TH APRIL, 2:30PM STAMFORD ARTS CENTRE THEATRE
Join super sleuth Danyah Miller to unravel ‘The Mystery of Stamford Arts Centre’. From the award-winning creators of ‘I Believe in Unicorns’ comes this new brain-teasing interactive adventure. Combining live board game elements with a thrilling evidence hunt, you’ll become a detective faced with intriguing suspects, curious objects and a detailed theatre map. Can we crack this case together?
n TICKETS: £12 (£10) | £40 FAMILY OF 4 SUITABLE FOR AGES 7+
Ginger Johnson
Empirical
AN EVENING WITH GINGER JOHNSON
SATURDAY 3RD MAY, 8PM
GUILDHALL ARTS CENTRE THEATRE
The winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Season 5 is bringing an exciting new show, ‘An Evening With Ginger Johnson’, to Grantham! Following the success of past drag performances at the Arts Centre, including crowd favourites like Baga Chipz and Danny Beard, this show promises to be an unforgettable evening of entertainment. Expect an evening of high energy numbers, wacky costumes, hilarious comedy and live vocals!
n TICKETS: £18-£25 | £35 VIP MEET AND GREET STRICTLY AGES 16+
PASCAL ROGÉ
SATURDAY 12TH APRIL, 7:30PM STAMFORD ARTS CENTRE BALLROOM
Pascal Rogé exemplifies the finest in French pianism. Born in Paris, he was a student of the Paris Conservatory and was also mentored by Julius Katchen and the great Nadia Boulanger. inner of Georges Enesco piano competition and 1st prize of Marguerite Long Piano competition, he became an exclusive Decca recording artist at the age of seventeen. This concert will also feature Elena Font.
n TICKETS: £26 (£24)
Guildhall Arts Centre
St Peter’s Hill, Grantham NG31 6PY
www.guildhallartscentre.com
01476 406158
Stamford Arts Centre
27 St Mary’s Street, Stamford PE9 2DL
www.stamfordartscentre.com
01780 763203
SOPHIA
THURSDAY 1ST MAY, 7:30PM
STAMFORD ARTS CENTRE THEATRE
Sophia Duleep Singh was born into royalty and grew up to be a revolutionary. Sophia’s father was the last Maharajah of Punjab, dethroned by the British as a child and exiled to England. The family made a home in Suffolk, until bankruptcy and a new mistress swayed the dispossessed Maharajah to make a secret new life abroad and plot to take back his kingdom. This epic new drama tells the story of an unknown lioness of women’s suffrage and her part in some of the defining moments of British Indian history.
n TICKETS:£16 (£15) | SUITABLE FOR AGES 14+
Easton Walled Gardens
As we move into Spring, Easton Walled Gardens flourishes into colour. Meader through the gardens, stop for a cake, and even stay overnight in one of their holiday cottages. www.visiteaston.co.uk
Woolsthorpe Manor
MANHUNTER & MINDHUNTER
WEDNESDAY 14TH MAY, 7:30PM
GUILDHALL ARTS CENTRE THEATRE
An unforgettable evening of true crime with two of Scotland Yard’s most prolific detectives. This is a gripping two-man show that delves into the dark world of serial killers, offering audiences a unique blend of true crime storytelling and psychological exploration. It’s not just another true crime show; it’s a deep dive into the mind of a serial killer, with a particular focus on Levi Bellfield, one of the UK’s most infamous criminals.
n TICKETS: £24 STANDARD | SUITABLE FOR AGES 16+
Bourne Corn Exchange
3 Abbey Road, Bourne PE10 9EF
www.bournecornexchange.com
01778 423579
Discover the story of Sir Isaac Newton in this National Trustowned 17th century Lincolnshire farmhouse. Explore the 400-yearold orchard, home to the world’s most famous apple tree that inspired the birth of modern science.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ nottinghamshire-lincolnshire/ woolsthorpe-manor
Boothby Wildland Nature Reserve
This former 600-hectare farm has gradually retreated from arable farming allowing nature to take back the lead.
Offering tours of the rewilding process and morning bird-spotting excursions, explore the landscape and see firsthand the return of the natural Lincolnshire wildland. www.nattergal.co.uk/ boothby-wildland
Easton Walled Gardens
