SKtoday
for residents of South Kesteven Summer 2025
Pages 4 and 5
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.
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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. www.southkesteven.gov.uk
Nice to know
• Alternative formats are available
Front cover: New waste freighters carry important health messages
FULL STORY: Pages 4 and 5
County election signals change
Voters went to the polls for three local elections in May. In the Mayoral Election for the Greater Lincolnshire Combined Authority, Andrea Jenkyns was elected for the Reform UK party, with 104,133 votes.
Fourteen Lincolnshire County Council seats were contested in the South Kesteven district, contributing to the overall LCC composition of Reform UK – 44 seats; Conservative – 14; Liberal Democrat – 5; Labour - 3; Independent – 3; Lincolnshire Independent – 1.
The result gives Reform UK overall control of the council.
Local results:
• Bourne North and Morton (CON HOLD) Sue Woolley 1,261
• Bourne South and Thurlby (Reform UK GAIN) Kenneth Redfern 875
• Colsterworth Rural (CON HOLD) Charlotte Vernon 1,018
• Deepings East (IND HOLD) Phil Dilks 1,019
• Deepings West and Rural (IND HOLD) Ashley Baxter 926
• Folkingham Rural (CON HOLD) Martin Hill 1,282
• Grantham Barrowby (Reform UK GAIN) Richard Litchfield 930
• Grantham East (Reform UK GAIN) Cain Parkinson 670
• Grantham North (CON HOLD) Paul Martin 980
• Grantham South (Reform UK GAIN) Carl Edgoose-Zagorskiy 575
• Grantham West (CON HOLD) Richard Davies 788
• Hough (Reform UK GAIN) Ken Bamford 1,068
• Stamford East (CON HOLD) Kelham Cooke 651
• Stamford West (IND HOLD) Richard Cleaver 1,279
A by-election for St Vincent’s Ward on Grantham Town Council saw Paul O’Reilly elected with 947 votes as an Independent Member of Grantham Together.
Full details of all candidates can be found online: www.southkesteven.gov.uk/local-gov-results
Cllr Ashley Baxter, Leader of South Kesteven District Council
Different ways we're tackling waste
Welcome to the summer edition of SKToday. This issue is full of stories about tackling waste in one way or another.
On page 6, you can learn how the council has reduced wasted energy by investing £1m in upgrading street-lights. Later, on page 8, there is a story about an even bigger project to improve energy-efficiency in our housing stock, reducing costs for council tenants. Details of further significant improvements to council houses can be found on page 9.
A targeted campaign to clean up the Earlesfield area of Grantham is outlined on page 14. This work is in addition to the daily operations of our dedicated Street Scene team, many of whom recently worked beyond the call of duty to take part in overnight litter-picking operations on the A1.
Recent enhancements to the FixMyStreet website and mobile app make it easier to report graffiti, fly-tipping and littering as well as potholes and faulty street lights. The system is integrated to work for services provided by both the district and county councils. Please help us to help you by using FixMyStreet to tell us about any problems in your area. More details are on page 15.
As well as keeping the district clean, we use education, information and enforcement measures to discourage people from making a mess in the first place.
On page 20 you can read about the “Whale – Plastic Ocean” art exhibition which has recently toured all four of our market towns. The exhibition illustrated the environmental damage caused by plastic pollution. It was wellreceived by hundreds of school
children and many more members of the public.
Meanwhile, the council’s CCTV team are now working much more closely with the police to prevent crime and anti-social behaviour. Details of major improvements to our CCTV network are explained on page 17.
Finally, our cover story features the five new colourful vehicles recently added to our refuse collection fleet. They are already promoting charity and health messages across the district as they collect waste each week from nearly 70,000 households.
I am extremely proud of the improvements and investments the council is making across the district. I am sure most residents appreciate the continued hard work – both the ‘everyday’ and the ‘exceptional’ – undertaken by council staff to make South Kesteven an ever more beautiful place to live, work and visit.
SKDC members and officers with the latest additions to the waste fleet
Colourful bin lorries carry vital messages
Five colourful new refuse collection lorries carrying eyecatching health and wellbeing messages are taking to the roads of South Kesteven.
The district council’s fleet already includes a distinctive pink lorry promoting breast cancer awareness and a bright blue lorry doing the same for prostate cancer.
Joining them will be freighters supporting five more major charities:
• Royal British Legion
• Samaritans
• Bowel Cancer UK
• Kidney Research UK
• Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation
Each is painted in the distinctive brand colours of the organisation whose messages they carry and were unveiled in May at the South Kesteven Sports Stadium on Trent Road, Grantham.
Council lorry supplier Dennis Eagle has supported the initiative with the bespoke paint finish on the freighter, which were already on order as part of the depot's normal turnover.
The new vehicles were already scheduled for delivery, so there
was no extra cost to the council for either the lorry or the paintwork.
It’s a colourful demonstration of the council’s continuing commitment to promoting health awareness with each lorry on the road every week across the district.
Cllr Ashley Baxter, Leader of SKDC, said: “The charities we are supporting do life-saving work, each in their own way. It’s a privilege to be able to help get their messages out to residents via these new refuse vehicles.
“Our lorries are highly visible and visit every corner of our district. Our crews tell us that the public are really interested and engaged when they see them out and about.
“The arrival of the new wagons will provoke further conversations and hopefully make people more aware of the work of the various partner charities.”
The freighters come into the council’s fleet as replacements for others that have reached the end of their seven-year planned service.
Clive Cooper, Chairman of Grantham Royal British Legion
Royal British Legion
Tina Pringle, Regional Poppy Appeal Manager for the Royal British Legion, said: “This very visible demonstration of support is not only a lift for our veterans and beneficiaries, but also our teams of volunteers across the county who collect for our Poppy Appeal every year and helps us to raise vital funds to support members of the Armed Forces community.” www.britishlegion.org.uk
Kidney Research
Lucy Sreeves, executive director at Kidney Research UK, said: “This initiative is a great way to bring kidney disease into the public eye.
“Our kidneys toil away silently every day to take out waste and keep our bodies healthy - but when they fail, the effects can be life-changing. Taking that message out onto the streets is a powerful way to spark conversations about kidney disease in the heart of our communities.”
www.kidneyresearchuk.org
Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation
Paula Chadwick, chief executive of Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, said: “This unique opportunity helps us break down dangerous misconceptions about lung cancer, raise awareness of the many different symptoms and make everyone aware that we are here to support anyone affected by this disease.” www.roycastle.org
Bowel Cancer UK
Genevieve Edwards, Chief Executive at Bowel Cancer UK, said: “Our message is simple, if you notice any symptoms of bowel cancer, bin your embarrassment, and contact your GP to ask for an at-home test.
“SKDC’s refuse collectors are playing a lifesaving role in helping us drive awareness of bowel cancer and its symptoms to thousands of households in the area.”
www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk
Samaritans
Mandy Connor, branch director with Samaritans of Grantham said: “Grantham Samaritans provide 24/7, free, non-judgmental emotional support. We know listening can be life-saving and encourage anyone who needs to contact us to do so.” www.samaritans.org
Director of Samaritans of Grantham Mandy Connor (left) and listener Jane Fletcher
Sarah Weston - Director of Services Bowel Cancer UK
LEDs light way to big savings
A£1m energy-saving upgrade to street lights operated by South Kesteven District Council is expected to be completed by the end of August 2025.
The council manages 3,893 street lights in the district. As of May this year 3,370 had been upgraded to LED, equivalent to 86% of the total.
Street lighting is the single largest area of electricity consumption for the council and currently accounts for just over 4% of SKDC’s total carbon emissions.
Latest figures show that the cost of energy for street lights alone has been reduced by 56% since the scheme began.
There are expected savings of 75% for every lamp upgraded, with a payback period of 3.7 years on the investment
The Council Leader, Cllr Ashley Baxter, said: “We are determined to complete this upgrade as quickly as possible in order to maximise the substantial energy savings made by using LED bulbs.
“This will significantly help us to achieve our target of becoming
a carbon neutral organisation by 2030 and save council taxpayers millions of pounds over the next two decades. It’s a real win-win.
“We have no plans to switch our street lights off overnight but the new ones do allow us to make further savings by dimming them between midnight and 6am.
“The LED streetlighting programme is biggest single project that we, as a council, are undertaking to reduce our own carbon emissions. I am delighted it is on course to be completed this year, despite problems due to issues such as global material shortages.”
The installation contract was awarded to E.ON Energy Solutions Limited and covers a work programme to upgrade around 3,100 streetlights to LED units with an inbuilt dimming programme.
SKDC’s street lights also include others relating to the council’s housing stock that predominantly provide lighting for footways.
Street lighting provided for highways is mostly managed by Lincolnshire County Council and is turned off from midnight to 6am.
Play outdoors – it’s fun and free!
Youngsters are enjoying improved play parks thanks to a £100,000 investment by South Kesteven District Council.
Improvements have been made at Arnoldfield Play Area on Gonerby Road, Grantham; Highgrove Gardens on Empingham Road, Stamford; Wild Witham Play Area in South Witham; and Dysart Park, Grantham.
Each has benefited from the UK Shared Prosperity FundGovernment funding given to projects that can be shown to support the whole community.
Deputy Leader and Cabinet member for Leisure and Culture, Cllr Paul Stokes, said: “We are delighted to be investing in our beautiful parks and urban play areas across South Kesteven, as we make them more fun, safe and accessible for everyone.
“The latest programme focuses on replacing existing play equipment that has reached the end of its serviceable life.
“We want to encourage more children and families to enjoy everything these areas have to offer, bringing them closer to nature in an outdoor environment where they can play and socialise.
“The Council continues to invest in services and facilities across the four towns to ensure residents in every part of the district can enjoy free and accessible open air play.”
SKDC has separately invested more than £68,000 for repairs and/ or new equipment at 14 play areas district-wide. They are:
• Andrew Road, Stamford
• Arnoldfield, Grantham
• Churchfield Close, Deeping St James
• Elizabeth Road, Stamford
• Foxglove Road, Stamford
• Harrowby Lane, Grantham
• Manor Close, Langtoft
• Princess Drive, Grantham
• Dysart Park, Grantham
• Queen Elizabeth Park, Grantham
• Wellhead, Bourne
• Kesteven Drive, Market Deeping
• Hornsby Road, Grantham
• Wyndham Park, Grantham
A further £35,000-worth of work, paid for separately by developers as part of their social responsibilities, has given a new lease of life to the Wellhead Play Area in Bourne.
This has seen an old wooden fort and entrance gate replaced with a multi-play unit, roundabout, somersault bars, springer bowl, spinner, and a single easy gate.
“The Council continues to invest in services and facilities across the four towns to ensure residents in every part of the district can enjoy free and accessible open air play.”
Pictured left to right are Bourne ward members Cllr Paul Fellows, Cllr Rhys Baker and Cllr Emma Baker
Energy efficiency upgrades help cut council house bills
More council tenants have benefited from free energy saving home upgrades through SKDC’s partnership with E.ON.
As part of the ongoing Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund upgrades, improvements have been made to 284 domestic council properties, enhancing energy efficiency and comfort for residents.
Around £7.26m from the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund Wave 2.1 will provide energy efficiency measures for more than 300 households across the district.
In addition, solar panels are being installed at Earlesfield Community Centre, Grantham, contributing to the Council’s sustainable energy goals.
There is also a social value element to reflect the partnership’s wider role in providing meaningful support beyond physical improvements to homes.
This includes extras for tenants whose home life has been disrupted through the building work – such as aid for community support groups through charitable donations, Easter eggs, tinned goods, and financial contributions to local organisations helping those in need.
Chris Norbury, Chief Executive of E.ON UK, said: “We can have a real impact in helping those people struggling to make ends meet, not only today, but for the longer term as well.
“The aim is to tackle the root cause of many people’s high energy bills – namely high energy use due to our nation’s poorly insulated homes – and provide them with a more comfortable, sustainable and affordable home for the future.
“We are proud to work alongside South Kesteven District Council to bring energy saving, efficient homes alongside wider social benefits to the community of South Kesteven, ensuring residents receive lasting support beyond the completion of works.”
It is estimated that the efficiency measures could save tenants up to £400 a year on energy bills.
Cabinet member for Housing, Cllr Virginia Moran, said: “This collaboration means we’ve not only delivered warmer, more efficient homes, but have also strengthened wider local networks with people involved in these areas and improved residents' overall quality of life.
“The scheme continues to generate benefits that go far beyond energy savings: it’s a platform for local regeneration, reducing fuel poverty and enhancing community spaces.”
Alongside a grant from the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund, an additional £3,847,516 will come from the Council's Housing Revenue Account.
“The scheme continues to generate benefits that go far beyond energy savings”
Solar panels on SKDC housing
Homes to be proud of thanks to £6m improvement project
Aproject to refurbish and revitalise more than 120 council houses on Grantham’s Earlesfield estate is nearing completion.
Replacement kitchens and bathrooms have been fitted in 95 homes, along with electrical, heating and door upgrades in a similar number.
With our contractor, United Living, we have:
replaced 77 full heating systems
completed 102 full rewires
fitted 95 new kitchens
installed 87 bath/ showers and 96 downstairs toilets
replaced 107 front doors; 110 rear doors
given 120 properties full window replacements
cleared asbestos from 109 homes
made 105 lofts fire resistant
provided 117 homes with new loft insulation
fitted 106 extractor fans to combat damp and mould
Shaun Sunderland, Project Manager with United Living, SKDC’s Cabinet Member for Housing, Cllr Virginia Moran, and Director of Housing and Projects, Alison Hall-Wright.
Following stock condition surveys some extra work was added, such as providing new windows, doors or heating systems that were due for replacement within five years in order to reduce inconvenience to tenants.
The project saw almost 100 households temporarily rehomed, using ten vacant properties on the estate on a rolling programme, to allow the work to take place
SKDC provided white goods for the temporary accommodation, plus removal and cleaning services. Another property was used as an estate office where residents could find out more and keep up to date with progress.
Cabinet Member for Housing, Cllr Virginia Moran, said: “We completely understand how a temporary move and some revision of the expected timeframe could be unsettling for tenants, and we have worked with them to smooth the process of refurbishing their homes.
“To help reassure everyone affected, we have taken a bespoke approach to inform, assist and work with all tenants involved as work progressed on their homes.
“There has been detailed consultation with tenants to understand any vulnerabilities, particular housing needs and personal circumstances. We provided dedicated officers linked to this project and tenants have had direct contact details.
“This refurbishment and renovation programme represents a clear commitment to improving people’s homes. These properties on the Earlesfield estate are well over 50 years-old, and the work was very much needed.
“SKDC is committed to providing housing that meets the needs of all residents. This project has delivered numerous benefits for our tenants and is further evidence of the wider improvements we continue to see in our housing service.”
The council has a clear commitment in its Corporate Plan 2024-2027 to ensure that all residents can access housing that is safe, good quality, sustainable and suitable for their needs and those o future generations.
“This project, focused on improving houses on the Earlesfield Estate, will contribute towards achieving this commitment,” said Cllr Moran.
Fancy a snack, duck? Try this new healthy bird feeder!
Aquacking new duck feed dispenser is dishing out portions of healthy feed for ducks and other water birds at SKDC’s Wyndham Park in Grantham.
The equipment, between the white bridge and the wooden bridge, is solar powered, contactless and self-contained – bringing a sustainable solution to problems associated with the wrong feed or uneaten treats left by the ducks.
It costs £1 per portion, with 10% going back to the park through the volunteer friends of the park organised by Wyndham Park Forum.
Cabinet Member for Environment and Waste, Cllr Rhys Baker, said: “ We all have great memories of
feeding ducks at the ponds with our families and friends. But using the wrong food is bad for the birds.
“Bread doesn’t have the right nutrition and is like feeding ducks junk food. Without the right diet, they will not be able to grow or develop the right feathers to keep warm.
“Uneaten bird food pollutes our waterways, increases algae growth and can cause a build-up of silt, creating ideal conditions for diseases that threaten biodiversity in our rivers.
“This dispenser will allow residents to keep making those memories while making sure our ducks, birds and wildfowl stay healthy.”
The Feed Ducks Initiative has partnered with South Kesteven District Council to provide the dispenser.
Deputy Leader of the Council, Cllr Paul Stokes, who is also Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure, said: “We're pleased to be able to bring this new cash-free facility for visitors to our park, at no cost to SKDC whatsoever.
“It’s very robust at almost half a tonne and dispenses food with no packaging, which means less chance of litter in the duck feeding area.
“I’m very much looking forward to seeing people sharing healthy feed with the birds during the better weather ahead as they enjoy all the other facilities our fabulous park has to offer.”
The most significant overhaul of local government since the 1970s is now under way
South Kesteven District Council has put forward its favoured option for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) in Lincolnshire.
The proposal would see a merger of North and South Kesteven, joined by South Holland district and Rutland county council areas.
A White Paper published in December last year asked district/ borough and county councils across England to submit their initial LGR proposals by Friday March 21st 2025. SKDC and other councils is now working on more detailed plans to be submitted to the Government by November 2025.
The Government wants to replace the current system of counties and districts with unitary authorities to complement the newly devolved Greater Lincolnshire Mayoral Combined County Authority.
The SKDC proposals also outline preferred options for local government across the rest of Greater Lincolnshire which would result in three unitary authorities:
• Unitary 1, population 405,519: South Kesteven, North Kesteven, South Holland, Rutland (previously a member of the Greater Lincolnshire Local Enterprise Partnership)
• Unitary 2, population 417,932: Boston, East Lindsey, West Lindsey, City of Lincoln
• Unitary 3, population 328,422: North Lincolnshire, North-East Lincolnshire
The Leader of SKDC, Cllr Ashley Baxter, said: “This will be the most significant overhaul of local government since the 1970s. The government has demanded that we move at pace to a very ambitious timeline.
“Fundamentally, the government's plans will take decision-making
further away from local residents. There will be fewer councillors who will be inevitably be less accessible and less accountable to the people they represent.
“We are, however, committed to working with neighbouring councils to achieve the best possible outcome for our residents and businesses.
“Although the Government has suggested unitary authorities should have populations of around 500,000, there has been consistent
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guidance that proposals for smaller populations will be acceptable when supported by a clear rationale.
“It is also evident that proposals which cross existing public service boundaries would be considered which in our case would be the inclusion of Rutland county.
“Our proposal, therefore, strikes the right balance between sufficient scale to ensure financial sustainability and services, and the practical demands of Greater Lincolnshire’s geography.”
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Celebrations mark Victory in Europe 80th anniverary
Victory in Europe Day was celebrated across South Kesteven with flag-raising ceremonies, community events and beacons lighting up the district as part of the national anniversary celebrations.
Beacon lights the way
The 80th anniversary of VE Day on Thursday 8th May started with a flag raising at St Peter’s Hill in Grantham, and concluded with a beacon lighting in the town’s Wyndham Park.
A stunning specially choreographed display by members of Grantham School of Dancing was part of the entertainment in the park with music from the wartime era.
Exhibits in the park’s Visitor Centre illustrated the district’s role in the build-up to Victory in Europe.
The theme was echoed by Lt Col Duncan Lowe, Head of Establishment at Grantham’s Prince William of Gloucester Barracks, who lit the beacon.
He praised the allied airborne troops who trained locally for D-Day and Arnhem along with the role of the Home Guard.
Visitors were reminded of Grantham’s war, where German bombers targeted the British Manufacturing and Research Company defence cannon manufacturing site on Springfield Road.
Cllr Bridget Ley, SKDC Armed Forces Champion, said: “We were extremely proud as a council to contribute to the national celebrations.
“South Kesteven played a huge role militarily thanks to airborne forces gathered here and helped to turn the tide of war. We must never forget their sacrifice.
“Grantham itself suffered hugely from bombing during the war and it’s equally important to recognise the price paid by the town.”
Lt Col Duncan Lowe and lit beacon
Sights and stories to mark VE Day
More than 500 people attended a VE Day celebration organised by SKDC at Grantham House on Sunday 4th May.
Visitors to the newly reopened National Trust property were treated to sights and stories of restored WWII Willys jeeps, an exhibition of military history, talks, music and teas on the lawn.
The day also highlighted SKDC’s Soldiers From The Sky project, funded by a National Lottery grant, which illustrates how locally-based allied paratroopers from Britain, America and Poland helped end the war.
Dr Henry Cutten, National Trust Local Partnerships Co-ordinator, said: “The event was a great way to launch Grantham House being open to the public.
“We hope to host many more local events like this and become a place that’s really at the heart of the community.”
Two US military-branded jeeps, along with re-enactors, evoked memories of American Pathfinder troops who flew from RAF North Witham to Normandy on the eve of D-Day. Another was displayed in British WWII military livery.
Wartime singer Melody Flyte was joined by London-based entertainer Count Indigo to entertain visitors.
A special SKDC Military Commemoration Fund awarded £13,767.50 to help fund 15 VE Day commemoration events in communities across the district.
Grantham School of Dancing
Spring Into Action campaign results in a tidier neighbourhood
Awindow of opportunity between hedge trimming schedules and grass cutting rotas allowed a targeted ‘Spring Into Action’ clean-up.
As well as clearing litter and cleaning pathways, the Street Scene team, based at SKDC’s Turnpike Road base, cleared away rubbish from an area in and around Grantham’s Earlesfield Estate.
Their work made a huge difference to the streets, pathways, green areas and paved courts in this busy residential area.
The Cabinet Member for Environment and Waste, Cllr Rhys Baker, said: “Great teamworking made such a difference in a short space of time.
“These areas were all given a fresh new look thanks to the local knowledge and fast action of our Street Scene staff, who you’d normally see driving heavy machinery to maintain green areas around the district.
“It complemented our regular schedule for tackling litter, repairing bins, pulling up weeds and powerwashing pavements.”
A dedicated crew also goes out to all parts of South Kesteven to clean graffiti, pick litter and cut back trees in the way of signs, focusing on villages and rural areas as well as urban estates, streets and alleyways.
Cllr Baker said: “It’s great to see the results of this rolling programme and I am proud to see the role
council teams play – along with community volunteers – in keeping the district looking so tidy and welcoming.”
Residents can highlight any problem areas at www.southkesteven.gov.uk/ report-it
New chairman in place
Long-serving Councillor Ian Selby has been elected Chairman of South Kesteven District Council.
Cllr Selby has served Grantham Harrowby Ward since 1995 and will be supported by ViceChairman Cllr Anna Kelly (Bourne West) following a vote at the council’s Annual Meeting.
In his acceptance speech for the one-year term, Cllr Selby announced the first of his nominated charities – Kesteven Rideability, which offers riding and equine therapy activities for disabled adults and children.
He said: One of the roles of the chairman is to be the conscience of the council. I will endeavour to do that to the best of my ability.
“I wish to say respectfully, please observe the member code of conduct. I will not tolerate any disrespect to any member, especially during debate. For me the Council chamber is a political
arena and if you want to score political points, then please do it respectfully.
“I hope, we never ever forget why we are here. We are here to serve the people, our resident, the people that gave us the honour to be here.”
Clearing away tipped rubbish
Cllrs Ian Selby and Anna Kelly
Play a part in keeping district looking its best
An online platform where people can report issues and repairs in their community is now live across South Kesteven.
The user-friendly FixMyStreet tool https://fix.southkesteven.gov.uk allows residents to play a direct role in keeping the district clean and well maintained by enabling them to report issues such as broken streetlights or fly-tipping.
FixMyStreet can identify items such as individual public bins and street lights to increase the accuracy of reports.
It is now fully integrated into the Council’s IT systems, with categories that are the responsibility of Lincolnshire County Council automatically diverted direct to them.
Members of the public can also view existing reports on the map and subscribe to updates on any which are of interest. The system also tells them if the issue they are concerned about has already been reported, and when.
If a user attempts to report of a problem outside South Kesteven or Lincolnshire’s boundary, the service will redirect them to the wider FixMyStreet site.
Leader of SKDC, Cllr Ashley Baxter, said: “FixMyStreet reinforces
this council’s commitment to transparency and a responsive community service.
“Many of our residents are already familiar with using FixMyStreet to report LCC issues such as potholes and flooding.
“They can now use the same platform to report issues direct to SKDC, including fly-tipping, graffiti and dead wildlife.
“I would encourage anyone who spots any issues to explore FixMyStreet and take an active role in shaping their local environment. By making it easier to report concerns, we are ensuring that every voice is heard, and that every contribution helps keep the district safe, clean and well maintained.”
How FixMyStreet works for you
• Enter a postcode or address to access an interactive map
• Zoom in, click on specific areas
• Select from a range of categories
• Attach photos and provide additional details where required
• Report is automatically sent to the correct local authority
• Reports can be submitted anonymously
• If an email address is supplied, users can get progress updates
Centre upgrade to benefit community
Work to repair and improve a town's community centre is nearing completion after a £344,000 revamp.
Deepings Community Centre underwent the upgrade after a survey found its leaking roof had reached the end of its useful life.
Improvements have included solar panel removal and replacement, roof lights replacement, drainage and general building work. There is also additional insulation and a new roof covering.
The building, on Douglas Road, is owned by South Kesteven District Council and a new lease has been agreed with the Deepings Community Centre Trust. The investment was part-funded by the Government's UK Shared Prosperity Fund supplemented by South Kesteven District Council.
It follows previous work including the installation of a new energyefficient boiler and opening up space previously taken up by the Council into an area for community use.
Council Leader Cllr Ashley Baxter said: “We are pleased to have been able to do so much work to improve the premises for local people and visitors to the town.
“We can all rest assured that this vibrant community-led group now has the security of a bright future because of that.”
The Community Centre Trust has also taken on the garden area for hands-on management, which will also give greater freedom for its use.
Exercise, education, friendship, first aid and painting groups are just some of those who use this popular space. Further information can be found online at www.
deepingscommunitycentre.org.uk
Latest UKSPF awards:
• Steadfast Training - £36,050 to fund its Connect2Grow programme
• Grantham College£20,500 for Employability and Skills Programme
• Harlaxton Manor College£25,400 to build capacity within South Kesteven’s social economy
• SKDC - £8,000 for CCTV upgrade
• Deeping St James Parish Council - £15,864 to replace eight public notice boards
• St Michaels and All Angels Church - £45,665 for accessible toilet with baby changing facilities
• Hougham and Marston Village Hall - £25,000 for hall repair work and CCTV
• SKDC re-wilding - £14,489 for biodiversity dog paddock in Wyndham Park, Grantham
Sports club open to all
Asquash club is ready to open its facilities to the wider community with the installation of a new lift allowing better access its function room and social space.
Grantham Squash Club, on Harlaxton Road, is being given £35,000 from SKDC’s portion of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
To be awarded the cash, the club had to show that improvements would benefit to the community as a whole and fit in with targets for timeframes and installation.
Chairman David Goodridge said: “We are absolutely delighted with this funding, which shows how the UKSPF scheme is working to make facilities like the squash club accessible to everyone – not just sports people.
“Our club has a vision to make its facilities fully accessible to all users regardless of physical ability.
“We completed the first stage last summer when we installed electric entrance doors and internal doors providing easier access to the gym, toilets, sauna and squash courts.
“What we’re doing now is making our function rooms upstairs easily available to those with more limited mobility – or parents with pushchairs and prams – so they can join in the various classes and events hosted here.”
Major improvements to CCTV
“The much-improved images from our upgraded cameras provide clearer images and make it easier to spot criminal behaviour and identify offenders"
Major improvements to a CCTV network of more than 160 cameras covering South Kesteven has also seen the operation move to a new base.
South Kesteven District Council has upgraded its analogue camera network to full-fibre coverage of Grantham, Stamford, Bourne and Market Deeping town centres.
As part of the project the CCTV control room has also moved to Grantham Police Station, paving the way for improved partnership working.
Control room equipment has been upgraded to include a new management platform, new work stations and a video wall.
The modern facilities also provide a faster timeline for police to review CCTV footage and a reduction in operating costs.
In 2024-25 the CCTV network across South Kesteven assisted the police with 409 arrests.
Its team of operators covered incidents ranging from anti-social behaviour, assault, criminal damage, robbery, theft and vehicle crime to missing persons and stray dogs. Operators also handle out-of-hours emergency phone calls for council assistance, as well as the Pubwatch and Shopwatch schemes.
The improved CCTV cameras capture clearer footage and images to help identify, apprehend and prosecute offenders.
The Leader of SKDC, Cllr Ashley Baxter, said: “CCTV has a key role to play in making residents and businesses feel safe.
“The much-improved images from our upgraded cameras provide clearer images and make it easier to spot criminal behaviour and identify offenders.
“These enhancements to an already successful operation mean our team is able to help prevent more crime and improve incident response times.”
Inspector Mark Hillson from the local Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “My team works really closely with the CCTV service at SKDC and they play a huge part in tracking suspect’s movements, identifying criminals, and helping us to understand more about an incident through the footage they have captured.
“The move to Grantham Police Station enhances the partnership working arrangements between
Lincolnshire Police and SKDC, providing useful information which assists in adding to police intelligence.”
As part of the CCTV upgrade, public wifi hubs aligned to camera locations Grantham, Stamford and Market Deeping now provide free, high quality broadband connectivity for businesses and visitors.
More spaces for peak time parking
The vibrancy of Stamford has been given a boost thanks to added parking provision that will encourage visitors all year round.
Cattle Market Car Park, off Station Road, has been extended with an extra 146 spaces, additional accessible spaces and eight electric charging points that are due to be installed.
The £550,000 project, which came in on time and under budget, was given the green light by South Kesteven District Council following a wide-ranging car park survey that demonstrated a need for more parking for visitors, local workers and shoppers.
The site previously offered 275 spaces plus 15 accessible spaces.
SKDC Cabinet Member for Property, Cllr Richard Cleaver, said: “Stamford has always been very much a jewel in our district’s crown.
“More spaces means more parking options, particularly at busy times, and for people visiting the town’s shops and other attractions.
“As well as bringing people into Stamford from outside and providing a boost for the high street, shops, cafes and businesses, there
spaces are part of the car park extension
will be huge benefits to local people and those who work in the town.”
Stamford attracts thousands of visitors annually but the survey revealed that parking options did not support peak visitor numbers.
Demand in some car parks was forecast to be over 100% of capacity and previously there were few alternatives at the busiest times of day.
Cllr Cleaver said: “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 accessible and within easy reach of the town centre.”
For regular car park users, season tickets can be purchased from the SKDC website 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 park space.
A new bus stop at the car park entrance has also been put in place by Lincolnshire County Council.
Accessible
Councillors and project officers at the car park opening
Financial focus for advice team
Ateam set up to provide help and support for people struggling to make ends meet will continue its important work with an increased focus on finance.
SKDC set up a team in 2023 to provide free advice for residents in difficulty due to increases in the cost of living.
Its work is continuing as the Welfare and Financial Advice Team to better reflect the vital support it offers residents facing financial pressures.
Two experienced officers - Funmi Reilly and Stella Darker - offer tailored advice and support to help residents manage their money, boost household income and navigate rising living costs.
This includes budgeting support, benefit checks, income and expenditure assessments and access to government initiatives.
By working with local organisations, community groups and third sector partners, the team offers a joined-up approach to support. They help:
• Find the right tariffs for utilities
• Apply for social tariffs for broadband and mobile services
• Access food support from local partners including Grantham Food Bank and The Bread and Butter Thing.
Residents can also be referred for energy advice, formal debt solutions and assistance from other council service areas such as the Council Tax team.
Funmi and Stella also manage key financial support initiatives, including the Household Support Fund and Housing Support Fund, which provide supermarket vouchers and other essential help to those in need.
Stella said: “We understand how overwhelming it can be
for people trying to juggle rising costs.
“Our roles in the Welfare and Financial Advice Team is to break things down, offer practical support and help residents feel more in control of their finances.
“Often people don’t realise they’re entitled to help and support – and that’s where we come in.”
All residents in South Kesteven can access the free and confidential services provided by the Welfare and Financial Advice Team. For more information go to: www.southkesteven.gov.uk/ costofliving
Funmi Reilly and Stella Darker
A whale of a story
Were you among the crowds to visit a huge 18-metre whale that washed ashore in Stamford, Bourne, the Deepings and Grantham?
Thanks to funding via SKDC, Stamford was first to discover the impact of plastic on our environment, with puppetry, comedy and music for children to enjoy as they squeezed inside its huge belly!
More than 550 people visited in Stamford for its three days there, where the youngsters had a fabulous time in the depths
of the bubbling, swirling ocean, entertained by the Circo Rum Ba Ba theatre group sharing the message that everyone can make a difference.
Each of the interactive deepdive sessions were sell-outs, with the free craft workshops guiding youngsters to create jellyfish and turtles using recycled materials.
They encountered an acrobatic diver who led them swimmingly through the age-old journey of the life of an ancient Leatherback Turtle. The audience helped save the turtle
and the whale from a deluge of plastic and travelled from the Indian Ocean to a coral reef.
The Deputy Leader of the Council, Cllr Paul Stokes, who is also Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure, said: “We were so pleased to see the overwhelming popularity of this inflatable whale and the puppets’ musical tales of sea creatures battling to survive in an ocean full of rubbish.
“It was important to play our part in helping get across this important environmental message.”
Inspirational art on show
The beauty and creativity of art is on display at venues across Grantham with the whole town becoming a gallery.
It’s been made possible through £4,965 of support from SKDC’s Community Fund, a pot of cash set aside for community groups and charities across the district.
Grantham As A Gallery increases display space in the town, with Grantham Creates organising and producing community and amateur displays in empty units and shop windows.
Council Leader Cllr Ashley Baxter said: “Art should be for everyone. People can see how it brings colour and life to the streets of Grantham
and I’m pleased to be able to take part by inviting people into the council offices to see what’s here.
“I hope we see more of this relatable, uplifting and colourful art from our local artists scattered across Grantham, and further across the district in due course.”
Venues taking part include Union Street Gallery, Bhive, Grantham Museum, Pendulum Gaming, The George Centre, Kitchen & Coffee and The Reading Room,
who have given over window space. Models For Heroes and Outwood CIC are also involved in creating new artwork.
Latest tech helps make arts accessible
Stamford Arts Centre, which hosts theatre, cinema, music and arts events, is one of only ten venues in the UK to benefit from the installation of a new system that helps ensure the cinema experience can be enjoyed by as many people as possible.
Funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the WatchWord system ensures cinemagoers at the council-operated venue can fully experience and engage with the arts, aligning with SKDC’s wider efforts to improve accessibility and inclusion across the district.
Deputy Leader of the Council, Cllr Paul Stokes, who is also Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure, said: “We are committed to making arts and culture accessible for everyone. This technology, along with the venue’s existing accessibility features, reflects the council’s dedication to inclusivity.”
WatchWord technology uses smart glasses and a touch screen controller, allowing users to watch films with fully customisable captions at a screening time that suits them.
Viewers can adjust the size, colour, position, brightness and focus of the captions on any film, ensuring a comfortable and accessible experience without being limited to specific subtitled screenings.
Stamford Arts Centre’s inclusivity activity also includes audio description alongside the venue’s bespoke accessibility lift which allows visitors to access the theatre.
In Grantham, the Guildhall Arts Centre, which is also operated by SKDC, offers accessible performances that will include the 2025-26 panto Snow White, featuring ‘relaxed’ and British Sign Language performances.
For more information on performances at both Stamford Arts Centre and Guildhall Arts Centre, visit www.stamfordartscentre.com and www.guildhallartscentre.com
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
BUDAPEST CAFÉ ORCHESTRA
SATURDAY 28TH JUNE, 7:30PM
STAMFORD ARTS CENTRE BALLROOM
Refreshingly unconventional and snappily attired boutique orchestra BCO play gypsy and folk-flavoured music in their unique and surprising way. From Balkan and Russian traditional music to their artful distillations of Romantic masterworks to soaring Gaelic folk anthems, BCO is an infectious musical experience like none other.
n TICKETS: £20 standard
MANHUNTER & MINDHUNTER
THURSDAY 3RD JULY, 7:30PM
STAMFORD 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+
MORE THAN A MUM
FRIDAY 11TH JULY, 7:30PM
GUILDHALL ARTS CENTRE THEATRE
Join Susie for a hilarious onewoman comedy show that tackles the wild world of parenting with humour and heart! Gone are the days of chasing after the fairy-tale happy ending- she’s learned that the real magic lies in embracing the chaos and being present with the kids. Get ready for a night of heartfelt hilarity where parenting is perfectly imperfect.
n TICKETS: £15 standard | SUITABLE FOR AGES 14+
ANDREW BOURN’S CROONER REVOLUTION
THURSDAY 24TH JULY, 7:30PM
GUILDHALL ARTS CENTRE THEATRE
Featuring unique swing style arrangements of songs from global artists such as Queen, George Michael, Elton John, Tom Jones, Rick Astley and more! Far from a standard tribute show, this live production includes an eclectic mix of music from multiple decades and has a fun, youthful energy which always gets audiences singing along! Featuring a fabulous 7-piece band of West End big band musicians.
n TICKETS: £24 (£22 concessions)
CREATION - THE BUBBLE SHOW
SATURDAY 12TH JULY, 2PM & SATURDAY 26TH JULY, 2:30PM
STAMFORD ARTS CENTRE & GUILDHALL ARTS CENTRE
Creation is a feast for the senses, with fire effects, poetic puppetry, light-displays, captivating music and brand-new bubble masterpieces never seen before. Step into a new world where magic sparkles, colours dance, and imagination knows no bounds. Don't miss this mesmerizing family experience which will leave you spellbound.
n TICKETS: £12 adult/£8 child | SUITABLE FOR AGES 4+
Creation - The Bubble Show
Budapest Cafe Orchestra
LE VENT DU NORD
WEDNESDAY 23RD JULY, 7:30PM
STAMFORD ARTS CENTRE BALLROOM
The multi-award winning and highly acclaimed Le Vent du Nord is a leading force in Québec’s progressive francophone folk movement. On stage these 5 friends create intense, joyful and dynamic live performances that expand the bounds of tradition in striking directions.
n TICKETS: £20 standard
NATURE DAY
FRIDAY 25TH JULY, FROM 10:30AM
STAMFORD ARTS CENTRE GALLERY
Join us for a fun and creative nature day with Hannah Peacock! We’ve got four fantastic workshops to look forward to including Nature Suncatcher, Butterfly Printing, Pinecone Animals and Bug Hotel Making. You can choose to attend one workshop or make a day of it and attend all four!
n TICKETS: £4 per child/4 workshops for £14 | SUITABLE FOR AGES 3+
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
THE GEORGE HARRISON PROJECT
FRIDAY 12TH SEPTEMBER, 7:30PM
GUILDHALL ARTS CENTRE THEATRE
Enjoy the UK's leading live music tribute to George Harrison, performing his best-loved hits from The Beatles, his solo career, and The Traveling Wilburys. During this show, these talented musicians authentically recreate some of George Harrison’s best-known tracks, earning rave reviews. The hit-packed show includes well-loved songs such as My Sweet Lord, Here Comes The Sun, Something, Got My Mind Set On You and many more!
n TICKETS: £24 standard
D-DAY DARLINGS – LIVE IN CONCERT
FRIDAY 19TH SEPTEMBER, 2PM & 7:30PM
GUILDHALL ARTS CENTRE THEATRE
The D-Day Darlings, semi-finalists in the hit ITV programme `Britain’s Got Talent‘, are Britain’s premier wartime act. Featuring the most memorable songs that kept a nation smiling through its darkest days, this D-Day Darlings concert show is complimented by audio visual footage of the war time era. n TICKETS: £25 standard | STRICTLY AGES 18+
Bourne Corn Exchange
3 Abbey Road, Bourne PE10 9EF
www.bournecornexchange.com
01778 423579
From heritage pastels to heady fragrance, there’s a world of sweet peas to discover at Easton Walled Gardens this summer. Open Weds-Sun, 11am-4pm. www.visiteaston.co.uk
Harlaxton Manor
Summer Open House
Join Harlaxton Manor this August Bank Holiday weekend as it opens up for the whole family to enjoy at the Summer Open House. You’re invited to step into the magical staterooms and beautiful gardens. Traditional garden games, a pianist - plus hot and cold refreshments. 23rd/24th August www.harlaxton.co.uk
Stamford Walking ToursPast Lovers
A guided walking tour to uncover romantic trysts and love stories in some of Stamford’s charming and historic locations. Meet at Stamford Arts Centre: PE9 2DL Various dates during the summer
https://tinyurl.com/ PastLovers
Sweet Pea Season at Easton Walled Gardens
Easton Walled Gardens
