Monthly Archive 27 March 2025

A second winter of community tree planting through NELC’s ‘Greening Up Our Place’ programme has now come to an end, resulting in a total of 727 new trees springing up across the borough since 2023.

The community programme is part of the Council’s Tree Strategy, which sets out NELC’s approach for managing and protecting the existing tree population, increasing the number of trees in North East Lincolnshire, and for promoting the significant benefits that trees have in society.

It aims to give the residents of North East Lincolnshire a high quality, sustainable environment, which ties in with the Council’s Natural Assets Plan.

Twenty one schools and 19 community groups have taken part in the tree planting since it began in November 2023, and the Council would like to say a big thankyou to all who have given up their time in support of this important environmental cause.

The ‘Greening Up Our Place’ project was supported by two successful funding bids to the Forestry Commission’s Local Authority Treescapes Fund (LATF) and Urban Tree Challenge Fund (UTCF). Some boroughs, including East Marsh, West Marsh, Sidney Sussex, Immingham, and Croft Baker have as little as 2% tree coverage. The project has allowed the Council to increase the canopy cover in urban areas and replace trees previously felled as a result of damage or disease.

Local residents of all ages have responded to the call to plant trees right across the borough on our streets and parkland. Amanda Fields, Community Family Support Worker, Oasis Hub South Grimsby, was one of them.

She said: “Thank you so much for inviting Oasis community space to your tree planting event. Myself and Emma Chester, a member of our community, helped with the planting of three trees near the Nunthorpe Tavern. Now every time we pass it we say ‘look we planted those trees’. It’s a humble feeling to have supported, and now we can see the trees grow for years to come.”

Cllr Henry Hudson, NELC’s Portfolio Holder for Environment and Net Zero, said: “A very big thankyou to everyone who has taken part in the tree planting both this winter and last. As they grow, these trees will make such a huge difference both to the landscape and to the environment.

“It’s brilliant to see how many trees have already been planted across the borough. There are so many benefits that trees offer us, not least of which is the effect they have on our efforts to get to net zero by capturing and storing carbon from the atmosphere.

“Everyone in North East Lincolnshire benefits from trees. They help create a sense of place and local identity and have a positive impact on people’s mental and physical health. They create focal points and landmarks, and they benefit communities by increasing pride in the local area.”

To find out more about Greening Up Our Place visit https://www.nelincs.gov.uk/keeping-our-area-clean-and-safe/tree-planting/

Article and image from NELC.

New Waltham Academy is set to expand its existing provision thanks to a £2.3 million refurbishment scheme which will see new classrooms and the construction of a brand new nursery.

The academy, is relocating some of the classrooms and having new buildings added to provide the correct space for cohorts in the coming years.

The scheme, managed by the Council’s delivery partner EQUANS, will construct new accommodation on land purchased from the neighbouring church over a decade ago with the works having a completion date of later this year.

There will be a number of additions to the site which when finished, including:

• Relocation of Reception Classrooms into new build accommodation which will have access to bespoke outdoor play and integral toilets
• Relocation of two Key Stage 1 Classrooms into new accommodation
• Creation of a New Staffroom

• Creation of a specialist space to enable the academy to deliver a wide range of lessons such as Nutrition, Cooking, Art and Technology as well as small group intervention
• A New Build Nursery to replace the current mobile accommodation which will include bespoke outdoor play and integral toilets
• Reorganisation of circulation space to ensure pupils a more cohesive route around the site
• Dedicated SEN Group Space
• Enhanced Library Space

Students have been busy designing new health and safety posters promoting the health and safety measures and good practice whilst the build is on site.

Speaking about the expansion, Louise Clarke, Co-head at New Waltham Academy, said: “This is great news for the school. We can’t wait to welcome not just new intake students but also our existing cohort to our brand new classrooms and nursery and we’re thrilled about that.”

Councillor Margaret Cracknell, Portfolio Holder Children and Education, said: “This will be a breath of fresh air to this school. They are doing fabulous work with these children and deserve the right space to develop this further.

“A new staff room, nursery, library and SEN space is wonderful and will no doubt prove invaluable in the coming years.”

The project has been funded through the Local Authority’s Basic Needs allocation, Section 106 contributions, a contribution from the school and corporate resources.

The Basic Need allocations are capital funds released from Central Government to Local Authorities for the provision of school places. An Education Section 106 is a legally binding agreement between local authorities and housing developers to mitigate any impact that may arise to the school estate from new housing.

Article and image from NELC.

North East Lincolnshire Council are set to help renovate up to 60 homes on a Grimsby street.

Rutland Street, on the East Marsh, has been identified as the location for the new scheme following a borough wide assessment. The initiative, known as retrofitting, will look to provide improved energy efficiency, better living conditions and other upgrades such as external wall insulation to the houses.

Should it be deemed a success, further funding may be sought to beautify and green up the external areas of the street with new fencing and greenery with potential for community-led tree planting.

In Summer 2024, the Council was awarded £3.1 million by Government to carry out the pilot project to help improve house valuation and encourage investment in the area with plans now approved by cabinet.

An initial phase of surveys will be undertaken before the final stage of works is sanctioned.

A similar scheme was implemented in Guildford Street in 2017, just 200m away from Rutland Street. Both roads were built in the same era and comprise of similar housing types, but house prices are now significantly higher on Guilford Street, partially due to the retrofitting programme.

Additionally, the number of homeowners and tenants leaving the street has lessened since the project was completed, creating a more stable community.

Speaking about retrofitting, Councillor Stewart Swinburn, Portfolio Holder for Housing, Infrastructure and Transport, said: “These visual and structural improvements to homes will inject a sense of community pride, reduce anti-social behaviour and promote safety, well-being and a more cohesive neighbourhood.

“The houses will also benefit greatly from the scheme with the potential for improved energy efficiency and better living conditions.”

Councillor Stan Shreeve, Portfolio Holder for Adult Public Health and Wellbeing, added: “Projects like this also pay dividends to people’s mental and physical health. Good homes are proven to help reduce respiratory issues and improved energy efficiency will ease worries about bills and spending.”

The project will be delivered by North East Lincolnshire Council, community groups like East Marsh United – who already run a similar project on the ward – and other partners.

Article and image from NELC.

BUSINESS leaders are being invited to play a key role in the future growth of Greater Lincolnshire and help to build a strong and successful future for our area.

The GLCCA (Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority), has today (Thursday 13 March) opened applications for membership and a chair of a new Economic Advisory Panel.

This is a unique opportunity for those who lead or own businesses across the region to provide essential advice, recommendations and guidance to the GLCCA board and the new Mayor.

It is a statutory requirement of the new devolved authority to bring together these key people as part of a formal board, comprising of 10 Panel members from the private sector. They will serve a three-year term with one selected as Chair.

Shaping and influencing the development of economic strategy and policy within Greater Lincolnshire, membership is also an opportunity to provide a business voice. This will allow a new elected Mayor to ensure that future economic plans for the GLCCA are heard in Westminster.

As reported, key priorities of the GLCCA are to turbo charge business growth, improve the adult skills offer across the authority footprint, support the building of good quality homes, and improve infrastructure and public transport.  There is a determination to ensure the potential of the area is delivered, from the Humber to the Wash.

The investment to support the development of these priorities is now being devolved down from central government with a £720m pot over the next 30 years.

With the first meeting of the GLCCA board now held, and the Mayoral election on Thursday 1 May, there is a desire to get the work of the Economic Advisory Panel underway as soon as possible.

It is hoped the Panel will see a range of businesses represented. All of them will be vital to Greater Lincolnshire’s future and align to the GLCCA’s priority growth sectors of agri-tech and food, clean energy, ports & logistics, defence, advanced manufacturing along with the core sectors of education, housing and construction, transport and infrastructure, small business and the visitor economy.

For a recruitment pack and details of how to apply, go to https://greaterlincolnshire-cca.gov.uk/economicadvisorypanel- external site .

Article from NELC.

A reduction of over 3,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions since 2020, eco-friendly street lights and tree planting are just some of the ways North East Lincolnshire Council are making a positive difference to the environment.

In the Our Green Future report, considered by Cabinet last night, the Council evidenced their commitment to the green agenda, with detailed progress updates on the waste strategy, net zero and the natural environment.  

The Report included updates on some of the physical changes that have been made, including replacing 94% of the street lighting in the borough to LED, a more renewable source of energy and grant funding to decarbonise council buildings.  

On top of this, extensive works have been carried out across Grimsby and Immingham to improve drainage and reduce flood risk. The Sustainable Urban Drainage Scheme (SUDS), also promotes the growth of wildflowers and is part of a wider programme led by Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). The scheme is being carried out over six years with further SUDS being installed.

Funding received from the Forestry Commission was used to support the ‘Greening Up Our Place’ Project supported community led tree planting across the borough. . , 416 trees were planted in 2023 / 24, with a further 400 trees planted in 2024/25 across 10 tree planting events.  

The Council also made a successful grant application to the National Lottery Heritage Fund to develop and deliver a successful partnership project centred around protecting and enhancing Cleethorpes Saltmarsh. The DUNE Project will also look to educate younger generations on the vital role the saltmarsh plays to protect us from the impacts of climate change and the wildlife that inhabit it.

Aside from the work within the Council, the report also acknowledged the efforts across the borough to support the wider green agenda. This includes projects centred around skills, transport, housing and flooding, all made possible through strong partnership working.  

Waste Services have also made huge steps towards achieving their environmental goals  through effective management of waste disposal, reduced waste to landfill and an improved use of the Community Recycling Centres (CRCs).

There has been an overall reduction in domestic waste since 2020 with only 35 tonnes of waste being sent to landfill in 2024. Operating at below 1% for waste sent to landfill, this is well below the 2030 target and the lowest amount ever seen in a year for the borough.

2024 also saw an increase in the number of visitors to the CRC. visits increased by 11,764 to a total of 223,981 visits at the CRC sites using the site for recycling plastic, cardboard, general waste and even mattresses.

Councillor Henry Hudson, Portfolio Holder for Environment and Net Zero, said: “This report is proof that this Council and its partners are dedicated to making the borough a greener and more environmentally friendly place to live and work.”

Article and image from NELC.

The next step towards the complete transformation of Grimsby Town Centre’s Alexandra Dock area is being taken.

Following approval at a meeting of North East Lincolnshire Council’s Cabinet, initial work will begin to look at an overall vision for the waterside land and how it could be redeveloped.

This will focus on the potential to transform brownfield areas in and around Alexandra Dock. This investigative work will run alongside a refresh of the town centre masterplan, and a look at the current infrastructure in the area – including the highways and public transport.

In a report to Cabinet members, it was outlined how funding of up to £500,000 is potentially available from Homes England and MHCLG , (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government) over the financial years 2024/25 and 2025/26.

If the council was successful in securing some of that funding, it would be used to support the progression of plans.  Fuller details would be outlined in future Cabinet papers, adds the report.

It goes on to highlight how this redevelopment, as well as changes that have taken place, or are in progress, are in line with ideas outlined in the Grimsby Town Centre Masterplan. The current plan, which will now be refreshed and updated, was the basis for multi-million funding bids to Government, which were successful and have supported the work so far.

This has included the new Garth Lane bridge leading to the redesigned walkways, grass areas and river embankments, the new OnSide Horizon Youth Zone, and the plans for 123 new homes on land bought by the council.

There’s also the Freshney Place Leisure, Foodhall and Market scheme, the new-look Riverhead Square, E-Factor’s redevelopment of St James’ House, the work on St James’ Square and visual improvements to Victoria Street.

North East Lincolnshire Council Leader, Cllr Philip Jackson, whose portfolio includes regeneration, said after the meeting: “Giving people reasons to visit, live in and enjoy our town centre means it must diversify and we are making great strides in doing just that.

“We must now continue on this transformation path, and this is the next step that can be taken with the support of partners and those around us.”

Article and image from NELC.

Just take a look at what Grimsby’s new Community Diagnostic Centre, (CDC) has to offer residents across North East Lincolnshire.

Due to open for appointments later this month in Freshney Place, it is set to offer around 120,000 appointments every year – cutting waiting times for tests in a convenient town centre location.

CDCs are being pioneered across the country to provide diagnostic tests, such as scans and health checks – reducing pressures on hospitals across the country. Healthcare providers from across this region have been involved in the scoping and development of CDCs both in Grimsby and Scunthorpe – ensuring that they prioritise the pathways that will benefit local communities the most, based on need.

Essentially too, for Grimsby Town Centre, the new £10-million CDC will increase footfall and add to the diversification of Freshney Place into a centre that is a hub for the community – complementing the retail offer.

This new CDC is opening as work progresses on the £50million Freshney Place Leisure, Food Hall and Market Scheme at the western end of the centre – offering a new cinema, and leisure outlets, along with the new food hall and market offer. A temporary market will be opening near the Riverhead Square entrance to the centre later this year.

There is also the new E-Factor Business Hub in St James’ House, the OnSide Horizon Youth Zone at Alexandra Dock and the plans for 123 new homes on the neighbouring brownfield site.

North East Lincolnshire Council Leader, Cllr Philip Jackson, whose portfolio includes regeneration, said after touring the CDC: “This is an absolutely fantastic facility for the residents of North East Lincolnshire. This will not only provide facilities for 120,000 appointments a year but will also see increased footfall into Freshney Place.

“This is all part of the re-purposing of the town centre, and I am delighted to see this nearing completion for an opening later this month.”

Freshney Place centre director, Amanda Austin, added: “It is a great thing for the residents of North East Lincolnshire. Freshney Place has been at the heart of the community here for decades, and this represents how we are moving forward to offer something different for our customers.”

Article, video and image from NELC.

Local powers and investment to support business, up-skill people, and improve highways and housing are key priorities of the new Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority, (GLCCA).

Leaders of the three lead local authorities – Lincolnshire County Council and North and North East Lincolnshire unitary authorities – spoke of their ambitions for the future as they marked the first meeting of the GLCCA.

Cllrs Martin Hill OBE, Rob Waltham MBE and Philip Jackson – all members of the GLCCA board – were addressing an audience of business leaders and representatives from local communities, MPs and colleagues following the inaugural meeting, which was held at Lincoln Cathedral today, (Thursday 6 March).

They talked of the real possibilities that now exist across the whole of the Greater Lincolnshire footprint with a Mayor, to be elected on May 1, chairing an authority that can work to effect positive change.

Giving an overview of the positive work that will begin in earnest by the GLCCA, Lincolnshire County Council Leader, Cllr Martin Hill said: “We’re now starting a new era in Greater Lincolnshire – erasing boundaries as we continue to strive to get the best for our residents and businesses.

“Connecting companies, organisations and decision makers is key to making the most of these new powers and funding we have from the government. Our area contributes significantly to the nation, and this deserves to be recognised – whether it’s our contribution to defence, food security or logistics. Being able to boost these areas not only benefits Greater Lincolnshire, but the whole country.”

Cllr Philip Jackson spoke of the ‘economic powerhouse’ sectors of decarbonisation, offshore wind turbines, food processing, and ports and logistics and how the GLCCA can work with all business to enable and support continued growth.

He said: “Over the last decade we have once again seen the great benefits of our position along the south bank of the Humber estuary, with regional, national and world-leading organisations creating opportunity and growth. As one of the GLCCA’s key priorities states, now is the time we can work to further turbo charge that growth for the benefit of all within Greater Lincolnshire.”

Cllr Rob Waltham, the Leader of North Lincolnshire, added: “I’m proud to have been part of the negotiations that lead to this historic moment, which marks the beginning of a new era for Lincolnshire.

“Devolution means we can make decisions locally and focus on the needs and ambitious of our communities, not be dictated by London.

“The new mayoral authority will invest in skills to prepare young people for the world of work, transport to improve connectivity and business growth to create more better paid jobs for our local residents and this is just the start. I’m looking forward to working with communities across the region to build a stronger, more prosperous Greater Lincolnshire.”

During the first meeting, the representatives from councils across the Greater Lincolnshire footprint were elected to the GLCCA board in line with the governance arrangements agreed with the government and a number of papers were considered, again adhering to governance and statutory requirements.

You can find out more about the GLCCA, including the agenda and reports for the first meeting on the new website www.greaterlincolnshire-cca.gov.uk- external site  Minutes of the first meeting will also be posted there in due course.

Article and image from NELC.

The Riverhead Square renovation was substantially completed last year and has been well used since, with people choosing to spend time there as well as hosting Christmas and food events.

As previously reported, some minor works were left outstanding. Works to electricity connections require upgrading to allow power to be delivered to the main feed, but Northern Power Grid has been unable to do the work until now. This will involve some disruption on site, with small areas taken out of use to form safe working areas over a 5 week period.

After this a small amount of snagging works will be completed by the main contractor for a further 4 weeks which will make good all areas and also bond loose stones that are being removed by anti-social behaviour from the planted areas.

Once this is in place, it means that events and markets will be able to use the power boxes installed around the square rather than having to hire in generators.

Article and image from NELC.

The Leader of North East Lincolnshire Council, Cllr Philip Jackson, has welcomed news of a funding boost of up to £20 million for Grimsby, saying it will support the authority’s ambition to build a stronger economy and stronger communities.

The Government has announced that Yorkshire and the Humber will receive a £180 million share of a total of £1.5 billion which will be invested across the UK to’ foster stronger, better connected and healthier communities’. 

The money will support its new ‘Plan for Neighbourhoods’ with 75 communities selected to bring residents and businesses together to decide how best to spend the money in their areas. Grimsby is one of the nine towns selected across Yorkshire and the Humber, getting up to £20 million.

Cllr Philip Jackson, said: “This is great news and we warmly welcome this funding as we look to deliver our ambition across North East Lincolnshire of building a stronger economy and stronger communities.

“As we say in our new Council Plan, we cannot effect positive change alone but working with our partners we can move forward to improve lives for children, adults and families. Our ambition in this respect reflects the aims set out in this new Plan for Neighbourhoods and we look forward to working together with others in the coming months to look at the very best investment for this extra funding in Grimsby,” he added.

Once established, individual neighbourhood boards in each of the areas will decide how to use the funding and support – they can choose from options ranging from repairs to pavements and high streets, to setting up low-cost community grocers providing low-cost alternatives when shopping for essentials, as well as co-operatives or even neighbourhood watches.  

 Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government Angela Rayner MP said: “Communities across the UK have so much to offer – rich cultural capital, unique heritage but most of all, an understanding of their own neighbourhood. 

“Our fully funded Plan for Neighbourhoods puts local people in the driving seat of their potential, having control of where the Whitehall cash goes – what issues they want to tackle, where they want to regenerate and what growth they want to turbocharge.” 

Minister for Local Growth and Building Safety, Alex Norris MP, added: “When our local neighbourhoods thrive, the rest of the country thrives too. That’s why we are empowering communities to take control of their futures and create the regeneration and growth they want to see.”

Article and image from NELC.