Category Archive News

Second phase of road surface treatment rolled out

A number of roads will be improved across North East Lincolnshire as the second phase of the annual programme of surface treatment starts.

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Road safety improvements made to Grimsby junction for cyclists

A short section of cycle lane with red surfacing has been introduced across the Heneage Road and Wellington Street junction to address concerns for cyclist safety.

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Recycling boost as new sculpture joins Hammy and the Globe on Cleethorpes Prom

A third new recycling sculpture joins the Globe and Hammy the Haddock in the battle to keep Cleethorpes beach litter-free.

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Remembering Austin Mitchell

Austin Mitchell was appointed High Steward of North East Lincolnshire by full Council at its meeting on 24 September 2015.

The role of High Steward of North East Lincolnshire was first awarded in 2008 to John Ross MBE. The origins of the role date back to 1521 under the title of High Steward of The Borough of Great Grimsby.

The first holder of the role was John Heneage in 1521 and other notable recipients include; George Pelham, Sir Edward Ayscough, The 1st Earl of Yarborough and Sir Walter Womersley to name a few of the prominent local names who have held the role. Since 2011 the role had been left vacant following the sad passing of John Ross MBE.

The role was awarded to those who have contributed to the community of North East Lincolnshire. The role of High Steward is the highest honour North East Lincolnshire Council can award.

In tribute, Cllr Philip Jackson, Leader of North East Lincolnshire Council, said: “Austin was the Member of Parliament for Great Grimsby for nearly 40 years (1977 to 2015). During that time he served the area with conviction and passion, and was respected by many, not just those in local politics. He was a familiar face in the area, and definitely found unique ways to speak up for local people!”

The Worshipful the Mayor of the Borough of North East Lincolnshire, Councillor David Hasthorpe said: “From gracing our screens on Calendar to representing our town in Parliament, or attending one of many functions in Great Grimsby, Austin certainly made his presence felt and always had a ready quip or word of encouragement for all.”

Article from NELC. Pictured: Austin Mitchell with sitting Great Grimsby MP Lia Nici.

Programme of highway drainage maintenance to start

Routine drainage maintenance to a number of highway drains in Grimsby is due to start from Monday 23 August.

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Cycle Superhighway update

The final works between Grimsby A180 Westgate and Lockhill roundabout are almost complete.

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Children’s homes leading the way with Government pilot scheme

A number of children’s homes in North East Lincolnshire are taking part in a Government pilot scheme to improve the lives of looked after children.

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Fines for fly-tippers and waste – and a warning to households

North East Lincolnshire Council is is warning households to be on their guard against rogue traders dumping waste – as fines are issued to fly-tippers and a couple who let waste get out of control at their property.

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New tiered seating area at town centre’s Garth Lane now complete

One of the final stages of the Garth Lane project is now complete, with the new seating area, leading to the waterfront, now open to the public.

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Warning as suspected rogue traders spotted in North East Lincolnshire

North East Lincolnshire Council’s Trading Standards team are reminding people to be vigilant and report doorstep callers who offer to carry out work on homes, gardens and business premises.

Suspected rogue traders have been seen in the area and are thought to be offering work such as clearing gutters, jet washing patios and other garden and landscaping works.

People are asked to be on their guard and report any sightings of suspected rogue traders by calling the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133.

Rogue traders target the vulnerable and the elderly. They overcharge for doing very little work and in most cases leave the victim having to find a reputable trader to put right what they’ve done.

After carrying out work such as cutting back trees, they charge to take the waste away and then dump it illegally. You could be liable if unlicensed traders dump anything from your property. 

Rogue traders defraud victims through pressure selling. Often offering substantial reductions to start the work there and then, breaching the victim’s legal rights of a cooling off period. They then escalate the price once work has started.

While cold calling is not illegal, it may be that the trader isn’t all they seem and may even be committing a criminal offence.

Residents have the right to choose if they want uninvited callers to their home. 

Councillor Ron Shepherd, portfolio holder for safer and stronger communities, said:

“It isn’t always easy to spot a rogue trader. They may tell you that a repair is urgent or that they have just completed work for neighbours and will normally ask for payment immediately. Never agree to having work done when you’re cold called.

“Never let yourself be pressurised into doing something you are suspicious of and seek advice.

“If a job needs doing, make sure you do your research and get at least three quotes from different tradespeople and take your time to make an informed decision.

“Always use a reputable company that someone you know and trust has recommended.

“As good neighbours, we should always be on the look-out for each other and if someone starts work on your vulnerable neighbour’s home, don’t hesitate to report them to the council.”

Trading Standards advice if you need work carrying out:

  • Get a number of quotes from traders known to you, family or friends
  • Do not answer the door to traders you do not know or have not asked to visit
  • Display a notice to deter cold callers
  • Consumers can check for registered traders at trustmark.org.uk/find-a-tradesman. TrustMark is the Government-endorsed quality scheme covering work a consumer chooses to have carried out on their home
  • People can report cold callers to Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133.

Fraudsters also often use social media sites to trick people into parting with their money or personal details. Posts can include investment opportunities, to items and services for sale.

Entering into a contract with anyone on social media is not advised due to the impermanent nature of it. Anyone who has access to a phone or laptop can set up a fake name and address. The advice on checking into companies, asking for examples of work, still apply.

For more advice on this or to report a fraud, visit www.actionfraud.police.uk/

Buy with Confidence Scheme

If you’re a local trader and would like to find out how to become an approved Buy With Confidence member, be part of a trusted trader scheme and reassure potential consumers, contact Trading Standards on trading.standards@nelincs.gov.uk or call (01472) 326299, option 3.

If you join the scheme, you’ll be able to:

  • Use the Buy With Confidence logo and say you’re ‘Trading Standards Approved’
  • Set yourself apart from competitors
  • Reassure customers you’re trustworthy
  • Get information about changes to the law that could affect your business
  • Access to advice direct from local authority employed Trading Standards professionals

article from NELC