News :Waltham

A much-loved local landmark is set for a fresh chapter as Waters’ Edge Country Park & Visitor Centre receives new investment to mark its 20th anniversary.

Celebrating two decades at the heart of Barton’s natural landscape, Waters’ Edge has become a free, family-friendly destination for outdoor discovery, with accessible trails, hands-on exhibits and space for people of all ages to enjoy nature together.

The investment will make Waters’ Edge more comfortable, more engaging and better for the environment.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “We are committed to investing in the places that matter most to our communities. By backing destinations like Waters’ Edge, we are supporting local pride, encouraging visitors and strengthening a tourism offer that is sustainable for the future.”

Visitors will see refreshed exhibition displays, more efficient heating to keep the building comfortable year-round, and renewed outdoor decking areas.

The improvements will roll out across the year, with work planned to keep disruption to a minimum. There may be some short-term changes to access at certain points.

Cllr Christine Patterson, cabinet member for healthy lives and places, said: “Waters’ Edge has been a much-loved place for people to enjoy nature, learn about the local environment and spend time together for 20 years. This investment will enhance the experience for visitors, improve comfort within the building and help ensure the centre remains welcoming and accessible for years to come.”

Work started recently with the removal of the existing decking around the centre as the first stage of the programme.

In April, new exhibition displays will be installed, offering refreshed content and an enhanced experience for visitors of all ages.

Across spring and summer, ground source heating will be introduced, improving energy efficiency, reducing environmental impact and supporting a more comfortable indoor environment year-round. Replacement decking will also be installed during this period, renewing key outdoor areas.

The post Waters’ Edge set for 20th anniversary makeover appeared first on North Lincolnshire Council.

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PCSO Tiny and PC Wilkinson alongside members of Waltham Parish Council engaged with residents and school children in Waltham, to assess the requirement for new Youth facilities in Waltham. Scan the QR code / click the link to access the survey. #Waltham
forms.office.com/e/10m55RZFx…

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Plans are taking shape for a new multi-use games area (MUGA) in Bottesford, with North Lincolnshire Council awarding £20,000 through the community grant scheme to support the project with brand new fencing.

The new facility will give residents a welcoming, accessible space to come together, take part in activities and strengthen community connections.

Designed for year-round use, the MUGA will provide opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy sport and recreation close to home. By encouraging more outdoor activity, it will help residents stay healthy, active, and engaged.

The project marks another step forward in improving local facilities, backed by the council and its partners. Together, they are investing in the future of Bottesford by delivering a modern, inclusive space that reflects community ambition and pride.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “This project is another great example of how our investment is helping communities deliver what matters most to local people. Facilities like this bring families, friends, and neighbours together while encouraging healthier, more active lifestyles.”

The funding forms part of the council’s wider commitment to supporting communities and improving local facilities.

Cllr John Davison, cabinet member for community wellbeing (urban), added: “It’s fantastic to see Bottesford Town Council working with a range of partners to make this happen. A new MUGA will be a real asset for the area, providing a safe, modern space that can be used year-round by people of all ages.”

The £104,000 project is being funded through a combination of sources, including £50,000 from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, £30,000 from the SSE Sustainable Development Fund, £4,000 from Bottesford Town Council’s own resources and £20,000 from the council’s community grant.

Community grants are available for town and parish councils, community groups, and voluntary organisations to help deliver projects that make a difference locally.

To find out more, visit the community grants page on the North Lincolnshire Council website.

The post Game on for Bottesford as community grant helps kickstart new multi-use games area appeared first on North Lincolnshire Council.

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Waltham Windmill, in North East Lincolnshire, can now return to milling flour again, officials say.

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North Lincolnshire Council has approved a balanced budget that protects vital support for vulnerable residents while continuing to invest in roads, regeneration, flood resilience and local communities.

Despite reduced Government funding, rising costs and growing demand for essential services, the council has agreed a clear and disciplined financial plan focused on stability, protection and long-term value.

Around 80 per cent of council spending directly supports vulnerable adults, children and local communities – services that are not provided by any other organisation.

The budget safeguards care and support for older and disabled residents, maintains the council’s long-term financial sustainability and continues to back businesses to create secure, well-paid jobs.

Cllr Rob Waltham said: “This is a responsible budget for challenging times. We have protected the things that matter most – particularly support for vulnerable residents – while continuing to invest in North Lincolnshire’s future.

“National decisions have increased costs for councils without fully funding them. We will not hollow out essential services for short-term gain. This plan is balanced, disciplined and focused on long-term stability.”

Higher employer National Insurance contributions, Living Wage uplifts and sustained inflationary pressures have driven significant increases in workforce costs, with more than £6m added to social care costs alone this year.

The Government settlement does not fully fund those increases, leaving councils expected to bridge the gap.

Cllr Waltham added: “The Government has chosen to cut funding to councils. This budget is not about expansion – it is about protection.

“It preserves frontline support and ensures the council remains financially resilient in the face of externally driven cost pressures. More than 80 per cent of our capital investment programme is funded through external grants rather than local taxation, and our ongoing efficiency programme continues to reshape services around prevention and long-term value rather than crisis response.”

The budget commits more than £200m over the next four years to infrastructure, regeneration and community facilities – strengthening town centres, protecting homes from flooding, supporting economic growth and improving local environments.

Budget highlights include:

• £20m for highways improvements from April
• £10m investment in schools across North Lincolnshire
• £3m grant pot for rural communities
• Creation of an additional 100 new special educational needs school places
• Multi-million-pound leisure refurbishments at Pods and Riddings & Quibell Park
• Investment in Scunthorpe community centres
• Development of the Ashby Hub
• Tree-planting target increased to 750,000
• Free swimming during Easter and summer holidays for children and young people
• Free books for all children up to the age of five
• Free car parking in Ashby, Brigg and Scunthorpe
• Continued support for the Armed Forces community
• Weekly brown bin collections with no additional charge
• £5m for flood protection across the Isle and along the Humber bank
• Completion of the Burringham Bypass
• Expansion of Sir John Mason House, adding five new rooms

The post Budget 2026: Balanced budget protects and backs North Lincolnshire’s future appeared first on North Lincolnshire Council.

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A new episode of the News Direct podcast – Inspiring People – sharing real stories from across North Lincolnshire, shines a spotlight on Rachel Stephenson, Headteacher of Holme Valley Primary.

In the episode, Rachel reflects on growing up locally, her own school journey, and the moment she was told she might not achieve the grades needed to become a teacher.

Rather than being deterred, she describes how determination and resilience shaped her path – from classroom teacher to school leader – and how those same values now underpin her approach to education.

Podcast host Cllr Rob Waltham said: “Rachel’s story is a powerful reminder that great leadership is often forged through challenge. This isn’t just a conversation about education – it’s about resilience, belief, and what happens when someone is given the space to prove themselves and make a difference for hundreds of children and families.”

Rachel talks candidly about the realities of modern teaching, the growing complexity of pupils’ needs, and why strong relationships with children, families and staff sit at the heart of a successful school. She also shares what it was like stepping into headship unexpectedly, the responsibilities that come with leading a large primary school, and the importance of building a strong, values-led team.

The episode forms part of News Direct’s ongoing series highlighting people who grew up locally, care deeply about the place, and continue to make a positive impact in their communities.

The full episode is available now on YouTube and podcast platform Spotify.

The post From being told “you’re not good enough” to leading an outstanding school appeared first on North Lincolnshire Council.

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A busy junction used every day by families, cyclists and commuters is getting a safety upgrade this spring. 

The new crossing will be built at Brumby Wood Lane and Rowland Road roundabout, making it safer and easier to cross on foot or by bike. 

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “This is about making everyday journeys safer and simpler for people. 

“Where we see busy junctions being used by families, cyclists and pedestrians, we act. Improving crossings like this reduces risk, improves confidence and helps people move around their communities safely. It’s a practical investment that delivers real benefits.” 

Work is expected to start in mid-March and will take around three weeks. The money used for crossings like this is specifically set aside for road safety and cannot be spent on potholes or general road repairs that teams are working on every week across North Lincolnshire. 

Cllr Neil Poole, deputy leader and cabinet member for highways, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “We know roadworks can be frustrating. That’s why this job is short, focused and planned to keep disruption down. 

“The result is a safer crossing at a junction where people use it every day.” 

To carry out the work safely, the road will be closed at the crossing while construction is underway, access to nearby businesses will be maintained, and pedestrians will still be able to get through. Diversions will be in place and clearly signposted. 

The post Safer crossing to protect families and cyclists at Brumby Wood Lane appeared first on North Lincolnshire Council.

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Works on College Road in East Halton are moving forward, with teams on site and visible progress being made.

The scheme, being delivered in partnership with Natural England, is taking a practical, approach – protecting local wildlife while getting on with the job of making the road safer.

Last week marked the first real signs of action, with clearance work completed on the embankment. During the works, a curious badger was spotted having a nose around near the sett, but after a quick investigation decided not to move in – allowing progress to continue without delay.

This week, crews are busy getting the road ready for the next big step. Old safety barriers are being removed, the site is being set up, and preparations are underway for strengthening work to begin. From 2 February, work will start to reinforce and stabilise the embankment, helping to secure the road for the long term.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “It’s good to see work progressing on College Road. This shows what can be achieved when we take a sensible, pragmatic approach and work closely with partners.

“I want to thank Natural England for the constructive way they’ve worked with us to get this project moving.

“There’s still a way to go but great to see that work is cracking on.”

The post East Halton works move forward – and the badgers are keeping their distance appeared first on North Lincolnshire Council.

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Pensioners across North Lincolnshire are being urged to act quickly, with just 1,000 free air fryers remaining under the council’s hugely popular energy-saving cooking scheme.

Around 15,000 residents have already benefited from free appliances designed to help people eat well while cutting household energy bills. But with stock limited, this is a last opportunity for eligible pensioners who have not yet applied.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “This scheme has already helped thousands of pensioners save money and stay healthy – and now we’re down to the final appliances.

“If you’re eligible and haven’t applied yet, don’t miss out. Once these are gone, they’re gone.”

Each eligible household can receive one energy-efficient cooking appliance, including an air fryer, along with access to free healthy cooking sessions to help people get the most out of it.

Cllr Tim Mitchell, cabinet member for sustainability and transformation, added: “We’re genuinely sorry that the scheme is now drawing to a close, because we know how much of a difference these appliances make to people’s everyday lives.

“The last thing we want is for pensioners who would really benefit to miss out simply because they didn’t realise time was running out.

“If you’re eligible and haven’t applied yet, please do so now – this support is there to be used.”

How to apply – before it’s too late

Pensioners can apply quickly and easily by:

• Completing the online application form, or
• Visiting a local community hub in Ashby, Barton, Brigg, Crowle, Epworth or Scunthorpe, where staff can help with registration.
• Contact your ward councillor for help and assistance to apply.

Appliances are available for collection from community hubs.

The post Hurry now: final free air fryers available for pensioners across North Lincolnshire appeared first on North Lincolnshire Council.

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Plans to strengthen the long-term future of the historic Isle of Axholme have been formally approved by North Lincolnshire Council.

Cabinet agreed to support participation in the proposed Humberhead UNESCO Biosphere, a move that will protect the area’s unique landscape, improve flood resilience, restore nature and support farming and local livelihoods.

The decision opens the door for closer working with farmers, landowners, communities and environmental partners, and for residents to get involved in shaping projects that celebrate and protect the Isle as a living, working landscape.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “This is about keeping our promise to protect the Isle of Axholme, its landscape, its history and the communities who live and work here.

“This approach strengthens flood resilience and nature recovery without imposing new planning restrictions, and it gives local people a real voice in what happens next.”

The designation will not introduce new planning controls. Local decision-making remains with the council, while existing protections stay in place.

Cllr David Rose, cabinet member for environment and strategy, said: “Approving this plan is an important step, but it’s only the starting point.

“Making the most of it will depend on working closely with local communities, farmers and landowners to shape what happens on the ground and ensure the Isle of Axholme thrives for the long term.”

More information on how residents, farmers and community groups can get involved will be shared in the coming months.

The post Promise kept: plan agreed to protect beauty of the Isle of Axholme appeared first on North Lincolnshire Council.

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