News :Waltham

More homes are being brought back into use across North Lincolnshire as a direct result of the council’s tough but fair crackdown on long-term empty properties – with the number of homes facing premium charges falling sharply as owners take action.

A new review of long-term empty properties shows that 15 per cent of the 568 homes previously liable for premiums have now been brought back into use – opening up dozens of new homes for families and improving neighbourhoods.

The policy was introduced to tackle nuisance and neglected properties, boost local housing supply and strengthen communities – not to penalise genuine second homeowners. The latest figures show owners are responding as intended and bringing homes back into occupation rather than continuing to pay escalating charges.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “This is exactly what we set out to achieve. The policy was never about over charging people who have a second home or forcing higher bills onto those acting responsibly.

“It was always about encouraging the small number of owners who leave properties empty year after year to finally act – and the latest figures show the approach is working. Communities benefit, neighbourhoods look better, and more homes are now lived in rather than left to deteriorate.”

Under the rules introduced in 2022, homes empty for more than two years face a 100 per cent premium, five years a 200 per cent premium and ten years 300 per cent.

A report approved at Full Council has now confirmed the impact – with dozens more empty houses restored as homes for local families.

Cllr Richard Hannigan, cabinet member for adults, health and communities, said: “Every long-term empty home that comes back into use strengthens a community. It means fewer eyesores, fewer problem properties, and more housing choice for local people.

“We will continue to focus on what works – encouraging landlords to do the right thing, protecting responsible homeowners, and making sure every pound we collect supports the things that matter for residents.”

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Residents in Old Crosby will be asked to help shape plans to restore pride, raise standards and better protect the area’s remaining historic character – ensuring the neighbourhood’s most important buildings and features can be safeguarded for generations to come.

North Lincolnshire Council is proposing to redraw the Old Crosby Conservation Area boundary, so protection is focused on the original historic core – the part of the neighbourhood that still reflects the character and charm that first led to its designation.

The move is designed to support regeneration through conservation, helping the area look and feel more like the Old Crosby people value.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “Old Crosby has played an important part in the story of the county town of Scunthorpe. Residents rightly want to see its historic character respected.

“This proposal focuses protection where it will genuinely make a difference – preserving the buildings and features that still define the area. We want to protect the old and deliver the new and do it with residents helping to shape its future.”

A consultation will be launched in the New Year and will include proposals for stronger planning measures to stop further loss of traditional features and help ensure future alterations enhance, rather than detract from, the local street scene.

A detailed review has shown that parts of the existing conservation area – designated in 1976 – have experienced decades of piecemeal changes, meaning the current boundary no longer reflects what is genuinely of historic or architectural value.

Cllr David Rose, cabinet member for environment and strategy, said: “Conservation status only works when it protects what is truly special.

“By consulting on a refined boundary and stronger safeguards, we can help prevent further erosion of historic character and give homeowners confidence that future changes will enhance the neighbourhood rather than diminish it.

“We want residents, community groups and heritage organisations to get involved and tell us what they think.”

The consultation, launching in the New Year, will seek views on proposals to:

• Retain and protect the historic heart of Old Crosby, including properties 39–51 Old Crosby – the area that best reflects the village’s origins.
• Strengthen planning controls through an Article 4 (2) Direction so traditional features such as windows, doors, roofs and boundary walls can be preserved and sensitively reinstated over time.
• Support long-term neighbourhood pride by ensuring future changes contribute positively to the character, quality and appearance of Old Crosby.

The post Council steps in to protect Old Crosby’s charm – and demands higher standards for the future appeared first on North Lincolnshire Council.

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Most business leaders play it safe. James Sweeting doesn’t.

He joins Rob Waltham to reveal the unfiltered truth behind building .

Head to our website to watch this episode on Spotify or Youtube: bit.ly/3KR3qpf

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News Direct has launched a bold new episode featuring James Sweeting, Chairman of Lincoln & York, in a conversation that cuts straight through the corporate noise. 

Hosted by Cllr Rob Waltham, the episode lifts the lid on what really happens behind the scenes when building and leading a major UK business. 

Sweeting doesn’t hold back. He talks openly about the highs that shaped him, the low points that nearly broke him, and the business cycles that separate the lucky from the resilient. 

From navigating risk to surviving tough markets, he shares the kind of hard-earned lessons entrepreneurs rarely say out loud. 

Host Cllr Rob Waltham said: “I wanted this episode to get to the reality of leadership. James didn’t dodge a single question – and that’s exactly why this conversation matters. 

“I am sure the conversation will be of value to anyone wanting to understand the growth of one of North Lincolnshire’s most successful business, and particularly for anyone thinking of making that leap into running their own company.” 

The conversation takes an unexpected turn as Sweeting dives into the influences that sharpen his thinking – from financial strategist Howard Marks to a lifelong fascination with market behaviour. And in true News Direct style, we go personal: the music he’d keep, the luxury he refuses to live without, and why his lawn mower says more about him than any leadership book ever could. 

Provocative, honest and surprisingly funny, this episode challenges every assumption about success and leadership. If you think you know how Lincoln & York became a powerhouse – think again. 

Listeners can find the full conversation on Spotify and YouTube.

The post No Nonsense. No Gloss. Just the Truth: Rob Waltham sits down with Lincoln & York Chairman James Sweeting for one of News Direct’s most revealing episodes yet appeared first on North Lincolnshire Council.

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North Lincolnshire Council has responded after receiving a letter from the Minister of State for Health confirming that the Government will not intervene in the NHS Humber Acute Services review – despite admitting that concerns have been rightly raised about the impact on residents.

The review proposes removing some critical hospital services from Scunthorpe, forcing patients to travel to Grimsby or Hull for care they should be able to access locally.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “Residents will be furious – and rightly so. The Government had a clear opportunity to stand up for people in North Lincolnshire and protect vital NHS services. They recognised the risks, they saw the warnings, and yet they have chosen to walk away.

“That is nothing short of abandoning local people at a time when the health service is already under immense strain.”

The council submitted detailed evidence calling for a review, setting out major concerns over access to urgent care, long-term patient outcomes, and the sustainability of the local health system.

Despite acknowledging issues, the Minister’s letter confirms that the Government will not call in the decision and will instead leave the matter entirely in the hands of the NHS.

The “call-in” request would have allowed the Secretary of State for Health to formally intervene and take responsibility for reviewing, pausing, or overturning the service reconfiguration.

Cllr Waltham added: “Every resident deserves a strong, local NHS – not the steady erosion of care. The Government’s refusal to act gives no reassurance to the thousands of people already worried about services being chipped away bit by bit.

“This decision leaves the area dangerously exposed. The Government had the chance to help us protect our hospital, and they chose not to take it.

“We will continue to hold those making these decisions to account and press them on every single commitment they make, but we cannot ignore the reality – communities have fought too hard for their hospital to see it diminished, and they deserved support to fight with them. Instead, they have been left to face this alone.”

The post Government refuses to step in and stop NHS plan to strip services from Scunthorpe hospital appeared first on North Lincolnshire Council.

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Elderly residents at Myos House in Scunthorpe have received free low-energy cooking appliances and winter warmer packs as part of a major push to help older people stay safe, warm and independent this winter.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of the Council and Cllr Tim Mitchell, cabinet member for sustainability and transformation, visited the award-winning supported housing facility to hand out the energy-saving appliances and essential winter packs.

Cllr Waltham said: “We know that many older people are feeling the pressure of rising energy costs, and we want to make sure they’re supported in very practical ways. These packs and appliances will make a real difference – helping people cook healthy meals while keeping bills down and homes warm.

“Residents at Myos House are an inspiration – they show how people can live independently with the right support around them. These things matter, safe, warm homes and a good quality of life for everyone in North Lincolnshire.”

The visit formed part of the council’s Safe, Warm and Connected programme, which is backing thousands of older residents with practical help to cut bills, stay healthy and remain connected through the colder months.

The new appliances – including energy-efficient air fryers and slow cookers – will enable residents to prepare nutritious meals using less electricity, while the winter warmer packs include blankets, thermal mugs, hats, gloves and practical information about staying safe and connected over winter.

Cllr Mitchell added: “It was great to spend time with residents and hear first-hand how much they value the independence and community spirit at Myos House.

“We’re focussed on joining up the support that really makes a difference – whether that’s a low-energy appliance, help with health and wellbeing, or just knowing someone’s there to check in.”

Myos House, on Warwick Road in Scunthorpe, provides modern, dementia-friendly homes where residents can live independently with the reassurance of on-site support. The scheme is delivered in partnership between North Lincolnshire Council and Ongo Homes, combining housing, care and community under one roof.

This latest visit marks another step in the council’s commitment to valuing older residents and ensuring everyone in North Lincolnshire can live well at every age.

The post Winter warm packs and low-energy appliances delivered to Myos House residents appeared first on North Lincolnshire Council.

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North Lincolnshire Council has reported a strong mid-year financial position, achieved through careful planning and a continued focus on value for money for local taxpayers.

Despite significant challenges – including reductions in national funding and increased staffing costs following the latest budget – the council has kept borrowing low, delivered better-than-expected investment returns, and ensured every financial decision supports frontline services.

Council leader Cllr Rob Waltham said the results, detailed in a Treasury Management Report approved at Full Council, show North Lincolnshire is being run with “discipline and common sense.”

Cllr Waltham said: “Residents want to know their council is steady and responsible, especially when public services everywhere are under pressure. These results show that, even with cuts to funding and rising costs, we are managing taxpayers’ money carefully and planning for the long term.

“Our priorities remain clear – supporting young people, adults with complex needs, and older people. We will continue to protect the services that matter most.”

The mid-year report confirms that the council has:

• Kept borrowing below expected levels, avoiding the pressures many councils now face.
• Delivered strong investment returns, bringing in extra income to support services.
• Stayed within all national financial rules, demonstrating tight control and sound judgement.
• Maintained a healthy cash position, ensuring bills are paid and services continue to run smoothly.

Cllr Tim Mitchell, cabinet member for sustainability and transformation, added: “Every pound we spend belongs to local taxpayers, so we treat it with absolute care. These results aren’t an accident – they’re the product of good housekeeping and solid financial management, even in the face of funding cuts and rising costs.”

Despite these challenges, North Lincolnshire continues to deliver more than many other councils, including:

• Free brown bins for garden waste when others charge.
• Enhanced pensioner travel concessions.
• Support for families with free swimming sessions at Easter and in the Summer and the Imagination Library for early years reading.
• Government-funded air fryer scheme for older residents, helping them stay independent and avoid unnecessary care costs.
• Planted hundreds of thousands of trees to help the environment and introduced a simpler recycling scheme to support local residents.

The report also highlights that the council is well-prepared for the months ahead, with plans in place to manage inflation, support major projects, and continue protecting essential services.

Cllr Waltham added: “Residents want stability and confidence that their council is protecting their money. These results show we’re doing exactly that – steady hands at a time when it matters most.”

The post Council finances remain stable despite funding cuts and rising costs appeared first on North Lincolnshire Council.

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North Lincolnshire’s manufacturers were given a crucial boost this week as business leaders gathered for a specialist summit designed to help firms prepare for the coming year.

The event – opened by Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council – brought together HR leaders, finance directors and managing directors from some of the area’s most significant employers.

British Steel, Singleton Birch, Collingwood Engineering, Rocal Group, Bulten, Weldtite, Billington Foods, Bradbury Group, Techrete, Artifex Interior Systems, Hitek, CorrBoard, Lebus, LAS Metals, New Holland Extraction and AKP all attended.

Cllr Waltham said: “Businesses across North Lincolnshire are facing real pressures in the national economic climate, and we know that uncertainty makes planning even harder. Today was about giving manufacturers the clarity and confidence they need to prepare for what’s coming – delivering what matters so they can protect jobs, invest in skills and continue driving our local economy.”

He added: “Manufacturing is the backbone of the economy here in North Lincolnshire. By working with organisations like Make UK, we’re making sure local employers have the expert insight they need to stay ahead of upcoming legal changes and remain competitive.”

The tailored session – held at Normanby Gateway in Scunthorpe – focused on the employment law reforms expected in 2026, including new rules around redundancy, dismissal processes and union engagement. Businesses were offered advice on how the changes could impact their operations and what steps they can take now to prepare.

Cllr Waltham added: “This is a practical example of the council stepping in to support local firms at a time when every decision matters. Giving businesses access to high-quality guidance helps them navigate national changes with confidence and keeps North Lincolnshire open for growth.”

Manufacturers of all sizes attended the session, which also provided opportunities to network, share concerns and compare approaches to workforce planning.

The council is continuing to work with Make UK and other partners to ensure local businesses have the tools and information they need to respond to the shifting employment landscape and wider economic challenges.

For more information or to access business support, contact: businessinfo@northlincs.gov.uk.

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Thousands of older and disabled residents will continue to benefit from free and enhanced bus and rail travel in North Lincolnshire next year – helping people stay independent, connected and active.

The proposal locks in free off-peak bus travel plus North Lincolnshire’s long-standing discretionary extras, including:

• Free bus travel before 9.30am and after 11pm for local passholders
• Discounted local rail fares, and in many cases free local rail travel
• Companion passes for disabled residents who need support to travel.

These go well beyond the national minimum national standards and have been protected since first being introduced in 2017.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “This is about protecting the things that matter most to local people. Thousands of older and disabled residents depend on free travel to stay independent – to get to the shops, attend medical appointments, see friends and family and remain part of their communities.

“Since 2017 we’ve always chosen to go further than the minimum because it’s the right thing to do. This new scheme keeps that commitment firmly in place.”

The concessionary offer supports more than 25,000 local passholders, giving them freedom to travel without worrying about costs or rigid timetables.

And comes alongside a raft of support backing thousands of older residents with practical help to cut bills, stay healthy and remain connected through the colder months.

Cllr Julie Reed, cabinet member for children, families and communities, said: “Accessible, affordable travel changes lives. Whether it’s attending vital appointments, staying physically active or simply getting out for a coffee, this support keeps people connected and reduces the risk of isolation.

“We’re safeguarding this help for the year ahead, giving residents certainty at a time when household budgets are under real pressure.”

The draft scheme has been published today, giving bus operators the chance to comment before the final scheme is confirmed ahead of 1 April. Consultation with operators is the next step, with the final decision due in early March 2026.

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