News :Waltham

Young people in North Lincolnshire are already making a visible difference in their community – with a new youth-led project in Ashby now up and running thanks to a £5,000 grant.

The Keep it Green Ashby project – the first initiative delivered through the Volunteen pilot – has seen young people design and begin creating an inclusive community garden for local residents to enjoy.

The scheme forms part of a one-year programme supporting 10 to 18-year-olds, and up to 25 for young people with SEND, to take part in volunteering and social action.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “Young people are telling us they want to get involved, to shape their communities and to take pride in where they live. This project shows exactly what can happen when we back them – real action, led by young people, delivering what residents care about.”

The Volunteen project has been working with youth clubs, school councils and local organisations to understand what opportunities young people want and how best to strengthen the local volunteering offer.

The £5,000 investment has supported the delivery of the Ashby project, providing tools, materials and hands-on support to turn ideas into action.

Cllr Julie Reed, cabinet member for children, families and communities, said: “This is youth-led, community-focused and exactly the sort of positive activity we want to champion.

“The inclusive garden in Ashby is now taking shape – created by young people, for their community – and shows how relatively small investments can unlock something really special.”

Following the success of the first project, plans are being developed to extend the Volunteen pilot, with organisations encouraged to get involved and help expand opportunities across North Lincolnshire.

The grant forms part of the council’s ongoing support for grassroots groups that enrich local communities and encourage people to get active, connect and take part.

Since launching in 2011, the fund has supported hundreds of projects across North Lincolnshire – investing in the spaces, activities and facilities that residents say make the biggest difference.

Grants remain available for junior and youth groups, charitable bodies, co-operatives, not-for-profit organisations, and individuals demonstrating excellence in sport, art or culture. Support is also available for venue hire, helping to keep community spaces open and active.

The post Youngsters bring ‘Keep it Green’ project to life with £5k boost appeared first on North Lincolnshire Council.

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Residents in East Halton will soon see progress on plans to repair and strengthen College Road, with the project moving into its next stage following work to address the nearby badger sett.

The sett has now been safely collapsed in line with environmental guidance, allowing the council and its partners to move forward with the scheme.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “Residents in East Halton have been incredibly patient while the issues around the badger sett have been worked through.

“The important thing now is that we can move forward with a clear plan to repair the road and make it safe for the future.

“I’d also like to thank partners and environmental bodies for working with us pragmatically so that we could both protect wildlife and get this important repair project back on track.”

Finalising engineering plans have now been received and to repair and stabilise the embankment – with a formal procurement and contractor appointment stage.

Subject to final confirmation and contractor availability, the council expects physical works on site to begin in early May, with the aim of completing the improvements by 1 July 2026.

Further updates will be shared with residents as the final design is confirmed and work on site approaches.

The post College Road repair work set to begin this spring after design update appeared first on North Lincolnshire Council.

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The future of Scunthorpe United has been strengthened further after the club agreed a new 10-year lease for training facilities with North Lincolnshire Council.

The agreement gives the club long-term certainty over the land used for training and player development – allowing the Iron to invest in coaching, develop players and expanding its community programmes.

It builds on the council’s support in 2023 to secure the Glanford Park site, ensuring professional football remained in the town after a period of uncertainty.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “Scunthorpe United is a huge part of the identity of this town. When its future was uncertain we stepped in to secure the ground for the long term.

“This agreement strengthens those foundations even further – giving the club the stability it needs to train, develop young talent and grow again.

“The club plays an important role in the life of this place and we want to see it thrive for many years to come.”

Scunthorpe United’s chairwoman Michelle Harness, said: “There’s a shared understanding with the council about what this club means to the town – Rob and the team have helped create the stability we need, particularly over the last few years.

“That gives us a strong platform to keep developing players, and build for the future and supporting the wider community.”

The post Future strengthened for Scunthorpe United as long-term lease on training ground secured appeared first on North Lincolnshire Council.

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A leisure centre on the Isle of Axholme is set to slash its energy bills, securing its long-term future after being chosen for a major solar power investment.

Axholme North Leisure Centre will soon generate much of its own electricity thanks to a large rooftop solar installation – cutting running costs and helping keep the popular community facility open and thriving for years to come.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “This is about protecting local leisure centres like Axholme North – while others are closing leisure centres and libraries, we’re creating more sustainable futures.

“Energy costs have rocketed in recent years and they are one of the biggest pressures on facilities like this. Generating our own power helps keep the bills down and makes sure centres in rural communities like the Isle of Axholme remain viable long into the future.

“It’s a commercial, common-sense approach – reduce the running costs so we can keep investing in the facilities people use every day.”

The new solar system, made up of more than 200 panels, will generate around 48,000 kWh of electricity each year – saving more than £10,000 annually on energy costs.

Cllr Carl Sherwood, cabinet member for community wellbeing (rural), said: “This is exactly the sort of common-sense approach councils should be taking – drive down the running costs so we can keep investing in the things people actually care about.

“In North Lincolnshire we’ve made a clear choice. Whether it’s our libraries, free swimming for children, free parking in our town centres or keeping leisure centres open in rural communities, we’re determined to keep delivering the services that matter most to local people.”

The installation will make Axholme North Leisure Centre one of the most energy-efficient facilities of its kind in the region, helping ensure it continues to serve residents across the Isle of Axholme for years to come.

The post Solar power plan creates more sustainable future for Isle leisure centre appeared first on North Lincolnshire Council.

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Rural households across North Lincolnshire who rely on heating oil are set to receive extra help – with funding on the way.

Communities and residents across North Lincolnshire have been identified as one of the areas set to benefit from a share of new funding aimed at helping rural communities hit hardest by rising heating oil prices.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “We know this is hitting people in our rural communities hard – families who rely on heating oil don’t have the same protections as those on mains gas.

“This funding is welcome, but the most important thing is making sure people get help now. If you’re struggling, come forward – we will stand by you and do everything we can to help.”

Cllr Tim Mitchell, cabinet member for transformation and sustainability, said: “We’ve always backed our rural communities – whether that’s keeping services local, investing in villages, or stepping in when people need support. This is about doing what matters for residents.”

While the funding will be formally allocated next month, residents on heating oil are now being urged to come forward and register their interest so support can be targeted where it’s needed most.

What you need to do

If you use heating oil to heat your home, register your interest through the council portal.

If you need help completing the form, you can also visit your local community hub where staff will support you to get registered.

The post Heating oil costs spike – cash support on the way for rural households appeared first on North Lincolnshire Council.

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Thousands of older and disabled residents will continue to benefit from free and extended bus and rail travel in North Lincolnshire, as councillors confirmed the concessionary travel scheme for another year.

The decision keeps the long-standing scheme in place from April, helping people stay independent, connected and active while supporting local bus services and high streets.

The scheme includes the national free off-peak bus pass, alongside a package of additional concessions that councillors in North Lincolnshire have chosen to maintain for nearly a decade – going far further than the national minimum.

Locally, the scheme includes:

• Free bus travel throughout the day, including early mornings before 9.30am and late night journeys 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.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, 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.

“We have deliberately chosen to invest in our older residents to help them stay independent and connected. That investment also supports our town centres and helps keep local bus services viable.

“We promised to go further than the national minimum and we’ve kept that promise for almost a decade now.

“If you are eligible and haven’t applied yet, I would strongly encourage you to do so. The pass helps people stay connected, can be used as a form of identification, and every journey helps support the local services our communities rely on.”

The concessionary offer supports more than 25,000 local passholders, giving them the freedom to travel without worrying about costs or rigid timetables. These enhancements go well beyond the national minimum standards and have been protected locally since they were first introduced in 2017.

Cllr Julie Reed, cabinet member for independent families (children), said: “Accessible, affordable travel changes lives. Whether it’s attending vital appointments, staying active or simply getting out for a coffee with friends, this support helps people stay connected.

“For our children with disabilities, independent travel on public transport is a really important life skill that opens up opportunities for them.

“We are working with schools and bus operators to expand our travel training programme so more young people can gain the confidence and skills to travel independently.

“By confirming the scheme for the coming year, we’re giving residents certainty that this support will remain in place at a time when household budgets are under real pressure.”

The scheme will continue from 1 April, taking North Lincolnshire’s enhanced concessionary travel offer into its tenth year.

The post Investment in older people’s travel keeps lifeline for 25,000 residents for tenth year appeared first on North Lincolnshire Council.

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Young people in Scunthorpe with additional needs have been taking part in a unique creative project thanks to a £4,611 Positive Activities grant awarded by North Lincolnshire Council.

The funding has enabled The Way Youth Club (SEN), based at Connect Church on Ashby Road, to launch a Puppet Club, a creative and inclusive programme designed to support the emotional wellbeing, communication skills, and confidence of young people aged 11 to 19.

The project provided a series of workshops here young people explored a range of exciting activities, including:

• Music creation for puppet performances
• Script writing and storytelling
• Dance and movement routines
• Voiceovers and microphone technique
• Filming and editing puppet shows
• Exploring black light puppetry
• Prop-making workshops

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “This is a fantastic project that combines fun, creativity and learning while giving young people with additional needs the chance to grow in confidence and develop new skills.

“The fund is all about creating opportunities where young people can thrive, and The Way Youth Club’s Puppet Club will do just that. I’m delighted we can help make it happen.”

Cllr Julie Reed, cabinet member for children and families, added: “The Puppet Club is a brilliant example of how community-led projects can make a real difference for young people with additional needs. It will help them express themselves, build friendships, and enjoy brand-new experiences in a safe and supportive environment.

“Supporting children and young people is one of our top priorities, and I know families will really value this innovative new programme.”

The cash is part of the council’s grant programme – which has pumped millions into grassroots projects across the region – from sports clubs and youth groups to charities and parish councils – helping to strengthen communities and support local talent.

Grants are available for junior and youth groups, charitable bodies, co-operatives, not-for-profit organisations, and individuals demonstrating excellence in sport, art, or culture. Support is also available for venue hire, helping keep community spaces open and active.

The post Council supports puppet club for young people with additional needs appeared first on North Lincolnshire Council.

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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.

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