News :Waltham

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.

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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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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.”

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