The South Kesteven Cabinet meeting covered several key topics, including the approval of a housing stock condition survey contract, the adoption of a new tree and woodlands strategy, the cessation of the HelloSK app, and the announcement of significant funding for energy efficiency upgrades at the Meres Leisure Centre.

The most significant topic discussed was the Housing Stock Condition Survey Contract Award. Councillor Robert Dukes presented the report, recommending that the Council enter into a contract with MPART Links Limited for stock condition surveys and energy performance certificates (EPCs) for the housing stock. The contract is for two years with an option to extend for an additional two years, with a maximum value of £281,000. The Council aims to ensure that all residents have access to safe, good quality, sustainable housing. The recommendation was unanimously approved.

Next, Councillor Paul Baker introduced the Tree and Woodlands Strategy 2024-2034. The strategy aims to increase tree canopy cover in South Kesteven, which currently has one of the lowest levels of tree cover in England. The strategy was developed with the support of Treeconomics and includes public consultation feedback, with 99% of respondents agreeing that trees and woodlands are valuable natural assets. The strategy also includes the recruitment of a dedicated tree project officer. The Cabinet unanimously approved the strategy, with an additional recommendation to allow minor amendments before final publication.

The cessation of the HelloSK app was also discussed. The app, introduced to support local businesses and funded by the Welcome Back Fund, did not achieve the expected revenue and user engagement. The Cabinet decided to cease the app and work with Destination Lincolnshire to support local businesses through other means. The decision was unanimously approved.

Councillor Barry Stokes announced that the Council secured £3.587 million from the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme Phase 3C for energy efficiency upgrades at the Meres Leisure Centre. An additional £492,500 will come from the Council's budget. The funding will be used to install a new low-carbon heating system, reducing carbon emissions by over 550 tons per year. This project supports the Council's goal of reducing carbon emissions by at least 30% by 2030.

The meeting concluded with a review of the work plan, noting that the lease to Grantham Town Football Club would be moved to the July meeting due to outstanding information. The Cabinet emphasized the importance of the work plan document, which outlines the Council's upcoming discussions and decisions.