This week in Lincolnshire:

Tackling Anti-Social Behaviour: A £1 Million Investment for Safer Communities

Lincolnshire County Council is investing £1 million in a new Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) Project aimed at creating safer communities. The Community Safety Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday, 24 February 2026, to review the progress of this significant initiative. The project focuses on a two-pronged approach: preventive education and positive community activities for young people, and a systemic response to complex issues affecting vulnerable adults.

For young people, the 'Beyond' Project, a collaboration between Future 4 Me (Positive Futures) and Community Safety (Stay Safe), offers a 12-week programme. This includes school-based education and community activities, with early indications suggesting a decrease in youth-related crime and ASB in pilot areas like Sleaford and Gainsborough. However, the short-term nature of the funding poses a challenge for its long-term sustainability.

On the adult front, a deep dive into cases of repeat and vulnerable victims revealed complex underlying issues, including cognitive impairment, substance misuse, financial exploitation, and domestic abuse. The project acknowledges that a coordinated, multi-organisational response is essential, aligning with the Lincolnshire Safeguarding Adults Board's 'Keeping People Safe' Prevention Strategy. This initiative directly addresses the council's commitment to community safety, particularly for those most at risk.

You can find more details in the Community Safety Scrutiny Committee meeting agenda.

Fair Trading and Fire Safety: Protecting Consumers and Communities

The Community Safety Scrutiny Committee also reviewed the vital work of Lincolnshire's Trading Standards and Fire and Rescue Service. The Fair Trading Team has been actively tackling issues from doorstep crime to counterfeit goods. A notable success was the sentencing of a rogue trader from Stamford to 20 months in prison for fraud, after defrauding ten customers out of over £52,000. The team also seized counterfeit goods and issued warnings, demonstrating a commitment to protecting consumers from unfair practices.

Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue's (LFR) Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP) 2024-2028 is also under review. The plan addresses evolving risks, including the growing prevalence of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and lithium-ion batteries, and the increased threat of utility disruption. LFR has conducted over 16,000 Home Fire Safety Visits, prioritising high-risk areas, and is developing new policies, such as one for BESS. This proactive approach ensures the safety and resilience of communities across Lincolnshire.

You can find more details in the Community Safety Scrutiny Committee meeting agenda.

Council Budget Debates: Balancing Ambition with Financial Realities

The Overview and Scrutiny Management Board met on Thursday, 26 February 2026, to scrutinise the council's budget proposals for the upcoming financial year. A key concern raised was the perceived lack of ambition in the capital programme, with calls for greater investment in extra care housing and children's services. Members also voiced strong opposition to the removal of funding for coastal highways pinch-point improvements, describing it as a devastating cut for East Coast connectivity.

The Board also discussed the council's draft Council Plan, with members urging for clearer links between the plan and the budget to ensure it is actionable rather than merely aspirational. The need for greater transparency in service operational efficiencies and the implications of rising construction and highways inflation on capital projects were also highlighted. The council's approach to internal borrowing versus external debt, particularly in the context of rising inflation, was also a point of discussion.

These discussions underscore the delicate balance the council must strike between investing in future growth and managing immediate financial pressures, with significant implications for service delivery and the overall development of the county.

You can find more details in the Overview and Scrutiny Management Board meeting agenda.

Other Matters Discussed

• The Health Scrutiny Committee for Lincolnshire met on Wednesday, 25 February 2026, to discuss emergency preparedness, updates on the Director of Public Health's annual reports, and arrangements for Quality Accounts. The committee also reviewed its work programme. See the meeting details here.
• The Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority met on Wednesday, 25 February 2026, to approve its Medium Term Financial Plan, Risk Management Strategy, and Treasury Management Strategy. Discussions also covered the delegation of transport functions, proposed changes to the Authority's constitution, and the endorsement of the Humber Economic Strategy. See the meeting details here.
• The Adult Care and Public Health Scrutiny Committee met on Friday, 27 February 2026, to consider reports on the usual costs of residential care, the extension of the Direct Payment Support Service, and the future of the Mental Health and Wellbeing Community Investment Fund. The committee also reviewed the decommissioning of the Memory Support Service and a Section 75 agreement related to mental health services. See the meeting details here.

Upcoming Meetings

• Executive - Tuesday 03 March 2026
• Adult Care and Public Health Scrutiny Committee - Wednesday 04 March 2026
• Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue Fire Pension Scheme Board - Thursday 05 March 2026
• Children's and Culture Scrutiny Committee - Friday 06 March 2026
• Planning and Regulation Committee - Monday 09 March 2026
• Lincolnshire Health and Wellbeing Board - Tuesday 10 March 2026
• Corporate Parenting Panel - Thursday 12 March 2026

This week in Lincolnshire:

Council Budget Decisions: Tax Hikes and Service Impacts Loom

Lincolnshire County Council's Council met on Friday, 20 February 2026, to deliberate on the crucial budget for the upcoming year and the next five years. The most significant decision facing residents is the proposed 2.90% council tax increase, which includes a 2% rise specifically for adult social care. This decision directly impacts household finances and raises questions about the council's ability to fund essential services, particularly for vulnerable groups.

The budget proposals, which were recommended by the Executive, also include the adoption of a new Council Plan for 2026-2031. This plan outlines the council's strategic priorities under the themes of Family, Community, County, aiming to support residents, protect the environment, connect the county, grow its economy, and ensure community safety.

The council also considered its Pay Policy Statement for 2026/27, which details the remuneration of chief officers and the relationship between their pay and that of the lowest-paid employees. Additionally, the proposed Members' Allowances Scheme for 2026/27 was reviewed, including recommendations for an increase in the basic allowance for councillors.

The meeting was also scheduled to address the allocation of seats on committees and sub-committees to ensure political proportionality, following a notification of a change in the Labour Group's membership. The adoption of an Engagement Strategy for 2026-30, aimed at placing the community at the heart of decision-making, was also on the agenda.

The stakes are high for residents, as these financial and strategic decisions will shape the services they receive and the overall direction of the county. The proposed council tax increase, while intended to support vital services like adult social care, will undoubtedly place additional pressure on household budgets, particularly for those on fixed incomes or facing economic hardship.

You can find more details in the Council meeting agenda.

Waste Partnership Faces Recycling Targets and New Regulations

The Lincolnshire Waste Partnership met on Thursday, 19 February 2026, to tackle the pressing issues of recycling performance and the implementation of new waste regulations. A key concern is the current recycling rate, which stands at 42.31% for Quarter 3 of 2025/26, falling short of the 55% target. This shortfall, attributed partly to weather-dependent green waste, highlights the ongoing challenge of increasing recycling rates across the county.

The partnership is gearing up for the rollout of segregated food waste collections in 2026/27, a move expected to significantly boost recycling figures. However, the report also details the complexities of implementing this across different districts, with some already receiving vehicles and caddies while others are still in the procurement phase.

Regulatory changes are also a major focus. The introduction of mandatory separate collection of plastic bags and wrapping by March 2027, alongside the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) for drinks containers in October 2027, will require significant adjustments to current practices. These changes aim to improve the quality of recyclables and reduce waste sent to landfill, but their successful implementation will depend on effective communication and infrastructure development.

For residents, these changes mean a potential shift in how they sort their waste, with the introduction of new bins and collection streams. The success of these initiatives will be crucial in meeting environmental targets and reducing the amount of waste sent to landfill, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable Lincolnshire.

You can find more details in the Lincolnshire Waste Partnership meeting agenda.

Other Matters Discussed

• The Lincolnshire Police and Crime Panel meeting scheduled for Wednesday, 18 February 2026, was cancelled.

Upcoming Meetings

• Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Wednesday 25 February 2026
• Overview and Scrutiny Management Board - Thursday 26 February 2026
• Community Safety Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 24 February 2026
• Health Scrutiny Committee for Lincolnshire - Wednesday 25 February 2026
• Executive - Tuesday 03 March 2026
• Adult Care and Public Health Scrutiny Committee - Friday 27 February 2026
• Adult Care and Public Health Scrutiny Committee - Wednesday 04 March 2026
• Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue Fire Pension Scheme Board - Thursday 05 March 2026

This week in Lincolnshire:

Flood Defences Under Review: Council Tackles Tidal Threats and Environmental Policy

Lincolnshire County Council is facing critical decisions regarding its environmental future, with a focus on protecting communities from rising sea levels and shaping its approach to environmental policy. The Environment Scrutiny Committee met on Friday, 13 February 2026, to discuss the vital Humber 2100+ Programme, a collaborative effort to manage tidal flood risk for half a million people and vital infrastructure along the Humber estuary. With sea levels predicted to rise by a metre in the next century, this programme is not just about infrastructure; it's about safeguarding homes, businesses, and the very fabric of our coastal communities.

The committee also considered the council's proposed Environment Policy, a document that signals a shift away from a singular focus on Net Zero targets, which the council deems unachievable and a burden on taxpayers. Instead, the new policy aims for practical, cost-effective, and locally driven actions to protect the environment. This approach prioritises resource conservation, collaboration, and environmental leadership. For residents, this could mean a more pragmatic approach to environmental challenges, balancing protection with economic realities.

The committee also reviewed performance reports for waste and flooding services. While household waste collection is performing well, the recycling rate is below target, though improvements are anticipated with the introduction of separate food waste collections next month. Encouragingly, landfill waste remains very low. In flood management, all investigations linked to recent storm events have been completed within the six-month target.

The committee also received an update on the revised Lincolnshire Archaeology Handbook, a crucial tool for preserving the county's heritage through the planning process. This digital handbook will guide developers and archaeologists, ensuring that archaeological work is conducted to a high standard.

You can find more details in the Environment Scrutiny Committee meeting agenda.

Planning Decisions: Sand Extraction and Solar Farms Spark Debate

The Planning and Regulation Committee met on Monday, 09 February 2026, to consider several significant planning applications, including a large-scale sand and gravel extraction project and a major solar farm development. These decisions have direct implications for land use, local environments, and the agricultural sector.

Thetford House Farm, Baston: Sand and Gravel Extraction

A key item was the application by Cemex UK Operations Ltd for sand and gravel extraction at Thetford House Farm, Baston. This proposal includes plans for restoration to agriculture, recreation, and nature conservation, alongside the creation of new public footpaths. While the report recommended conditional planning permission, extensive environmental impact assessments were reviewed, covering noise, water, landscape, ecology, and archaeology. Concerns raised by local residents and statutory bodies will shape the conditions attached to any permission, aiming to mitigate impacts on the local environment and community.

Navenby Solar PV Electricity Generating Facility: Objections Raised

The committee also considered an application by Fosse Green Energy Limited for a large solar photovoltaic (PV) electricity generating facility and battery storage system. The council's report recommended objecting to this Development Consent Order (DCO) application. Key concerns include significant adverse effects on the landscape and visual amenity, the loss of valuable agricultural land, and potential impacts on cultural heritage and archaeology. The cumulative impact of multiple large-scale solar developments across Lincolnshire was also a major point of discussion, raising questions about the long-term character of the county. Registered speakers, including local councillors and parish council representatives, voiced strong objections regarding the local impacts of the proposed development.

Traffic Management Proposals

The committee also reviewed several proposed traffic regulation orders and speed limit changes across the county. These included:

• Gainsborough, Tooley Street: Proposals for waiting restrictions to improve traffic flow and junction visibility, with residents raising concerns about parking availability.
• Keelby, Various Roads: Investigations into parking impacts, leading to proposals for 24-hour restrictions and school keep clear markings, with objections citing parking displacement.
• Lincoln, Coulson Road: Waiting restrictions proposed to maintain access for farm traffic and enhance safety, with university students objecting to the loss of on-street parking.
• Lincoln, Pioneer Way: 24-hour waiting restrictions proposed to manage traffic flow in a cul-de-sac serving industrial units, with objections suggesting further restrictions are needed.
• Mablethorpe, Peter Chambers Way: Proposals for bus stop clearways to prevent parking obstruction, with one objection concerning traffic flow and pedestrian safety.
• Spalding, Balmoral Avenue: Waiting restrictions, including 'school keep clear' markings, proposed to improve visibility near a primary school, with objections regarding the loss of resident parking.
• Spalding, Fulney Drove and Mill Drove North: A proposal for a 50mph speed limit extension, following a high number of vehicle collisions, presented as a departure from standard policy.

You can find more details in the Planning and Regulation Committee meeting agenda.

Appointments Panel Delays Director of Resources Recruitment

The Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Appointments Panel met on Tuesday, 10 February 2026, and decided to postpone the appointment of a Director of Resources. Instead, the panel resolved to engage a headhunting agency to assist with the recruitment process. This decision means the crucial role of overseeing the authority's financial and administrative functions will remain unfilled for the immediate future, with a recommendation to be presented to the full Authority on 25 February.

You can find more details in the Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Appointments Panel meeting agenda.

Other Matters Discussed

• The Lincolnshire Schools' Forum met on Thursday, 12 February 2026. While no detailed summary is available, the forum typically discusses school funding, curriculum, and educational policies impacting children across the county. See the meeting details here.

Upcoming Meetings

• Lincolnshire Police and Crime Panel - Wednesday 18 February 2026 (Cancelled)
• Lincolnshire Waste Partnership - Thursday 19 February 2026
• Council - Friday 20 February 2026
• Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Wednesday 25 February 2026
• Health Scrutiny Committee for Lincolnshire - Wednesday 25 February 2026
• Overview and Scrutiny Management Board - Thursday 26 February 2026
• Community Safety Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 24 February 2026

This week in Lincolnshire:

Council Tax Hike Looms: Executive Debates Budget Amidst Funding Fears

Lincolnshire County Council's Executive met on Tuesday, 3 February 2026, to consider the proposed Council Budget for 2026/27. The most significant point of contention is the potential for a 4.99% council tax increase, a decision that will directly impact the household budgets of residents across the county. This proposed rise comes as the council grapples with rising costs, particularly in adult social care and children's services, and the ongoing uncertainty surrounding national funding settlements.

The implications of this budget are stark, especially for vulnerable groups. A higher council tax bill will place additional strain on low-income households, while any potential cuts or changes to essential services could significantly impact the quality and accessibility of care, education, and support networks. The council's report pack indicates that while a surplus is projected over the medium term, this is heavily reliant on increasing council tax, delivering substantial savings, and maintaining tight cost controls.

Public consultation feedback, as noted in the report, shows that over half of submissions supported the highest council tax increase, with many citing the need to protect services and frustration with the national funding system. The Executive is tasked with agreeing a final budget proposal to present to Full Council, making this a critical juncture for the council's financial planning and service delivery.

You can find more details in the Executive meeting agenda.

Integrated Lifestyle Service Overhaul: Smoking Cessation and Falls Prevention to be Prioritised

The future of the Integrated Lifestyle Service (ILS) was a key focus for the Executive on Tuesday, 3 February 2026, following a public consultation. The proposed changes aim to streamline services, with a recommendation to commission a redesigned, standalone smoking cessation service and a separate falls prevention programme. This strategic shift means that other elements of the ILS, such as weight management and physical activity programmes, are likely to be discontinued.

The funding released from these changes is earmarked to ensure the continued delivery of the 'Best Start Lincolnshire: Early Years and Family Service' and to commission a new standalone falls prevention service. This decision is particularly relevant for older residents who may benefit from targeted support to maintain their independence and prevent falls, a leading cause of injury and hospitalisation. The report notes that the context for reviewing the ILS has changed significantly since it was last discussed, with new government guidance consolidating and ringfencing various national grants, including funding for smoking cessation.

This recommissioning effort highlights the council's efforts to adapt to changing funding landscapes and to focus resources on services deemed most critical. The impact on residents who currently access the broader ILS programmes will be a key consideration as these changes are implemented.

You can find more details in the Executive meeting agenda.

Police Precept Increase Proposed: 29p Per Week to Fund Local Policing

The Lincolnshire Police and Crime Panel met on Friday, 6 February 2026, to discuss a proposed increase to the police precept for 2026/27. The plan involves an increase of £14.94 for Band D properties, which translates to approximately 29 pence per week for most Lincolnshire households. This increase is intended to bolster funding for local policing, a move supported by a public consultation that indicated significant backing for increased police resources.

The report presented detailed the provisional government grant for Lincolnshire, which includes a substantial increase compared to the previous year, alongside additional funding specifically for neighbourhood policing. However, the report also highlights projected income and expenditure over the next four years, indicating a growing budget gap. This proposed precept increase is therefore a crucial step in addressing these financial pressures and ensuring the continued delivery of effective policing services across the county.

The panel also engaged in a discussion about police reform, including concerns about potential democratic deficits and accountability issues if Police and Crime Commissioners were to be abolished. Members stressed the importance of maintaining local policing and expressed a desire to proactively contribute ideas to the government on how policing should operate.

You can find more details in the Lincolnshire Police and Crime Panel meeting agenda.

Other Matters Discussed

• The Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Audit Committee met on Wednesday, 4 February 2026. The committee was scheduled to review key governance documents, including the Annual Governance Statement and proposed changes to the Authority's Constitution. They were also set to consider reports on whistleblowing, risk management, and the progress of the internal audit function. See the meeting details here.
• The Pay Policy and Terms and Conditions Sub-Committee met on Tuesday, 3 February 2026. The committee was scheduled to discuss the council's Pay Policy Statement for 2026-27 and conduct a review of Chief Officers' pay. This included updates on salary adjustments in line with national pay awards and independent reviews for senior roles. See the meeting details here.
• The Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Appointments Panel met on Thursday, 5 February 2026. The panel was scheduled to discuss the preferred candidate for the role of Director of Strategy and Operations, following an interview process. See the meeting details here.

Upcoming Meetings

• Lincolnshire Schools' Forum - Thursday 12 February 2026
• Planning and Regulation Committee - Monday 09 February 2026
• Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority - Appointments Panel - Tuesday 10 February 2026
• Environment Scrutiny Committee - Friday 13 February 2026
• Lincolnshire Waste Partnership - Thursday 19 February 2026
• Lincolnshire Police and Crime Panel - Wednesday 18 February 2026
• Unknown committee - Friday 20 February 2026