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Weekly updates

South Holland: New substation plans debated

This week in South Holland:

Planning Committee Tackles Crucial Infrastructure and Development Proposals

The Planning Committee convened on Wednesday, January 7th, to deliberate on several key planning applications that will shape the future of South Holland. The decisions made have the potential to impact local infrastructure, housing development, and the character of our rural areas. Read more about the meeting.

New Substation for Holbeach: Powering Growth or Impacting the Countryside?

A significant proposal discussed was the construction of a new primary substation at Land West of Branches Lane, Holbeach. This development is deemed essential to address insufficient capacity in the local electricity network, a bottleneck that has been identified as a constraint on growth ambitions for the east of the district.

  • The Stakes: This substation is crucial for enabling future housing and commercial development by ensuring adequate power supply. Without it, planned growth could be stalled, impacting job creation and housing availability.
  • Potential Outcomes: Approval would mean a significant upgrade to the electricity network, supporting economic development. However, concerns were raised regarding the site's location in the countryside, its visual impact, and potential flood risks. The committee would need to balance the need for infrastructure with the preservation of the rural landscape.
  • Public Reaction: While the report pack detailed responses from various consultees, the specific public reaction to this particular application was not detailed in the summary.

Castle Sports Complex Modifications: Reshaping Spalding's Leisure Facilities

The committee also considered modifications to the Castle Sports Complex development in Spalding, specifically a Section 73 application. This sought amendments to previously approved plans for a new leisure hub, including changes to car parking, development phasing, and building alterations.

  • The Stakes: These modifications could affect the accessibility, functionality, and overall user experience of a vital community facility. Changes to parking and phasing could impact convenience for residents, while alterations to the building itself might influence its capacity and suitability for various activities.
  • Potential Outcomes: Approval would allow the project to proceed with revised plans, potentially streamlining construction or improving the final facility. Rejection or significant amendments could lead to delays and further planning complexities.
  • Focus of Assessment: The assessment focused on the acceptability of the proposed amendments, as the principle of the development was already established.

Rural Building Conversion: Balancing Housing Needs and Countryside Protection

A full application was reviewed for the conversion of an existing steel-framed building into a three-bedroom, self-build dwelling at Land off High Road, Moulton, Spalding. This proposal brought into sharp focus the ongoing debate about developing in the countryside.

  • The Stakes: This decision touches upon the balance between providing much-needed housing and protecting the character of rural areas. Self-build projects can offer unique housing solutions, but their placement outside settlement boundaries requires careful consideration of planning policy.
  • Potential Outcomes: Approval could lead to a new home in a rural setting, potentially revitalizing an underused building. However, it could also set a precedent for further development in the countryside, raising concerns about urban sprawl and impact on the environment.
  • Key Considerations: The report detailed considerations regarding the principle of development in the countryside, the reuse of existing buildings, design, residential amenity, highway safety, and flood risk.

Planning Appeals Update: A Trend of Dismissals

The committee received an update on recent planning appeal decisions. It was noted that since the previous report, four appeals had been dismissed, with none allowed or partially allowed. This trend suggests a consistent approach from the Planning Inspectorate in upholding the council's planning decisions, though the specific reasons for each dismissal would provide further insight.

Review of Implemented Planning Decisions: Lessons Learned for Future Developments

A report was presented on the conclusions of the Performance Monitoring Panel following a review of implemented planning decisions. This exercise, which involved visiting various developments across the district, highlighted several recurring concerns:

  • Lack of Private Front Gardens: Many new residential units were observed to have parking directly in front of the houses, with a scarcity of private front gardens. This can impact the aesthetic appeal of streets and reduce private outdoor amenity space for residents.
  • Uniformity in Design: Larger housing schemes were noted for their often uniform approach to design and material finishes, leading to a lack of visual interest and character.
  • Bin Collection Points: The siting of private bin collection points was frequently identified as an issue, often being located in prominent positions or in front of houses.
  • Management of Open Spaces: Concerns were raised about the management and maintenance of open spaces within developments.
  • Drainage and Sloping Drives: Issues related to drainage and the design of sloping drives were also noted.

These observations are crucial for informing future planning decisions and ensuring that new developments contribute positively to the quality of life for residents.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a look at the upcoming meetings scheduled for the next week:

South Holland: New bin charges? Net Zero plan considered.

This week in South Holland:

New Waste Policies Proposed: Will Residents Face More Charges and Stricter Rules?

South Holland District Council is proposing significant changes to its waste collection policies, driven by the Environment Act 2021 and the need for a new waste collection delivery model. The Policy Development Panel met to discuss these changes, which could mean residents face new charges, stricter rules on waste segregation, and potential penalties for non-compliance. Read more about the meeting.

Key Changes to Waste Collection:

  • Standard Bins: The default provision will be three wheeled bins (residual waste, mixed dry recycling, and paper and card) and a kitchen caddy and kerbside caddy for food waste collection.
  • Bank Holiday Collections: Collections will now take place on bank holidays, except for Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
  • Exemptions: A new policy will address properties where bin storage is not possible or would require bins to be stored on the highway.
  • No Side Waste: Waste placed outside of a bin will not be collected.
  • Charges for Bins: Charges will apply for new bins for new builds, and for replacement bins due to damage, loss, or theft.
  • Waste Segregation: There is an enhanced obligation to segregate waste correctly.
  • Missed Bins: There is a change of timescale for recollection of missed bins.
  • Additional Bins: Households can apply for additional bins depending on circumstances.

These changes are intended to help the council meet its legal obligations and improve recycling rates, but they could also lead to increased costs for residents and stricter enforcement of waste disposal rules. The report pack states that the new policies are intended to enable the committee to consider the new rules and requirements to ensure the delivery of an effective, efficient and safe waste service.

Concerns and Considerations:

  • Impact on Vulnerable Residents: Residents who struggle to manage multiple bins or cannot afford replacement fees may be disproportionately affected.
  • Enforcement: The council will need to ensure that enforcement of the new policies is fair and consistent.
  • Communication: Clear and effective communication with residents will be crucial to ensure they understand the new rules and how to comply.

The council operates under a complex legislative framework for the management of waste services, including:

Council to Decide on Net Zero Plan and Leisure Contract

The Cabinet met to discuss a range of issues, including the council's Net Zero Action Plan, Tree and Hedgerow Strategy, and the contracting of leisure facilities. Read more about the meeting.

Net Zero by 2040: Ambitious Goal or Empty Promise?

The Cabinet considered the Net Zero Action Plan, which aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2040. The plan will use the following categories as a framework: gas, electrical, fleet, waste, and business and commuter travel. The Net Zero Action Plan follows recommendations by consultants WSP.

Tree and Hedgerow Strategy: Greener Spaces for All?

The Cabinet also discussed the Tree and Hedgerow Strategy Action Plan, which is designed to inform delivery against the South and East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership Tree and Hedgerow Strategy. The core objectives of the strategy are to protect, plant and participate, which recognise the need to manage and enhance existing resources, take a considered approach to new planting, and engage local communities and stakeholders in the strategy.

Leisure Facilities: Outsourcing on the Horizon?

The Cabinet discussed the contracting of leisure facilities with an external operator as an agent for service delivery. The report pack says that this relates to the award of a contract under an agency agreement for the operation and lifecycle maintenance of the council's leisure facilities.

Other Matters

  • The Cabinet reviewed the Quarter Two Finance Update, which sets out the current financial position of the council at the end of the second quarter of 2025/26.
  • Also on the agenda was the Local Council Tax Support Scheme 2026/27. The report pack states that the cabinet will determine the Council Tax Support scheme for 2026/27, and that the cabinet's final scheme recommendation will be submitted to the full council for approval on 28 January 2026.
  • The Cabinet also considered proposed amendments to the Council's Contract Procedure Rules, with the intention of introducing a new updated version of the rules.
  • The Quarter 1 Risk Report 2025/26 was presented to the cabinet, providing an update on risk as at the end of June 2025.

South Holland: Fly-tip delays, planning concerns, & theatre boost

This week in South Holland:

Performance Panel Reviews Council Performance and Planning Implementation

The Performance Monitoring Panel met on Wednesday, December 10th, to assess the council's performance, review implemented planning decisions, and discuss updates on the South Holland Centre. Read more about the meeting.

Performance Metrics Mostly on Track, but Complaints and Fly-Tips Lag

The panel reviewed the Q2 Performance Report, which indicated that 90% of the council's performance metrics were meeting targets. However, some areas of under-performance were highlighted:

  • Corporate Complaints: Only 85.19% of corporate complaints were responded to within the set timescales, falling short of the 95% target. This could mean longer waits for residents seeking resolution to their issues.
  • Fly-Tip Collection: The percentage of fly-tips collected within 5 working days dipped slightly below the 95% target for the first time in a year. This could lead to increased environmental concerns and potential public health risks.

The report also included data on a wide range of council activities, from building control market share to visitor numbers at leisure venues. The full data is available in Q2 Performance Report Appendix 1.

Implemented Planning Decisions Under Scrutiny

The panel reviewed implemented planning decisions based on a tour conducted on October 16th, with visits to Holbeach, Cowbit, a commercial site near Spalding, Gosberton and two sites in Donington. The Review of Implemented Planning Decisions highlighted several concerns:

  • Lack of Front Gardens: Many residential units lacked private front gardens, with parking located in front of the houses.
  • Uniformity: Larger schemes often had a uniform approach and material finish, lacking visual interest.
  • Bin Storage: Private bin collection points were often located in front of houses or in prominent locations.
  • Open Space: Some sites lacked adequate or well-maintained open space for residents.

Appendix A for the Review of Implemented Planning Decisions contained a summary of comments from the tour.

South Holland Centre Sees Increased Ticket Sales

The panel received an update on the South Holland Centre from Emily Spicer, Assistant Director - Communities and Housing Services, and Nichola Holderness, Group Manager – Community Leadership. The South Holland Centre Performance Update stated that ticket sales were at 13,817, higher than at the same time in 2024, predominately due to the live programme, an increase in community hires and some popular films.

Appendix 1 for the South Holland Centre Performance Update contained a financial breakdown of the South Holland Centre 2025/26.

Panel Reviews Work Programme

The panel reviewed its work programme, setting out dates for future meetings and proposed items for consideration. The Work Programme Covering Report stated that the report sets out the Work Programme of the Performance Monitoring Panel, allows the Panel to monitor its progress and identify any additional items to be added to the Programme.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a look at the upcoming meetings scheduled for the next week:

Spalding Regeneration Plan & Council Reorganisation Discussed

This week in South Holland:

Spalding Regeneration Plan and Local Government Reorganisation Top Council Agenda

South Holland District Council is grappling with significant strategic decisions, including a major regeneration plan for Spalding and a proposal for local government reorganisation in Greater Lincolnshire. These initiatives could reshape the future of the district and the services it provides.

Cabinet Considers Spalding's Future Under Pride in Place Programme

The South Holland Council Cabinet met on Monday to discuss and approve the submission of a ten-year Regeneration Plan and four-year investment profile for Spalding under the UK Government's Pride in Place Programme. Read more about the meeting. This plan aims to secure government funding to revitalize the town. The agenda stated that the Cabinet was to consider a report that contained pages 3-110.

  • The Pride in Place Programme, previously known as the Plan for Neighbourhoods, is a UK Government initiative focused on local regeneration.
  • The council is required to submit a Regeneration Plan outlining a 10-year vision for Spalding and a detailed 4-year investment plan.

Local Government Reorganisation Proposal on the Table

The Cabinet was also scheduled to consider approving the Partnership's proposal to the government for Local Government Reorganisation1 in Greater Lincolnshire. Read more about the meeting. The report of Councillor Charles Nicholas Worth, Leader of the Council, Portfolio Holder for Partnerships, was expected to follow.

Policy Panel Reviews AI, Social Media, and Housing Standards

The Policy Development Panel met on Tuesday to discuss a range of policy issues, including artificial intelligence, social media, and housing standards. Read more about the meeting. Also on the agenda were action plans for trees and hedgerows, and net zero emissions.

Tree and Hedgerow Strategy Action Plan

The panel was scheduled to discuss and agree on an action plan to support the South and East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership's Tree and Hedgerow Strategy. The strategy aims to enhance green spaces for residents and wildlife, helping them adapt to environmental changes.

Net Zero Action Plan

The panel was expected to discuss the draft Net Zero Action Plan before it goes to the cabinet for adoption. The plan outlines how the council intends to meet its commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2040, as stated in its Carbon Reduction Plan adopted in April 2025.

Housing Standards Policies

The panel was scheduled to consider updates to the council's housing standards policies, including those relating to Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), empty homes and enforcement.

Social Media Policy

The report pack included a draft social media policy, which the panel was scheduled to review and provide feedback on. The policy is intended to ensure a coordinated approach to how social media channels are used across the South and East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership. The draft Social Media Policy included a table showing the number of followers on each platform for each of the sovereign councils:

  • South Holland District Council: 50,820
  • Boston Borough Council: 38,424
  • East Lindsey District Council: 64,573
  • South and East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership: 3,176

Partnership Environment Policy

The panel was scheduled to review the South and East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership Environment Policy, one year after its adoption. The Environment Policy sets out a framework for environmental considerations within the South and East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership's sub-regional strategy.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy

The panel was scheduled to review the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy, one year after its adoption at Cabinet.

Council Considers Community Governance Review for Spalding

South Holland District Council met on Wednesday, with a key item on the agenda being a Community Governance Review for the unparished area of Spalding. Read more about the meeting.

Potential for New Parishes in Spalding

The council is scheduled to discuss commencing a Community Governance Review for the unparished area of Spalding. A Community Governance Review allows a local authority to make changes to community governance within its district. This could include creating new parishes, altering parish boundaries, or changing the powers of parish councils.

Licensing Act 2003 - Statement of Licensing Policy

The council is scheduled to consider adopting the proposed Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003. This policy outlines how the council will regulate the sale of alcohol, provision of regulated entertainment, and late-night refreshment within the district.

Pension & Pension Discretions Policy

Councillors are scheduled to discuss and approve a revised HR policy concerning pensions and pension discretions. This policy likely outlines the council's approach to administering the Local Government Pension Scheme and the discretions it has regarding various aspects of pension provision for its employees.

2025/26 Mid Term Treasury Report

The council is scheduled to receive an update on treasury management performance and activity. This report provides an overview of how the council is managing its investments and borrowings, ensuring best practices are followed.

Partnership Climate Change and Environment Team - Establishment Adjustment

The council is scheduled to consider making permanent the existing temporary Section 113 agreements within the Partnership Climate Change and Environment Team. Section 113 of the Local Government Act 1972 allows local authorities to work together by sharing staff and resources.

Overview and Scrutiny Annual Report 2024/25

The Overview and Scrutiny Annual Report 2024/25 is scheduled to be presented to the council. This report summarises the work of the Overview and Scrutiny function, which is responsible for holding the council's cabinet and other decision-makers to account.

Health Scrutiny for Lincolnshire Report

Councillor Glynis Scalese is scheduled to provide an update following the latest meeting of the Health Scrutiny for Lincolnshire Committee. This report will likely cover key issues and developments in health services across the Lincolnshire region.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a look at the upcoming meetings scheduled for the next week:

  1. Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) refers to the restructuring of local authorities, often involving mergers, boundary changes, or changes in governance structures. The aim is usually to improve efficiency, reduce costs, or enhance service delivery. ↩

South Holland: Housing policies updated, video cameras approved

This week in South Holland:

Housing Policies Updated to Better Support Tenants

South Holland District Council's cabinet has approved a series of updated and new housing policies designed to improve services for tenants, particularly those who are vulnerable or have disabilities. The changes aim to ensure greater accountability, transparency, and a focus on tenant wellbeing, in line with the Regulator of Social Housing's consumer standards. Read more about the meeting.

Key Policy Changes:

  • Disabled Aids and Adaptations Policy 2025-2028: This new policy outlines how the council will provide support for disabled tenants, promoting independent living and safety. It introduces means testing for major adaptations and a tenant panel for appeals. This could mean some tenants will have to pay for adaptations they previously received for free.
  • Housing Revenue Account Governance Framework 2025-2026: The updated framework aims to make the management of the Housing Landlord Service more transparent and accountable, with clearer roles, stronger scrutiny, and improved risk management.
  • Reasonable Adjustments Policy 2025-2029: This new policy focuses on supporting tenants with reasonable adjustments, in line with recommendations from the Housing Ombudsman. It sets out how the council will identify and respond to vulnerability, and implement adjustments to help tenants maintain their tenancies.

These changes come after the council received a C2 grade from the Regulator of Social Housing, indicating weaknesses in delivering consumer standards. Councillor Tracey Carter, Portfolio Holder for Strategic and Operational Housing, previously stated that the judgement provides a clear framework for enhancing housing services .

Body Worn Video Policy Approved for South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership

The cabinet has approved a new Body Worn Video Cameras (BWV) Policy for the South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership. Read more about the meeting. The policy aims to ensure the use of body worn video is lawful, proportionate, and necessary, primarily for violence reduction and evidence collection.

  • The policy outlines procedures for collecting, processing, and retaining video evidence.
  • Only trained staff will be authorized to use body worn video.

Industrial Unit Letting Policy Updated

The cabinet has adopted an updated Industrial Unit Letting and Management Policy 2025-2030, providing strategic direction for letting council industrial units. Read more about the meeting. The policy includes legislative updates and clarifies the criteria for unit use for current and prospective tenants.

Other Matters

  • The cabinet received an update on social housing regulation, noting progress in addressing weaknesses identified by the Regulator of Social Housing.
  • The cabinet noted the Q1 Performance Report 25-26, which highlighted areas of under-performance, including waste recycling rates and complaint response times.
  • The cabinet received an update on the Housing Stock Condition Survey, with over 80% of homes surveyed to date.

Governance and Audit Committee to Review Financial Statements and Fraud Policy

The Governance and Audit Committee is scheduled to meet on Thursday to review the council's financial statements, external auditor reports, and updates to the Counter Fraud, Bribery & Anti-Corruption Policy. Read more about the meeting.

Key Items on the Agenda:

  • Approval of the audited Financial Statements 2024/25 for publication.
  • Consideration of reports from KPMG, the council's external auditor.
  • Updates to the Counter Fraud, Bribery and Corruption Policy to align with the Partnership.
  • Consideration of amendments to the council's Contract Procedure Rules.
  • An update on Treasury Management performance.
  • An update on the council's activity and compliance with Data Protection, Environmental Information Regulation and Freedom of Information requirements.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a look at the upcoming meetings scheduled for the next week:

Spalding Town Forum

Spalding Town Forum - Wednesday, 14th January, 2026 6.30 pm

The Spalding Town Forum met on Wednesday 14 January 2026 to discuss the Spalding Special Expenses Account, including a forecast for the second quarter of the 2025/26 financial year and proposals for the 2026/27 budget. The forum was also scheduled to receive updates on cycling-related concerns from Lincolnshire Police, the condition of Spalding's play parks, and the progress of active travel routes within the town.

January 14, 2026
Joint Performance Monitoring Panel and Policy Development Panel

Joint Performance Monitoring Panel and Policy Development Panel - Tuesday, 13th January, 2026 6.30 pm

The Joint Performance Monitoring Panel and Policy Development Panel of South Holland Council was scheduled to consider the council's financial outlook for the coming years and review plans for its housing stock. The meeting's agenda included a budget overview and a detailed examination of the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Business Plan and Asset Management Strategy.

January 13, 2026
Planning Committee

Planning Committee - Wednesday, 7th January, 2026 6.30 pm

The Planning Committee of South Holland Council was scheduled to discuss several planning applications, including a new primary substation, modifications to a leisure complex development, and the conversion of a rural building. The committee was also set to receive an update on recent planning appeal decisions and a report on the review of implemented planning decisions.

January 07, 2026
Policy Development Panel

Special meeting - Waste Policies, Policy Development Panel - Wednesday, 17th December, 2025 6.00 pm

The Policy Development Panel of South Holland District Council is scheduled to meet on Wednesday, 17 December 2025, to discuss and provide feedback on proposed new waste policies. These policies are required to implement a new waste collection delivery model, in response to legislative changes brought about by the Environment Act 2021. The panel will also discuss any other urgent items raised by Councillor Andrew Robert Woolf, Chairman of the Council.

December 17, 2025
Cabinet

Cabinet - Tuesday, 16th December, 2025 6.30 pm

The Cabinet of South Holland District Council is scheduled to meet on 16 December 2025 to discuss the Net Zero Action Plan, the Tree and Hedgerow Strategy Action Plan, the Quarter Two Finance Update, the Local Council Tax Support Scheme 2026/27, and proposed amendments to the Council's Contract Procedure Rules. The meeting will also include a review of the Quarter 1 Risk Report 2025/26 and a discussion regarding the contracting of leisure facilities with an external operator.

December 16, 2025
Performance Monitoring Panel

Performance Monitoring Panel - Wednesday, 10th December, 2025 6.30 pm

The Performance Monitoring Panel of South Holland District Council met on Wednesday 10 December 2025 to discuss the council's performance, implemented planning decisions, and the South Holland Centre. Anglian Water was scheduled to provide an update to the panel. Councillors were also scheduled to look at the panel's work programme.

December 10, 2025
South Holland District Council

South Holland District Council - Wednesday, 26th November, 2025 6.30 pm

South Holland District Council is scheduled to meet on 26 November 2025. The agenda includes portfolio holder updates, committee minutes, a mid-term treasury report, and several policy reviews and approvals. Councillors will also consider a community governance review for the unparished area of Spalding.

November 26, 2025
Policy Development Panel

Policy Development Panel - Tuesday, 25th November, 2025 6.30 pm

The Policy Development Panel convened to discuss a range of topics, including the artificial intelligence policy, social media guidelines, housing standards, environmental strategy, and a net zero action plan. Councillors were also scheduled to review the panel's work programme.

November 25, 2025
Cabinet

Special Meeting, Cabinet - Monday, 24th November, 2025 6.30 pm

The South Holland Council Cabinet was scheduled to meet on Monday 24 November 2025 to discuss a proposal for local government reorganisation in Greater Lincolnshire, and to approve the submission of a regeneration plan for Spalding under the UK Government's Pride in Place Programme.

November 24, 2025
Derelict and Untidy Sites Task Group

Derelict and Untidy Sites Task Group - Wednesday, 19th November, 2025 5.30 pm

We have not been able to find a video broadcast of this meeting.

November 19, 2025
Cabinet

Cabinet - Tuesday, 20th January, 2026 6.30 pm

January 20, 2026
Unknown Committee

Student Council - Wednesday, 21st January, 2026 4.30 pm

January 21, 2026
South Holland District Council

South Holland District Council - Wednesday, 28th January, 2026 6.30 pm

January 28, 2026
Governance and Audit Committee

Governance and Audit Committee - Thursday, 29th January, 2026 6.30 pm

January 29, 2026