Purpose

To consider the Spalding Heritage Strategy 2026-2035 and South and East Lincolnshire Traditional Buildings Design Guide.

Decision

1. That Cabinet approves the Spalding Heritage Strategy 2026-2035, Action Plan and Theory of Change attached at Appendices 3, 4 and 5.
2. That Cabinet approves the South and East Lincolnshire Traditional Buildings Design Guide attached as Appendix 1.

Reasons for the decision

·         These documents demonstrate the Council’s commitment to protect and enhance the built environment of the District.

·         They can be used as evidence in future Local Plan Plans and aim to support enhancement of our historic areas in line with our statutory duties through The Planning (Listed Building and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 and in line with the National Planning Policy Framework and National Planning Policy Guidance.

·         All of the documents can be used to guide building owners, developers, investors, planning applicants, agents and consultants in making informed decisions.

·         These documents show why heritage should form a huge part of our future vision of our places and recognises that there are opportunities to compliment and capitalise on existing momentum and processes to deliver investment by championing heritage in our Town Centre.

·         Consultation took place from November 2025 through to February 2026. It included in person events, an online questionnaire, writing to addresses affected by conservation area boundary changes, press and site notices. Overwhelmingly responses supported the need to preserve our shared heritage, and consultation has been a great opportunity to increase awareness and public participation in heritage.

·         Agreeing to publish South and East Lincolnshire Traditional Buildings Design Guide will support the local planning authority's statuary duty and provides an opportunity across the partnership to provide informed and consistent advice to building owners and occupiers championing the proper repair and maintenance of historic fabric.

Alternative options considered

Spalding Heritage Strategy:

·         Do nothing / do not approve – this would result in all works to date being abortive, although this document has already been used as evidence to inform Spalding’s Plan for Pride in Place.

South and East Lincolnshire Traditional Buildings Design Guide:

·         Do nothing / do not approve – would result in all works to date being abortive.

·         To produce a design code – not part of this project or budget but the principles set out in this Design Guide can be used to inform a future Local Plan making and design code.