The South East Lincolnshire Joint Strategic Planning Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 27 May 2026. The meeting's agenda includes discussions on the preparation of a new Joint Local Plan for Boston Borough Council and South Holland District Council, as well as an update on heritage documents for Boston, Holbeach, and Spalding.

Joint Local Plan for Boston Borough Council and South Holland District Council

A significant portion of the meeting is expected to focus on the commencement of work for a new Joint Local Plan for Boston Borough Council and South Holland District Council. This initiative is being undertaken in response to new government regulations introduced under the Levelling-up and Regeneration Act 2023, which mandate the preparation of up-to-date local plans. The report by Phil Norman, Service Director - Planning and Strategic Infrastructure, outlines the proposed governance structure, resources, timetable, and evidence requirements for this new plan. The committee is being asked to endorse commencing work on this plan under the new system, noting the principal changes to the local plan-making system and the progress made to date. The report also highlights the proposed Project Initiation Document (PID) as the general framework for the councils' work programme. The recommendations include endorsing the commencement of work, noting the government's changes, and endorsing working towards a submission date of no later than December 2026 for the Joint Strategic Planning Committee's 'Notice of Intention' to commence its Local Plan. The reasons for these recommendations emphasize the legal requirement for up-to-date local plans to prevent unregulated development and planning by appeal, and to guide infrastructure investment.

Update on Heritage Documents

The committee will also receive an update on progress concerning several heritage documents. Pranali Parikh, Executive Director – Economic Development, will present information on the final versions of the Boston, Holbeach, and Spalding Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plans. These plans recommend boundary changes to ensure the conservation areas retain their special architectural and historic interest. The documents have undergone public consultation, and comments received have been incorporated into the final versions. Additionally, the South East Lincolnshire Council Partnership (SELCP) Traditional Building Design Guide will be presented. This guide, while not a statutory document, aims to encourage thoughtful design when dealing with the historic environment and can be used to show the councils' intent and provide direction. Finally, the Spalding Heritage Strategy will be discussed, outlining high-level themes and priorities for Spalding's heritage over the next 10 years, with practical implementation detailed in an Action Plan for Transformative Change. These documents are intended to show how a focus on heritage can create an environment for local people to be proud of, with improved high streets, spaces for wellbeing, and connections with nature and each other.