The Growth Scrutiny Committee of Lincolnshire Council met on Tuesday 28 July 2026 to discuss the re-procurement of the gas framework contract, the identification of potential investment zones in Lincolnshire, and the development of a modern work experience and early careers model. The committee also reviewed the performance of the economic infrastructure commercial portfolio and the committee's work programme.

Gas Framework Contract Re-Procurement

The committee considered the re-procurement of the Council's mains gas supply contract, which is due to expire on 31 March 2027. The report recommended continuing to use the ESPO Energy Framework for a four-year period from 1 April 2027 to 31 March 2031, with an estimated contract value of £3 million to £3.5 million. Marie Marriott, Head of Facilities and Workspace Management, presented the report, highlighting that the ESPO framework has been used by the Council for over 25 years and offers benefits such as aggregated purchasing power, specialist expertise, and a managed service.

Councillor Ashley Baxter raised concerns about the lack of financial detail in the report and questioned whether the ESPO framework represented the best value for money. He also queried discussions with alternative public buying organisations. Officers explained that while direct comparisons are difficult, ESPO performs competitively and offers a balanced solution considering cost, risk, and service provision. The committee requested more detailed financial information before a decision could be made by the Executive.

Identification of Potential Investment Zone in Lincolnshire

Justin Brown, Assistant Director for Growth, presented a report outlining a methodology for assessing potential investment zone opportunities in Lincolnshire. The report recommended a shortlist of four sites for potential submission to the government: Lincoln Defence Innovation Campus, the A1 Corridor/Spitalgate Level in South Kesteven, the Agricultural Growth Zone from Riseholme to Hemswell Cliff in West Lindsey, and the former RAF Scampton site in West Lindsey.

Councillor Courtney Robinson inquired about the emphasis on tax relief and whether alternative proposals existed if government priorities shifted. Mr. Brown explained that the selection was based on a four-pillar assessment, including economic opportunity, pace of delivery, wider strategic considerations, and institutional investment potential. He assured the committee that the Council would remain flexible and ready to adapt to any government criteria. Councillor Alistair Arundell raised concerns about the focus on areas near Lincoln and suggested considering more challenging areas, such as Boston, for development. Mr. Brown acknowledged the need for a balanced approach, supporting both market-led growth and regeneration in disadvantaged areas.

Developing a Modern Work Experience and Early Careers Model for Lincolnshire

Samantha Harrison, Head of Economic Development, and Tony Cavanaugh, Careers Hub Strategic Lead, presented a report on developing a modern work experience and early careers model for Lincolnshire. The report highlighted the Council's commitment to leading by example through its own Early Careers Programme, which includes apprenticeships, work experience, T-Level placements, and internships.

The Council is also piloting a county-wide Work Experience Finder web platform, Futures for All, designed to simplify employer engagement and increase access to opportunities for young people. Additionally, the Aspiring Pathways programme aims to provide internship-style opportunities for learners in Alternative Provision, who are at higher risk of becoming Not in Education, Employment, or Training (NEET). Councillor Barry Daish expressed support for the pilot but requested data on apprenticeship distribution and the potential for private industry involvement. Councillor Ashley Baxter raised concerns about the administrative burden on small businesses and the need for reassurance that the scheme would reach hard-to-reach students. Officers explained that the Futures for All platform aims to streamline administrative processes for employers and that robust monitoring systems are in place to track learner progress and identify those at risk.

Economic Infrastructure Commercial Portfolio - Performance Report

Justin Brown, Assistant Director for Growth, presented the annual performance report for the Council's economic infrastructure commercial portfolio. The report highlighted a high tenant satisfaction rate of 90-94% across various aspects of the portfolio, with 82% satisfaction for communal and shared areas. The portfolio accommodates 146 businesses, supporting an estimated 128 jobs annually, contributing approximately £4.86 million in economic activity.

Councillor Thomas Dyer inquired about trends in satisfaction with communal areas and whether specific centres were identified as problematic. Mr. Brown noted common themes such as maintenance of toilet facilities and meeting rooms, and improvements being made across sites like Oak House and Hodding's Way. Councillor Dyer also raised concerns about communication of updates to tenants, and Simon Wright, Regeneration and Portfolio Manager, clarified that feedback received was generally operational rather than related to specific committee discussions. Councillor Dyer also questioned the office occupancy rate, which had decreased to 73%, and Mr. Brown explained this was partly due to a few larger tenants relocating and the broader national trend of reduced demand for traditional office space. Mercury House in Gainsborough was identified as a particular focus for improvement.

Growth Scrutiny Committee Work Programme

Kiara Chatziioannou, Health Scrutiny Officer, presented the committee's work programme for the coming year. A key update was the rescheduling of the Sleaford demolition report. Councillor Thomas Dyer formally requested that the audit report on the £2 million Grantham High Street funding be added to the committee's work programme for scrutiny. Ms. Chatziioannou confirmed that this request would be considered. The committee approved the existing work programme.