Parish News from Boston Borough Council - November 2024

Boston Borough Council acquire Crown House and submits planning
 
The council has taken another significant step forward in the revitalisation of Rosegarth Square with the recent acquisition of Crown House. By using government funding, we have been able to ensure that this purchase marks the next major milestone in our redevelopment plans for the area. 
These high-level, strategic plans are aimed at enhancing community spaces and fostering local economic growth.
The Council has submitted a planning application for the redevelopment of the Crown House site on the Rosegarth Square regeneration scheme.
Within these proposals the Council has also taken the opportunity to provide new public toilet facilities and to relocate the existing Changing Places facility. In addition, the council has also submitted demolition notices for both Crown House and the former B&M buildings, marking an important milestone in transforming this area of the town centre. 
These plans follow in the footsteps of the recently approved planning consent for the proposed public realm works, which features new artwork, external social spaces, and a new entrance/drop-off area for the Len Medlock Centre. It will also include a sensory garden designed for quiet contemplation and reflection, as well as an amphitheatre-style seating area. 
The Crown House proposal, subject to planning consent, would see a new mixed-use building featuring retail units on the ground floor and apartments on the remaining two storeys above. The scheme will also be enhanced with landscaping, parking and cycle storage to complement the overall Rosegarth Square masterplan. 
The scheme aims to transform Rosegarth Square as a thriving community space. It will provide the opportunity for the retail units to offer outside dining as well as the wider area being used by family and friends to meet up and enjoy this part of the town.
The changes to the area will also enable quick and easy access to both the bus and train stations and become the gateway to the heart of Boston.
Read more here:   www.boston.gov.uk/article/27675/Planning-submitted-for-new-mixed-use-development-of-the-Crown-House-site
 
________________________________________
FREE PARKING!! Supporting Boston businesses and shoppers this Christmas season
 
To make this holiday season even more delightful, Boston Borough Council is offering a special gift to its residents and visitors - FREE PARKING! From Friday 29 November to Sunday 1 December, and on the first three Saturdays in December 2023 (7, 14, and 21), Boston Borough Council-owned off-street car parks will provide complimentary parking.
This initiative aims to reduce the stress of holiday shopping, encouraging everyone to enjoy the festive attractions in the heart of the town. Whether you're searching for the perfect gift, attending local events, or savouring seasonal treats, worry-free parking is here to enhance your holiday experience.
For more info and the full list of car parks: www.boston.gov.uk/article/27641/FREE-PARKING-Supporting-Boston-businesses-and-shoppers-this-Christmas-season  
 
________________________________________
Council Leader to represent Boston's views on new District Joint Committee for the Greater Lincolnshire Mayoral Combined County Authority
 
Boston Borough Council's Leader will represent residents' views on a committee being formed as part of the Lincolnshire Devolution process, which will ultimately give us the new Greater Lincolnshire Mayoral Combined County Authority (GLMCCA).
At last night's Full Council meeting (November 11, 2024), councillors voted to support the creation of a District Joint Committee and appointed Councillor Anne Dorrian as the Borough's representative.
Devolution is an arrangement where Central Government pass on certain powers and money to be controlled more locally for economic development, transport, skills and education.
The Greater Lincolnshire deal was agreed and progressed by the upper tier authorities, namely, Lincolnshire County Council, North Lincolnshire Council and North East Lincolnshire Council.  They are 'constituent members', meaning they have a vote in decisions.
The seven District and Borough councils are non-constituent members and do not have a vote.
Cllr Anne Dorrian, Leader of Boston Borough Council, said: "The formation of a District Joint Committee is an important part of the process and all seven district and borough councils have taken the same paper through their Full Council. This gives us the mechanism to nominate four Leaders onto the MCCA and the same body will also nominate councillors onto whichever scrutiny committees are formed.
I am aware that many local residents simply do not want to have an elected Mayor, especially one who can potentially put up their council tax, however, this was conceived by the previous Conservative government and the new Labour government seem to be going bigger and bolder with devolution plans. So, whether we want the new authority or not, it will be important to work with the new Mayor and the MCCA  to ensure that we get the best deals we can for the residents of Boston Borough."
The GLMCCA will come into existence by early 2025. An election for a Greater Lincolnshire Mayor will take place in May next year.
 
________________________________________
Additional funding secured to enhance Boston Leisure Project
 
At a Full Council meeting held on Monday 11 November, it was unanimously agreed to accept the Cabinet's recommendation to expand the Boston Leisure Project. The council will now incorporate a Community Volunteering and Wellbeing Hub as part of the Town Partnership Funding, thanks to a recent funding offer from the Ministry for Housing, Communities, and Local Government (MHCLG).
The funding offer, part of the Boston Levelling Up Partnership (LUP) programme, requires the addition of the Community Volunteering & Wellbeing Hub to the original Town Deal project. This expansion acknowledges the new funding and will provide extra community benefits.
The proposed new Community Volunteering and Wellbeing Hub includes a redesign of the phase 1 reception area to create public access to the new Hub extension. It will feature a "coffee shop" style service area. The Hub will offer 600m² across two floors, housing community volunteer space, a small expo/event area, shared meeting rooms, consultation and therapy rooms, an Assisted Exercise suite, a community kitchen, and administrative offices. Provisions will also be made to retain or replace the spa facilities accessed from the poolside.
This project aligns directly with Boston's priorities and deliverables outlined in the 2024/25 Partnership Alignment and Delivery Plan, specifically linking to the Leisure Centre delivery project action.
In addition to the Leisure Project, the council agreed to accept broader funding for several capital projects aimed at enhancing Boston's economic resilience and growth.
For the projects that have been allocated funding and more, follow the link to the press release: https://www.boston.gov.uk/article/27643/Additional-funding-secured-to-enhance-Boston-Leisure-Project 
 
________________________________________
Look before you book
 
As we approach the festive season, it's time to think about picking a perfect place for your celebrations with the best hygiene standards.
Boston Borough Council is encouraging those who are planning a special Christmas meal with colleagues, family, or friends, to 'look before you book' and make the important move to check the Food Hygiene Rating of their chosen venue before making a reservation.
In the Boston Borough, 98% of businesses have a Food Hygiene Rating of 3 (satisfactory), 4 (good), or 5 (very good), which remains consistent with previous years, and there are still no businesses with the lowest rating of zero.
This means there are plenty of excellent options for food lovers, however we do still urge people to check the ratings.
Councillor Callum Butler, Boston Borough Council's Portfolio Holder for Environmental, said: "Our Food, Health, and Safety Team works incredibly hard to maintain high standards across the district, they are consistently providing advice and guidance on good hygiene practices to help better our community.
"The excellent ratings we currently have reflect all their dedication and hard work, however, we continue to strive for better results. As Christmas approaches, we want to ensure that residents know what to look for and how to check these ratings.
"A good food hygiene rating is definitely something to be proud of and is important for customers to be aware of. We encourage all businesses in the district to display their ratings clearly and wish them a successful festive season."
To find a restaurant's Food Hygiene Rating, visit the Food Standards Agency website at Search for ratings | Food Hygiene Ratings or look for the green and black sticker at the venue. If you don't see one, do not hesitate to ask. They are usually displayed in a front window or on a wall.
The ratings, which range from 0 to 5, are determined by local authority food safety officers during unannounced visits. A rating of 5 means a very good level of food hygiene.
Boston Borough Council also promotes the latest 5-rated businesses on its Facebook page which you can visit https://www.facebook.com/BostonBoroughCouncil/
 
________________________________________
Boston archaeological dig video
 
A huge thank you to the team at Rocket Environmental Services and Howell Media for putting together this video of the Rosegarth Square Community Dig. 
We also extend our gratitude to all the volunteers who dedicated their time to uncover the history of Boston.
The Boston archaeological dig started on October 19th and finished on November 2nd saw visitors from the local area as well as some who had travelled from Derbyshire to be a part of discovering Boston’s history. This dig also welcomed pupils from St Thomas Academy. 
A video summarising the dig can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I4LVV4XZQM8
 
________________________________________
2025 Boston Calendar has been released
 
We're thrilled to announce that the 2025 Boston Calendar is now available! Each month features stunning photos of our beautiful borough, all captured by our talented residents.
You can download and print your own copy at https://www.boston.gov.uk/calendar2025. 
If you prefer a professionally printed calendar, you can get yours from Chris Cook Print for only £5 - call 01205 355355, email sales@chriscookprint.co.uk, or visit www.chriscookprint.co.uk to place your order.
 
________________________________________
South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership sign a Motion for the Ocean
 
The South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership has pledged its commitment to playing its part in keeping the marine environment and our coastal waters clean and healthy.
The Motion for the Ocean is primarily backed by the Local Government Association Coastal Special Interest Group (LGA Coastal SIG) and recognises that 'our ocean and climate are in a state of emergency.' Over thirty councils across England have made pledges in support of the Motion since its introduction in 2021.
By supporting the Motion for the Ocean, the Partnership recognises that local government play a vital role in supporting the health and productivity of our oceans, and that the communities the Partnership serves in South Holland, Boston and East Lindsey are on the frontline for managing the crisis the ocean is in.
The LGA Coastal SIG highlights that the oceans are often left out from the climate action plans of many local authorities and aims to raise awareness for this and cause change - partly by attaining the support of local councils.
The South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership has made seven pledges, which have been signed by Cllr Craig Leyland, Leader of East Lindsey District Council, Cllr Anne Dorrian, Leader of Boston Borough Council, and Cllr Nick Worth, Leader of South Holland District Council.
In a joint statement, Cllr Craig Leyland, Leader of East Lindsey District Council, Cllr Anne Dorrian, Leader of Boston Borough Council, and Cllr Nick Worth, Leader of South Holland District Council, said "We are proud to be supporting the Motion for the Ocean, and recognise the importance of keeping our coastal waters healthy for years to come.
"The South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership will ensure our pledges are followed up on as part of our ongoing commitment to support the environment and reduce the impact of climate change. We anticipate that our hard work will make a lasting difference for our local landscape and communities.
"With our seven pledges and heightened concern for the prosperity of the ocean, we are confident that the Partnership is taking a positive step forward."
Read more here: https://www.boston.gov.uk/article/27689/South-East-Lincolnshire-Councils-Partnership-sign-a-Motion-for-the-Ocean
 
________________________________________
Rural Local Authorities unite to demand fair funding in upcoming local government finance settlement – A Rural Services Network press release
 
The South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership has added its voice to a joint letter led by the Rural Services Network, urging the government to ensure fair funding for rural areas. Currently, rural councils receive significantly less funding per capita, placing pressure on local services and residents. It’s time to address this imbalance and secure a fair funding settlement that reflects the unique challenges of rural communities. 
Read more online: https://loom.ly/XEVuXjo
 
________________________________________
Extension of South & East Lincolnshire’s UK Shared Prosperity programme announced by central Government
 
Following the Government’s Autumn Budget, the South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership is pleased to share that the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) has been renewed for an additional one-year extension.
The funding, which was first made available for 2022/2023, set out to invest in local businesses and communities, with the goal of driving local growth, improving pride in place and improving adult skills.  After the great success of the South and East Lincolnshire programme, this funding programme will be extended into 2025/2026.
While the funding has been secured, guidance and timings have yet to be confirmed by the Government. The current UKSPF/RPF programme ends in March 2025, with all of the projects which have received funding through this required to meet their contractual obligations and deadlines.
Further information on future funding opportunities through the new UKSPF programme will be announced in due course.
 
________________________________________
Celebrating Two Years of Success for the Community Lottery
 
This November, the South & East Lincolnshire Community Lottery marks its second anniversary! Over the past two years, we’ve raised an incredible £59,236 for 88 amazing local causes.
By purchasing a £1 ticket, you not only stand a chance to win up to £25,000, but you also support community groups, voluntary organizations, and various trusts. 50% of every ticket sold goes directly to these good causes.
Join us in celebrating this milestone and help us continue to make a difference. Visit South & East Lincolnshire Community Lottery to buy your tickets today - https://www.selcplottery.co.uk/
A big thank you to everyone who has supported us so far. 
To learn more about the Community Lottery: https://www.boston.gov.uk/article/27567/More-than-325-000-awarded-to-community-projects-and-training-programmes-through-latest-round-of-UK-Shared-Prosperity-and-Rural-Prosperity-Funding
 
________________________________________
Trusted Volunteer Scheme launches Volunteer Charter
 
The Trusted Volunteer Scheme of the South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership is proud to announce the launch of its Volunteer Charter. This Charter aims to encourage all organisations that involve volunteers directly or influence decisions affecting volunteering to pledge their support and become Charter Champions.
The launch comes at a critical time when setting out the principles of volunteer involvement has never been more essential. The cost-of-living crisis has negatively impacted resources available to support volunteers while simultaneously increasing the demand for volunteer-led services.
Pledging support is no longer just a tick box exercise. Charter Champions are encouraged to take active steps in promoting and engaging others to participate in the Charter and its principles.
Our Charter supports the foundations for a good volunteer experience for all – read more online: https://www.boston.gov.uk/article/27652/Trusted-Volunteer-Scheme-launches-Volunteer-Charter 
 
________________________________________
Exciting new addition at Boston Guildhall Museum
 
After last month’s incredible Dance Again to Diggins Exhibition launch, we were thrilled to be contacted by Chris and Lisa Leacy from Sibsey. They saw the exhibition online and generously offered to loan their remarkable 1950s Diggola to the museum—a rare find from a 2008 auction.
This early Diggola, likely one of Ron Diggins’ first models, is a handcrafted marvel featuring a wind-up twin turntable, with everything from the arm and needle to the sockets made entirely of wood. In pristine condition, it’s a unique glimpse into the early days of DJing and craftsmanship! It even comes with its original mic.
Although Chris didn’t have the chance to DJ alongside Ron, his own rich background in DJing across Ireland, before moving for work in the Boston and Skegness area makes this contribution extra special. 
Come by Boston Guildhall Museum to see this rare piece of DJ history up close!
 
________________________________________
Bookings for Holiday Activities and Food Programme Christmas holiday clubs can be made from Wednesday 20th November
 
Lincolnshire County Council’s Winter HAF will take place during the Christmas holidays running from Friday 20 December 2024 – Friday 3 January 2025 (excluding weekends and bank holidays). Please feel free to share this opportunity with residents.
There are over 90 clubs being delivered across the county during the Winter holidays. The mapping tool on the HAF webpage (https://www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/school-pupil-support/holiday-activities-food-programme) will be available to view next week, to highlight the HAF provision being delivered across the county with more detailed information on available clubs shared on the booking system, including activity information, dates and times. 
To book on to a club, families will require a HAF Evoucher code which are provided by schools. The HAF Evoucher, received by email and/or text message, includes a link to the booking site listing available activities.  
Attached is a promotional flyer and a Parent’s Guide to booking.
If children are unable to attend their booked places, the bookings should be cancelled as soon as possible so that another child can be offered the place. To cancel bookings, families need to contact the club that the child is booked onto. Contact details can be located on the booking confirmation email or by clicking on the HAF Evoucher and cancelling the relevant days.
Thank you for all your support in ensuring as many children and young people as possible can take advantage of the holiday clubs where they can access sports and games, enrichment opportunities, learn about healthy lifestyles and receive a hot healthy meal.
 
________________________________________
The Warehouse recognised with blue plaque
 
A building that was once home to one of Boston’s most well-known residents has been recognised with a blue plaque, as work on its sympathetic refurbishment progresses.
The Warehouse at 50 High Street, formerly the home and studio of renowned textile artist and designer Mary Farmer and her husband ceramicist Terry Moores, is currently undergoing extensive restoration and renovation works.
The renovation has been supported by a grant from the Healing the High Street programme which is funded by the Towns Fund through Boston Town Board and delivered by Heritage Lincolnshire 
Find out more here: https://www.bostontownboard.co.uk/2024/10/28/the-warehouse-awarded-blue-plaque-as-refurbishment-progresses/?fbclid=IwY2xjawGQdhhleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHcfPRv36vOHDlTn8NwQhRmg2wrRKmhFJILIJ-hjmY2wL-GWfiBnvaSvzCA_aem_YXQoZBBfeRH_MQwZUwowpw 
 
________________________________________
Voting opens for Britain’s Favourite Market
 
Voting is Open for Britain’s Favourite Market! 
The search has officially begun. Please vote for your local market, and support our dedicated traders! 
You can vote once per day until 13th December. 
Every vote brings us closer to finding the UK’s top market—get involved today! https://nabma.com/MyFavouriteMarket2025/
 
________________________________________
2024 Crime and Policing Survey
 
Police and Crime Commissioner for Lincolnshire, Marc Jones, is calling for residents of Lincolnshire to share their views on how Lincolnshire is policed. 
The annual Crime and Policing Survey gives residents the opportunity to voice their opinion on how police services in Lincolnshire are prioritised and delivered. In previous years the views expressed have been the driving force behind significant positive changes in Lincolnshire’s Police services, including investment in dedicated roads and rural crime units, increased officer numbers and improved technology. 
Lincolnshire Police has always been one of the lowest funded in the country, and now that unfair level of funding, coupled with rising costs and dwindling reserves means the force potentially faces having to find up to £17.5million worth of cost savings next year. That is a monumental challenge and, without additional funding, would result in the Chief Constable facing some extremely difficult operational decisions. This means that your views on funding, council tax and safety in your communities are now more important than ever before.
Please click here to fill in the survey: https://habit5research.questionpro.eu/lincs-crime-and-policing-survey-2024?custom2=Partnernewsletters
 
________________________________________
Join the Boston Salvation Army for Boston Town Carols at the Centenary Methodist Church
 
Get into the festive spirit with an evening of beautiful carols at Centenary Church, Boston on Sunday 8 December from 6pm. 
Want to be part of the magic? Everyone is welcome to join the Community Choir! Rehearsals are on Wednesday during November at 8pm at The Salvation Army. 
For more information, please call 01205 355543.
 
________________________________________
Fundraiser carol concert at Lincoln Cathedral
 
Look out for a Christmas carol concert in Lincoln Cathedral to raise funds for the Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance on Tuesday 17 December. Tickets are currently on sale from £10 at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/lincs-notts-air-ambulance-christmas-carol-concert-2024-tickets-1020493091307. 
 
Enjoy a magical evening of traditional carols, readings and music, set in the festive atmosphere of Lincoln Cathedral. Proceeds will support the vital work of the Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance. Please join us for an unforgettable Christmas Carol Concert in the heart of Lincoln and make a difference this festive season.