The Chairman introduced one urgent item for
discussion: the potential use of Spalding Special Expenses to
support improvements to Spalding’s play parks.
- The Chairman of the Forum noted that
a question had previously been raised at Full Council regarding the
condition of local play areas and the availability of funding.
- The Chairman proposed forming a
working group to visit and assess all play parks within the
Spalding Special Expenses area.
- The aim would be to compile a report
on their condition, prioritise those most in need of repair or
enhancement, and develop a business case for funding proposals to
be submitted to the relevant portfolio holders.
- The Chairman emphasised that the
group would focus on practical improvements, such as repairing
existing equipment, rather than full park redevelopments, and that
expectations should be managed accordingly.
- Members noted that some parks were
still well-used and in good condition, and that assessments would
help to identify where repairs were most urgently needed.
Members considered the Chairman proposal and
made the following comments:
- The Portfolio Holder for Assets and
Strategic Planning confirmed that reports were already available
for the parks and that quotes were being sought for necessary
repairs.
- It was noted that only a subset of
Spalding’s 20 parks fell within the remit of Spalding Special
Expenses.
The Chairman of the Forum allowed some further
member discussion:
Spalding Town Board Consultation
- Members highlighted the launch of
the Spalding Town Board consultation, encouraging members and
residents to participate. Printed copies of the consultation were
available at various locations including the Council Offices,
Boston College, the South Holland Centre and Ayscoughfee Hall.
Drop-in sessions were scheduled for 14 and 21 October, midday to
7:30pm, at the South Holland Centre. Members were urged to help
promote the consultation and encourage public engagement with the
proposed Riverside and town centre projects.
River Access Improvements
- An update was provided on
discussions with the East Mercia Rivers Trust, who had expressed
interest in improving access to the river Welland.
- Potential developments included the
installation of canoe portages and a boat ramp on the opposite bank
to the Welland Yacht Club.
- The member confirmed that the Trust
was supportive, and that further work was underway to explore
feasibility and funding options.
- The Forum was also informed that the
next Celebrate the River Day was being planned for mid-2026, with a
provisional date to be confirmed.
Anglian Water Compensation
- A member reported that Anglian Water
had identified residents and businesses affected by recent water
supply disruptions.
- Compensation payments of £50,
£100 or £150 were being issued depending on the
duration of the outage.
Abbey Path Car Park Condition
- A member raised a concern about the
condition of the car park behind Abbey Path, describing it as full
of rubbish and weeds.
- It was noted that the site was not a
formal car park but the remnants of a demolished building.
- The Portfolio Holder for Assets
confirmed that the site was under review and that commercial
interest had been expressed, with potential plans for sale and
redevelopment.
- In the meantime, efforts were being
made to improve the appearance and functionality of Council-owned
car parks across Spalding.
The Chairman thanked the members for their
contribution.