Agenda item

To approve the submission of a new ten-year Regeneration Plan and four-year investment profile for Spalding under the UK Government’s Pride in Place Programme (formerly Plan for Neighbourhoods) (report of the Director of Economic Development enclosed).

Consideration was given to the report of the Director of Economic Development which sought the approval of Cabinet for the submission of a new ten-year Regeneration Plan and four-year investment profile for Spalding under the UK Governments’ Pride in Place programme (formerly Plan for Neighbourhoods).

The Leader reported that the first four years of the investment plan had been shaped by public consultation, with anti-social behaviour and PSPO enforcement identified as the main concerns. Work had commenced on these priorities, and significant investment was planned to improve safety in the town centre and shopping areas.

A second theme was the desire for more markets and events, recognised as mutually reinforcing to attract visitors and traders. Concerns about empty shops were noted; although vacancies were relatively low, members emphasised the need to support new retail and leisure businesses through affordable leases and reliefs.

Robin Hancox, the Chairman of the Town Board was in attendance at the meeting and expressed appreciation for the opportunity to speak and stated that it had been a privilege to chair the Board over the past 18 months. He noted the strong commitment shown by Board members during this period.

Mr Hancox acknowledged that progress had been somewhat interrupted by the change of government midway through the process; however, once clarity was achieved in October, the Board was able to move forward effectively. Significant support had been received from Council officers in developing the plan, which comprised approximately 90 pages and was based on extensive consultation.

Mr Hancox advised that the consultation process included engagement with residents of Spalding through market stalls, opportunities at South Holland District Council, social media, and online surveys. Many survey questions were derived from the Government’s Zencity initiative, which had provided a useful starting point for gathering feedback

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Mr Hancox expressed gratitude for the contributions of local residents and Board members and confirmed that a strong plan had been developed.  He advised that funding would be phased, with £650,000 expected next year and £2 million in subsequent years. He stressed the importance of managing expectations, noting that the funding would not resolve all issues immediately. He confirmed his willingness to remain involved with the Board and assured members that funds would be prioritised and spent wisely, with continued support from officers and Board members.

In closing, Mr Hancox thanked the meeting for the opportunity to provide background and reaffirmed his commitment to the process.

Members thanked the Town Board team and volunteers for their contributions, particularly on town centre development. The importance of the “Pride in Place” theme was highlighted, with recognition that the £20 million investment represented a unique opportunity requiring high standards and flexibility.

Safety and security remained a priority, with hotspot policing funded by Smarter Funding acknowledged. Members agreed to continue lobbying for improved policing resources. Support for markets and traders was reiterated, alongside ambitions to create a welcoming environment and enhance customer service to compete with online shopping.

Generational inclusivity was discussed, aiming for a clean, safe, and vibrant town with strong entertainment offerings. Investments such as the South Holland Centre and Christmas lights events were welcomed. Feedback from students underlined the need to involve young people in event planning; the Communities Manager would attend the Student Council meeting in January 2026 to gather input.

Members supported recent developments, noting the river as an underused asset for sport and leisure. Connectivity with Springfields, which attracts two million visitors annually, was considered essential, with suggestions including a free shuttle bus.

Quick wins such as shop front improvements and cleanliness were acknowledged, and members stressed the need to maintain momentum.

The riverside and Springfield links were discussed, supported by the new town app launched by the Business Improvement District. The shop front design guide and conservation area management plan were noted as positive steps currently out for consultation.

Public safety in the town centre was reaffirmed as a top priority, with recognition of Lincolnshire Police’s funding challenges. Members discussed the changing High Street, emphasising support for local businesses and cultural activities. Attractive shop displays were encouraged, and vinyl coverings opposed. Engagement with younger people was identified as an area for improvement, with less than 10% of consultees under 35. Regular events were seen as vital to restoring Spalding’s identity. Opportunities for market stalls and food vendors to cater for students were noted.

DECISION:

That Cabinet:

1. Approves the submission of the ten-year Regeneration Plan and Vision for Spalding attached at Appendix 2;

2. Approves the proposed four year investment plan profile for Spalding as set out at section 3 in the report;

3. Delegates authority to the Director of Economic Development to agree any amendments to the final draft Regeneration Plan and Investment Profile during the submission and assessment phase with UK Government, in consultation with the Chair of the Spalding Town Board, Section 151 Officer and Leader of the Council; and

4. Delegates authority to the Council’s Section 151 Officer to approve the submission of the Pride in Place Programme information for Spalding to UK Government by the 28th November.

(Other options considered)

·       To not participate in the Pride in Place Programme for Spalding

·       To seek an alternative accountable body structure to deliver the funding programme.

Reasons for decision:

·       To enable the Council to proceed with the Pride in Place Programme submission requirements of the UK Government’s by the deadline of midday on the 28th November 2025

·       To provide an efficient mechanism for the Council to respond to any additional queries or required amendments arising during the UK Government’s assessment process of the submitted information for Spalding.

·       The additional resources available under the Pride in Place Programme provide an opportunity to support delivery of a number of established corporate priorities and objectives, including those identified within the Growth and Prosperity Plan and the SELCP Cultural Framework