A new regeneration programme has been agreed for South Holland, with leaders hoping it will boost tourism and economic growth.
Members of South Holland District Council’s cabinet approved the long-promised South and East Lincolnshire Destination Management Plan.
The plan proposes improving Spalding, Holbeach, Long Sutton and Crowland town centres along with rowing and water based activities on the River Welland.
Bosses also want to work with growers to put on visitor events and trails.
At a meeting last week portfolio holder for conservation and heritage Elizabeth Sneath said: “For South Holland, the action plan reflects the district’s distinct offer.
“This includes food and agriculture, waterways, heritage market towns and rural communities.”
Ideas including cycling opportunities and improvements to the railways.
Coun Gary Taylor backed the plans saying: “We know many people may travel through the district. Maybe we can make them stop here – in the towns and villages across the district.”
He pointed to next year’s Spalding Flower Parade and the planned anniversary event for the Barbecue 67 music festival as attractions that could draw in crowds – and said Long Sutton’s historic church and market place and the Sir Peter Scott Lighthouse at Sutton Bridge are good examples of tourist-friendly attributes to promote.
But Coun Bryan Alcock said that while he welcomed the plans, he stressed that the authority would have to allocate sufficient money towards the regeneration projects in order to make a difference.
“I think there’s a lot of good points in it, but the proof of the pudding will be in the delivery.
“As an authority, we’ve not been at the front of the line in funding such activities and I think the way that this will be delivered will depend upon whether we’re serious in committing funds to it.”
The plan covers the three areas within the South and East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership (SELCP) – which includes Boston, South Holland and East Lindsey – and sets out plans to increase visitor numbers across the sub region.
The plan will use existing council money, but the SELCP says it hopes to attract external funding from other organisations to deliver some of the projects.
Councillors also approved the Conservation Area Appraisal for Holbeach and Spalding – with a focus on preserving the character of the areas and protecting at risk buildings.
The Spalding Conservation Area Appraisal includes a shopfront design guide for the town which sets out advice on retaining historic features, carrying out proper maintenance and repair as well as advice on appropriate signage, lighting, security and awnings – in a bid to make sure any work is in keeping with the surrounding area.
