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Parents and carers who stop on double yellow lines outside schools to walk children to the school gates will now be fined – under new rules designed to improve safety around schools.
The changes make it clear that drivers cannot leave their vehicle on waiting restrictions, including double yellow lines, to accompany a child into school.
Keeping school entrances clear improves visibility, maintains access for emergency vehicles and helps create a safer environment for children and families at the busiest times of the day.
Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “Nothing is more important than the safety of children.
“Most parents park responsibly, but we continue to see vehicles stopping where they shouldn’t, creating unnecessary risks outside schools.
“This is about protecting children, not catching people out. We want parents to understand the rules, make safe choices and help us keep school entrances clear for everyone.”
The move follows ongoing concerns about dangerous and inconsiderate parking outside schools, where vehicles parked on restrictions can force children into the road, block sight lines and create congestion.
Cllr John Davison, cabinet member for Ashby, Bottesford and Scunthorpe, said: “Parking restrictions outside schools are there for a reason. They help maintain visibility, keep traffic moving and allow children to cross more safely.
“I’ve met parents and residents at Bottesford schools, we’ve listened to their concerns and we’ve made changes to provide greater clarity about what is and isn’t permitted and will help enforcement officers apply the rules consistently.
“We’ll continue working with schools, parents and carers to encourage safer parking and safer journeys to school but if people persist in flouting the rules and putting their children in danger, we’ll fine them.”
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Every young person in North Lincolnshire deserves the opportunity to build a successful future – and North Lincolnshire Council is set to strengthen the help available.
The plans would bring together schools, colleges, employers, the Department for Work and Pensions, health partners and the voluntary sector to ensure young people receive the right support at the right time.
They build on a strong local track record. While nationally around four per cent of 16 and 17-year-olds are not in education, employment or training, in North Lincolnshire that figure is less than two per cent.
The council now wants to go further by strengthening partnership working and expanding the support available to young people.
Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “This is a personal priority for me. Every young person deserves the chance to succeed, and we are determined that nobody slips through the net.
“National policies have made it harder for businesses to employ people, particularly young people. That makes it even more important that we step up locally, create opportunities and ensure no young person is left behind.
“We already have a strong network of schools, colleges, employers and organisations supporting young people every day. We are choosing to invest further in those partnerships, making sure organisations work more closely together so that young people receive the support they need as early as possible.
“Whether that’s an apprenticeship, further education, training or a first job, we want every young person to know there is an opportunity for them and people ready to help them take that next step.”
The details are set out in a report due to be discussed by the Cabinet. The plans build on North Lincolnshire’s Youth Hub, which has supported almost 1,000 young people over the past five years, helping hundreds into paid employment while many others have progressed into apprenticeships, training, work experience and further learning.
The proposals also include a new intensive programme for young people not in education, employment or training, alongside expanded employability workshops, work experience placements, careers events and sector-based training.
If approved, they will strengthen partnership working to identify young people who need support earlier, remove barriers to opportunity and help more young people move into education, training or employment across North Lincolnshire.
Cllr Waltham added: “Success will be measured by one thing – more young people fulfilling their potential, more local businesses finding the skilled workforce they need and fewer young people left behind.”
If you’re a parent, carer, grandparent or young person looking for help with education, training or employment, visit your local Community Hub in Ashby, Barton-upon-Humber, Brigg, Crowle, Epworth or Scunthorpe. Friendly staff can offer advice, answer questions and help you access the right support.
The post No young person left behind: Council leader strengthens support into work and training appeared first on North Lincolnshire Council.
From chart-topping musicians and comedians to dance schools, theatre groups and community performances, The Baths Hall has welcomed thousands of people through its doors.
Now the council is planning the next chapter in its long-term investment programme to help secure the venue’s future.
Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “People don’t come to The Baths Hall to think about boilers or heating systems – they come for a great night out.
“Our job, and the promise we’ve made, is to make sure everything behind the scenes is working just as well as what happens on stage.
“Investing now helps protect one of North Lincolnshire’s most important venues, reducing future running costs and making sure it continues attracting major acts while providing a stage for local performers, schools and community groups.”
The proposed heating upgrade builds on a programme of investment already underway at the venue. In 2024, 360 solar panels were installed on the roof, cutting electricity costs by more than £63,000 in their first year.
More recently, every stage light and more than 900 internal light fittings were replaced with modern technology, reducing electricity use by around 75 per cent and saving a further £30,000 a year.
Together, the improvements – using grants from government not local taxpayers’ money – have reduced the venue’s annual running costs by almost £100,000.
Cllr John Davison, cabinet member for Ashby, Bottesford and Scunthorpe, said: “The Baths Hall is a huge asset for Scunthorpe and North Lincolnshire. It brings people into the town, supports local businesses and provides opportunities for everyone from international performers to our own talented local groups.
“This latest proposal is about planning ahead. By investing in the building now, we’re helping ensure The Baths Hall remains a first-class venue that people can continue to enjoy for many years to come.”
The post The show goes on: Next act in Baths Hall investment plan appeared first on North Lincolnshire Council.
Four homes on open space at the rear of Ashby Close and Glenfield Road, Grimsby, were refused permission in April, but the developers have appealed the decision
Residents affected by persistent anti-social behaviour in North Lincolnshire now have stronger powers to challenge inaction when problems continue unresolved.
For residents who feel they are getting nowhere despite repeatedly reporting anti-social behaviour, the strengthened arrangements provide an important safeguard, ensuring concerns cannot simply be ignored when problems continue.
Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “Nobody should have to put up with persistent anti-social behaviour or feel they are being ignored when they report it.
“This is about giving residents confidence that if problems continue, there are clear steps they can take to make sure everyone come togethers to review what has happened and agree what more can be done.
“People deserve to feel safe in their neighbourhoods and know that concerns will be taken seriously. Strengthening support for victims is at the heart of what we’re doing.”
By strengthening the process, the council is helping ensure residents have a stronger voice and that agencies remain accountable when anti-social behaviour continues to affect communities.
The ASB Case Review gives victims and communities the right to request a formal review where anti-social behaviour has been reported on multiple occasions but concerns remain unresolved.
The process brings together organisations across the Community Safety Partnership to examine what action has been taken and identify what further steps can be taken to tackle the issue.
The review process applies to existing cases where anti-social behaviour has been reported to agencies at least three times within six months. New incidents should continue to be reported through normal channels.
The council works closely with Humberside Police, housing providers and other partners through the Community Safety Partnership to tackle anti-social behaviour, support victims and improve neighbourhood safety.
As part of that work, the council has also signed the ASB Help Pledge, demonstrating its commitment to best practice, victim-centred services and effective partnership working.
Cllr John Davison, cabinet member for Ashby, Bottesford and Scunthorpe, said: “Anti-social behaviour can have a significant impact on people’s quality of life, particularly when issues continue over a long period of time.
“The Case Review process is an important safeguard because it gives victims another opportunity to have their concerns heard and ensures agencies are challenged to work together to find solutions.
“The focus is simple – supporting residents, resolving problems and making our communities safer places to live.”
Residents can find out more here.
The post Victims of anti-social behaviour gain stronger powers to demand action appeared first on North Lincolnshire Council.
More than 100 North Lincolnshire children have joined the Imagination Library in the last month, giving them access to a free, high-quality book delivered to their home every month from birth until their fifth birthday.
A total of 118 children were registered during May, taking the number of children currently benefiting from the scheme across North Lincolnshire to more than 6,800.
Funded by North Lincolnshire Council, the programme is available free of charge to every child under five and helps families enjoy reading together from the earliest years.
Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “It’s fantastic to see another group of children start their reading journey through the Imagination Library. Reading is one of the most important foundations for learning and development, and by investing in this scheme we are helping to give every child the best possible start in life.
“We know children who are part of the programme are more likely to be ready for school and develop a lifelong love of reading. I would encourage any family with a child under five who is not yet registered to take just a few minutes to sign up and start receiving their free books.”
Since launching in North Lincolnshire in 2013, the scheme has delivered more than one million books to local children and now reaches almost 87 per cent of all under-fives in the area. The books are carefully chosen to support language development, imagination and early learning, while creating opportunities for families to read together at home.
Cllr Carl Sherwood, cabinet member for rural communities and market towns, said: “For many children, these books are their first introduction to the joys of reading. Receiving a book through the post each month is something families really look forward to and it helps create special moments that support learning, confidence and development.
“We are incredibly proud to continue supporting a programme that is making a real difference to children and families across North Lincolnshire.”
Libraries across North Lincolnshire have expanded their opening hours by more than 20 per cent over the last decade and now offer a wide range of activities, learning opportunities and support services alongside their traditional book lending service. From helping people get online and develop new skills to providing welcoming spaces for communities to come together, libraries continue to play an important role in everyday life.
There are 14 libraries in hubs across North Lincolnshire – all offering free access to books, activities, digital support and welcoming community spaces close to home.
You can visit:
With opening hours expanded by more than 20% over the last decade, it’s never been easier to discover everything your local library has to offer.
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Local people will get the chance to step inside a working forge, learn traditional blacksmithing skills and make their own souvenir as part of a new heritage project in Owston Ferry.
Owston Ferry Smithy has been awarded £3,600 through North Lincolnshire Council’s Cultural Futures programme to run free blacksmithing taster sessions at The Old Smithy & Heritage Centre.
The project, called Sample the Smithy, will give residents the chance to engage directly with local heritage through small, supervised sessions using the forges and learning basic blacksmithing techniques.
It will also help bring the historic smithy to life, support essential repairs and improvements to equipment, and test demand for future workshops.
Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “This is living heritage – not something behind glass, but something people can touch, try and experience for themselves.
“The Old Smithy is part of Owston Ferry’s story, and this project will help open it up to more people, protect traditional skills and give residents the chance to make something with their own hands.”
The project is one of 14 new arts and heritage schemes awarded funding through Cultural Futures, a multi-year programme supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and North Lincolnshire Council to increase cultural activity across the area.
Cllr John Davison, cabinet member for Ashby, Bottesford and Scunthorpe, said: “There is something powerful about heritage you can actually take part in.
“Blacksmithing is practical, physical and creative, and these sessions will give people a real connection to the past while helping secure the future of a much-loved local heritage site.
“It is also a brilliant example of rural communities leading their own cultural activity, supported by volunteers who care deeply about keeping local history alive.”
The wider funding round will also support projects including a portable exhibition telling the story of Burton upon Stather’s role in the build-up to D-Day; a new 80-mile walking trail linked to Olaudah Equiano, John Wesley and stories of freedom and reform; a community film festival for North Lincolnshire; a multicultural celebration at The Baths Hall; and creative projects bringing young people, older residents, artists, volunteers and community groups together.
The projects awarded funding are:
Burton upon Stather Heritage Group – The BSHG Information & Display Unit
A portable walk-through exhibition telling the story of Burton upon Stather’s role in the build-up to D-Day, including Operation KATE and secret tank testing at the Tank Ramp site.
Epworth Old Rectory – The Equiano Way
A new 80-mile walking trail linking North Lincolnshire, South Yorkshire and Hull, exploring stories of freedom, faith and social change connected to Olaudah Equiano, John Wesley, the Pilgrim Fathers and Salim C. Wilson.
Indian Cultural Association North Lincolnshire – River of Talent 2027
A multicultural celebration at The Baths Hall featuring music, dance, Indian cuisine and community awards recognising contribution and social impact.
Kimberly Performing Arts – Stories in Motion
An intergenerational performing arts project bringing young dancers together with older residents to share memories and local stories through dance and musical theatre.
Oasis Hub – Layered Landscapes: The Scunthorpe Tapestry
A multi-generational creative project using photography, texture-mapping and textile art to reimagine Scunthorpe’s industrial architecture and community identity.
Over the Bridge – Artist Residency
A supported residency for an emerging local photographer to create new work inspired by North Lincolnshire’s people, places and heritage, culminating in a public exhibition or presentation.
Owston Ferry Smithy – Sample the Smithy
Free blacksmithing taster sessions at The Old Smithy & Heritage Centre, giving people the chance to use the forges, learn traditional skills and make a souvenir to take home.
Shepherd Creative – Lincs Film Festival
A research and development project and one-day proof of concept event to test demand for a future community film festival focused on northern stories, emerging talent and accessible participation.
STEAMPunx Lincs – Legends of the Humber: Creatures, Coast & Curiosity
A creative heritage project exploring folklore, landscapes and the environment through storytelling, art, poetry, imagined creatures and a cabinet of curiosities-style exhibition.
Street Beat – Culture Fusion
A dance project exploring cultural identity, heritage and racism through urban dance, guest artist workshops, choreography, performances and community sessions with young people.
Ted Lewis Centre – Dive with Ted Lewis into The Beatles’ Yellow Submarine
A project celebrating Ted Lewis’s work as Animation Clean-up Supervisor on Yellow Submarine, including oral histories, research, exhibitions and a live Beatles tribute event.
The Ropewalk – Barton Shops & Shopping: A Community Archive Project
A community-led heritage project collecting memories, photographs, objects and oral histories about Barton’s retail history, creating a digital archive, pop-up displays and workshops.
The Tent Project – Her-Story Project
A creative project supporting women in Scunthorpe to share experiences through art, craft and writing, with support from creative practitioners and wellbeing specialists.
Wilderspin National School Museum – The Art of Play: Past, Present and Reimagined
An artist residency led by Annabel McCourt exploring play, mischief and childhood through archive research, workshops, storytelling and a public exhibition.
In total, more than £63,000 has been awarded in this round.
The Cultural Futures programme is supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and North Lincolnshire Council.
Find out more information, including the full criteria and how to apply for future funding, on the Cultural Futures webpage or email culturalfutures@northlincs.gov.uk.
The post Fire up the forge: free blacksmithing sessions to bring Owston Ferry’s historic smithy back to life appeared first on North Lincolnshire Council.
Our air fryer demonstration sessions are coming to Ashby Hub tomorrow.
If you received an air fryer through our energy-saving cooking scheme, join us to learn how to get the best from it.
⏰ Session start times:
10am, 11am, 1pm, and 2pm
⚠️ Book: northlincs.gov.uk/airfryers
Hundreds of North Lincolnshire households have received support with heating oil costs after the council launched a scheme designed to help rural communities hit by rising fuel prices.
More than 1,000 households have come forward since the scheme launched, with almost 700 payments reaching residents in recent days.
Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “When this funding was announced, we made it clear that we wanted help to reach local people as quickly as possible.
“The response shows just how important this support is for rural communities across North Lincolnshire. Hundreds of households have already received payments and more are being processed every day.
“This is exactly what the funding was intended for – helping people with the cost of keeping their homes warm and providing practical support when it is needed most.”
A further 250 applications have already been approved and are due to be paid this week.
Cllr Tim Mitchell, cabinet member for finance and efficiency, said: “We know households that rely on heating oil face different challenges to those connected to mains gas, particularly in villages and rural areas.
“That’s why it’s encouraging to see support getting directly to local residents. For many households, this funding will help ease some of the pressure created by higher fuel costs.
“If you registered an interest but haven’t yet completed your application, please check your emails and come forward as soon as possible so we can make sure you don’t miss out.”
Everyone who previously registered an interest in the scheme was contacted directly when applications opened. Around 300 households who expressed an interest have yet to submit an application.
Residents who need help completing their application can visit any North Lincolnshire community hub, where staff can provide support to access and complete the online form – hubs are in Ashby, Barton, Brigg, Crowle, Epworth and Scunthorpe.
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