Cllr Smith's report for July 2026
Cllr Smith, District Councillor Report - July 2026
District issues:
Bin collections: In previous weeks these have been earlier in the day to protect staff from the recent high temperatures
Local Government Reorganisation:
Central government have indicated that their preferred way of reorganising the local authorities in Lincolnshire will result in two new unitary authorities covering the area that was previously covered by Lincolnshire County Council and the Districts. Under these proposals, the new Lincolnshire City authority will serve around 208,000 residents across 816 square kilometres, while the new Lincolnshire Rural authority will be responsible for approximately 574,000 residents across more than 5,120 square kilometres.
South Kesteven has been placed within the new Rural Lincolnshire authority, which stretches from Stamford in the south to North Cotes on the Humber Estuary, a journey of more than 70 miles and almost two hours by road. This new authority will become one of the largest councils in the country, yet it will lack a natural administrative and economic centre. Lincoln, the county's historic city and principal hub, has been separated into its own authority, leaving the remaining rural council without the focal point around which much of the county naturally operates.
The challenges facing Rural Lincolnshire will be immense. It will be responsible for maintaining an extensive road network, delivering services across vast rural areas, supporting dispersed communities, and responding to the increasing threat of coastal flooding.
I will continue to stand up for a system of local government that is accountable, effective and truly serves the people of Lincolnshire.
County Issues:
Public consultation on Lincolnshire County Council Local Plan for Mineral and Waste is live. Closing date end of July. I am concerned that with further quarrying at Baston and a proposed new quarry at Greatford will result in an unacceptable cumulative impact for local residents. The already dangerous access routes of the A15 and King Street will see increased vehicular movement making the roads yet more hazardous.
I would encourage all local residents to comment as this will be the last opportunity to do so before the plan is sent to the Secretary of State for final sign off. https://www.letstalk.lincolnshire.gov.uk/mwplan-2026
Tallington Issues:
I will be sorting some 30mph bin stickers over the next month or so. I will keep the PC updated.
No other outstanding issues to report
Cllr Vanessa Smith
Casewick Ward Councillor (Barholm, Baston, Greatford, Langtoft, Tallington, Uffington)
South Kesteven District Council