The Spalding Town Forum of South Holland Council discussed several key issues, including the presentation by Spalding Grammar School students on town centre improvements, updates on Spalding Special Expenses for Quarter 3, and ongoing actions from previous meetings. The forum also addressed graffiti concerns, potential river activities, and updates from the Johnson Hospital League of Friends.

Spalding Grammar School Presentation

The Deputy Head of Spalding Grammar School Sixth Form introduced students who presented their views on improving Spalding Town Centre. They highlighted issues such as inadequate transport links, social problems like homelessness and addiction, and the lack of diverse shops and events. The students suggested enhancing transport services, particularly the Boston to Spalding bus route, and improving the social environment around Hall Place by adding flower planters, bins, and better lighting.

Regarding the South Holland Centre, the students noted that film showings often conflicted with school hours and suggested scheduling them at more convenient times. They also advocated for a broader range of shops to attract young adults and proposed using social media platforms like Instagram to promote local businesses and events.

The Chairman praised the students' presentation and ideas, noting that some suggestions could be implemented at minimal cost. He proposed forwarding their ideas to the Town Board, which has access to £20 million over ten years for town centre improvements.

Spalding Special Expenses Quarter 3 Report 2023-24

The forum reviewed the Spalding Special Expenses Quarter 3 Report, which detailed forecasted spending against the budget. The Strategic Finance Manager reported an underspend of £16,000, primarily due to reduced premises and maintenance costs. The Chairman expressed satisfaction with the underspend, which will be transferred to the Spalding Special Reserves for one-off expenses.

Ongoing Actions

The Chairman updated the forum on various ongoing actions:

• A cohort of students from Spalding Grammar School will present their views on the town centre.
• The Chairman will contact the Portfolio Holder for Communities and Operational Housing regarding film showings and seating at the South Holland Centre.
• The Waste Services Department is expected to align the Sheep Market toilets' opening times with other town centre facilities.
• Various funding options for renewing Christmas lights and decorations are being scrutinised.

Graffiti Concerns

The Portfolio Holder for Strategic Housing, Leisure Centre Delivery, and Spalding Town Improvement updated the forum on efforts to address graffiti. The District Council Community Warden Officer has been proactive in engaging businesses to remove graffiti, and Lincolnshire County Council officers are repairing and removing graffiti in various areas, including Pinchbeck Road and Wygate Park. Offensive graffiti can be reported through the SHDC website.

River Welland Activities

Councillor James Le Sage proposed opening up the River Welland for activities like punting and kayaking to attract tourists and increase town centre footfall. He will attend meetings with relevant authorities to discuss this further and will update the forum at the next meeting.

Johnson Hospital League of Friends

Christine Lawton from the Johnson Hospital League of Friends informed the forum about recent donations from SHDC Councillors, which funded 23 televisions for hospital patients. The hospital has also updated its café area with outside seating.

The next meeting of the Spalding Town Forum is scheduled for 11 June 2024 at 6.30 pm. An update on the Ayscough-Fest event will be provided at the next meeting.