The Spalding Town Forum was scheduled to discuss the financial performance of the Spalding Special Expenses Account and consider the budget proposals for the upcoming year. The forum was also set to receive updates on cycling-related concerns from Lincolnshire Police and the progress of Spalding's play park improvements.

Spalding Special Expenses Account and 2026/27 Budget

The meeting's agenda included a review of the Spalding Special Expenses Account's performance for the second quarter of the 2025/26 financial year. A report from the Director of Finance (S151), Russell Stone, detailed the forecast outturn position against the budget. The report indicated a projected underspend of £20,244 for the year, with income from cemetery plots and hire income from Spalding United Football Club exceeding expectations. The forecast closing reserve balance for the Spalding Special Reserve was estimated at £212,415. The Chief Finance Officer was also scheduled to provide a verbal update on the proposed 2026/27 Spalding Special Expenses Budget.

Cycling-Related Concerns and Enforcement

A representative from Lincolnshire Police was expected to provide an update on cycling-related issues within Spalding. The discussion was scheduled to cover enforcement measures for riding without lights, penalties associated with such offences, cycling on pavements where no designated cycle paths exist, dangerous riding practices, and the carrying of passengers on handlebars. Councillor Ingrid Sheard had previously agreed to follow up on whether the police had confiscated bicycles for non-compliance with safety standards.

Spalding Play Parks Update

An urgent item was scheduled for discussion regarding the potential use of Spalding Special Expenses to support improvements to Spalding's play parks. The Chairman of the Forum proposed forming a working group to assess the condition of play parks within the Spalding Special Expenses area, prioritise those most in need of repair or enhancement, and develop business cases for funding proposals. It was noted that a subset of Spalding's 20 parks fall within the remit of Spalding Special Expenses. The Portfolio Holder for Assets and Strategic Planning confirmed that reports were available for some parks and quotes were being sought for necessary repairs.

Spalding BID Manager Update

The Spalding Business Improvement District (BID) Manager was scheduled to provide an update on the BID's activities. Key initiatives planned for discussion included Spalding in Bloom 2026, aiming for more impactful floral displays; Town Tidy Weeks to encourage businesses to maintain their premises; and the development of a digital platform called Hello Spalding to promote local businesses and events. The BID Manager was also expected to report on crime and safety initiatives, including a See It, Report It campaign and the exploration of a business watch scheme. Plans for events and footfall generation, collaboration with Springfields, and business support through networking meetings and surgery sessions were also on the agenda.

Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) Update

A verbal update was scheduled on the implementation of the Spalding Town Centre Traffic Regulation Order (TRO). This order, which had been in place for many years but not previously enforced, was intended to pedestrianise the town centre during restricted hours of 10 am to 4 pm daily. The update was expected to address the recent installation of signage and the commencement of enforcement, including a reported error in the signage wording that had led to the restriction being applied 24 hours a day. It was anticipated that any penalty notices issued outside the designated hours would be rescinded and signage amended. The forum was also expected to discuss concerns about vehicles parking on Broad Street and the potential use of CCTV footage for enforcement.

Active Cycling Route

An update was scheduled on the development of active travel infrastructure in Spalding, focusing on improving cycling and walking routes. This included plans for an upgraded bike stand in the Sheep Market, the identification of suitable locations for additional cycle parking corrals, and signage directing cyclists to Springfields. The Spalding to Pinchbeck Active Travel Route was progressing in five phases, with Phases 1 and 2 scheduled for implementation in spring 2026. Engagement with residents of Swallow Court regarding their previous objections was also to be reported.

Other Scheduled Discussions

The agenda also included consideration of actions arising from the previous meeting on 30 September 2025, and the confirmation of the minutes from that meeting.