New ELDC headquarters up for approval next week

The ‘public sector hub’ planned to be built at the former Horncastle Residential College, off the town’s Mareham Road, will appear before the authority’s planning committee on Thursday (August 6).

Recommending approval, council officers said: “The proposed development will provide for an appropriate use of a semi-redundant site within the built up area of Horncastle.

“The nature of uses proposed will secure significant economic, cultural and social benefit for the town and substantial parts of East Lindsey.”

They said harmful impacts would be outweighed by the benefits.

Plans for the site were revealed in March however, the costs have been under discussion since October.

The new headquarters will play a major role in ELDC’s plans for a greater focus on council staff working remotely, while the new council chamber will also be used for college lectures, weddings and community events. The college would have access to four classrooms and ancillary space.

The development could also house partners such as health and police services in the future.

Council leaders say the project will be cost neutral due to the sale and redevelopment of both Skegness Town Hall and Tedder Hall.

Opponents to the site, however, have previously raised doubts about the authority’s ability to raise the cash, as well as raised concerns over the increased travel time and distance.

Some consultees including Horncastle History and Heritage Society and the Save Britain’s Heritage campaign group have raised concerns over the impact on historic cottages, including the Holmeleigh Children’s Homes.

Other representation from residents includes concern over traffic, public transport and parking availability, and the impact on the loss of green space.

If the application is approved, the first courses are hoped to start in September 2021.