Final proposals for expanded Lincoln revealed
Expanded boundaries for Lincoln would save £44million in its first five years, it’s been claimed.
However the plan has provoked a mixed reaction from the neighbouring villages which could be absorbed into Lincoln, with one councillor claiming there’s “no support” for a takeover.
Greater Lincolnshire would be divided into four under the proposed map, with a much bigger Lincoln City, a Rural Lincolnshire council, and the two unitary authorities remaining independent.
The ‘Greater Lincoln’ would absorb many of the neighbouring villages in West Lindsey and North Kesteven, including Saxilby and Scampton.
Lincoln City Council argues that the urban area has very different needs and demographics to Lincolnshire’s rural and coastal towns.
The initial transition to this is predicted to cost £48million, with an extra cost of £6million per year during the transition.
It expects to make big savings over the long-run, with public finances a total of £44million better off by 2028/29.
The council’s Labour leader Councillor Naomi Tweddle said: “Our proposal is ambitious, forward-looking, and reflects how people live today.
“It provides a strong foundation for better services and looks at how growth and prevention can be aligned to create a more sustainable future for Greater Lincolnshire.
“This is our opportunity to reshape local government, creating councils that reflect how people actually live and work, while giving communities a stronger voice and delivering better outcomes for all.”
However it has provoked a mixed reaction from neighbouring councillors who have their wards absorbed into the town.
Reform Councillor Trevor, who represents Cherry Willingham, told a West Lindsey District Council meeting last week: “I’ve been to parish council meetings, and there is no support at all for the Lincoln bid. They were quite frightened by it.”
West Lindsey Council leader Jackie Brockway said: “Lincoln wants to cherry pick more sustainable villages without a real understanding of what it will do with those which aren’t money producers.”
However Independent Councillor Chris Darcel responded: “Residents in Cherry Willingham find the plan quite sensible, and I haven’t heard why I shouldn’t support it.”
The proposals will be put to City of Lincoln councillors, and then submitted to the government.
There are at least three competing proposals, with several councils refusing to engage with the process at all.