Shining a spotlight on the Gainsborough North Ward

As part of West Lindsey District Council’s, Spotlight on Our District series, they spoke to district councillors Mandy Snee, Jim Snee and Paul Key about the people, places and community spirit that make the ward such an important part of Gainsborough.

Unlike many of West Lindsey’s rural wards, Gainsborough North is a busy urban area made up of residential neighbourhoods, community spaces and facilities used by local families every day.

It is home to the West Lindsey Leisure Centre, Richmond Park and a range of local groups and organisations helping to support residents across the community.

For Mandy and Jim Snee, representing the ward is also something of a family affair as the couple are also married.

Coun Mandy Snee said: “People often smile when they realise Jim and I are both councillors representing the same ward.

“It’s unusual, but it works because we both care deeply about the area and the people who live here. We spend a lot of time discussing local issues and looking at how we can support residents.”

Coun Jim Snee, says being part of the community is central to the role.

He said: “Being a councillor is about listening to people and helping where you can.

“Whether it’s resolving a local issue, supporting a community project or helping someone access services, it’s all about making a positive difference.”

Fellow ward member Coun Paul Key also serves as a town councillor and says the area benefits from a strong community network.

He said: “One of the great things about Gainsborough North is the number of local groups and organisations quietly doing fantastic work behind the scenes.

“We’re also fortunate to have some excellent facilities and green spaces right here in the ward.”

Among those facilities is the West Lindsey Leisure Centre, one of the district’s key sports and fitness venues, offering swimming, gym facilities, fitness classes and activities for residents of all ages.

The ward is also home to outdoor spaces including Richmond Park and The Levellings Play Area, providing safe and accessible places for children and families to enjoy outdoor activities.

At the centre of Richmond Park stands Richmond House, a Grade II listed building dating back to the early 19th century. Once part of a private estate, the grounds were later transformed into a public park and continue to be an important community space today.

West Lindsey District Council funding has supported a wide range of projects in Gainsborough North, from creative activities for young people to feasibility studies for local sports organisations and major investment in community facilities.

Grants have been awarded to supporting activities in the town including Gainsborough Rugby Union Football Club which received £3,696.00 for a feasibility study; Gainsborough Trinity Foundation received £7,140.00 for a feasibility study and Gainsborough Trinity Foundation received £26,000.00 towards a new 3G pitch at Roses Sports Ground.

The ward also sits close to Gainsborough’s historic riverside, which played a major role in the town’s development as a market and industrial centre over many centuries.

For the councillors, maintaining and improving community facilities remains a key priority.

Coun Mandy Snee said: “Facilities like the leisure centre and play areas are incredibly important.

“They help people stay healthy, bring families together and give young people positive opportunities to stay active.”

The councillors regularly work alongside residents, community groups and council officers to help improve services and support neighbourhood projects across the ward.

Coun Paul Key said: “Every day is different.

“One day you might be helping a resident with a local issue, and the next you could be supporting a community initiative or working with officers to improve services. That variety is what makes the role rewarding.”

West Lindsey District Council is proud to have installed life-saving defibrillators at both Richmond Park and Roses Sports Ground, strengthening vital emergency support within the community.

For Jim and Mandy Snee, working together brings different strengths and perspectives to supporting residents. She said:

Coun Jim Snee said: “We understand the area because we live and work in the community ourselves.

“We each bring different experiences to the role, and together that helps us support residents effectively.”

The councillors are also keen to ensure local people benefit from future investment and opportunities across Gainsborough.

Coun Mandy Snee said: “Gainsborough continues to change and there are exciting opportunities ahead for the town.

“We want residents to feel involved, listened to and able to benefit from future improvements.”

Coun Key said: “Our priority is always the people who live here. We want Gainsborough North to remain a great place to live, work and raise a family.”