Much to look forward to in 2021 - Column by North Kesteven District Council leader Coun Richard Wright

A brand new year is on the horizon and with it brings a fresh start and hopes of a much more enjoyable 12 months ahead.

Before we fully consign 2020 to the history books however, we’ve an opportunity now to reflect. And if this year was to be condensed into a story, for me it would be a tribute to how we’ve all responded to its challenges.

Our NHS colleagues and those in all our emergency services have shown huge dedication in the darkest of times and continue to do so.

Key workers, from drivers and shop workers to teachers, carers and our own refuse crews, kept our daily lives moving and helped retain some semblance of normality.

Businesses have put Covid secure measures in place and co-operated by closing where required in order to protect health, while also thinking of their own staff.

And in our communities, good deeds between friends, family, neighbours, strangers and volunteers took place every day.

We know this because of the 100-odd nominations made for our NK Community Champions Awards by grateful recipients of such actions. Our usual 10 categories were broadened to 12, making a record number of award winners and finalists, coming from within and around Sleaford and far across the District, and all commended during a virtual celebration. If you’ve been the recipient of recent community, group or individual actions, you can nominate at www.nkawards.org

As a council we’ve responded in as many ways as possible. We’ve reached out to thousands of potentially vulnerable residents via letter and phone, checked in with tenants, created additional hardship help and distributed Government self-isolation grants. We’re currently processing applications for the latest Government business support grants, having distributed almost £20 million in the first lockdown. Essential services continue and our democratic processes have moved into a new era online.

Meanwhile we’ve continued investing in our District, and there’s so much to look ahead to in 2021.

Our £1.2 million programme to enhance the National Centre for Craft & Design in Sleaford is progressing well and we can’t wait to reveal its new look before summer.

We recently submitted proposals for our £56 million Sleaford Moor Enterprise Park - a major investment not only in our local economy but also in how such developments can respond to climate change, with green elements running throughout the scheme.

In fact, I’m proud to say the environment is front and centre in our ambitions more than ever.

In early 2021 we hope to adopt our newly formed Tree Strategy, increasing trees on council-owned land and working with partners to increase tree canopy cover across NK.

Next year three crucial blueprints will also come into focus. Our NK Plan 2021-23 sets out our immediate vision, including for Our Environment, backed up by our supporting Community Strategy.

We’re aiming for North Kesteven to be carbon neutral by 2030 and our exciting Climate Emergency Strategy and Action Plan details the steps towards that target while delivering broader improvements in life and work.

Check our social media @northkestevendc and the consultations section of our website at n-kesteven.gov.uk/your-council/have-your-say for how to input on these three plans.

I wish you all a festive season full of cheer, kindness and love after this long and turbulent year.

While the good news on vaccines continues to emerge, I urge all to remain cautious and careful in what you do, to protect yourself, loved ones and those continuing to deliver such valued public services. There’s still a long road ahead, although we can see more clearly now where that path leads.