A major new initiative has taken an important step forward after securing development funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund
The Roots of Kesteven project has been awarded funding of around £250,000 to help develop plans for a long-term programme focused on nature recovery, heritage, public access and community engagement across North and South Kesteven.
Made possible thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, the funding will allow partners to carry out detailed research, gather specialist evidence and work with communities, organisations and stakeholders to help shape a shared vision for the future of the area.
Led by Lincolnshire County Council, the partnership includes North Kesteven District Council, South Kesteven District Council, the Woodland Trust and Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust.
The project area covers a rich and varied landscape, including woodlands, farmland, historic sites, villages and important wildlife habitats. During the development phase, partners will explore opportunities to improve habitat connectivity, strengthen ecological networks, enhance access to nature, encourage greater participation in local heritage and build resilience to future environmental challenges.
Matthew Davey, Natural Environment Officer at Lincolnshire County Council, said: "This funding gives us an exciting opportunity to work closely with local communities and partners to understand what is important to people and how we can protect and enhance the unique character of Kesteven for future generations.
"The development phase is about building a strong foundation for a larger programme that will deliver lasting benefits for nature, heritage and the communities that live and work across the area. We are looking forward to working with a wide range of people as the project develops."
The Roots of Kesteven project aims to create a programme that strengthens the natural environment while helping people connect more deeply with the landscapes, stories and heritage that have shaped the area over centuries.
Over the coming months, the partnership will undertake detailed planning and engagement work to identify opportunities and priorities, helping to develop proposals for future investment and delivery.
This project has been made possible thanks to money raised by National Lottery players and the support of The National Lottery Heritage Fund.