Consultation and engagement by Spalding Town Board have revealed local people’s priorities for the town.
A programme of engagement by the Board has been carried out over the last few months, centred on a survey on ‘A Vision for Spalding’ proposals for the town which generated 310 responses.
In addition, an open call for projects attracted 34 applications, and, a series of events including exhibition events, a market stall, and board and stakeholder workshops taking place this year have involved many more people.
Now the findings of the consultation and engagement activities – including feedback from a survey carried out on behalf of the government as well as comments captured online – have been analysed to reveal what matters most to people in Spalding.
The overall themes and consultation findings emerging are:
- Safety and welcoming environment – 84% of respondents to October’s survey feel the Public Space Protection Order is underused whilst 84% want dedicated wardens or patrols.
- Community events and activities – 90% want a year-round events programme and there is demand for affordable indoor and outdoor spaces for live music, workshops, and family events.
- Town centre and market revitalisation – there is strong support for a canopy to enable events and attract traders and a priority for local people is to bring empty buildings back into use.
- Waterfront and public realm – 76% support riverfront improvements (seating, pontoons, water taxi stop) whilst 80% back a leisure-boat landing point.
- Supporting local businesses – there is a need for a clean, safe, and attractive town centre to attract businesses and visitors.
- Transport, access and parking – there is interest in and ideas around transport, access, and parking – such as low-cost or free parking, better public transport links, and cycling / walking routes between key destinations – to encourage visitors to the town.
- Opportunities for young people – there is a desire for youth facilities, sports and water activities, and outdoor recreation spaces.
- Heritage and identity – there is strong pride in Spalding’s heritage assets.
The full findings can be found here: Spalding-consultation-FINAL-report-November-2025.pdf
The consultation and engagement that has been taking place in 2025 builds on activities in summer 2024 which saw over 550 people get involved and share their thoughts on the town. Since the Board began engaging and consulting people in 2024, feedback has been captured from over 1,300 engagements online, in person, and through other channels.
Robin Hancox, Chair, Spalding Town Board said: “On behalf of the Board, I have to say a huge thank you to everyone who has taken the time to share their thoughts and ideas with us, whether in writing or in person.
“I have been struck by just how much enthusiasm there is for our town, and how we all share an ambition for a better future for Spalding.
“I have been clear since the very beginning that local people are at the heart of the plans for Spalding, and thanks to everyone’s feedback, we have a clear understanding of what the priorities are for the community.
“Now, we’re finalising the plans for the Pride in Place programme, based on what we’ve heard from local people.
“We have an exciting opportunity to deliver for Spalding against priorities which have so clearly emerged from our consultation and engagement over the last couple of years.”
Cllr Nick Worth, Leader of South Holland District Council and Town Board member, said: “This consultation shows just how much residents care about Spalding and want to see it thrive. Their participation and feedback has helped to build a clear picture of what matters the most to our community, and gives us a strong platform to use this funding to deliver real, meaningful and lasting change.
“I hope that the Board and its partners can now work together to turn these priorities into reality, from creating a safer, more welcoming town centre to supporting local businesses and making the most of our heritage and riverfront. We’re determined to make the most of this opportunity and bring about improvements that make a difference for Spalding and its residents, businesses and visitors.”
The plans – which include a ten-year vision and a four-year investment plan – will be reviewed by South Holland District Council Cabinet on 24th November. The final plans will be submitted to government by the deadline of 28th November.
