A significant initiative focused on nature recovery and heritage has taken a crucial step forward with the award of development funding. The Roots of Kesteven project has secured around £250,000 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. This funding will support the development of a long-term programme aimed at enhancing nature recovery, preserving heritage, improving public access, and fostering community engagement across the North and South Kesteven areas.
Made possible by funds raised by National Lottery players, the grant will enable partners to conduct detailed research, gather specialist evidence, and collaborate with communities, organisations, and stakeholders. This collaborative effort will help shape a shared vision for the future of the region.
The project is led by Lincolnshire County Council in partnership with North Kesteven District Council, South Kesteven District Council, the Woodland Trust, and Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust. The project area encompasses a diverse landscape, including woodlands, farmland, historic sites, villages, and vital wildlife habitats.
During this development phase, partners will explore opportunities to improve habitat connectivity, strengthen ecological networks, increase access to nature, promote greater participation in local heritage, and build resilience against future environmental challenges.
“"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 overarching aim of The Roots of Kesteven project is to establish a programme that not only strengthens the natural environment but also helps people connect more profoundly with the landscapes, stories, and heritage that have shaped the area over centuries. In the coming months, the partnership will engage in detailed planning and outreach to identify key opportunities and priorities, which will inform proposals for future investment and implementation.
