Lincolnshire is a county we are proud to call home. Its stunning landscapes, rich heritage, and hardworking communities make it a truly special place to live and work. But today, our way of life is under threat, and we must act decisively to protect it.

From producing food for the nation to driving innovation in rural businesses, Lincolnshire’s contribution to the UK is immense. However, recent government announcements, including changes to taxation and funding cuts, risk undermining the very fabric of our county.

Challenges We Face

The proposed removal of inheritance tax relief on farmland and restrictions on business asset relief could devastate small farms and businesses—the lifeblood of Lincolnshire. These changes, coupled with rising employer National Insurance contributions and the growing burdens of employment and environmental legislation, create a perfect storm. Many businesses, particularly in rural areas, face an uncertain future.

At the same time, the government expects us to accept massive industrial infrastructure projects, such as pylons, solar farms, and wind turbines, without direct benefits for local residents. Adding to this, the £9.4 million Rural Services Delivery Grant—a vital funding stream for counties like ours—has been scrapped, further exacerbating the strain on our resources.

What We Are Doing

Lincolnshire County Council is taking a stand. We will debate a motion to address these pressing issues at the next full council meeting. Here’s what we are proposing:

  1. Defending Lincolnshire Communities and Businesses: The council will use every tool to mitigate the challenges posed by these policy changes. We will work tirelessly to support Lincolnshire’s residents and businesses during these challenging times.
  2. Calling on Government to Rethink: We urge the government to reconsider its proposed changes to inheritance tax relief and business asset relief. These measures, if implemented, would have far-reaching consequences for family farms and small businesses, threatening the very foundation of our rural economy.
  3. Investing in Local Support: To provide immediate relief, we will increase financial support to the Lincolnshire Rural Support Network by £10,000 and allocate an additional £50,000 to the Business Growth Hub. These funds will be drawn from our general reserve contingency and provide crucial assistance to those in need.

Why This Matters

Lincolnshire is the heart of rural England, and our voice must be heard. Over the years, we’ve worked hard to maintain low council taxes, invest in our roads and flood defences, and deliver essential services efficiently. But our ability to continue this work is at risk. Without fair funding and a supportive national policy framework, the challenges facing our businesses and communities could worsen.

This isn’t just about preserving what we have; it’s about ensuring a thriving future for Lincolnshire—a future where family farms remain viable, rural businesses grow and create jobs, and the unique character of our county is safeguarded for generations to come.

Join the Conversation

We believe in standing up for Lincolnshire but can’t do it alone. Your support and input are vital. What do you think about the challenges and opportunities facing our county? How can we work together to ensure Lincolnshire remains a great place to live and work?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below or contact your local councillor. Together, we can make a difference.

Let’s defend Lincolnshire—because our future depends on it.