Improving life on Lincoln’s Ermine estate

City of Lincoln Council has launched a five-year commitment to work with residents and partners on the Ermine to deliver long-term improvements shaped by the community.

The Ermine Place Shaping Framework sets out a shared vision for the neighbourhood, bringing together residents, community groups, local organisations and partner agencies around priorities for the next five years.

The launch event was opened by Narissa Sykes, Chair of the Ermine Community Partnership, who helped set the tone for the day by highlighting the importance of residents helping shape the future of the area.

“As both a resident and Chair of the Ermine Community Partnership Board, I’m proud to be part of something that brings people together to create positive opportunities for our community. The passion and support already being shown has been incredible to see.”

The framework focuses on five key themes: supporting the community, education and employment opportunities, homes and housing, green spaces and the environment, and improving movement and connectivity across the area.

Developed with residents it aims to build on the Ermine’s strong community spirit while tackling issues including poverty, housing quality, anti-social behaviour, connectivity and access to opportunity.

The council’s Neighbourhood Team will work alongside the Ermine Community Partnership and other organisations already supporting the area.

Over the past year, it has supported community groups, installed CCTV, secured £104,000 through the Social Housing Innovation Fund and launched Ermine News, delivered to thousands of homes.

The event also highlighted the success of the Ermine Exchange community hub, organised by Alive Church Lincoln and funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. In 10 months, the hub has recorded more than 12,000 community engagements, reached more than 3,000 residents and hosted over 165 activities and events.

A new Ermine Community Fund was also announced, giving residents a direct say in how £15,000 will be spent on projects such as community events, activities for children and families, and improvements to green spaces and the local environment.

Cllr Naomi Tweddle, Leader of City of Lincoln Council and councillor for Minster Ward, said: “This launch marks a long-term commitment to work with the Ermine community on the changes that matter most to local people.

“As someone who grew up on the Ermine and still lives here, I know the area has a strong identity, valued green spaces and real community spirit.

“By embedding our Neighbourhood Team in the area over the next five years, we can listen, back local ideas, and help turn that potential into practical improvements.”

Cllr Donald Nannestad, Portfolio Holder for Quality Housing at City of Lincoln Council and councillor for Castle Ward, added: “The work already underway on the Ermine shows what can be achieved when residents, community groups and organisations work together.

“This framework gives us a clear basis for improving homes, neighbourhood spaces and opportunities for local people over the coming years.”