2022 celebrated the end of the hugely successful Single Local Growth Fund programme. LEP projects and programmes have delivered economic growth now for over a decade.  In that time, we have secured £400m of investment for projects in Greater Lincolnshire and have delivered 75 growth projects and programmes.  

Together with our many local partners we have made great progress in raising the aspiration and profile of our collective economic ambitions for our diverse, resilient, and remarkable location. Our congratulations and thanks are extended to everyone involved in these varied and challenging projects and programmes, who in partnership with the LEP, are delivering considerable economic impact across our area. 

Located in a prime position only metres from the sea front, the Huttoft Visitor Centre was built to replace an existing redundant boat shed. The new centre is designed for both visitors and locals to enjoy the scenery and explore the coast. 

The new building consists of the Seascape Café and a kiosk as well as an external area capable of hosting larger ‘pop-up’ events. 

This project was co-funded by Lincolnshire County Council and The Greater Lincolnshire LEP. The LEP contributed £240,000 through the Single Local Growth Fund.  

Pat Doody, Chair of the Greater Lincolnshire LEP, said: “The Greater Lincolnshire LEP is extremely pleased to have provided grant funding to enable this innovative scheme, transforming what was originally a small boat shed on the beach into a great facility.” 

The prime position of the visitors' centre allows it to deliver a wide range of coastal activities including organised walks, sea dipping, seal and dolphin watching and beach cleaning events. 

The National Coastal Footpath also passes directly outside the building, so the centre provides information, refreshments and toilet facilities to those following the footpath. 

Greater Lincolnshire has a strong visitor economy, with up to 50 miles of beautiful coastline. Projects such as the Huttoft Visitor Centre strengthen and diversify the quality of the visitor experience, helping to bring more tourists to the area in the future and providing alternative destinations to complement large resorts such as Skegness and Mablethorpe. 

The rural geography and natural assets in Greater Lincolnshire offer unique opportunities such as energy sector growth in offshore wind and agriculture as well as tourism and leisure. 

The building was officially opened in April 2022 and at its opening, Vicki Holmes, the operator of the visitor centre said: “We’ll be offering a range of locally sourced food and drink to take away or enjoy on site. 

“We hope the building will also act as a focal point for other activities and events during the year.” 

Since then, it has been a popular spot for both tourists and locals. Jack, a barista at the Seascape Café said: “It brings a lot of tourism to the area, and we get people visit from all over.”  

Amy, the Manager of the Seascape Café, said: “People like to come and see what the building is like because it's unique, especially with the observatory. Visitors want to see the building as well as visit the café.” 

You can find out more about the Huttoft Visitor Centre here.  

For more information about the Greater Lincolnshire LEP’s Single Local Growth Fund projects, click here.