Identifying New and Emerging Sectoral Opportunities for Boston’s Future Economic Development

The South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership (SELCP) was created to improve services, investment, and value for the community. It includes Boston Borough Council, East Lindsey District Council, and South Holland District Council.

These councils work together to be more efficient, secure funding, and tackle important issues while keeping their own decision-making powers. Boston, a historic market town in Lincolnshire, is at a pivotal point in its economic trajectory.

While the town’s agricultural strengths and maritime heritage have historically underpinned its economy, Boston is now facing significant challenges, including a sharp contraction in the retail sector and a changing economic landscape. A separate commissioned study is currently underway to assess the scale, potential, and future development of Boston’s retail, hospitality, and leisure sectors - this study focuses specifically on revitalising the town centre through building on the strengths of existing sectors.

The purpose of this new commission is to identify and assess emerging and future-facing sectors that could unlock new economic opportunities, helping to diversify Boston’s economy and position the town for long-term sustainable and higher value growth. This work will also play a critical role in informing future spatial development strategies for Boston and the wider borough.

By aligning sectoral growth with spatial planning and infrastructure development, this study will help ensure that Boston’s economic and physical regeneration strategies are mutually reinforcing. We are seeking potential suppliers to use their knowledge and experience to suggest how the project can best achieve its objectives. Throughout this engagement, we seek to gather feedback by collecting responses on our preliminary scope and requirements, to refine and enhance our potential future tender exercise.