Spalding City Guide

About Spalding – History and Culture

Spalding, a historic market town in the South Holland district of Lincolnshire, has roots stretching back to Anglo-Saxon times. Its name derives from the Old English 'Spald' meaning a tribe, indicating early settlement. The town flourished after the drainage of the Fens in the 17th century, when Dutch engineers, led by Sir Cornelius Vermuyden, transformed the marshy landscape into fertile farmland. This Dutch connection is still celebrated today through the town's famous tulip fields and annual flower parade.

In the 19th century, Spalding became a major centre for bulb growing, with entrepreneurs like John R. B. Green introducing large-scale tulip cultivation. The Spalding Flower Parade began in 1959 and now attracts thousands of visitors each year. The town also played a role in the Lincolnshire Uprising (1536) and the English Civil War. Today, Spalding blends its agricultural heritage with modern commerce, offering a mix of independent shops, cafes, and community events.

Modern Spalding is a welcoming community with a strong sense of local identity. It hosts several cultural societies, including the Spalding Gentlemen's Society (one of the oldest in the UK) and the South Holland Centre, a venue for theatre and concerts. The town's architecture ranges from medieval churches to Georgian townhouses, reflecting its long history. Despite its rural setting, Spalding is well-connected to major cities like Peterborough and Nottingham, making it a popular choice for those seeking a quieter lifestyle.

• Spalding’s market charter dates from 1328.
• St. Mary and St. Nicolas Church is a Grade I listed building with a medieval spire.
• Ayscoughfee Hall, built in the 15th century, now houses a museum and park.
• The town’s Dutch connections are commemorated in the Dutch Quarter around Pinchbeck Road.
• The Spalding Flower Parade was inspired by Dutch bulb festivals.
• Local folklore includes tales of the 'Tulip Lady' who promoted bulb growing.
• The Spalding Bull is a traditional pub sign representing the town’s agricultural past.

Did You Know? – Facts about Spalding

Spalding is renowned for its unique floral heritage and welcoming atmosphere. The town's identity is deeply tied to the bulb industry, which brought prosperity and a distinctive cultural character. Visitors often remark on the friendly locals and the peaceful fenland scenery that surrounds the town.

• Spalding produces millions of tulip bulbs each year, many exported to Europe.
• The town's annual Tulip Sunday sees over 100,000 visitors.
• Spalding has a microclimate that is ideal for bulb cultivation, with well-drained soil.
• The Spalding Gentlemen’s Society museum holds a collection of artefacts including a mummified cat.
• Springfields Outlet Centre was built on the site of a former tulip nursery.
• The town is home to the oldest tramway shelter in Britain, built in 1887.
• Spalding's market is held every Tuesday and Saturday, dating back centuries.
• The River Welland through Spalding is navigable and popular for narrowboat holidays.
• The town has a vibrant community of artists, with several galleries and studios.
• Spalding's railway station is a Victorian gem with a distinctive clock tower.

Geography and Climate of Spalding

Spalding lies in the heart of the Lincolnshire Fens, one of the flattest and most fertile regions in the UK. The town is situated on the River Welland, which flows eastward to the Wash. Its low-lying position means it is protected by extensive drainage channels and pumping stations. The fen landscape is dominated by fields of tulips, daffodils, and vegetables, creating a patchwork of colour in spring and summer.

The climate is temperate maritime, with mild summers and cool winters. Spalding receives relatively low rainfall compared to the UK average, thanks to its position in the eastern rain shadow. Snowfall is rare but can occur in winter. The growing season is long, supporting the bulb industry. The flat terrain makes cycling and walking popular activities.

• Elevation: about 5 metres above sea level.
• Average summer temperature: 17°C (63°F).
• Average winter temperature: 4°C (39°F).
• Annual rainfall: around 600 mm.
• Nearest hills: Lincolnshire Wolds, about 30 miles north.
• Fens are crisscrossed by dykes and rivers.
• Flood defence systems are managed by the Environment Agency.
• Air quality is generally good due to rural surroundings.

Things to Do in Spalding

Spalding offers a surprising array of activities for its size. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or shopping, the town has something for everyone. The mix of indoor and outdoor attractions means there's always something to do, rain or shine.

Food & Dining

Spalding's culinary scene reflects its agricultural roots. Local produce features prominently, from Lincolnshire sausages to fresh fenland vegetables. The town has several traditional pubs serving hearty meals, alongside modern cafes and restaurants offering international cuisine. The market is a great place to sample local cheeses, meats, and baked goods.

For a special meal, try the South Holland Centre's restaurant or one of the independent eateries in the town centre. Chinese, Indian, and Italian restaurants cater to diverse tastes. The annual Spalding Food Festival in September celebrates local food producers with tastings and demonstrations.

• Sample Lincolnshire sausage at the Olde White Harte pub.
• Try fresh fish and chips from The Codfather on Market Place.
• Visit the Dutch Quarter for artisan coffee and cake.
• Don't miss the Spalding Market for local produce on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
• Book a table at the Tudor Lodge for fine dining.
• Explore the food stalls at the Springfields Outlet Centre.
• Enjoy a Sunday roast at The Bull and Swan.
• Taste local ales at the Spalding Brewery taproom.
• Visit the Spalding Food Festival for street food.
• Sample fenland asparagus in season (May-June).

Festivals & Events

Spalding's calendar is packed with events that bring the community together. The highlight is the Spalding Flower Parade in May, a colourful spectacle of tulip-decorated floats. Other events include the Spalding Food Festival, the Christmas lights switch-on, and the Spalding Highland Games, which showcase Scottish traditions.

Cultural events are held at the South Holland Centre, including theatre, music, and comedy. The Spalding Gentlemen's Society also hosts lectures and exhibitions. Annual fairs and farmers' markets add to the lively atmosphere.

• Spalding Flower Parade (May).
• Spalding Food Festival (September).
• Spalding Highland Games (August).
• Christmas Market and Lights Switch-on (November).
• Spalding Beer Festival (February).
• Classical concerts at St. Mary and St. Nicolas Church.
• Spalding Carnival (July).
• Garden shows at Ayscoughfee Hall.
• Spalding Antiques Fair (monthly).

Cultural Attractions

Spalding is home to several museums and historic sites. Ayscoughfee Hall Museum offers insights into local history, while the Spalding Gentlemen's Society museum displays curiosities from around the world. The town also has a number of art galleries and craft shops, reflecting a creative community.

• Ayscoughfee Hall Museum and Gardens.
• Spalding Gentlemen's Society museum.
• St. Mary and St. Nicolas Church.
• The South Holland Centre for performing arts.
• Spalding Library hosts exhibitions.
• Cake and Coffee galleries on Pinchbeck Road.
• Spalding Town Hall (historic building).

Outdoor Activities

The flat fen landscape is ideal for cycling and walking. The River Welland offers scenic walks, while nearby nature reserves such as Baston Fen provide birdwatching opportunities. Spalding has several parks, including Ayscoughfee Gardens and the Castle Sports Complex, which offer sports facilities and playgrounds.

• Walk along the River Welland path.
• Cycle the Spalding Cycle Network.
• Birdwatch at Deeping Lakes Nature Reserve (15 mins drive).
• Fish for pike and roach in the Welland.
• Play golf at Spalding Golf Club (parkland course).
• Enjoy children's play areas at Castlefield Gardens.
• Take a narrowboat trip along the Welland.
• Jog through Ayscoughfee Park.
• Attend outdoor fitness classes at the Castle Sports Complex.

Economy and Key Industries

Spalding's economy is heavily reliant on agriculture, particularly bulb and vegetable growing. The fertile fen soil makes it a major producer of tulips, daffodils, potatoes, and brassicas. The Springfields Outlet Centre and retail parks provide significant employment in the service sector. Food processing and packaging are also important, with companies like Bakkavor operating in the area.

The town has seen growth in logistics due to its location near the A16 and A17, with warehousing and distribution centers expanding. Tourism contributes through the flower parade and other events. Small businesses, especially in retail and hospitality, form the backbone of the local economy.

Spalding has a moderate unemployment rate, lower than the national average, but wages tend to be below the UK median, reflecting the rural economy. The town benefits from government investment in flood defence and transport links to support business.

• Agriculture: bulb, vegetable, and arable farming.
• Food processing: Bakkavor, produce packing.
• Retail: Springfields Outlet Centre, high street shops.
• Logistics: warehousing near A16.
• Tourism: events, heritage attractions.
• Manufacturing: light engineering, food equipment.
• Healthcare: Johnson Community Hospital is a local employer.
• Education: primary and secondary schools.
• Construction: new housing developments.
• Professional services: solicitors, accountants.

Where to Live in Spalding

Spalding offers a range of residential areas, from historic town centre streets to modern housing estates on the outskirts. The town centre is convenient for amenities but can be busy. Pinchbeck area is popular for its larger homes and proximity to the bypass. Fulney and Wykeham provide family-friendly neighbourhoods with good schools.

Newer developments like the Monks House Estate and Cloverfields offer contemporary housing. For those seeking rural living, villages like Deeping St Nicholas and Gosberton are just a short drive away. The cost of housing in Spalding is below the UK average, making it attractive for first-time buyers and families.

The town has a mix of council housing and private rentals, with a strong sense of community in established areas. Amenities include supermarkets, healthcare, and schools, all within easy reach. Traffic congestion is relatively low compared to larger cities.

• Pinchbeck: suburb with larger detached houses, close to A16.
• Fulney: family area near Fulney Park, good primary school.
• Wykeham: quiet residential area with older properties.
• Monks House Estate: modern development with new builds.
• Cloverfields: contemporary homes near Springfields.
• Deeping St Nicholas: rural village with village pub.
• Gosberton: commuter village with good road links.
• Spalding town centre: historic flats and terraced houses.
• Castlefield: area near the sports complex.
• Wargate: semi-rural with affordable homes.

Formalities and Visas in Spalding

As part of the UK, Spalding follows UK immigration rules. Non-UK nationals require appropriate visas for work, study, or family reunification. The UK operates a points-based system, with skilled worker visas, student visas, and family visas among the main categories. EU citizens now need to apply under the EU Settlement Scheme or new visa routes.

For short visits (up to 6 months), many nationalities can visit visa-free, but must not work. Longer stays require sponsorship from an employer or educational institution. Spalding does not have a dedicated visa office; applications are handled online and require biometric appointments in larger cities like Peterborough or Nottingham.

British citizens have full rights. For advice, local Citizens Advice or immigration solicitors in Spalding can help. The town has a small but growing foreign-born population, particularly from EU countries working in agriculture.

• Skilled Worker Visa (employer sponsorship needed).
• Student Visa (for full-time courses).
• Family Visa (for partners or dependents).
• EU Settlement Scheme (for EU/EEA/Swiss residents by June 2021 deadline).
• Youth Mobility Scheme (for under-30s from certain countries).
• Innovator and Start-up visas for entrepreneurs.
• Global Talent visa for exceptional individuals.
• Short-term study visa for up to 6 months.
• Marriage Visitor visa (for marrying in UK).
• No visa required for many nationalities for tourism up to 6 months.

Working in Spalding

The job market in Spalding is dominated by agriculture, retail, and logistics. Seasonal work in bulb or vegetable picking is common, often attracting migrant workers. Permanent roles exist in food processing, warehousing, and administration. The healthcare sector provides employment at the local hospital and care homes.

Salaries in Spalding are generally lower than the national average, but so is the cost of living. Professional opportunities are limited; many residents commute to Peterborough or other cities. Self-employment is common among tradespeople and small shop owners.

The local council, South Holland District Council, is a major employer. Other big names include Bakkavor (food), Springfields (retail), and local logistics firms. The job market can be competitive for certain roles, but skilled trades are always in demand.

• Agricultural seasonal work (bulb, fruit, veg picking).
• Food processing jobs at Bakkavor and other factories.
• Logistics and warehousing roles (forklift, drivers).
• Retail assistants and management at Springfields Outlet.
• Healthcare: nurses, care workers at Johnson Community Hospital.
• Administrative roles in council and local businesses.
• Teaching positions in primary and secondary schools.
• Construction labour and skilled trades.
• Hospitality jobs in pubs, cafes, hotels.
• Self-employed trades (plumbers, electricians).

Studying in Spalding

Spalding offers primary and secondary education, with several schools rated Good by Ofsted. Notable secondaries include Spalding Grammar School (boys), Spalding High School (girls), and Spalding Academy (co-educational). There are no universities in Spalding, but the University of Lincoln and the University of Peterborough are within commuting distance.

Further education is available at the College of West Anglia's Spalding campus, which offers vocational courses in agriculture, engineering, and care. Apprenticeships are popular in local industries. For higher education, students typically travel to Lincoln (45 mins) or Peterborough (30 mins).

Lifelong learning options include adult education classes at the South Holland Centre and local libraries. The town also has a good selection of nurseries and pre-schools. School catchment areas are important for families choosing where to live.

• Spalding Grammar School (boys, ages 11-18).
• Spalding High School (girls, ages 11-18).
• Spalding Academy (mixed, ages 11-18).
• Primary schools: Ayscoughfee, St. John's, Monkshouse, etc.
• College of West Anglia – Spalding campus (Further Education).
• University of Lincoln (45 miles).
• University of Peterborough (25 miles).
• Adult learning courses in arts, languages, IT.
• Apprenticeships in agriculture, engineering, retail.
• Special education needs (SEN) provision at local schools.

Finance and Banks in Spalding

Spalding has branches of major UK banks: Lloyds, Barclays, NatWest, and HSBC are present in the town centre. Building societies like Nationwide also have branches. Cash machines are widely available. Banking services include personal accounts, mortgages, and business banking for local enterprises.

Digital banking is common, but many residents still prefer face-to-face service. The town also has a credit union, Lincolnshire Credit Union, offering affordable loans and savings. Tax matters are handled by HMRC online; local accountants provide assistance for businesses and individuals.

• Lloyds Bank (Market Place).
• Barclays (Bridge Street).
• NatWest (Market Place).
• HSBC (Hall Place).
• Nationwide Building Society (Market Place).
• Lincolnshire Credit Union (serves Spalding).
• Post Office for basic banking.
• ATM network throughout town.
• Local accounting firms like Duncan & Toplis.
• Online banks: Monzo, Starling, etc., widely used.

Health Care in Spalding

Spalding is served by Johnson Community Hospital, which offers minor injuries unit, outpatient services, and a small surgery. For major emergencies, residents go to Peterborough City Hospital (30 mins) or Pilgrim Hospital in Boston (20 mins). General practice is provided by several GP surgeries: Spalding Medical Practice, Welland Medical Practice, and others.

Dental care is available at NHS and private dentists. Pharmacies in town provide prescriptions and advice. Mental health services are provided by Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust. The healthcare system in Spalding generally has good access, though waiting times could be longer for specialist appointments.

• Johnson Community Hospital (minor injuries, clinics).
• Peterborough City Hospital (A&E, major trauma).
• Pilgrim Hospital, Boston (A&E, maternity).
• GP surgeries: Spalding Medical Practice (Castlefield), Welland Medical Practice (Pinchbeck).
• Dental practices: Bupa Dental Care, mydentist.
• Pharmacies: Boots, LloydsPharmacy in town.
• Mental health: Lincolnshire Partnership FT.
• Opticians: Specsavers, Boots Opticians.
• Health visitors and school nursing service.
• Private clinics for physiotherapy and dermatology.

Accommodation in Spalding

Housing in Spalding ranges from Victorian terraces to modern estates. The average house price is around £200,000, below the UK average. Rent for a two-bedroom house is approximately £600-£700/month. The market is relatively affordable, with good availability in both sales and rentals.

• Buying a house: Typical prices: detached £250k-£350k, semi-detached £180k-£250k, terraced £120k-£180k. Estate agents include Hodsons, William H Brown, and Newton Fallowell.
• Renting: Two-bed house £550-£700/month, apartments from £400/month. Letting agents like Belvoir and Connells manage rentals.
• New builds: Developments like Monks House, Cloverfields, and the Moors offer modern homes with warranties. Prices start around £200k.
• Council housing: Spalding has social housing managed by Lincolnshire Housing Partnership and Longhurst Group. Waiting lists can be long.
• Retirement living: Over-55s developments such as McCarthy & Stone properties in the town.

Planning Your Move to Spalding

Moving to Spalding requires careful planning, especially if relocating from abroad. Key steps include securing accommodation, registering with a GP, and setting up utilities. The town has good transport links, so commuting options are viable. It's advisable to visit the town first to explore neighbourhoods.

• Research housing market online before moving.
• Arrange accommodation (buy or rent) in advance.
• Notify utilities: water (Anglian), electricity (various), gas (if available).
• Register with a local GP surgery upon arrival.
• Set up a UK bank account (some banks require proof of address).
• Obtain a National Insurance number for work.
• Register with a dentist and optician.
• Sort school places for children (apply to local authority).
• Register for council tax with South Holland District Council.
• Get a local bus pass or consider car ownership.
• Connect to broadband (Virgin, BT, etc.).
• Join local Facebook groups for expat advice.

Leisure in Spalding

Nightlife in Spalding is modest but friendly. Pubs like The Bull and Swan, The Olde White Harte, and The Ship Inn offer live music and quiz nights. There are a few nightclubs, such as The Club on Winsover Road. Shopping is centered on the Market Place and the Springfields Outlet Centre, which offers discounted designer brands.

• Pubs and bars: The Bull and Swan (live music), The Olde White Harte (historic), The Ship Inn (river view).
• Nightclubs: The Club, Karma (on weekends).
• Cinema: South Holland Centre screens films, plus Vue at Springfields.
• Shopping: Springfields Outlet (70+ stores), town centre independents, Market every Tuesday/Saturday.
• Libraries: Spalding Library offers books, events, and free WiFi.

Transportation Options in Spalding

Spalding has a railway station on the Lincoln-Peterborough line, providing direct trains to Peterborough (30 mins) and Lincoln (1 hour). Buses connect the town to surrounding villages and to Peterborough, Boston, and King's Lynn. The road network is dominated by the A16 (north-south) and A17 (east-west). The nearest airports are East Midlands (70 miles) and Stansted (80 miles).

• Train: Spalding station to Peterborough (frequent), Lincoln, and Nottingham via change.
• Buses: Stagecoach routes to Boston, Peterborough, and local stops. Spalding bus station near town centre.
• Road: A16 links to Peterborough and Grimsby; A17 to King's Lynn and Newark.
• Airports: East Midlands Airport (2+ hours by road), Stansted (2.5 hours), or London airports.
• Cycling: Local cycle routes connect fen villages; flat terrain ideal.

Everyday Life in Spalding

Daily life in Spalding is relaxed and family-oriented. The town is generally safe, with low crime rates compared to national average. Community events are frequent, and neighbours are often friendly. Essential services are accessible, though some specialist shops may require a trip to Peterborough.

• Safety: Low crime index; police presence by Lincolnshire Police.
• Schools: Catchment system; many schools have good reputations.
• Post offices: Main post office in Market Place.
• Religion: Churches of multiple denominations; mosque in Peterborough.
• Community centres: Offers clubs for seniors, youth, and hobbyists.

Cost of Living in Spalding

Spalding is more affordable than the UK average. Housing is the biggest saving, with costs about 30% lower than London. Food and utilities are average. Petrol is cheaper than in cities. Overall, a single person can live on £1,200/month, a family on £2,500/month (excluding rent).

• Rent: One-bedroom apartment £450/month; three-bed house £700/month.
• Utilities: Gas/electricity ~£150/month for a small house.
• Groceries: Monthly food bill £200-£300 for one.
• Transport: Bus pass £60/month; petrol about £1.45/litre.
• Childcare: Full-time nursery around £800/month.

Places to Visit in Spalding

Spalding itself offers several attractions. Ayscoughfee Hall is a beautiful medieval house with gardens. The Spalding Gentlemen's Society museum houses oddities. The river walk provides a peaceful stroll. Springfields Outlet is for shoppers. In the surrounding area, you can explore the Lincolnshire Wolds, the coast at Skegness, or historic Boston and Peterborough.

For history enthusiasts, the towns of Stamford and Burghley House are within an hour's drive. Nature lovers can visit the Wash National Nature Reserve, a haven for migratory birds. The annual flower parade is a must-see, attracting visitors from across the UK.

Cultural trips can be made to the South Holland Centre for theatre and music. The market town of Bourne, with its castle ruins, is nearby. The village of Little Gidding, associated with the poet T.S. Eliot, is also accessible.

In spring, the tulip fields around Spalding are in full bloom, offering spectacular photo opportunities. Many farms open their fields to the public during the Flower Parade weekend. The area also has several windmills, including the historic Sibsey Trader Mill.

• Ayscoughfee Hall Museum & Gardens (free entry).
• Spalding Flower Parade (May).
• Spalding Gentlemen's Society Museum.
• Springfields Outlet Shopping Centre.
• River Welland Walkway.
• Baston Fen Nature Reserve (birdwatching).
• Deeping Lakes nature reserve.
• St. Mary and St. Nicolas Church (medieval architecture).
• Pinchbeck Engine Museum (drainage history).
• South Holland Centre (theatre, cinema).
• Tulip fields (spring, ask locals for viewing spots).
• Sibsey Trader Windmill (English Heritage).
• Boston Stump (St Botolph's Church, 12 miles).
• Burghley House, Stamford (40 mins).
• Lincoln Cathedral and Castle (1 hour).

News & Testimonies

Recent developments in Spalding include the expansion of Springfields Outlet with new stores, and improvements to the railway station. The town has also seen new housing developments to meet demand. Locals often praise the community spirit and the beauty of the surrounding fenland.

• “I moved to Spalding for the quiet life and affordable housing. The tulip parade is amazing.” – James, 34.
• “Work in local logistics. The commute is easy and people are friendly.” – Sarah, 28.
• “Schools are good for our kids. We love the countryside.” – Raj, 42.
• “The town needs more nightlife, but it's safe and clean.” – Chloe, 22.
• “The peace and access to nature are unbeatable.” – David, 55.

Forum Topics on Living in Spalding

Online forums often discuss moving to Spalding, pros and cons of areas, and local amenities. Common topics include house prices, schools, and commuting to Peterborough. New residents ask about the best places to find rentals and how to integrate into the community.

• “Best neighbourhoods for families with kids?”
• “Is Spalding worth visiting for the tulip fields?”
• “How is the commute to Peterborough by train?”
• “Where can I buy local produce?”
• “Are there many job opportunities for graduates?”
• “What is the social scene like for young adults?”
• “How does Spalding compare to other Lincolnshire towns?”
• “Healthcare: are GP appointments easy to get?”
• “Tips for buying a house in Spalding as a first-timer.”
• “Any bad areas to avoid?”

Life in Spalding Summary

Spalding offers a calm, community-focused lifestyle with access to beautiful fenland landscapes. Its affordable housing and slow pace are major draws, but limited job opportunities and nightlife may deter some. The town's unique bulb heritage gives it a special character, celebrated each spring.

• Pros: Low cost of living, friendly community, stunning tulip season, good schools, quiet environment.
• Cons: Limited high-skilled jobs, less diverse nightlife, rural isolation for some, transport connections could be better.
• Appeal: Ideal for families, retirees, and those in agricultural or logistics sectors.
• Challenges: Career growth may require commuting; public transport is limited for certain routes.
• Overall: A charming market town with a distinct identity and welcoming atmosphere.

Important Places and Distances from Spalding

The town centre is compact, with the Market Place as the focal point. Ayscoughfee Hall is about a 10-minute walk south. The railway station is a 15-minute walk east. Springfields Outlet is on the outskirts, 2 miles west along the A151. The hospital is on Pinchbeck Road, 1.5 miles north.

• Spalding Market Place: Town centre.
• Ayscoughfee Hall: 0.5 miles south.
• Spalding Railway Station: 1 mile east.
• Springfields Outlet: 2 miles west.
• Johnson Community Hospital: 1.5 miles north.
• Spalding Grammar School: 1 mile southwest.
• College of West Anglia campus: 1.5 miles southeast.
• Bourne: 9 miles west (20 mins).
• Peterborough: 20 miles south (30 mins).
• Boston: 12 miles east (20 mins).
• Lincoln: 30 miles north (45 mins).
• Skegness: 28 miles east (40 mins).
• London: 100 miles (2 hours by train via Peterborough).

Nearby Locations and Cities

Spalding is well placed for exploring Lincolnshire and the East Midlands. Nearby towns offer historical and coastal attractions. Peterborough provides major shopping and cultural venues. Boston boasts the famous Stump. Lincoln has its cathedral and castle. The coast at Skegness and Hunstanton are for seaside days.

• Boston (12 miles): historic port, St Botolph's Church ('The Stump'), market.
• Peterborough (20 miles): cathedral, shopping, railway links to London.
• Bourne (9 miles): castle ruins, birthplace of Hereward the Wake.
• King's Lynn (25 miles): medieval Hanseatic port, quayside.
• Stamford (40 miles): stone-built