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Crypto adoption in and around Gedling borough: A growing trend

Cryptocurrency has become a transformative force in financial markets worldwide, and areas like Gedling Borough are seeing a gradual but significant increase in its adoption.

In recent years, this Nottinghamshire district, along with surrounding areas, has started to witness how digital currency and blockchain technology are finding practical applications. With diverse local businesses, residents, and the community increasingly looking at crypto options, Gedling’s journey toward crypto adoption represents a snapshot of wider trends in digital currency growth across the UK.

Rising Interest in Cryptocurrency: The Local Perspective

In Gedling Borough, interest in cryptocurrency has grown noticeably among both younger and older residents. This mirrors the broader national trend, with over 10% of UK adults now owning some form of digital currency, according to recent surveys. Many residents view crypto as an opportunity for new financial freedom and a way to diversify investments beyond traditional banking.

With Nottingham’s vibrant student population and tech community in proximity, Gedling is particularly positioned to see younger generations leading the crypto charge. Local universities and business programs have started introducing blockchain courses, and crypto meetups in nearby cities offer opportunities for knowledge sharing. Social media and online forums also make it easy for locals to access information, understand risks, and explore benefits, helping shape positive perceptions around cryptocurrency as a viable economic option.

Local Businesses Embracing Crypto Payments

A notable area of crypto adoption in and around Gedling Borough is among local businesses. From cafes to boutique shops, some entrepreneurs are beginning to accept cryptocurrency payments, catering to an increasingly tech-savvy customer base.

Several retailers in Nottingham and surrounding areas now list Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other digital assets as accepted payment methods. These businesses often use third-party payment processors that make crypto transactions seamless, converting digital payments instantly to British pounds and avoiding the usual volatility associated with cryptocurrencies. For customers, this can mean a quick, secure, and relatively private transaction process.

In addition to retail, online entertainment platforms, including crypto casinos, are becoming increasingly popular among Gedling residents. These platforms allow users to wager and play using digital assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies. The appeal of crypto casinos lies in enhanced privacy, instant transactions, and access to games on an international scale. The best crypto casino in the UK will also offer players unique bonuses and secure payment processing. 

Moreover, the trend extends to e-commerce and online travel sites, with more businesses in these sectors beginning to accept cryptocurrency as a payment method.

Online retailers are exploring cryptocurrency options to reach a broader customer base, while travel companies are offering services that allow customers to book flights and accommodations using digital assets. 

Educational Initiatives and Crypto Literacy

A significant aspect of promoting crypto adoption in any community is education, and Gedling Borough is no exception. Recognizing the need for financial literacy, local libraries, and educational centres have started offering introductory sessions and seminars about cryptocurrency, blockchain technology, and digital security.

Local schools and universities are also incorporating blockchain technology into their technology curricula, allowing young learners to familiarise themselves with its principles from an early age. These initiatives help demystify cryptocurrency, making it less intimidating and more accessible to those unfamiliar with its mechanics. Notably, by educating residents on wallet security, safe trading practices, and the risks of volatile markets, these programs aim to prevent common pitfalls and encourage responsible investment behaviour.

Cryptocurrency and Real Estate in Gedling

The UK’s real estate market is beginning to feel the influence of cryptocurrency, and the Nottinghamshire region is no exception. Some real estate companies around the Gedling area are now accepting cryptocurrency as a method of payment for property sales and rentals, and crypto-backed loans have become available for prospective homebuyers looking to leverage digital assets for property investments.

This option is appealing to both buyers and sellers. For buyers, cryptocurrency can serve as a valuable asset to secure a property, bypassing some of the bureaucratic steps involved in traditional loans. For sellers, accepting crypto offers flexibility and allows them to tap into a new buyer demographic. As cryptocurrency continues to gain mainstream acceptance, it’s likely that more property transactions in Gedling and nearby areas will involve some degree of digital currency.

Community Impact and Social Benefits of Crypto Adoption

Crypto adoption in Gedling Borough isn’t only about finance; it also fosters social benefits. For example, crypto’s potential for lower transaction fees allows local remittances from Gedling residents to friends and family abroad to be faster and more affordable. Additionally, crypto and blockchain applications are starting to make charitable donations more transparent and traceable, something that local charities in Gedling and surrounding areas may increasingly consider.

Local crypto meetups and events foster a sense of community among tech enthusiasts, investors, and curious residents. These gatherings not only provide a social outlet but also encourage open discussions on both the advantages and challenges of crypto adoption, supporting a more informed and connected local crypto community.

Consultation launched on plans for parking charges at Gedling Country Park

A consultation has been launched announcing Gedling Borough Council’s intentions to bring forward parking charges at Gedling Country Park.

The borough council is seeking feedback on proposals to charge £2 for parking at the popular park.

In a report published prior to the consultation, the council said it felt £2 was a competitive charge compared to other Nottinghamshire parks.

This planned fee will be used in the public consultation needed to amend the regulations around parking.

Alongside new charges, the council is also looking at introducing a pay-by-phone parking service across council-owned car parks in the borough, involving people paying via a smartphone app.

It is expected new parking fees would mean fewer cars would use the site but the expected income charges could generate up to £200,000 for the council.

A spokesman for Gedling Borough Council said: “A consultation on the introduction of a £2 all day car parking charge at Gedling Country Park is now open. Full details of the consultation are available to read at the park, through statutory notices displayed in the car park.”

Residents can send their comments by post to Property Services, Civic Centre, Arnot Hill Park, Arnold, NG5 6LU or they can email them to estates@gedling.gov.uk.

The consultation closes on November 30.

A final parking charge figure would be approved at a future council cabinet meeting following the outcome of the public consultation.

LIVE: Travel updates as heavy snow falls and bus services are cancelled

There has been heavy snow falling overnight across Gedling borough and we can expect more this morning (19)  

Gritters from Nottinghamshire County Council have been out throughout the night, but it is likely some road closures will be put in place as a result of the adverse weather conditions.

Bus services have also been badly hit with cancellations, delays or route changes.

A Met Office yellow warning came into force at 7pm last night (18) and will remain in place until 10am this morning.

You can follow our live updates below

ALFRED SWINSCOE: Inquest rules that miner found buried in field near Ravenshead was ‘unlawfully killed’ – but many questions remain unanswered

The mystery behind the death of a miner whose remains were found in a field near Ravenshead more than 50 years after disappearing may now never been solved.

An inquest held today (18) ruled that Alfred Swinscoe was ‘unlawfully killed’ – but officers said they were unable to shed further light on who was responsible.

Mr Swinscoe disappeared while out at a pub in Pinxton in 1967 – and his body was discovered in the field 56 years later.

Two suspects were identified, but neither have ever been publicly named by Nottinghamshire Police as they said both were ‘dead’.

Notts TV reported the inquest into his death at Nottingham Coroner’s Court heard Mr Swinscoe sustained multiple traumatic injuries to multiple areas – including his neck – before being buried. Assistant coroner Nathanael Hartley concluded it was part of an ‘unlawful killing’.

Notts Police told the inquest they were unable to pinpoint an exact time Mr Swinscoe was buried but said the most reliable specific sighting of Mr Swinscoe was at his workplace on January 20, 1967.

They also revealed that archaeological findings showed the body was likely to have been buried in more than one site.

Alfred was eventually buried alongside his son Gary at a cemetery in Sutton-in-Ashfield in January 2024.

Can I build an extension over a manhole?

Building an extension over a manhole can be tempting, especially if space is limited and you’re trying to maximise every square inch. However, there are some essential points to consider before you get started. Understanding these details can help prevent costly issues down the line, ensuring your project meets both practical and legal requirements.

Is It Possible to Build Over a Manhole?

The short answer is yes, but it’s not as straightforward as it might seem. Building over a manhole often requires permission, and local councils, water boards, and even private companies can have specific regulations that need to be met. These rules are in place to prevent access problems for maintenance and ensure safety and sanitation standards are upheld.

Engaging with a specialist, like SAM Conveyancing London, early in your planning process can be beneficial to navigate both the legal and structural requirements. Their expertise can help clarify the regulations and coordinate any necessary inspections, making the process smoother.

Water Considerations

When considering building over a manhole, always check with your local water company. The manhole may serve not only your property but also neighbouring homes, meaning maintenance could be more frequent than you realise. Gaining approval involves an application and typically a fee, and your plans must demonstrate access is available in case of future repairs.

Why Permission Matters

Water and sewage infrastructure is tightly regulated, and building over a manhole impacts access. To comply with regulations, it’s crucial to prove that manhole access will not be obstructed by the new extension. Most water companies won’t prevent you from building if your design incorporates an easily accessible, removable cover within the floor plan of your extension. However, without permission, you could be forced to halt work or even remove parts of the structure later, resulting in a lot of wasted time and money.

Moreover, ensuring that the manhole can be accessed in emergencies is vital, particularly if you experience any blockages or need repairs in the future. Neglecting this aspect could lead to severe issues that disrupt both your property and neighbouring homes, so it’s best to think through all potential outcomes.

Structural Considerations and Building Regulations

Building over a manhole also has implications for the structure itself. The foundation around the manhole must be carefully planned to avoid interference with the existing drainage system. You might need to design around the manhole or reinforce the area for stability. Some property owners choose to relocate the manhole entirely if it’s feasible, though this can be costly and requires additional permissions.

Potential Impact on Property Value

It’s worth noting that building over a manhole may affect the future value of your property. Buyers might be hesitant to purchase a property with such an arrangement due to the perceived inconvenience of restricted drainage access. Additionally, any issues with legal permissions could complicate the sale process. If you’re thinking about extending over a manhole, consider how it may impact the long-term marketability of your home.

Weighing Your Options Carefully

Building over a manhole requires careful thought, detailed planning, and proper permissions. By engaging with professionals and understanding the implications, you can make an informed decision that supports both your property’s future value and functionality. The investment in planning and compliance can help avoid costly surprises, ensuring your extension adds the value and space you’re looking for.

How to enjoy digital entertainment without overspending

The Internet is packed with countless ways to have fun. Music, video streaming services, casino sites, and online gaming, in general, all fall under the umbrella of digital entertainment. To gain access, though, you need to have multiple subscriptions or just pay a few dozen bucks to watch or play something. These costs can quickly add up and you end up paying way more than intended. Therefore, it’s vital to approach it responsibly to get the most out of online leisure without harming your budget. Here, you can find the best tips on how to enjoy the thrills of digital entertainment while keeping your wallet in check. 

Choose Low-Deposit Online Casinos with High Bonuses

Let’s start with digital entertainment that’s been only growing in popularity over the past few years. We are talking about casino gaming and online sports betting. 

If you enjoy gambling, our tip is to find a site that has a low minimum deposit limit, like $10 or $20. However, don’t settle for poor casino quality just because it supports low payments. Your preferred $20 minimum deposit casino should have a wide game selection with games from the best providers. It should also have a competitive welcome bonus and other offers that can be unlocked with only $20. You should look for big bonus percentages because it’s harder to increase your budget significantly when you place smaller bets.

Look for Free or Discounted Games

Just like gambling, online gaming is as big as ever, and it’s a common hobby among younger generations. That said, AAA video games have gotten quite expensive. Luckily, the higher price tag is only present for a few months after the release. During holidays, even newer titles get a discount of 20% or so. But if you wait for a bit longer, you can get them for 50% off or more. PS store, Steam, and other digital gaming platforms have sales each month. What’s more, services like PS Plus have a subscription-based model where you get access to great games at a lower monthly fee. 

Finally, all of those stores have free-to-play titles that you can try. The free-to-play model uses in-game purchases, so you’ll only spend money if you really care about that game.  

On the other hand, if you’d like to try casino games only for fun, then you can use the demo mode. This is available in pretty much any online casino and you get to try the game with virtual coins. It’s a perfect way to find the game you like before you decide to spend real money. You also get to see first-hand what is the hit frequency and RTP on slots. What’s more, you get a good estimate of how many spins it takes to get to the bonus round, and how much money you can win during the bonus round. You should always do this especially if you plan on playing slots with the bonus-buy feature.

Source: Unsplash

Use Free Trials and Bundled Plans 

Now that we covered some saving tips for gamers, let’s talk about a more general form of digital entertainment, streaming services. Whether you want to stream films, music, eBooks, or something else, you should make use of a free trial period. For instance, Amazon Prime has one of the best free trials for students, as it gives students access to TV and other entertainment activities for free for six months. It’s important to remember to cancel a trial, or else you could incur a full membership fee.

Usually, a single streaming service subscription isn’t that pricy, but you rarely get everything you want with just one brand. This is why streaming bundles are a great option. Essentially, they provide several streaming services at a discounted price. For example, StreamSaver offers a Netflix, Comcast, Apple TV+, and Peacock bundle for only $15 a month. This is around a third of the price that you would have to pay for each service separately.

Take Advantage of Discounted Gift Cards and Promo Codes 

Here’s something many people forget when trying to save money on digital goodies. Through gift cards or discount codes, you can save on any product or service we mentioned so far. Bear in mind though that these deals are available for a limited period. So if you want to save 10%, or even 50%, on digital entertainment you need to actively check for these discounts. The same applies to casino gaming. Promo codes, one-time match bonuses and free spins are almost always available somewhere. You just need to actively look for those offers. 

Set Up Price Alerts and Use Cashback Apps

To track the above-mentioned discounts more effectively you can use price trackers. This way, you get alerts whenever there is a price drop for a selected product (album, movie, game, etc.). 

Also, it’s a good idea to search for preferred services and products on cashback websites and apps rather than directly on retailer sites. This grants cashback in the form of money or gift cards for future purchases. It’s worth comparing different cashback platforms to find the ones with the best rates. Each shows the amount you can earn, and you only need to click the button that will redirect you to the retailer’s site, where you should shop as normal.

Join Loyalty Programs for Extra Savings and Perks

If there’s a provider that you like, then think about becoming a VIP member. It’s another way to save cash in the long run. Amazon Prime and many other brands have loyalty programs filled with perks. These typically include free shipping, exclusive deals and personalised offers. Casinos, for example, have VIP programs that comprise multiple levels, each with specific perks: 

  • Increased payment limits 
  • Faster payouts 
  • Ongoing cashback 
  • Daily freebies

All one has to do to unlock them is to regularly spend money with that operator. 

In conclusion, there are many strategies that you can use to manage your budget effectively while enjoying your favourite pastimes. You should implement as many of them as you can to make the most out of your experience. 

We tried out the new Gruffalo Winter Wonderland trail at Twycross Zoo – and this is what we thought

It’s nearly that time of the year again – love it or hate it, Christmas is just around the corner and Twycross Zoo has rolled out its new Gruffalo-themed winter wonderland just in time to get visitors into the festive spirit.

Between November 16 – December 24, 2024, visitors can step into a world where the magic of Christmas meets the wonders of The Gruffalo in the new Winter Wonderland that will temporarily replace Gruffalo Discovery Land during the festive period.

The four-acre land, complete with animatronics, film clips, and much more, offers visitors an immersive experience in which they can enter the world created by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.

Families will encounter the real-life animals that inspired The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo’s Child stories, including Fox, Owl, Snake, and maybe even the Big Bad Mouse.





Claire Purcell is a mother of one and lives with her son Dawson and partner Deion in Colwick.

She was offered the chance to take her family on a VIP trip of the winter attraction courtesy of the Zoo.

“I know it sounds like a cliche, but honestly, the trail was truly magical,” she said.

“You get taken on a festive new adventure where characters from The Gruffalo story are brought to life along a lovely Christmas walk. It really grabbed Dawson’s attention; he wasn’t distracted once, just totally engaged. My partner and I both loved it too.

“”What’s also great is that the Zoo’s animal attractions are themed around it too – there’s a bird enclosure and goat walk-through in this section of the zoo, as well as an outdoor play area and themed Gruffalo cafe.”

“At the end off the trail, you get to meet the Gruffalo and a new character called The Gruffalo’s Child. Dawson loved them both and couldn’t stop laughing.

“You also got to see Santa too!”

“What’s also great is that there are all these photo booths along the trail so you can properly capture the day on camera.

“The Zoo staff deserve lots of praise. They made sure everyone stuck to the timings and helped create a a magical day. I couldn’t thank them enough.

Claire said the attraction had made a lasting impression on her son.

“I don’t think Dawson was that aware of the Gruffalo before we went – but now he’s obsessed and asked to watch the films as soon as we got home, she added.

“Whether your child is a Gruffalo fan or not, I’d definitely recommend a day out there. The trail is really entertaining and then you get to go around the Zoo afterwards.”

  • The new Gruffalo Winter Wonderland is open at Twycross Zoo between November 16 – December 24, 2024. Prices for adult tickets start at £38 and tickets for children at £32 and include free returns for 12 months to Twycross Zoo.

More officers will now be ‘in right place at right time’ as new model of neighbourhood policing is introduced across Gedling borough

A new model of neighbourhood policing has been launched today across Gedling borough that Police and Crime Commissioner Gary Godden said will put officers ‘in the right place at the right time’ to tackle community priorities and improve trust and confidence.

All 12 neighbourhood policing areas across Notts will see a consistent presence of bobbies on the beat, with resources safeguarded so they can be dedicated to working shoulder-to-shoulder with the community and being visible, accessible and familiar to people in their neighbourhoods.

The new model, which started being phased in from October, is already starting to have an impact – including a recent arrest of a man in connection with a stalking investigation and a successful shoplifting crackdown. 

Commissioner Godden said: “Under this new model, there will be an uplift in officer numbers in the neighbourhood policing role and shift patterns have changed to ensure there are officers on duty in all 12 neighbourhood areas every day, throughout the day and into the evening.

Nottinghamshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Gary Godden people will see more bobbies on the beat in the areas where they live and work

“As well as that, neighbourhood officers will no longer be routinely taken out of their core role to support the night-time economy – leaving them to do what they do best, which is engaging with local people and working with them to problem-solve and carry out targeted activity on issues that matter to local people.

“It means people will see more bobbies on the beat in the areas where they live and work and can get to know their local officers and build that relationship of trust and confidence. This is a plan to make all of our communities safer, whether they are urban or rural communities.

“This model allows officers to identify community concerns and take prompt, effective, targeted action against those concerns by focussing on them as local priorities to ensure communities feel safe and listened to.”

Having teams available on two shift patterns throughout the day and evening on each neighbourhood policing area means they are in their communities when they are needed most and have a greater ability to work together with the community to deal with local issues swiftly and effectively to provide community reassurance.

Chief Constable Kate Meynell, of Nottinghamshire Police, said the new neighbourhood policing model was implemented after a demand mapping exercise and aimed to ensure resources were being utilised at the times the public needed them most.

Nottinghamshire Police is a busy force, with around 1,000 calls for service a day from the public – which is a substantial demand,” she said.

“Demand has changed over time and this new neighbourhood policing model is enabling Nottinghamshire Police to meet that by being data driven and putting resources where the demand is.

Night-time economy and events policing will still be appropriately resourced, but using other policing teams such as response and tactical support officers and utilising overtime where necessary.

Keys handed to first residents of new homes in Arnold that were delayed by developer going into administration

The first nine new low-cost homes at Rolleston Drive in Arnold have now been handed over to local residents.

Housing provider Jigsaw Homes Midlands is delivering 131 homes for rent and shared ownership at the development known as Birch Fields – a symbol of new beginnings.

There were delays due to the original developer ilke Homes falling into administration with all but four homes already manufactured off-site. In June, Midlands-based Morro Partnerships was appointed to finish the development.

The 85 low-cost rent homes have been advertised through Gedling Borough Council’s Home Search scheme and allocated accordingly to meet those in housing need.

The 46 homes available through shared ownership are being made available in phases, with the first two going on hold within 24 hours.

131 homes are being built in Rolleston Drive

Factory built homes Arnold
The first of 141 homes arrived at Rolleston Drive in 2022

The Homes England part-funded scheme will have 46 two-bedroom, 72 three-bedroom and 13 four-bedroom homes, with landscaped gardens, EV charging points and several with solar panels and air source heat pumps.

One family who has just moved into their new four-bedroom home is Yasmin Aktar and her husband, together with their daughters aged from three to 17.

Yasmin, a full-time mum and qualified teaching assistant for children with autism, and her family were made homeless in 2021 when her private rented landlord issued her with a Section 21 eviction notice after 10 years – and they had been living in temporary accommodation since then.

They were one of the families originally offered a property before the development stalled.

Yasmin said: “I had just had my baby when we were told we needed to move out of our private rented home so it was a really difficult time. Then we were allocated one of the homes here and two weeks before we were due to get the keys, the developers went into administration.

“We were devastated, and it was especially sad having to walk past the development and see the houses so close to being ready but nothing happening. It was a stressful time and unsettling for the children.

“We are so grateful to Gedling Borough Council for helping us find accommodation, as private renting was no longer an option.

“Getting the keys to this new home means everything. It doesn’t really seem real. We can now make this house a home and we are over the moon.”

The homes will benefit from an NHBC warranty following stringent quality and compliance checks and they will all be finished to a high standard.

Work continues to finish all the remaining phases by autumn 2025.

Garnet Fazackerley, Operations Director of Development at Jigsaw Homes Group said: “We are thrilled to finally see residents moving into their new homes.

“This development has been an incredibly challenging one following the collapse of ilke Homes, but we remained confident that it would be completed.

“By working in partnership with Morro, Gedling Borough Council and Homes England, we are delivering sustainable, affordable housing to help meet local housing need and creating an extension to this great community of Arnold.”

Leader of Gedling Borough Council, Councillor John Clarke MBE said: “We’re very pleased that families, who have been waiting for such a long time, are now moving into these much-needed affordable homes.

“This has been a very stressful time for families, and it has also impacted housing waiting lists in the borough, so we look forward to being able to reduce that list and get people, like Yasmin and her family, out of temporary accommodation.”

Town Board tasked with regenerating Greater Carlton with £20m investment meet for first time after funding is secured

The Greater Carlton Town Board is due to meet for the first time following confirmation from the Government that the £20 million Towns Fund has been secured in the budget.

The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves MP confirmed, in her first budget, that Gedling will retain its full £20 million allocation for local towns funding in the greater Carlton area, following lobbying by the Member of Parliament for Gedling, Michael Payne. The new government have said that the funding will be retained and reformed, as part of a new regeneration programme.

The funding was in doubt when correspondence was issued from government ministers suggesting that all projects announced by the previous government would be subject to review as part of the budget process. It has also been announced that some parts of Levelling Up funding will not go ahead but this has not affected the greater Carlton allocation. 

The Carlton Town project was originally announced in the spring budget and a Towns Board was set up by the council, chaired by Sir John Peace, which includes the Leader of Gedling Borough Council, Councillor John Clarke MBE and Michael Payne MP for Gedling as members.

The new board is being chaired by Sir John Peace

A consultation had already been started, which received over 500 responses, and contains the views of residents about how the money will be spent in the greater Carlton town area.

The board are meeting today (15) to discuss the next steps which includes a proposal for the long term plans for the project.

Leader of Gedling Borough Council, Councillor John Clarke MBE said: “We are really pleased to see that the Government has promised to allocate this much needed funding despite the clear issues that they are facing trying to balance the books.

“This money will be used to improve the lives of the residents in and around the greater Carlton area and work has already started, so we are delighted that we can continue on with our plans. 

“I know that our MP, Michael Payne has been lobbying government to secure this funding and I would like to thank him for all of his efforts and for speaking up for the residents of the borough. I would also like to thank the chair of the board, Sir John Peace, for the representations he made to government ministers on behalf of the board.”

Michael Payne, Member of Parliament for Gedling said: “The previous government made an unfunded commitment to provide Carlton with ‘Long Term Plans for Towns’ funding. Since being elected, I have lobbied government ministers hard to support our communities with real cash instead of false promises that were not properly funded.

“I’m delighted that the Chancellor and Deputy Prime Minister have listened to our representations and secured the long term funding to benefit Carlton and the surrounding areas.”

You can find out more about the Greater Carlton Town board by visiting www.gedling.gov.uk/business/carltontownboard