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Plans for 54 homes on former green belt land in Mapperley

Gedling Eye
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Plans for 54 homes on former green belt land in Mapperley

Former green belt land off Mapperley Plains could be transformed into a new 54-home estate.

Developer Cameron Homes is looking to build on an area of land off Mapperley Plains, to the rear of the Coppice Farmhouse.

If approved, the new estate would sit next to the the 164-home Alexandra Place development, which is being built by Davidsons Homes.

Outline planning for three homes at the nearby Coppice Farm Stables was also granted in 2022, and the developer says the new estate has been designed to fit “seamlessly” next to the two sites.

“The scheme has been designed to integrate to the existing residential
development to the north with a seamless design approach,” planning documents say.

“Access into the development has been taken from Shipley Close, which is within the adjacent residential development that is currently under construction. The vehicular access point for the application site is proposed from the existing Davidsons Homes development.”

Cameron Homes says the development will include a mix of two, three, four and five bedroom homes.

A total of 30 per cent will be classed as affordable, with 11 being used for social rent and five being used as first homes.

The two hectare greenfield site is just up the road from Gedling Country Park in Spring Lane.

It was formerly classed as green belt land, before being removed by Gedling Borough Council in its Local Planning Document (LPD).

Plans are now subject to approval from the authority.

“The proposal has resulted in creating a high quality design, with a desire to create a cohesive community with the Davidsons Homes development adjacent to the site,” the plans add.

“The design has taken into consideration the surrounding context and its contribution to the need for new homes in the area.

“The house types are designed to take traditional architectural cues from Arnold and Gedling respecting local character.

“With all of the above in mind, Cameron Homes have aimed to create a development which represents a high quality design and makes the best use of land whilst complying with respective policies.”

Vandals deface Pride-themed artwork at Arnold park ‘just days’ after completion

David Bratton
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Vandals deface Pride-themed artwork at Arnold park ‘just days’ after completion

A local council has shared its disgust after discovering vandals have ‘defaced’ Pride-themed artwork added to a skate bowl at Arnot Hill Park.

Gedling Borough Council has revealed the offensive graffiti appeared ‘just days’ after its completion.

They say the artwork, created in collaboration with ‘Skate Nottingham’, was intended to celebrate diversity and inclusivity within the community.

The council has said it is now is reviewing CCTV footage and working with the Police to identify those responsible for the vandalism and has also asked any witnesses to contact the Police.

Youth Mayor Stella Clarke expressed her disappointment, stating, “I hope the youth of Gedling Borough will come together to look after their surroundings and take pride in the facilities available to them.

“This skate park is a space for everyone to enjoy, and it’s crucial that we all work together to maintain its beauty and inclusivity.”

Councillor Kathryn Fox, Portfolio Holder for Life Chances and Vulnerability, shared her thoughts on the situation, saying, “We are committed to providing positive and creative outlets for young people in our borough. We will not tolerate anti-social behaviour of any kind and we will take action against the people who did this. We will continue to work closely with the youth council to create more opportunities for engagement and to maintain a sense of community pride. We are proud of the skate bowl artwork and want young people to enjoy the beautiful space. Together, we can overcome these challenges and ensure that our public spaces reflect values of inclusivity and respect.”

Tom Quigley from Skate Nottingham shared his enthusiasm for the project, saying, “We’re really proud of the artwork at Arnold Bowls by local artists and skateboarders FFWIH & Nick Hanson. It looks fantastic and has really brought the place to life. Skating is all about community, diversity and having a positive space where people of all ages can come together and have fun. We want Arnold Bowls to be that spot where everyone feels welcome and excited to visit.”

The Arnold Skate Bowl artwork was funded by the UK Government.

‘Arrogant drivers’ caused extra damage driving through flooded roads, say council

Gedling Eye Reporter
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‘Arrogant drivers’ caused extra damage driving through flooded roads, say council

More measures are needed to stop people driving through closed roads in floods, councillors have said.

More than 340 homes were flooded during Storm Henk in January as the River Trent reached record levels.

The county council is the Local Lead Flood Authority, meaning it is responsible for running flood risk management.

It is required to write a document known as a Section 19 report for each different location where flooding occurred, with recommendations to minimise flooding and damage in the future.

The reports into flooding across 16 communities came before Nottinghamshire County Council’s Place Select Committee on Monday (July 22).

A total of 69 road closures were put in place as the county faced “immense disruption”- but many drivers didn’t respect them.

Councillor Sue Saddington (Con) said there needed to be better ways to stop people driving through closed roads.

“Many times a flood warden puts a sign out, but then a driver comes along and removes it, and the water flushes straight into someone’s house,” she told the meeting.

“They’re idiots, and it was happening all over the place [during the floods].”

She said some of her flood-hit residents were still out of their homes, and wouldn’t be able to return until Christmas.

Councillor Neil Clarke (Con), the portfolio holder for environment and transport, said: “I absolutely agree – arrogant drivers totally ignored the signs.

“I was helping in my division when I saw one send a bow wave into someone’s front room.

“People don’t realise the potential dangers – there could be a manhole cover missing under the water which a  car or person can disappear into it.”

It is a criminal offence to drive through a road which flood wardens have closed, however it is difficult to enforce these.

Gary Wood, the head of highway and transport, told the meeting: “We can’t put hard road closures in place to keep access for emergency vehicles.

“We will talk to the police about making it clear that people are breaking the law, but it’s not something we can enforce ourselves.”

Lowdham was the hardest hit, according to the Section 19 reports, where 60 properties were flooded internally.

A total of 32 homes and businesses flooded in Newark, 27 in Zouch and 25 in Woodborough.

Extra resources to prevent more flooding have also been put into emptying gulleys and clearing ditches.

Serial shoplifter carried out 19 thefts in two months – with Colwick store being one targeted

Gedling Eye Reporter
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Serial shoplifter carried out 19 thefts in two months – with Colwick store being one targeted

A serial thief has been locked up and had more restrictions added to his criminal behaviour order after pleading guilty to a spree of 19 shop thefts within two months.

Jack Newcombe was previously given a three-year criminal behaviour order, in December 2023, banning him from entering any Co-op stores in Nottingham, after the Gedling neighbourhood policing team successfully applied to the magistrates’ court.

However, the 34-year-old continued to offend, breaching his order on multiple occasions.

Newcombe, of no fixed address, has now been jailed for 40 weeks after stealing hundreds of pounds worth of goods from nine stores, including some repeat victims, between 27 May 2024 and 14 July 2024.

The stores he targeted were:

  • Co-op in Wilmot Lane, Beeston
  • B&M Bargains, The Square, Beeston
  • Sainsbury’s, Stoney Street, Beeston
  • Co-op in Wilford Lane, Wilford
  • Smyths Toys, Daleside Road, Nottingham
  • Sainsbury’s, Colwick
  • Sainsbury’s, Melton Road, West Bridgford
  • Wild Clothing, Broad Street, Hockley, Nottingham
  • Aldi, The Becket Way, West Bridgford

Items stolen included coffee, confectionary, meat, spirits, laundry and cleaning products, Lego packs, and a baseball jacket.

After police carried out inquiries and searches, Newcombe was arrested on Tuesday 16 July 2024 and was duly charged.

He pleaded guilty to all charges and was subsequently locked up when he appeared at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 17 July 2024.

Additional requirements were also added to his criminal behaviour order, which currently runs until 6 December 2026.

Newcombe is now additionally banned from entering: B&M Bargains store, The Square, Beeston; Sainsbury’s, Stoney Street, Beeston, and the Tesco Extra, Station Road, Beeston.

PC Dean Bardill, of the Beeston neighbourhood policing team, said: “Retail theft is an issue we take seriously as we want our local businesses, their employees, and their customers to feel safe and be able to carry out their trading without fear for their safety or financial loss.

“Newcombe’s criminal behaviour order was imposed for good reason, but he chose to completely disregard it and to carry on entering areas he was strictly forbidden from.

“I hope this sentencing sends a strong message that we will not tolerate individuals who re-offend and blatantly ignore punishments handed to them by the courts. By doing so they will the face the consequences, including time behind bars.”

How to choose an overseas casino

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How to choose an overseas casino

In the world of online gambling, the year 2024 was marked by a real boom of foreign casinos. With an enviable consistency appear new platforms that promise gamblers bright games, unforgettable experiences and tempting bonuses. Welcome gifts please and angielskie kasyna online, and gaming platforms of other jurisdictions. But how not to get lost in this maze of gambling opportunities and choose a really reliable and exciting online casino?

Over the past year, the industry has undergone significant changes: tougher regulatory requirements, there are innovative game mechanics, and cryptocurrencies are firmly established in the world of online betting. In this article we will familiarize you with the features of modern gambling, arming you with the knowledge to choose the ideal zagraniczne kasyna. So, let’s go directly to the most important criteria when choosing an online casino in 2024.

Licensing and regulation of the platform

In the field of gambling entertainment, a license is not just a piece of paper, but your lifeline in a stormy sea of risky games. In 2024, several key regulators rule the online gambling arena:

  • Malta Gambling Authority (MGA).
  • The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), which is renowned for its strictness.
  • The license of the government of Curaçao – although not as prestigious, but quite reliable.

So how do you verify the authenticity of the license? It’s easier than it sounds. Usually in the footer of the online casino site there is a license number or the logo of the regulator – you need to click on it. If it takes you to the regulator’s website, great. Just check the license expiration date. If not – it’s time to sound the alarm and be more wary of the site. You can also check the casino in the register of licensees on the official website of the regulator. Remember, an extra minute to check can save you nerves and money in the future.

To complete the point of researching the license you can check the reputation of the online casino. Go to specialized forums and communities of players. There, among the passionate debates about the volatility of slots and the insidiousness of roulette, you will find bits of important information about all the nuances of the work of this or that casino. When reading reviews, pay attention to specifics. “Terrible casino!” – is not a review, it is an emotion. Perhaps, just after not the most successful session. But “Withdrawal of funds took 3 days instead of the promised 24 hours” – this is already information to think about. Look for recurring complaints – if ten people write about withdrawal problems, then the casino most likely really has difficulties with transactions.

Assortment of games and software

In 2024, a self-respecting overseas casino must offer at least 1,000 games. And this is the minimum set of gambling fun! In this case, it is not just a matter of quantity. The quality of games is determined by their manufacturers. Industry giants such as NetEnt, Microgaming and Pragmatic Play are akin to Gucci and Prada in the world of fashion. Here you can familiarize yourself with the main features of Pragmatic Play provider.

The Live Casino section is worth paying special attention to when evaluating online casino lobbies. It is like a VIP box at the stadium – here you get maximum emotions and realism. In such sections providers offer not just games, but real shows. Imagine, you play roulette, and the croupier jokes and talks to you like an old friend. It’s not just a game anymore, it’s a whole other level of gambling experience! Do not forget about the novelties as well. Modern casinos should regularly update their assortment, because the industry does not stand still, and the casino must keep up with the times.

Bonus policy and loyalty program

In the world of online casinos, bonuses are like a lure for new players. Tempting offers that are hard to refuse. But it is extremely important not to fall for overly “generous” offers. Take, for example, welcome bonuses. It’s like a first date – the casino is trying to impress. 100% on your first deposit? Not bad. 200%? More interesting. 500%? Wait, isn’t that too good to be true? Usually, the higher the percentage, the tougher the wagering conditions.

Speaking of the wager, this is the pitfall that crushes the dreams of many players. A wager of x20 is still bearable. x40 is already a bit difficult. But if you see x70 and higher – refuse such an offer without thinking! Pay attention to the online casino loyalty program. After all, it’s like a club card in the supermarket – the more you play, the more privileges you get. VIP programs in good casinos can include a personal manager, exclusive bonuses and even invitations to real events.

Available ways to conduct transactions

In 2024, a self-respecting overseas casino should be able to offer at least a dozen options for making deposits and withdrawals. The standard set, as a rule, includes debit/credit cards (Visa/MasterCard), online wallets (Skrill/Neteller/PayPal), direct bank transfer, and, of course, cryptocurrencies. Transactions via Bitcoin/Ethereum/Tether in a modern casino – although not a requirement, but a very desirable factor.

The speed of transaction processing is an equally important criterion. Withdrawal of funds should be carried out in the shortest possible time. If the casino promises to pay your winnings “within 14 business days” – this is a reason to be wary. In today’s world, waiting more than 48 hours for a withdrawal is already unacceptably long. Withdrawal limits are also important. If the maximum withdrawal amount is less than your usual deposit, it is an extremely strange phenomenon. Imagine, you have won a million, and the casino support team tells you that they can pay out only 100 euros a week. Therefore, strict restrictions are unacceptable.

Conclusion

So, choosing a reliable overseas casino in 2024 requires careful analysis of many factors. Key points to pay attention to: the presence of a valid license, brand reputation, variety of games and bonuses, payment security and data protection. When making your final decision, we recommend making your own checklist based on the above criteria and methodically evaluate each casino. Remember that your comfort and safety are paramount!

E-commerce boom – how to get your Gedling shop online

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E-commerce boom – how to get your Gedling shop online

Local shops in Gedling are embracing the digital revolution, and it’s easier than you might think to get your business online. With the rise of e-commerce, even the smallest shops can reach a broader audience and increase their sales without the need for a physical presence.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get your Gedling shop online and tap into the booming world of e-commerce.

1. Understanding the Benefits of E-commerce

Before diving into the technical aspects, it’s important to understand why e-commerce is beneficial for your business. An online presence allows you to:

  • Reach a wider audience beyond your local area.
  • Operate 24/7, providing customers the convenience of shopping anytime.
  • Reduce overhead costs associated with running a physical store.
  • Gain insights into customer preferences and buying habits through data analytics.
  • Offer personalised shopping experiences with tailored recommendations.

With these advantages in mind, let’s get started on setting up your online shop.

2. Choose the Right E-commerce Platform

Selecting the right e-commerce platform is crucial. Popular options include Shopify, WooCommerce, and BigCommerce. These platforms offer user-friendly interfaces, customisable templates, and various payment gateways. Here’s a quick comparison:

  • Shopify: Known for its ease of use, Shopify offers a range of templates and a seamless checkout process. It’s a great choice for beginners.
  • WooCommerce: Ideal for those who already have a WordPress site, WooCommerce is highly customizable and integrates well with existing WordPress themes.
  • BigCommerce: This platform is scalable, making it suitable for growing businesses. It offers robust features and excellent customer support.

Consider your business needs and budget when choosing a platform. Many platforms offer free trials, so take advantage of these to find the best fit for your shop.

3. Register Your Domain Name

Your domain name is your online address, so choose something memorable and relevant to your business. If your preferred domain name is taken, try variations that still reflect your brand. Platforms like GoDaddy and Namecheap make it easy to search for and register domain names.

4. Design Your Online Store

First impressions matter, and your website design plays a significant role in attracting and retaining customers. Most e-commerce platforms offer customisable templates, allowing you to create a professional-looking site without needing extensive design skills. Focus on:

  • Navigation: Ensure your site is easy to navigate with clear categories and a simple menu structure.
  • Mobile-friendliness: A significant portion of online shopping is done on mobile devices, so make sure your site looks and functions well on smartphones and tablets. Specialist digital agencies like e-innovate can help you ‘go mobile’, as well as providing a wealth of other essential digital services to boost your business.
  • Brand consistency: Use your brand colours, fonts, and logos to create a cohesive look that aligns with your physical shop.

5. Set Up Product Listings

Your product listings should be clear, detailed, and engaging. Each listing should include:

  • High-quality images: Use multiple images showing different angles and details of the product.
  • Detailed descriptions: Highlight key features, dimensions, materials, and care instructions.
  • Pricing: Ensure prices are clear, and consider including information on any applicable taxes or shipping costs.
  • Stock availability: Keep your inventory updated to avoid overselling.

6. Implement Payment Gateways

A smooth checkout process is the cherry on top for any successful e-commerce site. Imagine your customers finding the perfect item, only to abandon their cart because the checkout is a hassle. That’s where the right payment gateways come into play. E-commerce platforms generally support various gateways like PayPal, Stripe, and traditional credit card processing.

PayPal is a favourite because it’s widely recognised and trusted. Stripe is equally popular, offering a seamless experience and support for a variety of payment methods. Credit card processing is a must-have, as it’s a straightforward option many customers prefer.

When selecting your gateways, think about your target audience’s preferences. Are they tech-savvy millennials who prefer digital wallets, or traditional shoppers who stick with credit cards? Choose the gateways that align with their habits.

7. Set Up Shipping Options

Shipping can be the make-or-break factor in an online sale. Customers want flexibility and transparency, so offering multiple shipping options is key. Cater to different needs by providing standard, express, and even international shipping if you plan to reach a global audience.

Clearly communicate shipping costs and estimated delivery times on your product pages and during checkout. Nobody likes unexpected surprises, especially when it comes to additional costs.

Partnering with reliable courier services is essential. Look for couriers known for their punctuality and care in handling packages. Consider offering tracking options, so customers can monitor their orders from dispatch to doorstep.

8. Promote Your Online Shop

With your online shop up and running, it’s time to shout it from the digital rooftops. Attracting customers requires a blend of smart marketing strategies tailored to your audience. Here are some tried-and-true methods:

  • Social Media: Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are your allies. Post engaging content regularly—think high-quality photos, behind-the-scenes videos, and customer testimonials. Use these platforms to share updates about new products, promotions, and any special events. Engage with your audience by responding to comments and messages promptly.
  • Email Marketing: Build an email list from your website visitors and existing customers. Send regular newsletters featuring new arrivals, special offers, and exclusive discounts. Personalise these emails to make your customers feel valued and appreciated. Tools like Mailchimp or Constant Contact can help automate this process.
  • SEO (Search Engine Optimisation): Optimize your website content with relevant keywords to improve your search engine rankings. This involves tweaking your product descriptions, blog posts, and meta tags to include terms that potential customers might search for. High-quality content is king—consider starting a blog to share industry insights, product usage tips, and company news.

By implementing these strategies, you’ll not only drive traffic to your site but also build a loyal customer base that keeps coming back for more. Remember, promotion is an ongoing effort—stay creative, adapt to new trends, and always keep your customers at the heart of your marketing efforts.

Final Thoughts

Getting your Gedling shop online might seem daunting, but with the right approach, it can be a rewarding venture. Embracing e-commerce opens up new opportunities for growth and allows you to connect with a broader audience.

By following these steps and leveraging expert know-how and solutions, you can create a thriving online presence that complements your physical shop and sets you up for success in the digital age.

New CCTV shows ‘irresponsible railway photoshoot’ on Burton Joyce rail crossing

Gedling Eye
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New CCTV shows ‘irresponsible railway photoshoot’ on Burton Joyce rail crossing

Network Rail has today released shocking footage of people risking their lives at the Burton Joyce rail crossing by taking part in railway photoshoots, crossing in front of oncoming trains and even laying down between the tracks.

The new compilation shows some of some of the worst cases in the last year to urge people to stay off the tracks and not put themselves and others at risk during the school summer holidays. 

The warning comes as newly released figures show there were 2,755 incidents of trespassing recorded across the East Midlands in 2023-24 – the equivalent of eight incidents each day. 219 of those involved children, a concerning 8% rise compared to 2022-23.

These incidents caused passengers to face nearly 12,000 minutes of delayed trains – equivalent to more than 8 days – up by 40% since the previous year*.

People using the village crossing can be seen putting their lives at risks taking part in railway photoshoots, crossing in front of oncoming trains, and even laying down between the tracks.

Hayley Manners, Network Rail’s community safety manager in the East Midlands, said: “Every time someone strays onto the tracks, they are placing themselves at risk of serious, life-changing injury or worse. The consequences can be devastating, not only for them, but their loved ones and the wider community. Shutting the railway while we investigate reports of trespass also causes costly delays for rail passengers and freight.

“We hope that sharing the CCTV will act as a deterrent and show that acting irresponsibly on the railway is extremely dangerous. I strongly urge everyone to ensure that both they and their loved ones understand the risks so everyone can stay safe this summer.”

Nationally, statistics show that on average at least two people risk their lives on the railway every hour.

The figures also reveal that trespass is almost twice as likely to happen during the summer months, with more than 60% of all incidents recorded during British Summer Time**.

This summer, the rail industry will continue to educate people living in near high-risk areas about the dangers of railway trespass using the story of Harrison Ballantyne.

He was 11 when he lost his life after straying unauthorised onto the railway.

His harrowing story can be viewed on the You vs Train website, which also details facts about the dangers present on the railway as well as information on  the rail industry’s anti-trespass initiatives. 

Parents with children of Key Stage 1 age can find more age-appropriate rail safety tools on the Switched On website.

Police save ‘slippery customer’ boa imperator spotted in Colwick Country Park

Gedling Eye
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Police save ‘slippery customer’ boa imperator spotted in Colwick Country Park

Police have rescued a snake after receiving a call from the public who spotted the ‘slippery customer’ slithering down a footpath in Colwick Country Park

The snake, believed to be a non-venomous Boa Imperator, was first encountered shortly before 4pm on Thursday (18) Nottinghamshire Police has said.

Boa imperators are one of the most popular pet snakes and are often bred in captivity.

Colwick Country Park
PICTURED: Colwick Country Park (IMAGE: Gedling Eye)

A spokesman said: “Our officers are used to dealing with the odd slippery customer with no leg to stand on, but they received we rather unusual call today

“They were called into action after a report a six-foot long snake was spotted slithering along a footpath in Colwick Country Park

“Fear not, a local reptile centre, which was alerted to the surprise discovery, attended and helped us arresssssst the snake.”

Labour Government will ‘look very carefully’ at decision to scrap HS2’s Nottinghamshire leg

Gedling Eye
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Labour Government will ‘look very carefully’ at decision to scrap HS2’s Nottinghamshire leg

A transport minister says the new Labour Government will “look very carefully” at the decision to cancel HS2’s Nottinghamshire leg as it plans how to best improve the area’s rail links.

Construction on the first part of HS2 between London and Birmingham is currently under way and will still be delivered in full.

There had been plans for the high speed rail network to then branch off in two directions, including a high-speed line to Leeds via the East Midlands.

An East Midlands hub had originally been planned at Toton, but former Conservative Prime Minister Boris Johnson scaled this back in 2021 in favour of a station at East Midlands Parkway.

This too was scrapped under former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in October last year, when he confirmed the high-speed rail line would no longer travel further north than Birmingham.

Under the new Labour Government, HS2 in the Midlands and the North will not be revived.

Instead the Government says it will re-purpose the High Speed Rail (Crewe – Manchester) Bill to improve rail links from east to west across the North of England.

Local transport minister Simon Lightwood visited Nottingham on Thursday, July 18, to see how Nottingham City Transport (NCT) operates under public ownership.

During his visit the Local Democracy Reporting Service asked whether the East Midlands was again being short-changed in regards to better rail links.

Mr Lightwood said: “I think transport is a really critical way in which we can achieve our ambition, our mission, to rebuild Britain, delivering infrastructure that benefits the whole country.

“We are going to look very carefully at the decisions made by the previous Government and will look at plans and announce further details in due course.”

The East Midlands Chamber, an organisation which independently represents businesses across the region, launched its Manifesto for Growth UK earlier this year to provide a blueprint on how best the Government can support the East Midlands.

It says the Government should “ensure East Midlands schemes within the proposed Midlands Rail Hub scheme are prioritised following the cancellation of HS2 East to address emerging East-West infrastructure divide”.

Chief executive, Scott Knowles, said of the new Government’s plans: “The East Midlands has immense potential but has been continually overlooked when it comes to investment from the centre and getting the region where it needs to be to enable growth.

“Enhancing infrastructure, rolling out high speed broadband and upgrading
connectivity of the rail network are all essential components for East Midlands sustainable growth.

“The ingredients for success in the East Midlands are already set out in the Manifesto for Growth launched in Westminster earlier this year. We ask the new government to engage with us so we can get the asks of the Manifesto implemented.”

Gedling borough breaking news plus weather and traffic updates (Friday, July 19)

Gedling Eye
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Gedling borough breaking news plus weather and traffic updates (Friday, July 19)

Hello, and welcome to Gedling Eye’s live blog for Friday, July 18.

We will be bringing you all of the latest news from across Gedling borough – whether you’re on the move, at home or at work – as well as the latest traffic and travel.

We will also be keeping you informed of major news stories from the UK and overseas. Contribute to the live blog and share the news that’s breaking in your area by posting your comments below.

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