The parents of four million children will get cheaper school uniforms because of a law reform making its way to the House of Lords this week.
The Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill will reduce uniform costs for families by £70 million across England, according to analysis by the Department for Education.
It comes as a new survey shows a third of parents are still worried about uniform costs, with one in five schools said to have actually increased the number of branded items required over the past year.
Schools are currently required to ‘limit’ the number of branded items they require, today’s survey shows almost half are not doing so.
The government’s Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill will limit the number of branded, typically more expensive, items schools can require to three – excluding ties.
Parents are having to pay £442 on average to kit a child out for secondary school, and £343 for primary school, putting unnecessary financial pressure on families.
Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, said: “Looking smart at school shouldn’t cost the earth, and no parent should be forced to choose between buying family essentials and a school shirt or tie.
“Alongside our free breakfast clubs, these new laws will save parents hundreds of pounds a year, and make sure family finances have no bearing on children’s time at school.”
These are the latest applications to have been submitted to and validated byGedling Borough Council this week.
This is a round-up of the latest plans that the council’s planning officers have validated.
These applications will now be decided by Gedling borough planners.
More details can be found on the Gedling Borough Council planning site HERE by using the reference codes published below.
Application to change the use of dwelling (3a) to a children’s home (C2) for up to three children, with a manager and up to three carers, two of whom would stay overnight, working on a rota basis 12 Overstrand Close Arnold Ref. No: 2025/0299
Single storey rear extension 19 Seaton Way Mapperley Ref. No: 2025/0293
Approval of details reserved by conditions 4 (BNG) and 5 (HMMP) of planning permission 2024/0740 Land At Magenta Way Stoke Bardolph Ref. No: 2025/0294DOC
Proposed single storey rear extension 30 Main Road Gedling Ref. No: 2025/0290
Erection of a single-storey flat roof rear extension and single storey flat roof rear and side extension 12 Curzon Avenue Carlton Ref. No: 2025/0289
Single storey garden room for private use 19 Marlborough Road Woodthorpe Ref. No: 2025/0286
Proposed extension and internal alterations to create kitchen /dining to ground floor, 2no. bedrooms with one with en-suite to first floor. conversion of existing garages to family snug and play room 25 Crosslands Meadow Colwick Ref. No: 2025/0263
Proposed two storey extension 70 Main Road Gedling Ref. No: 2025/0125
A bus route is set to change for several months as work gets underway to restore two lanes to a section of Burton Road in Gedling.
Burton Road will close at from its junction with Elliott Drive to its junction with Colliery Way for around ten weeks from today (April 28) until Friday, July 4.
During these works, Pathfinder 26/A and N26 will divert along Stoke Lane and A612 Colwick Loop Road in both directions.
Cars are being warned that they cannot follow the bus diversion as cameras are in place.
The move to remove the bus plug comes following persistent lobbying by Gedling Borough councillors Mike Adams, and Sam Smith, who also represent Trent Valley that was also backed by a petition signed by hundreds of local residents.
Nottinghamshire County Council approved funding for the removal as part of its 2025/26 Integrated Transport Block programme.
The bus plug was originally introduced as part of the historic Colwick Loop Road improvement but became redundant following the opening of the Gedling Access Road (GAR) – now known as Colliery Way.
Since then, the unnecessary traffic lights have only caused additional delays to motorists and increased emissions due to idling vehicles.
When the skies over Gedling turn grey and rain starts to fall, outdoor plans might take a backseat—but that doesn’t mean boredom has to set in. Whether you’re looking for a quiet moment alone or something social to pass the time, Gedling offers a surprising variety of indoor activities. From cosy cafés and community hubs to online gaming and heritage spots, there’s plenty to keep you entertained while the weather does its thing.
Online Escapes: Gaming and Casinos at Home
For those who prefer staying home on a rainy day, online gaming and casino platforms offer an easy way to pass the time without stepping outside. From strategy-based multiplayer games to digital versions of classic card favourites, there’s something for every preference. Some residents in Gedling have also turned to online poker nights with friends or joined communities where local players compete for small stakes in a friendly setting.
Online casinos, offering slots, roulette, and table games, have seen a rise in interest as people look for flexible entertainment options. Many of the best non-GamStop casinos offer players near-instant payouts through flexible transaction methods across thousands of casino games as well as enticing bonuses like welcome rewards, free spins, and cashback offers. It’s all about bringing that buzz of competition to your living room—no umbrella needed.
Catch a Film at Bonington Theatre in Arnold
A short trip from the heart of Gedling, Bonington Theatre in Arnold is a great spot to enjoy a film or live show. With a rotating selection of indie films, classics, and new releases, it’s ideal for anyone looking to escape the rain with a good story. The venue also hosts community theatre, comedy, and music nights, making it more than just a cinema—it’s a cultural hub for locals.
Visit Gedling Country Park Café
While the park itself might not be ideal in the rain, the café inside the Gedling Country Park visitor centre provides a warm and welcoming indoor space. Grab a hot drink and a slice of cake while looking out at the dramatic rain-soaked landscape from the panoramic windows. It’s especially relaxing if you enjoy a quieter atmosphere when the weather keeps most visitors away.
Browse the Local History in Gedling Library
Tucked away but worth the visit, Gedling Library is more than just books. Its local history section offers insights into the area’s mining past and community development. Rainy days are perfect for getting lost in old maps, black-and-white photographs, or a gripping historical novel. With public computers, free Wi-Fi, and regular events, the library doubles as a learning space and social venue.
Enjoy a Cosy Afternoon at a Gedling Café
Independent cafés are scattered around Gedling and neighbouring Carlton, perfect for waiting out the rain with a warm drink. Try The V Spot on Carlton Hill for plant-based treats or wander into Bluebird Café, known for its friendly staff and laid-back vibe. Many spots are laptop-friendly, making them useful for remote work or a casual afternoon of reading and people-watching.
Take a Class at a Local Community Centre
Gedling’s community centres often run classes and workshops regardless of the weather. Whether it’s pottery at the Mapperley Plains Institute or yoga at Killisick Community Centre, you’ll find something engaging to do inside. It’s a great way to meet locals, learn a new skill, or just break up the routine on an otherwise quiet day.
If you’re up for a short drive, rainy weather is a perfect excuse to visit nearby indoor attractions. The National Justice Museum in Nottingham offers an immersive experience into the history of crime and punishment. The City of Caves, also in Nottingham, takes you beneath the streets for a guided tour of the hidden world carved into sandstone. Both are well worth it for something a bit different.
Conclusion
Rainy days in Gedling don’t have to mean staying bored indoors. From cosy cafés to engaging online games, there are plenty of ways to stay entertained while waiting for the weather to clear. Whether it’s exploring local history at the library, enjoying a film at Bonington Theatre, or taking part in a class at a community center, Gedling offers a variety of indoor activities for all interests. And for those looking for a bit of adventure, nearby attractions like the National Justice Museum and City of Caves are perfect rainy-day escapes. Whatever the weather, Gedling has something to keep you busy and entertained.
People living near a new pedestrian crossing in Carlton say it is a waste of public money.
Nottinghamshire County Council approved the proposals for a new puffin crossing in Westdale Lane, Carlton, between Adbolton Avenue and Darley Avenue on February 3.
Puffin crossings use sensors to detect when pedestrians are waiting and when they’ve finished crossing, and are designed to be safer and more efficient.
The new crossing will be built on raised sections of pavement sticking out into the lane which currently acts as an unofficial crossing point.
The crossing will cost £100,000 through funding provided to the county council via a Government grant.
The location of the crossing on Westdale Lane. Photo was taken prior to the completion of works
However, some residents who live on the street say there is no need for it.
Resident Gordon Donaldson, who formally objected to the plans, has lived on Westdale Lane for five years.
He said the crossing is an “utter waste of money” claiming the road does not get much traffic per day.
Mr Donaldson told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “Our objections to the crossing are not out of sheer awkwardness, the data they’re using to support the argument are way off scale and are post-pandemic figures.
“We don’t get much traffic here. The numbers are way off scale.
“The footfall of traffic doesn’t justify £100,000 to build the crossing.
“It’s wasteful, and council budgets are tight are generally tight.
“The money has to be spent wisely. They should use other methods, such as putting advance warning signs but to spend that money for a crossing that will be used very little – I don’t see the point.”
A council survey said 148 pedestrians use the unofficial crossing on Westdale Lane daily, with 93 crossing also crossing at the nearby Co-op store.
Around 9,100 vehicles drive through the route per day, according to the survey.
Other resident questioned the location of the crossing, saying it is “not needed” in the area.
The resident, who did not want to be named, said: “We’ve tried to put forward viable alternatives to do this.
“Nobody wants it around here, it’s not needed. It’s a waste of money.
“We live here so we can see how many people are crossing the road. Nobody uses it.
“People get off the bus and cross where the bus drops them off, there is hardly anybody that uses that bit of road.
“They’re crying out for a crossing further up the road near the school.”
She said the crossing would also cause issues for her parking in her drive-way due to the zig zag markings.
“We’re going to lose a parking space outside of our house because of this.
“I have to pull up on these white zig zags and wait, so we’re being forced to do something which is prohibited in the high way code.
“It also says do not reverse out on to the main road. You can’t win.”
Another resident, who has lived in the area for 25 years, also said the location of the crossing was not ideal – and said it would be much more useful nearer to schools in the area.
She said: “The amount of people who cross the road is nothing like the council claims.
“The statistics are well out of date. The crossing should be further up by the school.
“People have been asking for a crossing near the school for a long time.
“Surely the safety of children should matter, so a crossing there would be needed.”
Cllr Andrew Ellwood (Lib Dem), the councillor for the Phoenix Ward where the puffin crossing will be built, said he had raised concerns over its location.
He told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “I’m not opposed to a crossing itself, but where they suggesting it is the wrong location.
“I did propose the crossing be located further along Westdale Lane opposite the Co-op store, which is a safer location for pedestrians and will inconvenience fewer households.”
Cllr Ellwood added: “Where they’re proposing locating it at the moment, children who are crossing to the nearby school would have to cross Adbolton Avenue as they are crossing two roads.
“I have concerns about traffic moving down there moved fast, so really we’d want to avoid children from crossing at Adbolton avenue and staying on the other side.”
Notts TV has approached Nottinghamshire County Council for comment but did not receive a reply.
Staff and residents at Stoke Bardolph’s Rivendell View care home have been having fantastic fun hiding Easter eggs all over the place in Battle for local children to find.
The care home opened its doors to the local community for a spectacular day of Easter celebrations, uniting residents, families and neighbours.
The care home is a purpose-built residential and dementia care home operated by HC-One., with 66 ensuite bedrooms.
The day began with a heartwarming breakfast with the Easter Bunny, where guests enjoyed delicious treats, cheerful music, and memorable photo moments with the Easter Bunny.
The festivities continued into the afternoon with a lively Easter Egg Hunt, where children and adults alike eagerly searched the care home grounds for hidden treasures.
Jody Gore, HC-One’s Rivendell View Wellbeing Coordinator said: “I love inviting the community into the home to meet our residents and helping the residents feel part of their local community.”
Police have launched an appeal for witnesses and information after a woman was assaulted as she got into a taxi on Carlton Hill.
The victim, aged in her 50s, was attacked shortly after leaving a local pub at around 9.20pm on Easter Sunday.
She was later treated in hospital for serious facial injuries, believed to have been caused by a glass.
Detectives are working to understand exactly what happened in the moments leading up to the assault and are asking for additional witnesses to come forward.
The victim was attacked shortly after leaving a pub on Carlton Hill at around 9.20pm on Easter Sunday. (PHOTO: Gedling Eye)
Detective Constable Gemma Piggott said: “This was a very serious assault that left a woman with significant injuries to her face.
“We have already analysed a large amount of CCTV footage and have spoken to multiple witnesses, but are now making a public appeal for others to come forward.
“We are particularly keen to hear from any drivers who my have passed a blue taxi as it picked up passengers near to the junctions with First and Second avenue.”
Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting incident 621 of 20 April 2025.
Tesco colleagues in Carlton have helped raised £23,589 for Young Lives vs Cancer and Cancer Research UK after a mammoth 13-mile sponsored walk.
Colleagues from the Carlton Hill store joined with workers from stores across Derbyshire, Leicestershire & Nottinghamshire to carry out a gruelling 13-mile walk around Rutland Water and the surrounding area as part of a companywide initiative across the Midlands to raise money for Cancer Research UK and several local charities chosen by colleagues.
Tesco store manager and regional community lead Lisa Lewis-Fowkes said, “As a group of colleagues we have worked extremely hard to raise much needed funds for Young Lives vs Cancer and Cancer Research UK. Our store Community Champions have worked tirelessly over recent weeks raising money through in-store events and dozens of colleagues turned up to walk the 13-mile route around Rutland Water.
“We couldn’t be prouder of our team for going the extra mile and raising money for two fantastic causes which help so many people across the Midlands and beyond.”
Fundraising Engagement Manager for Young Lives vs Cancer Lucy Fisher said: “Every day across the UK 12 children and young people hear the news that they have cancer, but with the incredible support of fundraisers like Tesco’s our specialist Social Workers can provide practical and emotional support to young people and their families, to help them navigate all the challenges that Cancer brings.”
The colleagues involved in the walk will be splitting the money equally between Young Lives vs Cancer and Cancer Research UK, one of Tesco’s main charity partners.
Head of Partners at Cancer Research UK Eve Mitchell said, “On behalf of everyone at Cancer Research UK, I wanted to say a huge thank you to all the Tesco colleagues for supporting our life-saving research by taking part in this walk.”
A playground in Carlton has reopened after a £100,000 refurbishment, including a new zip line, swings and trampolines.
The newly refurbished Valley Road Playground in Carlton was officially opened yesterday (24) following the completion of a major transformation made possible by a £100,000 grant from FCC Communities Foundation.
The new-look playground features an exciting range of equipment including a 30-metre zip line, swings, monkey bars, and wheelchair-accessible seesaw. It also boasts two DDA-compliant trampolines, a basket swing, and interactive play panels, ensuring the space is inclusive and accessible for children of all abilities.
Local families, members of the Friends of Valley Road Playing Field group, and representatives from FCC Communities Foundation gathered at the park to watch it be officially opened by Mayor of Gedling, Cllr Ron McCrossen and try out the new facilities and mark the occasion.
Cllr Ron McCrossen said: “It’s a real pleasure to open this fantastic new play area. This park has always been popular with families, and thanks to the funding from FCC Communities Foundation and the dedication of the Friends of Valley Road, it’s now better than ever.
“It’s great to see such an inclusive space where children of all ages and abilities can play together and enjoy being outdoors.”
Marie Spinks, Chair of the Friends of Valley Road Playing Field, said: “Seeing the finished playground filled with happy, excited children makes all the hard work worthwhile.
“This has been a real community effort, and we’re incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved. We’re so grateful to everyone who supported the project – this new space will be a real asset to local families for many years to come.”
Penny Horne, FCC Communities Foundation Grant Manager, added “The new equipment is not only fun but inclusive, and we’re proud to have played a role in creating a space that brings people together and promotes active outdoor play for everyone.”
The project has been delivered in partnership with Gedling Borough Council, the Friends of Valley Road Playing Field, and FCC Communities Foundation. Nottinghamshire County Council, which owns the land and leases it to Gedling Borough Council, has also supported the project.
