Residents living in Arnold have been given a look at a new masterplan for the regeneration of the town centre.
Gedling Borough Council unveiled their new masterplan, dubbed “Ambition Arnold,” this week which aims to transform the borough’s capital into a vibrant, modern, and community-centred space.
The masterplan, which was officially introduced in July 2024, proposes a series of improvements to address current challenges the town faces while also creating opportunities for residents and visitors. It aims to improve vehicle movement, parking, pedestrian access public transport and flooding issues. It also outlines plans to preserve heritage buildings to help celebrate Arnold’s cultural history.
If funding is found for the plans to move forward then three new distinct zones within Arnold. Zone 1 would focus on the north of the town and would incorporate key landmarks like the Bonington Theatre, the library, and the leisure centre. These facilities and streetscapes would be improved along with connectivity between Front Street and High Street.
Zone 2 would cover the southern area of the town centre and will see improvements to Eagle Square and the market area, as well as new green spaces and improved shopfronts.
Zone 3 encompasses areas such as Arnot Hill Park, the civic centre, and Nottingham Road—with an emphasis on connecting green spaces, improving pedestrian routes and considering new opportunities for the park’s underutilised areas.
One of the standout features of the masterplan is the proposal to create a new cultural heart for Arnold. A ‘cultural campus’ would be created that would bring together the theatre, leisure centre, library, and public services under one roof. The Bonington Theatre would also be expanded to offer a broader range of events for the community.
Arnold marketplace would also be expanded so it could host a wider range of events.
Although plans have been created, the council said the master plan would need significant backing from the government and private investors to have the impact intended.
You can read the document HERE
