Four parks receive prestigious Green Flag Awards

Emily Sanchez
-
0
Four parks receive prestigious Green Flag Awards

Four parks in Gedling borough have been recognised with a prestigious award that shows off the high standards of green spaces across the country. 

Arnot Hill Park, Burton Road Jubilee Park, Gedling Country Park, and Breck Hill Park have all received Green Flag Awards for 2024.

The Green Flag Awards are the international quality mark for parks and green spaces.

Arnot Hill Park retains the award for the 18th consecutive year, Gedling Country Park for the 9th year in a row, and Burton Road Jubilee Park for the 9th time. Breck Hill Park also received the award for the 3rd year in a row after successfully being awarded the accreditation for the first time in 2022.

The four parks in Gedling Borough join over 2,000 sites across the country in collecting the award for 2024.

The Green Flag Award scheme, managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, recognises and rewards well-managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for the management of green spaces across the United Kingdom and around the world.

The Green Flag Team (l to r) Geri Thomas, Maggie Mylonas, Erika Jones, Catherine Honey, Councillor David Ellis, Councillor Roxanne Ellis, Malcolm Fox, Michael Proctor

Keep Britain Tidy’s Green Flag Award Scheme Manager, Paul Todd MBE, said: “I would like to congratulate everyone involved at Gedling Borough Council on achieving four Green Flag Awards. 

“We know that staff and volunteers work tirelessly to ensure that it maintains the high standards of the Green Flag Award, everyone involved should feel extremely proud of their achievement”.

Leader of Gedling Borough Council, Councillor John Clarke MBE, said: “We’re thrilled to announce that four of our parks in Gedling Borough have once again received the prestigious Green Flag Award. This achievement highlights the dedication of our parks staff and community groups in maintaining these open spaces for residents to enjoy.

“Our parks and open spaces are vital for our communities, providing areas to socialise, exercise, and improve health and wellbeing.

“I’d like to thank everyone involved in helping us to retain these awards and also to encourage our residents to explore these fantastic assets that we have right here on our doorstep.”

Councillor Viv McCrossen, Portfolio Holder for Climate Change and Natural Habitat, added: “Our continued success in the Green Flag Awards shows our commitment to preserving and enhancing our natural environment. These parks not only offer beautiful spaces for leisure and recreation but also play a crucial role in supporting biodiversity and tackling climate change.

“It’s inspiring to see our community and council working together to achieve such high standards in environmental management. Congratulations to everyone involved, and I encourage all our residents to enjoy and take pride in these green spaces.”

The planned roadworks and road changes in Gedling borough

Gedling Eye Reporter
-
0
The planned roadworks and road changes in Gedling borough

A number of roadworks, and changes to the roads, are set to take place on Gedling borough’s roads during the next few weeks.

The roadworks and road changes include things such as speed alterations, repair works and changing the layout of the roads. 

Most of the roadworks are being undertaken by Nottinghamshire County Council while a couple are being led by Severn Trent Water, National Grid and OpenReach

These are the roadworks and closures you need to know about…

Arno Vale Road, Woodthorpe
22 July – 10 August
Roadworks and delays likely due to road closure for carriageway resurfacing from roundabout to Saville Road
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Breck Hill Road, Woodthorpe
22 July – 10 August
Delays likely due to road closure for carriageway resurfacing from roundabout to Raiback Gardens.
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Brickenell Road, Calverton
19 July – 22 July
Delays likely due to road closure for patching repairs from junction of Renals Way to end of road.
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Church Road, Burton Joyce
23 July – 23 July
Roadworks and delays likely
Responsibility for works: Openreach

Front Street, Arnold
21 July – 22 July
Delays likely due to road closure
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Mansfield Road, Papplewick
22 July – 24 July
Roadworks and delays likely
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Spring Lane, Lambley
22 July – 03 August
Road closure for resurfacing of the carriageway and patching of the carriageway between Catfoot Lane and 50m west of Lambley Lane.
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Stripes View, Calverton
23 July
Road closure for patching repairs from junction of Brickenell Road to end
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Thackerays Lane, Woodthorpe
22 July – 10 August
Road closure for carriageway resurfacing from Calstock Road to 50m east of roundabout
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Trent Valley Road, Gedling
23 July – 24 July
Roadworks and delays likely
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Vale Road, Colwick
18 July – 19 July
Roadworks and delays likely
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Wensley Road, Woodthorpe
22 July – 10 August
Delays likely due to road closure for carriageway resurfacing from roundabout for 50m.
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Westdale Lane East, Gedling
19 July
Roadworks, Delays likely
Responsibility for works: Openreach

Westdale Lane West, Mapperley
17 July – 18 July
Roadworks and delays likely near the junction of Westdale Lane West and Lambley Ave.
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Woodborough Road, Nottingham
22 July – 23 August
Roadworks and delays likely
Responsibility for works: Cadent

Worcester Road, Arnold
22 July – 10 August
Delays likely due to road closure for carriageway resurfacing from roundabout to Wadham Road.
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Annesley Road, Linby
19 July
Delays possible due to lane closure
Responsibility for works: Connexin Ltd

Carmel Gardens, Arnold
22 July – 02 August
Roadworks and delays possible
Responsibility for works: ENERGETICS GAS LIMITED

Carmel Gardens, Arnold
22 July – 02 August
Roadworks and delays possible
Responsibility for works: Global Utility Connections

Derwent Crescent, Arnold
18 July – 19 July
Roadworks and delays possible for manhole reset near school.
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Elmhurst Avenue, Mapperley
17 July – 19 July
Roadworks and delays possible
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Lambley Lane, Gedling
17 July – 19 July
Roadworks and delays possible from the junction of Spring Lane
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Lambley Lane, Gedling
22 July
Roadworks and delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Longdale Lane, Ravenshead
23 July
Roadworks and delays possible
Responsibility for works: National Grid

Lowdham Lane, Woodborough
22 July – 23 July
Roadworks and delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Main Street, Calverton
17 July – 19 July
Roadworks and delays possible at junction with Briar Gardens
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Main Street, Burton Joyce
22 July – 26 July
Roadworks and delays possible
Responsibility for works: Openreach

Main Street, Calverton
22 July – 23 July
Roadworks and delays possible for patching works
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Nottingham Road, Ravenshead
22 July
Roadworks and delays possible at the traffic signals crossing at the junction of A60 Nottingham Road and Longdale Lane.
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Oxton Road, Calverton
23 July
Roadworks and delays possible
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Perlethorpe Avenue, Gedling
18 July – 22 July
Roadworks and delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Sandfield Road, Arnold
22 July – 26 July
Roadworks and delays possible
Responsibility for works: Global Utility Connections

Sandfield Road, Arnold
22 July – 26 July
Roadworks and delays possible
Responsibility for works: Energetics Gas Ltd

Simkin Avenue, Carlton
23 July – 26 July
Roadworks and delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Thoresby Avenue, Gedling
16 July – 18 July
Roadworks and delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Wheatsheaf Court, Burton Joyce
22 July – 26 July
Roadworks and delays possible
Responsibility for works: Openreach

Whernside Road, Woodthorpe
22 July – 23 July
Roadworks and delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Yew Tree Lane, Gedling,
17 July – 19 July
Roadworks and delays possible
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Final step taken in plans for new bridge over River Trent

Joe Locker (LDR Reporter)
-
2
Final step taken in plans for new bridge over River Trent

The final step in plans for a new bridge over the River Trent has been taken after Rushcliffe Borough Council gave it the green light.

The pedestrian and cycle bridge will link Trent Basin, off Daleside Road in the city, to the south bank of the river close to the Hook nature reserve in Lady Bay, Rushcliffe.

It will become the first new crossing built over the river in the city in more than 60 years.

A full planning application was submitted by Nottingham City Council in February following lengthy delays, and councillors unanimously supported the proposals at a meeting in April.

They described plans as “sustainable, accessible and exciting”.

However, because the bridge crosses over the river and into Rushcliffe Borough Council’s boundaries, it required its approval too.

The borough council has now approved the plans.

PICTURED: Artist impression on how the new Trent Bridge will look

Planning decision documents say: “Planning applications should be determined in accordance with the development plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise.

“For these reasons, not only would the scheme accord with the development plan as a whole, but the balance of material considerations also weighs in its favour.

“Consequently, it is recommended that it be granted planning permission, subject to conditions.

“Discussions have taken place in an attempt to resolve issues raised by interested parties, which has resulted in the submission of additional information.

“Negotiations have been undertaken in relation to securing appropriate levels of planning obligation to mitigate impacts of the proposal.

“This has ultimately resulted in a favourable recommendation to grant conditional approval, subject to contributions being secured via a legal agreement.”

According to documents, a number of potential issues were considered, including the green belt, anti-social behaviour, and flooding.

In regards to the green belt, Rushcliffe planning officers concluded it was not “inappropriate development” and is not seen as harmful. “As such, there is no need to demonstrate any very special circumstances,” documents say.

Concerns over anti-social behaviour and noise were raised. Planning officers say the city council will be working with contractors, using the advice supplied by Nottinghamshire Police, to reduce potential crime risk during construction.

“Furthermore, the applicants have advised that the bridge would have handrail lighting, and routes on the north side would be illuminated,” documents add.

The impacts on the Nottinghamshire Sports Club playing fields, on the south side of the river, have also been considered.

They are used by several sporting organisations including Nottingham Corsairs, Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club and Nottingham Rugby.

“Part of the sports ground is required to form temporary haul routes to permit the construction of the bridge abutments, ramps and steps on the southern side of the river,” documents say.

“The access is only required during the construction period and the area will then be returned to its previous use.”

Planning officers concluded the bridge would help provide an alternative form of access to sporting events that might reduce the impact of on-street parking, while the development would result in an overall 10.85 per cent net gain in habitats and a 27.16 per cent net gain in hedgerows.

Wetlands and a series of ponds will also be created as part of the development to help prevent flooding.

Money for the bridge has come from the Department for Transport (DfT) Transforming Cities Fund.

It is expected to cost in the region of £12m, having increased from £9m due to inflation since the project planning began.

Nottingham City Council was asked when work would begin, but it declined the opportunity to comment.

Rushcliffe Borough Council said the city council was leading on the scheme.

Prolific Netherfield shoplifter now behind bars after breaching community behaviour order

Gedling Eye Reporter
-
0
Prolific Netherfield shoplifter now behind bars after breaching community behaviour order

A prolific shoplifter, from Netherfield, has been put behind bars after stealing from a store in The Meadows.

Liam Clarke was given a criminal behaviour order (CBO) in October 2023 which prevents him from entering a number of stores, including the Co-op, in the Bridgeway Centre, The Meadows, Nottingham.

Security staff spotted him walk into the store, take a carrier bag from his pocket and fill it with medical products around 3pm on 10 July 2024.

Clarke was detained when he left the store and arrested a short time later.

PHOTO: Co-op

The 40-year-old, of Hodgkinson Street, Netherfield, pleaded guilty to theft from a shop and breaching the CBO when he appeared at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on 11 July.

He was jailed for a total of 24 weeks.

Inspector Steve Dalby, neighbourhood policing inspector for city south, said: “Clarke is a persistent nuisance to shop staff in the area so I hope his imprisonment provides them with some respite.

“We work hard alongside our partners and local businesses to target the relatively small number of prolific shoplifters who commit the vast majority of these offences.

“This is exactly why officers work hard to secure CBOs, which have real teeth. When someone breaches them, they can expect an immediate custodial sentence.

“Our work to support local shops in tackling this issue is ongoing, using both high-visibility patrols by the neighbourhood team and covert security.

“Patrols by uniformed officers also take place regularly around hotspots for retail crime to provide reassurance to staff and shoppers.”

Chair of new Greater Carlton Town Board appointed to support local regeneration plans

Emily Sanchez
-
0
Chair of new Greater Carlton Town Board appointed to support local regeneration plans

A chair has been appointed to oversee a £20 million government investment handed to the new Greater Carlton Town Board.

Sir John Peace has been appointed as the independent chair to lead the town board, which is a new initiative set to shape the future of Carlton and the surrounding areas with £20 million in endowment-style funding over the next decade.

The first meeting of the board was held on Wednesday July 10 at Carlton Le Willows Academy to discuss the next steps in delivering the long-term plan for the area.

The board has agreed to launch a consultation, which opens today (15) , to ask residents for their views on how the money will be spent.

Sir John Peace has been appointed as the independent chair to lead the town board

The consultation will be hosted by Gedling Borough Council at www.gedling.gov.uk/carlton-town-board and will be open until the end of August.

In March, Greater Carlton, including Carlton Hill, Netherfield, Gedling, Colwick, Burton Joyce, Stoke Bardolph, Mapperley and Mapperley Top, were selected to receive Long-Term Plan for Town funding from the government.

The Independent Chair will play a crucial role in leading the Greater Carlton Town Board, bringing together diverse interests and facilitating consensus to develop a comprehensive 10-year vision for Greater Carlton.

Following an advertisement for expressions of interest and subsequent assessment of applications, Sir John Peace was appointed as Chair. Sir John Peace has a long and distinguished business career at the highest levels covering the technology, financial services, and retail sectors. He was formerly Chairman, Chief Executive, and Founder of Experian plc; Chief Executive of GUS plc; Chairman of Standard Chartered plc; and Chairman of Burberry plc—all FTSE 100 companies.

Other board members have also been appointed, including the local MP for Gedling, Michael Payne, the Leader of Gedling Borough Council, Councillor John Clarke MBE, Nottinghamshire County Councillor Keith Girling as well as local business leaders and community representatives.

Sir John Peace, Independent Chair of the Greater Carlton Town Board, said: “I am very pleased to have been appointed as the interim Chair of the Greater Carlton Town Board. We have an opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of people living in Carlton and the surrounding areas with this funding.

“I am looking forward to hearing from residents about their ideas for the area. I will make sure that the board is fully focused on the needs of the local community, and we will put together a plan that is led by the community that will create growth in the area. I very much look forward to the opportunities that will arise from this project.”

Leader of Gedling Borough Council, Councillor John Clarke MBE, said: “We are incredibly pleased that Sir John Peace has agreed to chair this important board. He has a great track record of success in business, he knows the area well, and like us, he cares about the residents and businesses in Carlton and the surrounding areas.

“We will now start the hard work of creating a real plan that will be community-led. It will be their voices that decide where this money goes, and I am very excited about the possibilities that this project will bring. We have been desperate for investment in these areas, so it’s now time for us to get on with the task of improving the Greater Carlton area.”

To take part in the consultation and have a chance to win £50, visit www.gedling.gov.uk/carlton-town-board .

Hapless shoplifter triggered shop alarm as police officer arrived at Daybrook store

Emily Sanchez
-
0
Hapless shoplifter triggered shop alarm as police officer arrived at Daybrook store

A shoplifter was left cursing his luck after activating a supermarket alarm at the same time a police officer arrived at the store entrance.

Thomas Howitt walked out of Tesco Express, in Oxclose Lane, Daybrook, with £55.40 worth of steaks hidden in his coat.

The theft activated the store alarm just as PC Harry Ford – a response officer based at a nearby police station – turned up at the shop.

Howitt continued walking away but was stopped by PC Ford. Howitt then threw the steaks to the ground and ran off. However he was too slow for PC Ford who managed to detain him moments later and place him in handcuffs.

The incident happened at approximately 12.45pm on Saturday 6 July.

Howitt, aged 26, of no fixed address, was charged with theft and put before the courts.

He pleaded guilty at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on Monday 8 July, with magistrates hearing he was wanted on a recall to prison at the time of the theft.

The court heard he had 17 previous convictions for 93 offences – including 70 thefts – and that he had continued to show a “flagrant disregard” for the law following his release from prison earlier this year.

As a result, the magistrates jailed him for nine weeks.

PC Harry Ford said the arrest demonstrated Nottinghamshire Police’s commitment to tackling and reducing shop theft, as well as taking action against repeat offenders. He said:

“Howitt is a prolific shoplifter who continued to target local stores and breach his licence conditions.

“His brazen and persistent offending has had a considerable impact on local businesses, so I am pleased we have now been able to give them some respite by removing Howitt from our streets.

“I hope this arrest reassures our local businesses, their customers and members of the public that we are treating this type of offending seriously and we will do everything we can to protect them from harm and bring offenders to justice.”

EMR say thousands of bargain £7.70 train tickets still available to Skegness from Notts

Emily Sanchez
-
0
EMR say thousands of bargain £7.70 train tickets still available to Skegness from Notts

East Midlands Railway (EMR) is urging customers to book in advance and secure a summer Skegness bargain this year.

The train operator still has around 3,500 Advance Single tickets priced at only £7.70 and customers are being urged to book as early as possible as this will help them get the best price and availability.

Holiday-makers can book up to 12 weeks in advance and, by doing this, they will be able to select the train they wish to travel on and book the return journey at the same time. There isn’t an option to book a specific seat, but it will guarantee customers a place on the train of their choice and a place in the priority boarding queue.

Customers are also reminded that children under five can travel for free when accompanied by a fare-paying parent or guardian.

Philippa Cresswell, Customer Service Director at East Midlands Railway, said: “We are delighted to offer these cut-price advance tickets to Skegness this summer.

“By booking early, our customers can secure the best deals and ensure they have a guaranteed spot on their chosen train. We encourage everyone to take advantage of this opportunity and enjoy a lovely trip to the beach.

“Remember, children under five travel for free with a fare-paying adult, making it an even more affordable family outing.”

Money Saving Expert Martin Lewis issues warning as data shows celebrity profiles most used in scams

Gedling Eye
-
0
Money Saving Expert Martin Lewis issues warning as data shows celebrity profiles most used in scams

Financial expert and journalist Martin Lewis has once again been named the most frequently misused celebrity in scam advertisements.

Lewis again topped the list put together following a comprehensive analysis by his MoneySavingExpert.com (MSE) website.

The study, which examined Action Fraud data from 2022 and 2023, highlights the pervasive use of high-profile figures in fraudulent schemes, underscoring the need for consumer vigilance.

The analysis by MSE, which is owned by Ewloe-based Moneysupermarket.com, revealed that public figures from various sectors, including entertainment, business, politics, and royalty, have had their identities exploited by scammers.

Leading the list is Martin Lewis with 1,151 mentions, accounting for 32.4% of the total scams reported. Following him are Taylor Swift with 771 mentions (21.7%) and Elon Musk with 492 mentions (13.9%).

  1. Martin Lewis – 1,151 mentions (32.4%)
  2. Taylor Swift – 771 mentions (21.7%)
  3. Elon Musk – 492 mentions (13.9%)
  4. Adele – 97 mentions (2.7%)
  5. Holly Willoughby – 80 mentions (2.3%)
  6. Jeremy Clarkson – 72 mentions (2.0%)
  7. Mark Zuckerberg – 53 mentions (1.5%)
  8. Johnny Depp – 41 mentions (1.2%)
  9. Keanu Reeves – 41 mentions (1.2%)
  10. Ed Sheeran – 40 mentions (1.1%)
  11. King Charles – 32 mentions (0.9%)
  12. Peter Jones – 32 mentions (0.9%)
  13. Phillip Schofield – 32 mentions (0.9%)
  14. Richard Branson – 29 mentions (0.8%)
  15. Rishi Sunak – 28 mentions (0.8%)
  16. Rod Stewart – 26 mentions (0.7%)
  17. Prince Harry – 23 mentions (0.6%)
  18. Simon Cowell – 23 mentions (0.6%)
  19. Lewis Capaldi – 21 mentions (0.6%)
  20. James Martin – 20 mentions (0.6%)

Martin Lewis, the founder of MoneySavingExpert.com, said he was ‘frustrated’ over the continued misuse of his image in scam ads.

“It’s likely that the criminals pumping out these scam ads effectively use their own in-house dark-web digital marketing teams, researching which celebrities and advert types get the best click-through rates, and honing the way they work to attract more victims,” Lewis said.

Lewis emphasised that consumers should be particularly wary of ads featuring the top 20 celebrities identified in the study.

“If it’s an ad with me in it, it’s always a scam, as I don’t do adverts.

Topping this list is about the worst compliment I’ve ever had,” he remarked.

He also highlighted the persistent nature of these scams and the importance of verifying any online advertisement, especially those featuring well-known figures.

Types of Scams

The report indicates that scam ads often involve promises of quick wealth through investments or cryptocurrency, with public figures like Elon Musk and Jeremy Clarkson frequently featured. Other scams include ticket fraud for popular concerts and events, particularly affecting fans of musicians like Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran.

Financial Impact

The financial impact of these scams is significant. Action Fraud data shows that victims have reported losing over £20 million to scams using Martin Lewis’s profile in the last two years, with the largest individual reported loss being £500,000.

Fans of Taylor Swift have reportedly lost an estimated £1 million since UK tickets for her tour went on sale last July, according to data from Lloyds Bank.

Preventive Measures

Lewis and MSE advise consumers to remain cautious and verify the legitimacy of any online advertisement, especially those involving celebrities.

Key red flags include mentions of cryptocurrency, investment opportunities, and too-good-to-be-true offers.

If you suspect a scam, contact your bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud or relevant authorities.

For more detailed information on how to protect yourself from scams, visit MoneySavingExpert.com’s comprehensive guide on stopping scams and stay informed through trusted sources.

[Photo: MoneySavingExpert.com]

Latest planning applications put before Gedling Borough Council

Gedling Eye Reporter
-
0
Latest planning applications put before Gedling Borough Council

These are the latest applications to have been submitted to and validated by Gedling Borough Council this week.

The round-up of the latest plans that the council’s planning officers validated and published in a quiet week (w/e 28/6/24) include a proposal for a HMO in Woodthorpe. These applications will now be decided by Gedling borough planners.

More details can be found on the Gedling Borough Council planning site HERE.

Two storey side and single storey rear extension
10 Vernon Crescent Ravenshead
Ref. No: 2024/0438

Conifer – remove to ground level
9 Main Street Papplewick
Ref. No: 2024/0442TCA

Installation of an Air Source Heat Pump
44 Birkland Avenue Woodthorpe
Ref. No: 2024/0439

Front and rear extensions and render property
4 Birchwood Drive Ravenshead
Ref. No: 2024/0435

Trim 4 conifers in front garden from 15ft down to about 10ft, and trim them all round
22 Main Street Woodborough
Ref. No: 2024/0430TCA

Change of use from Class E, ( Dance Studio) to C3 self contained, two bedroom apartment
376 First Floor Carlton Hill Carlton
Ref. No: 2024/0431

Two storey side extension and new materials to rear single storey.
163 Kenrick Road Mapperley
Ref. No: 2024/0425

Single storey front and rear extensions
11 Chapel Fields Ravenshead
Ref. No: 2024/0421

Increase roof height and loft extension
32 Hillview Road Carlton
Ref. No: 2024/0389

Felling of 2 Oak and 4 Silver Birch trees situated at location number “6” on the Block Plan.
Sherwood Glade Mansfield Road Arnold
Ref. No: 2024/0380TPO

Single storey rear extension
271 Moor Road Papplewick
Ref. No: 2023/0715

Council reveals plans for new state-of-the-art leisure centres in Arnold and Carlton.

Gedling Eye Reporter
-
3
Council reveals plans for new state-of-the-art leisure centres in Arnold and Carlton.

Gedling Borough Council has unveiled plans for two new and improved leisure centres in Arnold and Carlton that could save £1.2 million a year.

The council recently conducted a strategic leisure review of its community facilities including its five leisure centres, its playing pitches and parks and open spaces.

A report is now recommending further feasibility work for a new Carlton Leisure and Community Wellbeing Centre as part of a strategic review of its community facilities.

The report, which will be presented to Cabinet members on Wednesday, July 17, seeks to enhance the council’s current leisure offer through new sites while ensuring longer-term financial sustainability.  

Changes would be subject to the council getting funding.

It proposes developing a business case for new, state-of-the-art facilities in Carlton, which will significantly benefit the local community by providing improved health, fitness, and cultural amenities.

The report also highlights a review to improve and enhance leisure facilities for the Arnold area with a new facility offering a swimming pool, gym, and studios, alongside a separate venue for the Bonington Theatre to increase its visibility.

A vision for these new facilities is at the core of the recently announced plans for Ambition Arnold, which is looking at how the town centre could be improved. 

The report suggests that the creation of the new leisure centres in Arnold and Carlton could save the council in the region of £1.2million per year in ongoing costs. 

The Cabinet have agreed to approve a budget of £500,000 to develop a feasibility study for a new Carlton Leisure Centre and Community Wellbeing Centre. They also agreed to create a project board and team to develop the plans for the new centres.

A consultation on all the proposals will be conducted and residents and local businesses will be able to have their say on any plans going forward. 

Leader of Gedling Borough Council, Councillor John Clarke MBE, said: “We are very excited to announce plans to look into creating new and improved leisure centres in Arnold and Carlton.

“We have conducted one of the most comprehensive reviews of our leisure services for years and the findings are clear that we need some new state-of-the-art centres that will meet the needs of our growing community.

We want to be clear that this means business as usual, we are looking at the feasibility of these new centres being created, which would all be subject to getting the appropriate funding.

“I am sure that residents in Carlton and Arnold will be delighted to see the council’s ambitious vision for enhancing community wellbeing and the financial sustainability of its services to support that.” 

1...187188189...1,025Page 188 of 1,025