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Gedling solar farm will now operate until 2055– 15 years longer than originally planned

Lauren Monaghan
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Gedling solar farm will now operate until 2055– 15 years longer than originally planned

A Gedling solar farm will now be allowed to operate until 2055 – 15 years longer than originally planned.

Sustainability company Foresight Group applied to Gedling Borough Council in December 2024 to retain the Arnold Lane solar farm for 40 years rather than 25 years.

The site forms part of the former Gedling Colliery and is surrounded by Gedling County Park.

About 1,700 homes are powered by the site using electricty generated by more than 20,000 panels.

The farm began operating in 2015 after original permission was granted in 2014- but a condition of the application meant it was only due to run for 25 years before being dismantled.

This meant it was due to stop operation in 2040, where all equipment would have been removed from the site, allowing the land to return to its original condition.

Proposals to amend the condition and extend the solar farm’s running to 40 years, meaning until 2055, were approved by the council’s planning committee yesterday (February 12).

Claire Turton, Principle Planning Officer at the council said the amendment is justified as a “result of market changes and technological advancements which allow solar farms to be maintained for longer periods”.

According to the applicant, the solar panels are capable of generating electricity for longer than 25 years.

As part of the original planning approval in 2014, an annual £1,000 contribution to enhance biodiversity was also promised.

This has been used by the Gedling Conservation Trust to maintain habitats at the Netherfield Lagoons Local Nature Reserve.

The applicant has agreed to also continue this for the full 40 years of the solar farm’s operation.

Councillor Rachael Ellis (Lab) said: “It’s good news when something that’s already existing can be continued to be used longer than the original predicted lifespan, so I would certainly welcome that.

“There may be no leeway in this, but £1,000 per annum in 2014 [for the conservation trust] is worth considerably more than £1,000 40 years later- I do wonder whether there is any leeway negotiating some kind of increase?”

Claire Turton replied: “It was something the Gedling Conservation Trust also asked for but unfortunately the original [contribution agreement] wasn’t index- linked- I think our hands are tied asking for any more [money].”

Index-linked means a financial payment is linked to rising inflation.

Cllr Sam Smith (Con) responded to this by asking “Can committee have reassurance if there are future applications like this they will be index linked?”

Ms Turton replied that it is usual practice for legal agreements to be index-linked.

Also approved in the same meeting was a separate application for a 32-bed residential centre that offers therapy and holistic treatment to those dealing with addiction and mental health issues.

Existing buildings that used to be occupied by Nottinghamshire Fire & Rescue Authority in Bestwood Lodge Drive, Bestwood, will be demolished for the new centre to be built.

Guests at the centre self-refer themselves and will have access to 24 hour nursing care and holistic therapy.

The building will have single and group therapy rooms, dining and social spaces, 52 parking spaces, bicycle storage and will be accessed from Bestwood Lodge Drive.

Developer completes purchase of £25m site for 50-home development in Arnold

David Bratton
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Developer completes purchase of £25m site for 50-home development in Arnold

A developer has announced they have completed the purchase of a £25m site for housing in Arnold

Strata Homes’ new development ‘Grace’ will be based on land off Killisick Lane after planning permission was granted in December 2024.

The development will comprise of 45 four and five bedroom detached homes, alongside nine affordable homes.

The new site will be accessed from the south, from Strathmore Road, where an existing road currently terminates. This will be extended to accommodate the new homes.

Biodiversity plans for the development include the planting specimen trees, native hedgerows and a wildflower meadow.

In addition to this, Strata say they plan to retain existing boundary trees and vegetation, including a significant area of woodland. These biodiversity plans aim to create a sustainable home for wildlife to thrive alongside people.

The Section 106 agreement will see Strata contribute a total of £450,000 to fund local healthcare, education and transport. As part of this, the developer has pledged to support local education and employability through employment opportunities on site and training delivered to upskill the local workforce.

The £25m scheme will not only bring much needed homes to the area but also create community links through new pedestrian and cycle links, encouraging sustainable travel and offering accessibility to the wider community and nature surrounding the scheme.

Alan Swain, Land and Partnerships Director at Strata, says “This scheme is one of many to come in our growing Midlands cluster, and we can’t wait to deliver contemporary, energy efficient homes in the Arnold area.

“The team are extremely proud and we cannot wait to see our customers move into their Strata homes and for this neighbourhood to come to life.”

A public consultation for the homes received 39 letters, of which 26 objected to the proposals. Reasons for objection included the impact on nearby roads, the loss of green space, the loss of recreational space for dog walking, and harm to wildlife.

Letters: Having business centre based in Arnold makes ‘no sense’

Letters to the Editor
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Letters: Having business centre based in Arnold makes ‘no sense’

Our readers from across the borough give their weekly take on the biggest issues impacting Gedling and beyond.

Join the debate by sending your letter to letters@gedlingeye.co.uk . Please put ‘Letters’ in the subject line. You can also submit a letter by filling in the simple form below, and it may appear online.

Some letters refer to past correspondence which can be found by clicking HERE

Names and addresses will be withheld by request but must be included in the email. We reserve the right to edit letters. Letters published do not reflect the views of Gedling Eye

Business centre in Arnold ‘makes no sense’

Sir,

Why is Arnold AGAIN benefitting from public money with the creation of an enterprise centre in the town?

It makes no sense!

There are better transport links elsewhere to other towns in the borough. Both Carlton and Netherfield have a direct train link to the city and onwards to East Midlands Airport and London so surely it would make more sense to set the enterprise centre up near one of the two stations.

With tram plans also being discussed to run near Carlton and Netherfield it would also be more beneficial to have one there. I have not seen any mention of any plans to run it to Arnold.

But as always – Arnold, Arnold, Arnold.

Alan Fagg
via email

Thanks to pub for putting Gedling on the map

Well done to Beccy Webster and the team at Gedling Inn who have put Gedling on the map with their Forest offer

It has been a joy to see our village all over the national news and television.

It has made me so proud.

One of my relatives who used to live here and now lives abroad also saw it and it made them homesick.

It has been great for Gedling!

We should now all support this pub in recognition for their efforts.

K Walker,
Gedling

Glad bus plug nightmare will soon be over

Sir,

I would like to thank Cllrs Sam Smith and Mike Adams for a successful campaign that has achieved it’s aim – to get the bus plug removed on Burton Road.

It has been a nightmare for motorists for many years.

So many councillors just kick the can down the road and blame a lack of funding or grief with Nottinghamshire County Council for any lack of progress when you approach them with a problem.

Smith and Adams are proof that you can get things done if you put in the effort.

Other councillors take note!

Name and address
withheld by request

We are getting mugged by big water companies

Sir,

There are some embedded in the country’s infrastructure who are bleeding us all dry whilst polluting rivers and seas on a national scale.

They are the bosses of the privatised water companies.

Severn Trent’s CEO Liv Garfield got £3.2 million last year. North West Water’s CEO Steve Mogford took £3.2 million.

The CEOs of water companies saw their take increase by 20pc last year

But what about us customers?

They get pay rises – we get bill rises!

It’s time the government took back control from this lot who provide a budget service to generate huge profits that would be better put into the pubklic purse than in the pocket of a select few.

Rita Tarkowski ,
Carlton

Farage could be on for an own goal

Sir,

Many people in my local pub clearly think Reform leader Nigel Farage is the best thing since sliced bread – it is all they ever talk about.

However there is another point of view that says that he has messed up big time.

He clearly wants a right wing government in the UK.

But his actions in helping to create and becoming a leading player in Reform UK have ensured that the right will get exactly the opposite.

He has managed to split the right wing vote in this country down the middle, which simply must rank as one of the biggest political own goals of all time.

Hardly a political mastermind is he!

Anthony Price,
Arnold

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    Drive Worry-Free: Protect your finances with the right car insurance

    Sponsored Content
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    Drive Worry-Free: Protect your finances with the right car insurance

    Buying a car is probably one of the biggest money decisions you’ll ever make. It’s a big and expensive piece of equipment that you’re driving around on some of the riskiest terrain ever: South African roads.

    Nevertheless, most drivers choose not to get car insurance. Unfortunately, that also means they have no financial cushion for unexpected events like accidents or theft. This can have huge implications for their finances when things go wrong. 

    Below, we look at just why car insurance is one of the smartest financial moves you can make.

    Why is Car Insurance Important?

    Why do you need car insurance? Can’t you just save up some money every month? Well, that depends on how big your savings are and how long you’ve been saving for. 

    If you’re involved in an accident, repairs and liability claims can run into the hundreds of thousands of rands. Will your current savings be enough?

    For most people that’s a no – which brings us to our next section.

    How Car Insurance Protects Your Finances

    1. Covers repair costs
    • Comprehensive policies pay for damages to your car after accidents, hailstorms, or fires.
    • This avoids out-of-pocket expenses that could deplete your savings.
    1. Liability protection
    • Third-party insurance covers costs if you damage someone else’s property or vehicle.
    • Prevents legal and financial troubles in case of accidents.
    1. Theft and hijacking cover
    • With high vehicle theft rates in South Africa, this is vital.
    • Ensures you won’t lose your finances if your car is stolen.
    1. Add-ons for specific needs
    • Extras like roadside assistance or tyre cover add more layers of financial protection.

    Choosing the Right Car Insurance

    Getting a policy that works for you is about balancing your budget with the level of cover you need. Here are steps to find the right car insurance for your finances:

    1. Assess your risks:
    • Consider factors like where you drive, crime rates in your area, and the value of your car.
    • This helps you choose between basic cover, comprehensive cover, or additional add-ons.
    1. Compare providers:
    • Get quotes from multiple insurers to find competitive pricing.
    • Check reviews to ensure reliable claims processing.
    1. Understand your policy:
    • Read the fine print to know what is and isn’t covered.
    • Be aware of excess fees and exclusions to avoid surprises.
    1. Customise with add-ons:
    • Tailor your policy to include extras like car hire or excess waiver for better protection.

    Benefits of Comprehensive Car Insurance

    While basic car insurance offers limited cover, comprehensive policies give you broad protection. They cover everything from collisions and theft to natural disasters. Including add-ons ensures you’re financially secure no matter the situation. Though comprehensive insurance has higher premiums, the benefits to your finances during an emergency outweighs the cost.

    Final finance thoughts

    The right car insurance does more than protect your vehicle; it shields your finances from unexpected expenses. That’s a big worry off your back. Our country is beautiful, but unfortunately, it’s got very high accident and theft rates. The smart move is to take the time to think about your needs, compare car policies, and invest in car insurance to protect your finances.

    Navigating parenthood: The ultimate guide to versatile pushchairs

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    Navigating parenthood: The ultimate guide to versatile pushchairs

    Did you know that new parents spend an average of 54 hours researching baby gear before ever making a purchase? When it comes to pushchairs, the choices can be overwhelming. This guide will help you navigate the world of versatile pushchairs, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your family’s hectic lifestyle.

    The Rise of Versatile Pushchairs

    In recent years, the baby gear market has experienced a significant surge in demand for adaptable pushchairs. Among these, the travel pram has become increasingly popular. These innovative designs offer parents the flexibility to move seamlessly from daily errands to weekend getaways without sacrificing on either comfort nor functionality.

    Unlike traditional pushchairs, travel prams are engineered with portability in mind. They typically feature lightweight frames, compact folding mechanisms, and travel-friendly accessories. This makes them ideal for families who are constantly on the go or for those of you that are living in urban environments where efficient space management is important.

    Features to Look for in a Travel Pram

    When looking for a travel pram, keep in mind the following key features:

    • Lightweight design: Look for models weighing under 7 kg for easy carrying.

    • Compact folding: Ensure that your travel pram can fold small enough in order to fit in overhead compartments or car boots.

    • Travel-friendly accessories: Check for included travel bags or compatibility with car seats.

    Remember, the best travel pram is the one that adapts to your specific needs while providing comfort for your little one.

    The Advantages of a 3 in 1 Pram

    For parents seeking maximum versatility, a 3 in 1 pram offers unparalleled flexibility. These multi-functional pushchairs adapt to your child’s growth, transforming from a newborn bassinet to a toddler seat and even a travel system when paired with a compatible car seat.

    The benefits of a 3 in 1 pram include:

    • Long-term use from birth to toddlerhood

    • Cost-effectiveness compared to buying separate pushchairs for different stages

    • Adaptability to various lifestyles and terrains

    Making the Right Choice for Your Family

    Choosing the perfect pushchair is a personal decision that depends on your family’s unique needs. Consider factors such as your living space, travel habits, and daily routines. It’s also crucial to try before you buy – many retailers offer in-store demonstrations or even short-term rentals to help you make a well-informed decision.

    Don’t hesitate to read reviews from other likeminded parents and to seek recommendations from friends or family members who have recently navigated the world of pushchairs. Their real-world experiences can provide valuable insights beyond what you’ll find in product descriptions.

    Preparing for Your Pushchair Purchase

    Before making your final decision, consider creating a checklist of your must-have features. This might include factors like the pushchair’s weight, folding mechanism, storage capacity, and compatibility with other baby gear that you own or maybe are planning to purchase. Don’t forget to factor in your budget, but remember that investing in a high-quality, versatile pushchair can save you money in the long run.

    It’s also worth considering your future plans. If you’re thinking about expanding your family, a pushchair that can accommodate multiple children or even convert into a double pushchair might be a wise choice. Additionally, think about the type of terrains that you’ll be walking through most often – city pavements, park trails, or a mix of both – and choose a pushchair with appropriate wheels and suspension.

    Lastly, don’t underestimate the importance of after-sales support. Look for brands that offer comprehensive warranties and easy access to spare parts. This can make a significant difference in the longevity and usability of your pushchair.

    With these considerations in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to find the perfect pushchair that meets your family’s needs and supports your parenting journey. Happy pushchair hunting and enjoy the wonderful adventures that await you and your little one!

    Gedling Country Park annual car pass to cost visitors £200

    David Bratton
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    Gedling Country Park annual car pass to cost visitors £200

    A £200 annual car parking permit is being introduced to benefit regular visitors to Gedling Country Park.

    Gedling Borough Council plan to introduce an annual pass and also daily £2 parking charge at the attraction from April 1.

    They announced that annual permits for Gedling Country Park will be £200 annually, which is equivalent to 55p per day or £55 per quarter, which is approximately 60p per day to park.

    A spokesman for Gedling Borough Council said: “We previously announced that a £2 daily charge is to be introduced to help support the upkeep and maintenance of the park.

    “We can now confirm that, following feedback from the consultation, permits and passes will also be available.”

    Free permits will be given to the Trustees and Committee Members of Friends of Gedling Country Park

    25 free permits will also be given to volunteers of both Gedling Junior and Gedling Park Run

    The spokesman added: “We will be announcing details shortly on how people can apply for a permit before the charges commence on 1 April 2025.”

    Safer Streets scheme boosts security at home of Mapperley pensioner assaulted in during burglary

    Gedling Eye
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    Safer Streets scheme boosts security at home of Mapperley pensioner assaulted in during burglary

    A Mapperley pensioner has shared how the Safer Streets programme has transformed her sense of security following a traumatic burglary and assault last year.

    74-year-old Julie Gosling is just one Nottingham resident to have benefitted from free security equipment through the programme.

    It comes after more than 500 homes and farms across Nottinghamshire have been made safer thanks to the Safer Streets programme.

    The initiative, funded by the Home Office and co-ordinated by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Nottinghamshire, has provided vulnerable residents with enhanced security measures to protect against burglary and other crimes.

    The project involves burglary reduction officers visiting homes to assess vulnerabilities and provide tailored improvements, including additional lighting, Ring doorbells, reinforced gate locks, and additional window locks.

    These upgrades are designed to make homes less appealing to criminals and give residents greater peace of mind.

    “The service from Nottinghamshire Police Safer Streets officers and their subcontractors has been sensitive, flexible, and highly professional. The security upgrades to my home have been life-changing,” Julie, now a retired university lecturer explained.

    She highlighted the installation of a security camera and floodlight at her back door, which connects to her existing Ring camera. These measures, along with reinforced gates, have significantly improved her safety and independence.

    “Overall, I feel so much safer and stronger in myself. My independence and autonomy are increased, and I feel ‘in charge of my territory.’ This has had a hugely positive impact on both my physical health and peace of mind,” she added.

    The Safer Streets programme is a cornerstone of Nottinghamshire’s efforts to reduce burglary, antisocial behaviour, and violence against women and girls.

    Alongside home security upgrades, the scheme has funded CCTV installation, improved street lighting, and high-visibility patrols, all aimed at creating safer, stronger communities.

    Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner Gary Godden said: “Protecting our residents from burglary and crime is a key priority for me. The Safer Streets programme is delivering real results, providing more than 500 households with vital security improvements.

    “It’s heartening to hear how this initiative is not only enhancing safety but also rebuilding confidence and well-being for people like Julie.

    “We are committed to continuing this important work to help even more residents across Nottinghamshire feel safe in their homes.”

    Matthew Lewis Managing Director for Property Services at Dodd Group said: “Collaborating with Nottinghamshire Police and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Nottinghamshire on the Safer Streets programme has truly made a significant impact on the residents within the community.

    “Security in and around our homes is a concern shared by all, and it is uplifting to receive positive feedback from customers regarding both the quality of the products fitted and the installation process itself.

    “At Dodd Group, we take immense pride in fostering a partnering relationship with our clients, ultimately benefitting the communities in which we operate.”

    Arnold burglary suspects quickly arrested after 3am break-in

    Emily Sanchez
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    Arnold burglary suspects quickly arrested after 3am break-in

    Two suspected burglars were arrested after police stopped a car in Arnold following an overnight break-in.

    Officers were called to St Albans Road around 3.30am on Tuesday (11) when a woman reported her home had been broken into.

    The victim, who was not home at the time, was able to confirm a number of items were missing.

    Officers pulled over a vehicle in Surgeys Lane, Arnold, a short time later.

    They detained two men and after searching the car recovered a crow bar.

    Two men, aged 36 and 38, are in custody on suspicion of burglary.

    The 38-year-old man was further detained on suspicion of driving while unfit through drugs after a roadside drugs wipe revealed traces of cocaine.

    Detective Sergeant Matt Dumbrell, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “The officers who attended the break-in worked efficiently to locate this vehicle quickly and arrest two suspects.

    “Whenever officers attend a home break-in we also support the victim. We understand how distressing it can be to have your personal space invaded by an intruder and have precious items stolen.

    “Despite these arrests, we’d still ask anyone with any information, or relevant doorbell, dashcam or CCTV footage, to come forward.”

    Anyone who can assist should call 101, quoting incident number 36 of 11 February 2025, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

    UPDATED: Police appeal over ‘concern’ for man missing from Stoke Bardolph area

    Emily Sanchez
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    UPDATED: Police appeal over ‘concern’ for man missing from Stoke Bardolph area

    UPDATED: Nottinghamshire Police have said David has now been located

    Police have issued an urgent appeal for the public’s help to locate a man reported missing from the Stoke Bardolph area.

    Officers say they are concerned for his safety after he was reported missing at around 10.15pm on Tuesday, February 11 2025.

    David is described as around 5ft 11ins tall.

    He has short cropped grey hair and has a small grey goatee beard.

    Officers say they are concerned for David’s safety
    David is believed to be in a green 23 plate Kia Sportage – like the one pictured above

    He was last seen wearing a high viz-jacket, possibly a polo shirt, jeans and trainers.

    David is believed to be in a green 23 plate Kia Sportage (like in the image).

    A police spokesman said:” If you have seen David or have any information about his whereabouts, please contact Nottinghamshire Police on 101, quoting incident number 661 of Tuesday 11 February 2025.”

    Carlton man criticises council over ‘diabolical’ removal of mother’s grave tributes

    Lauren Monaghan
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    Carlton man criticises council over ‘diabolical’ removal of mother’s grave tributes

    A Carlton man has called Nottingham City Council’s treatment of his mother’s grave ‘diabolical’ after tributes left to her were removed without warning.

    Paul Mason, 54, from Carlton Hill, has complained to the council over items being removed from his mother’s resting place at Wilford Hill Crematorium cemetery in West Bridgford.

    Mr Mason says he also received ‘unsympathetic’ treatment from a manager when he raised the issue.

    His mother, Brenda, died in 1990 at the age of 55 and was buried at the cemetery, where he visits her resting place weekly.

    Mr Mason says he noticed on February 2 that tribute items left on the grave, such as a plant box, a small planted bush and a solar light had been removed.

    The grave of Paul Mason’s mother Brenda
    Paul Mason\’s parents on their wedding day
    Tyre marks over graves at Wilford Hill Cemetery

    A new policy from October 2024 says the council will remove all tribute items and flowers left on graves without giving loved ones any notice.

    After making a complaint to the council about the removed items, Paul said he was told signs had been pinned on notice boards about the rules.

    He said: “No one’s going to pay attention to a notice board in a graveyard, it’s not the nicest of places to remember someone.”

    Paul says he has also seen tyre marks left over graves from the site’s grounds team.

    Paul’s father was the registered owner of the plot his mother is buried in, but his father died eight years ago- Paul was not made aware by his father that ownership would have to be transferred and the ownership expired around 2020.

    The council told Paul that a letter was sent to the grave owner in October 2024 to make them aware of tribute changes, but this would have been addressed to his late father in an address he no longer lived in.

    Paul questioned why no “common sense” was taken in the council’s correspondence and why it has not tried to contact another family member through a note left on his mother’s grave.

    He said: “Why would I tell the cemetery my dad’s died, he’s not buried there, he wanted to be cremated, why would I go to Wilford Hill [to tell them]?

    “Not only have they driven over and damaged graves, they’re picking on people like me that do look after the grave, they don’t care about anything.”

    He says that he received ‘bolshy’ responses to his complaints from a cemetery manager who was ‘unsympathetic’.

    He said: “[Their] attitude was appalling, they said ‘we have a policy that if you don’t own the grave, we can do what we like without permission’.

    “It’s the principle, it’s diabolical, they think they can treat the graves like that, and grievers like that. The solace- they’ve took that away from me I find it quite offensive.

    “I want to go to my mum’s graveside on my birthday morning, I don’t feel like I want to go, I feel like it’s marred my presence of being here, I feel like I’ve been robbed, it really is quite heart-wrenching.”

    A Nottingham City Council spokesperson said: “We fully appreciate that this is a sensitive situation and we have been working with families for a number of years now and discussing options with them.

    “There are two types of graves at our cemeteries: traditional graves that can have a headstone and larger kerbset, and lawn graves, which only allow headstones or an option for a smaller kerbset surround. All grave owners are made aware of rules about unofficial memorials and trinkets. This information is in the deed pack which is issued when a grave is purchased.

    “This also includes ongoing projects – we are currently creating new grave spaces to accommodate the needs of the community. This requires the use of vehicles and equipment to carry out tasks efficiently and respectfully.

    “Recent adverse weather conditions, including rainfall, frost, and occasional snow, have temporarily made the tracks more apparent. However, we want to reassure visitors that once our work is complete, all affected areas will be fully restored with topsoil and grass seed.”

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