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New enterprise centre opens in Arnold to boost business growth and development

David Bratton
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New enterprise centre opens in Arnold to boost business growth and development

Work to create a new enterprise centre in Arnold town centre aimed at supporting local businesses in their growth and development has now been completed.

The centre has been opened at the flagship AMP building in Arnold and is ideal for local startups and small-to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Gedling Borough Council have invested funds, supported by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) into fitting out the previously vacant first floor of the AMP, transforming it into modern office spaces and a meeting room.

The facilities also include parking, an EV charging point and a shower room, so that tenants can choose sustainable travel options.

The AMP, located on the former Arnold Market site, opened in 2022 and has since become home to several successful small businesses on its ground floor

The commercial space is available to let on flexible lease terms and offers prospective tenants competitive rent and the opportunity to be part of a vibrant business community, with an on-site Post Office.

The AMP, located on the former Arnold Market site, opened in 2022 and has since become home to several successful small businesses on its ground floor.

Leader of Gedling Borough Council, Councillor John Clarke MBE, said: “We’re thrilled to announce the completion of the Enterprise Centre at the AMP.

“This new space will provide a vital resource for local businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs looking for office space in the heart of Arnold. We’ve seen the success of the ground floor units and we are confident the first floor will follow suit, bringing more jobs and growth to the area.”

Councillor Jenny Hollingsworth, portfolio holder for Sustainable Growth and Economy at Gedling Borough Council, said: “The AMP’s expansion is yet another step in our commitment to boosting the local economy and providing essential support for businesses. The energy efficiency measures will benefit new tenants and contribute to the council’s commitment to be carbon neutral by 2030”.

Any enquiries relating to the renting of office space at The AMP first floor, can be directed to estates@gedling.gov.uk.

Tracking natural disasters with advanced satellite imagery

Gedling Eye
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Tracking natural disasters with advanced satellite imagery

From raging wildfires that consume entire forests to hurricanes that leave cities underwater, natural disasters can devastate communities, ecosystems, and economies. In the face of such destructive force, swift response and early detection are crucial for minimizing damage and saving lives. One of the most advanced tools in disaster management today is satellite imagery — offering a bird’s-eye view of unfolding crises and equipping responders with the near real-time and historical data they need to track, predict, and assess natural catastrophes with precision.

Space remote sensing technology has the remarkable ability to continuously monitor vast regions, detecting early warning signs that might otherwise go unnoticed. For example, satellites can identify rising sea surface temperatures that signal an impending hurricane or detect abnormal heat patterns hinting at a developing wildfire. 

Utilizing a real-time satellite images viewer or similar platforms, emergency teams can monitor large-scale disasters as they unfold, enabling proactive preparation and response. Let’s explore how real-time satellite view contributes to monitoring and managing natural catastrophes effectively.

The Role of Satellite Imagery in Disaster Monitoring and Management

Satellites are essential for observing natural cataclysms, offering high-resolution images, thermal information, and atmospheric data. This valuable information helps scientists, government officials, and emergency responders make well-informed decisions. The key benefits of using space technology for disaster monitoring include:

  • Extensive Coverage. Satellites can survey vast and hard-to-reach areas that are challenging to access on the ground.
  • Real-Time Observation. Ongoing imaging enables quick identification of disasters as they occur.
  • Predictive Insights. AI-driven models analyze satellite data to predict the severity and trajectory of storms, floods, and wildfires. 

Besides, current satellite imagery plays a crucial role in responding to and recovering from catastrophes. It offers essential information for planning, resource distribution, and rebuilding efforts. Key advantages include:

1. Quick Damage Evaluation. Satellites can swiftly pinpoint affected regions, helping decision-makers understand the extent of damage and organize emergency assistance effectively.

2. Improved Resource Distribution. By assessing damage from afar, officials can focus relief efforts and direct resources to the most impacted areas.

3. Better Coordination. Live satellite view allows all response teams to access the same accurate data, enhancing communication and efficiency in disaster response.

4. Tracking Recovery Progress. Space imagery helps monitor rebuilding efforts, highlighting areas that still need support.

5. Immediate Data Access. Services like UP42 provide quick access to the most recent satellite images, enabling disaster agencies to gather and analyze vital information instantly.

As remote sensing technology evolves, its combination with AI and machine learning will further improve disaster response, making management more efficient and effective in saving lives. Let’s examine how satellites contribute to tracking and mitigating the effects of different kinds of natural catastrophes.

Types of Natural Disasters Tracked by Satellites

Space technology provides specific solutions for different natural events. Here’s how satellites help in monitoring and reducing the impact of various disasters:

Hurricanes and Cyclones

Satellites monitor the development, strength, and trajectory of storms by observing cloud formations, sea surface temperatures, and wind velocities. Organizations such as NASA and NOAA utilize recent satellite images to provide early alerts, enabling communities to brace for severe weather occurrences.

Forest Fires

Satellites with thermal sensors can spot heat changes, allowing for quick detection of wildfires in hard-to-reach areas. This early warning helps in quickly sending firefighting teams, which can limit damage.

Droughts

By examining plant health and soil moisture, satellites deliver important information about drought situations. This data supports better water management and conservation efforts to lessen the effects on farming and local communities.

Floods

Satellites equipped with Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) can see through clouds to track flood levels in near real-time. This ability is vital for evaluating affected regions and organizing timely evacuations and aid.

Tsunamis

In the case of tsunamis, satellites monitor sea surface anomalies and wave propagation patterns, providing early warning signs of potential threats. Post-event, high-resolution up-to-date satellite images help assess coastal damage and guide disaster response efforts.

Landslides 

Interferometric SAR (InSAR) technology can identify ground shifts, highlighting areas that may be prone to landslides. Early warnings allow for preventive actions, helping to save lives and property.

Earthquakes

Although satellites are unable to predict earthquakes; however, they can track ground deformation and movements along fault lines through radar technology. Following an earthquake, high-resolution space imagery is instrumental in evaluating damaged infrastructure, landslides, and the impact on affected communities.

Despite these benefits, current satellite systems have limitations in how often and how clearly they can observe natural catastrophes. To address these issues, new microsatellite constellations are being developed to offer more regular and detailed views. Additionally, combining Artificial Intelligence (AI) with satellite data analysis improves prediction abilities and automates the spotting of disaster-related issues.

The combination of advanced space technology and AI is set to transform disaster management, offering more precise monitoring, early warnings, and efficient response strategies to safeguard our lives and property. Let’s take a look at different satellites that are tailored for disaster observation. 

Key Satellites and Technologies Used

A variety of satellites are specifically designed for natural catastrophe monitoring, each featuring advanced sensors:

  • Landsat (NASA/USGS). Offers both historical and current satellite imagery to evaluate land use and the effects of cataclysms.
  • Sentinel (ESA). Utilizes radar and optical imaging to monitor floods, wildfires, and seismic activities.
  • GOES (NOAA). Observes weather patterns and storm developments in near real time.
  • MODIS (NASA). Identifies temperature fluctuations and smoke emissions from wildfires.

These satellites collaborate with ground-based sensors and AI-enhanced models to enhance precision and response efficiency. One notable example of services dedicated to disaster observation is EOSDA LandViewer. Let’s learn more about it.

Mitigate Natural Disasters And Their Aftermath With EOSDA LandViewer

When natural disasters occur, having the appropriate tools can significantly impact the response and recovery efforts. EOSDA LandViewer utilizes satellite view of the Earth to deliver clear and actionable insights. No matter how remote, rural, or difficult to access an area may be — especially in the aftermath of a disaster — you can quickly analyze the situation. These remote sensing capabilities assist NGOs, nonprofits, researchers, insurers, and disaster management teams in identifying risks, planning effective responses, and evaluating damage post-event.

Here are the specific features that EOSDA LandViewer offers to mitigate the risks associated with natural catastrophes and their aftermath:

  • Monitor environmental changes over time
  • Analyze the effects of climate change on particular regions
  • Conduct ecological studies
  • Manage vital resources such as water and carbon
  • Help design safer urban environments and infrastructure
  • Identify areas vulnerable to hazards
  • Evaluate damage from disasters
  • Enhance emergency response strategies

EOSDA LandViewer is user-friendly, even for intricate tasks, providing essential data from various sources to support decision-making based on accurate, reliable, and timely information.

The unpredictability and severity of global natural catastrophes in 2024 have underscored the importance of advanced tools for satellite monitoring and analysis, which enable us to prepare more effectively and respond more swiftly, ultimately making a significant impact when it is most needed.

Space imagery has changed how we monitor, forecast, and react to natural disasters. It offers near real-time information, predictive analysis, and evaluations after the cataclysms, which are crucial for saving lives, minimizing damage, and aiding in recovery. With ongoing technological improvements, satellite disaster tracking will become more accurate and efficient, contributing to a stronger future for communities around the globe.

Autor: Peter Kogut

Petro Kogut has a PhD in Physics and Mathematics and is the author of multiple scientific publications. Among other topics, he has a specific focus on a satellite imagery processing and application in his academic research. Currently, Prof. Dr. Petro Kogut also works a science advisor.

Step-by-step guide to getting ready for your first mortgage

Sponsored Content
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Step-by-step guide to getting ready for your first mortgage

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but navigating the mortgage process can feel daunting. To make things easier, we’ve broken it down into manageable steps to help you prepare for your first mortgage.

This guide will walk you through what you need to know, from understanding your finances to finding the right lender.

Step 1: Assess Your Financial Situation

Before diving into the property market, take a close look at your finances. Start by calculating your monthly income and expenses to determine how much you can afford to repay each month.

  • Check Your Credit Score: Lenders use your credit score to assess your reliability as a borrower. Obtain a free copy of your credit report and look for any discrepancies or overdue accounts that could impact your mortgage application.
  • Build a Deposit: In the UK, most lenders require a deposit of at least 5% of the property’s value, though a larger deposit can often secure better interest rates.

Step 2: Use an Income Mortgage Calculator

One of the most useful tools for first-time buyers is an income mortgage calculator. This tool estimates how much you could borrow based on your income, monthly outgoings, and other financial commitments. It can give you a realistic idea of your budget and help you set expectations for your house search.

Step 3: Research Mortgage Options

Mortgages come in various types, and it’s essential to understand your options to choose one that fits your circumstances.

  • Fixed-Rate Mortgages: These offer a stable interest rate for a set period, making it easier to budget.
  • Variable-Rate Mortgages: These rates can fluctuate with market conditions, potentially leading to lower payments but also higher risk.
  • Help to Buy Schemes: The UK government offers schemes for first-time buyers, such as shared ownership or equity loans, which can make buying a home more accessible.

Step 4: Calculate Additional Costs

Buying a home involves more than just the purchase price. Factor in additional costs, such as:

  • Stamp duty (if applicable)
  • Solicitor’s fees
  • Valuation and survey fees
  • Moving costs
  • Building insurance

Having a clear understanding of these expenses will prevent unwelcome surprises during the buying process.

Step 5: Gather Your Documents

Lenders will require a range of documents to assess your mortgage application. Start preparing these early to avoid delays:

  • Proof of identity (passport or driving licence)
  • Proof of address (utility bills or bank statements)
  • Proof of income (payslips or tax returns if self-employed)
  • Bank statements (covering the last three to six months)

Step 6: Speak to a Mortgage Advisor

A qualified mortgage advisor can help you navigate the complex mortgage market. They can recommend products tailored to your needs, explain the fine print, and ensure you understand the terms and conditions of your mortgage agreement.

Step 7: Get a Mortgage Agreement in Principle

Before making an offer on a property, it’s advisable to secure a mortgage agreement in principle (AIP). This is a conditional offer from a lender stating how much they’re willing to lend you. While it’s not a guarantee, it shows sellers you’re a serious buyer and can speed up the buying process.

Step 8: Start House Hunting

With your finances in order and a clear idea of your budget, you can begin searching for your dream home. Consider factors such as location, size, and proximity to schools or transport links.

Step 9: Make an Offer

Once you’ve found the right property, make an offer through the estate agent. Be prepared to negotiate, but stick to your budget to avoid overstretching your finances.

Council plans to increase tax by 2.99% for residents across Gedling borough

Gedling Eye Reporter
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Council plans to increase tax by 2.99% for residents across Gedling borough

Gedling Borough Council plans to increase its portion of council tax by 2.99 per cent.

The Labour-run authority’s draft budget for the financial year ahead will be discussed at a meeting of the council’s cabinet on Thursday (February 13).

Leader Cllr John Clarke (Lab), will present a plan which includes a 2.99 per cent rise increase in the authority’s part of council tax bills for the 12 months from April.

This means properties in Band A will pay an increase of £3.75 per year, while Band D properties will pay £4.38 more per year.

Those in Band C properties will pay an extra £5 per year.

The highest Band H will pay an extra £11.25 per year.

The increase is slightly higher than the 2.98 per cent rise which was also brought in last year.

The council will continue to “mitigate the impact of council tax increases for “Gedling’s most financially vulnerable households”, documents say.

The authority got a 0.92 per cent increase in central Government grant for the year – significantly less than the 6.8 per cent average Government grant rise for all councils across England.

Council documents say: “With the continued removal of central government support, the council will increasingly rely on income generated by local fees and charges, and council tax, and these will need to be consistently
increased year-on-year to offset the momentum of continual reductions in available budgets.”

The budget will be presented at a full council meeting for final approval on Wednesday, March 5.

Final household council tax bills in Nottinghamshire include portions for either the county or city council, plus a district or borough council, and contributions for the police and fire services.

All these authorities are now setting rates for the year ahead, with final total bills known in March.

Full list of road closures and roadworks planned across Gedling borough

Gedling Eye
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Full list of road closures and roadworks planned across Gedling borough

There are a number of road closures in place across Gedling borough this week that drivers should be aware of.

Some roads are closed while others have lane closures. Temporary traffic measures or diversion routes may also be in place on roads in the region. Motorists are urged to make allowances for these closures and alter their travel arrangements if necessary.

If you’re planning to travel through the borough over the next few weeks take a look at the list below to see whether your journey will be affected.

Arnold

Hallams Lane, Arnold
12 February – 13 February
Roadworks, Delays possible during pothole repairs between Central Avenue & Arnot Hill Road
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Jermyn Drive, Arnold
14 February – 18 February
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Openreach

Cross Street, Arnold
17 February – 19 February
Delays likely due to road closure
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

St Albans Road, Arnold
17 February – 19 February
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Laver Close, Arnold
18 February – 20 February
Responsibility for works: Openreach

Bestwood

Bestwood Lodge Drive, Bestwood
12 February – 13 February
Delays possible for pothole repairs
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Moor Road, Bestwood
17 February – 18 February
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Mill Lane, Bestwood Village
18 February – 20 February
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Calverton

Hollinwood Lane, Calverton
13 February
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Main Street, Calverton
17 February – 21 February
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Roadworks

Carlton

Highfield Drive, Carlton
13 February
Delays likely due to road closure
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Carlton Hill, Carlton
06 January – 14 February
Roadworks, delays expected
Responsibility for works: National Grid

Kenia Close, Carlton
14 February – 17 February
Roadworks, Delays possible

Orlando Drive, Carlton
14 February – 21 February
Delays likely due to road closure along the full length of Orlando Drive, Carlton
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Baslow Avenue, Carlton
14 February – 26 February
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: National Grid

Belper Avenue, Carlton
14 February – 28 February
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: National Grid

Carlton Hill, Carlton
17 February – 20 February
Roadworks, Delays likely
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Forester Grove, Carlton
19 February – 04 March
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: National Grid

Gedling

Tamarix Close, Gedling
13 February
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Arnold Lane, Gedling
13 February – 15 February
Roadworks, Delays likely
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Colliery Way, Gedling
13 February – 21 February
Roadworks, Delays likely
Responsibility for works: National Grid

Lincoln Drive, Gedling
13 February – 21 February
Responsibility for works: National Grid

Lambley Lane, Gedling
14 February – 21 February
Responsibility for works: National Grid

Trent Valley Road, Gedling
15 February – 16 February
Roadworks, Delays possible at the traffic signals junction of Stoke Lane & A612 Colwick loop Road
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Linby

Main Street, Linby
17 February – 21 February
Delays likely due to road closure
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Mapperley

Plains Road, Mapperley
11 February – 13 February
Delays likely due to lane closure
Responsibility for works: National Grid

Netherfield

Victoria Road, Netherfield
11 February – 13 February
Roadworks, Delays possible due to lane closure
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Ravenshead

Longdale Lane, Ravenshead
12 February
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Woodthorpe

Lowcroft, Woodthorpe
12 February – 13 February
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Moor Lane, Woodborough
12 February – 13 February
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Police dog PD Rocket unleashed in Carlton after suspect fled vehicle stopped by officers

Emily Sanchez
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Police dog PD Rocket unleashed in Carlton after suspect fled vehicle stopped by officers

A brave police dog has helped catch a suspect who made off from a vehicle stopped in Carlton on Saturday.

PD Rocket found the suspect lying in a hedge in a back garden in Carlton.

He and his handler had been called in after a suspect fled from the passenger seat of a car in Standhill Road at about 730pm.

Screenshot

Officers lost sight of him as he jumped over fences, but he was unable to escape the attentions of PD Rocket.

On that occasion, a 19-year-old man arrested on suspicion of assault and possessing cannabis.

Sergeant Nicholas Dachtler, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “Our general-purpose police dogs are trained to use their noses and their immense speed to bring suspects to heel and to keep the public safe.

“The dog and their handler did an outstanding job to bring these skills to bear and all should be proud of their actions.”

Gedling Borough Council joins with other Notts authorities to issue update on local government reorganisation plans

Emily Sanchez
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Gedling Borough Council joins with other Notts authorities to issue update on local government reorganisation plans

Gedling Borough Council has joined with other Notts local authorities to issue an update on local government reorganisation plans.

They wrote: “Last Wednesday the Government wrote to the Leaders and Chief Executives of all nine Councils in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire formally inviting them to submit proposals to create a new, City and County-wide structure of unitary authorities.

“What this means in practice is abolishing the current two-tier system of local authorities and creating fewer, unitary Councils with a higher population of residents, which would be responsible for providing all services in their area.

“The invitation is part of a wider package of reorganisation to public services with the intention of reducing costs and improving services. The move away from the existing two-tier structure is aimed at streamlining local government and enhancing efficiency.”

They revealed that councils now have until March 21 to submit initial plans and preparatory work across all nine local authorities have already started. They will be asked to submit their final proposals by November 28.

“This is the biggest shake-up of local government in 50 years,” they wrote.

“All nine councils will continue to work together in the public interest, exploring all options available that meet the Government’s requirements.”

New crossing approved for Westdale Lane in Carlton which is ‘used by 9,000 vehicles a day’ – despite objections from residents

Lauren Monaghan
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New crossing approved for Westdale Lane in Carlton which is ‘used by 9,000 vehicles a day’ – despite objections from residents

A new pedestrian crossing has been approved on a road in Carlton used by more than 9,000 vehicles a day.

Nottinghamshire County Council approved the proposals for a new puffin crossing in Westdale Lane, Carlton, between Adbolton Avenue and Darley Avenue on Monday (Feburary 3).

Some residents living nearby objected over parking, but the council has given the go-ahead, saying it is needed to improve pedestrian safety, including for school children, along the busy road.

Puffin crossings include a press button and are seen as more efficient as they use sensors to detect when people are waiting to cross the road and how long they are in the road for.

The proposals for a new puffin crossing in Westdale Lane, Carlton, between Adbolton Avenue and Darley Avenue have been approved
Gordon Donaldson has lived on Westdale Lane for around five years and does not believe the council’s figures are accurate (PHOTO: LDRS)

They come with zig-zag road markings before and after the crossing, on either side of the road.

The new crossing will be built on raised sections of pavement sticking out into the lane which currently acts as an unofficial crossing point.

Surveys conducted showed 148 pedestrians used the unofficial crossing daily and 93 crossed the road opposite the Co-op store.

The road also sees an average 9,100 vehicles a day.

The council conducted a public consultation on the plans between May 24, 2024 until June 21, and received eight objections.

Residents objected to the plans based on new zig-zag markings causing parking issues for visitors and deliveries and problems with accessing their driveways.

Council papers said: “Westdale Lane currently has hatching around the existing [unofficial crossing] with double yellow lines around each junction, therefore parking is already limited outside residences at these locations.”

They also objected to the new crossing due to the potential for increased traffic, new lighting and feeling “no need” for it to be placed in that location.

Gordon Donaldson has lived on Westdale Lane for around five years and does not believe the council’s figures are accurate.

He said: “I’ve watched that and I know during the course of the day there’s not the number they’re quoting.

“This crossing, will service a minuscule number of people- it won’t benefit this area one jot.”

He is also concerned over what the plans mean for parking and accessing his driveway.

He said: “On the approach [to the crossing] there will be a stop line, where the traffic will stop, coming further more towards the edge of our driveway.

“Then you’ve got the regulatory zigzag lines, no parking, no nothing, which impacts on us.

“Where are our friends going to park, deliveries? If we have work done on the house and people doing services for us where are they going to park?”

Mr Donaldson believes the better option to add to the road is new speed cameras with car speeding being “the biggest problem for residents”.

Another resident, who asked not to be named, and lives near the planned crossing said “there’s no need” for it in that part of the lane.

She said: “I’ve lived here for 30 years, there’s never been an accident.

“They were saying there was a bad accident- there wasn’t and I corrected them.”

Representing the Carlton West ward, County Councillor Jim Creamer (Lab) said: “It’s always difficult finding the perfect place for a crossing on a road like Westdale Lane, but residents have been asking for this for a long time and I’m glad to see proposals finally being put in place.

“This safety measure will provide peace of mind for a lot of people, including children at the Phoenix School.”

Plans to demolish The Friar Tuck pub in Arnold and build retirement flats tipped for approval

Joe Locker (LDR Reporter)
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Plans to demolish The Friar Tuck pub in Arnold and build retirement flats tipped for approval

Plans to demolish a pub in Arnold to make way for retirement flats have been recommended for approval by planners.

The Friar Tuck, in Gedling Road, is currently owned by Greene King and was originally opened in 1958.

Retirement property company McCarthy and Stone had already submitted plans to demolish the pub in August last year, in favour of building a 51-bed retirement living development in its place.

The pub was then closed in October. Gedling Borough Council is now due to make a final decision on the development next week.

“The proposed development would comprise of self-contained apartments, with a mix of 15, two-bed apartments and 36, one-bed apartments, distributed across three floors,” planning documents say.

friar-tuck
PICTURED: The Friar Tuck in Arnold

“The building would be L-shaped and centrally located. There will be a total of 22 off-street parking spaces, including two disabled spaces, provided within the site that would be accessed from a new site access off Gedling Road to the south of the existing access point.

“It is proposed that the area around the building would be a communal garden for the residents where it is proposed to introduce new tree and hedge planting in addition to paved patio areas.”

The applicant says there are 11 other pubs within a 15-minute walk
of the site, which it considered enough to “constitute a sufficient level of provision within the vicinity, which can be accessed by walking, cycling and public transport.”

The developers would pay £70,000 towards facilities in the local area, including £21,000 towards improving a nearby bus stop, £27,600 towards local GP practices and £13,800 towards future affordable housing.

The plans have been recommended for approval at a Gedling Borough Council Planning Committee meeting on Wednesday (February 12).

Gedling Borough Council to spend £1.1million on housing for homeless families

Gedling Eye
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Gedling Borough Council to spend £1.1million on housing for homeless families

Gedling Borough Council is increasing the amount of temporary accommodation it plans to buy because of a surge in the number of local families facing homelessness.

The authority says it is spending £1.1 million on the properties over the next two years.

The council previously planned to purchase six family homes, but now hopes to buy more with the funding, documents say.

The plan, to be discussed in a cabinet meeting next Thursday, February 13, reads: “Due to increase in demand for the service, the 2025/26 allocation was to purchase six family homes, however, we are currently working on options to maximise the number of units we could purchase for this amount.”

The allocation of funds for temporary accommodation is part of the council’s three-year spending plan, to be sent to a full council meeting for final approval on Wednesday, March 5.

The authority is taking a series of measures to tackle the rise in homeless applications over the years, council documents say.

A bowling pavilion in Arnold could be turned into a night shelter for the homeless, a council report in January revealed.

Section 21 eviction notices are the second-most common reason for homelessness in Gedling, the council reports adds.

Landlords can use Section 21 to evict their tenants during a ‘periodic’ tenancy or after a fixed-term tenancy.

The waiting list for social housing applications has also increased in Gedling from 543 in October 2021 to 768 in October 2024, the January report said.

In 2023, a total of 266 people in Gedling were found homeless, according to figures by national housing charity Shelter.

This included those in bed and breakfasts, hostels and other emergency housing.

Cllr Mike Adams (Con) said: “My group and I have challenged Gedling Borough Labour on their policy to use Bed and Breakfast accomodation in the Overview and scrutiny committee at Gedling Borough Council for temporary housing.

“Their bill has equated on average to around £200,000 per year.

“We have made the case on countless occasions on buying new council housing to house larger families and keep this bill down.

“They have chosen instead to carry on with their policy of utilising Bed and Breakfast as part of their temporary accommodation offer.

“We are glad to see this large investment, hope it is spent well and finally goes toward family homes and represents a sound investment of over £1 million of tax payers’ money and hope is the beginning of the end for the high cost bed and breakfast provision.”

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