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How tube laser cutting improves efficiency and helps to reduce waste

In today’s world of manufacturing, speed is key to staying competitive, and being environmentally friendly is important for business operations’ competitiveness and longevity. Tube laser cutting technology plays a role in these advancements by effectively cutting metal tubes and profiles. Exploring its advantages can give us insight into how this innovation reshapes sectors that depend heavily on engineering processes. 

Understanding Tube Laser Cutting

Tube laser cutting uses a laser beam to slice through metal tubes. It is popular for industries needing precise cuts, such as the automotive and aerospace sectors and construction projects. Unlike other cutting techniques, laser cutting is contactless, which means there is no physical contact between the tool and the material being cut. This feature reduces tool wear and maintenance requirements while eliminating contamination risk. 

Reducing Material Waste

Tube laser cutting offers a benefit by cutting down on material waste compared to traditional methods of cutting that usually lead to leftover scraps and excess waste due to precision issues or cutting constraints. Unlike some other methods, like plasma, flame, waterjet and mechanical cutting, that produce imprecise cuts with wide kerfs, laser cutting delivers precise cuts with minimal kerfs. This technology enables nesting, allowing them to be automatically pieced together in combination, reducing the number of cuttings, improving the cutting efficiency, and reducing the waste of tubes. 

Enhanced Precision and Consistency

Tube laser cutting provides accuracy compared to other methods of cutting materials. The focused beam of the laser enables clean cuts without the drawbacks commonly seen in mechanical cutting processes like tool deterioration and material deformation. This level of precision ensures that components remain consistently uniform across manufacturing cycles—a factor in sectors where precision is paramount for product effectiveness and excellence. 

Speed and Efficiency

Tube laser cutting is well known for its speed and accuracy due to the integration of automation and computer-assisted designs that streamline the manufacturing process. This effectively cut down on production time significantly. This enhanced efficiency results in order completions and the capability to meet deadlines without sacrificing quality. As a result, manufacturers can boost their production capacity and maintain competitiveness by delivering solutions promptly. 

Versatility in Design

Tube laser cutting offers remarkable flexibility, especially when working with complex shapes and designs. Unlike traditional cutting methods like saws or shears, laser cutting can easily handle intricate patterns on metal or plastic tubes that would otherwise be difficult or impossible to achieve. By incorporating features for cuts and shaping along with profiling options, such as creating specific curves or patterns, makers can push the boundaries of innovation and craft more elaborate products.

Lower Energy Consumption

Even though tube laser cutting machines are considered technology tools, they are often more energy efficient than cutting and machining equipment commonly used in industry settings. Their ability to harness energy efficiently and operate at speeds contributes to reduced energy consumption levels, leading to cost savings and minimising environmental impact. This efficiency doesn’t just bring advantages for manufacturers. 

Minimised Setup Time

Tube laser cutting saves a lot of time due to its setup process compared to methods that need different setups for each cut or long preparatory steps for each job. Changeover in tube laser cutters happens swiftly with minimal downtime. This flexibility is especially useful for custom projects or handling multiple small batch orders. Manufacturers appreciate the enhanced versatility that enables them to manage various project needs effectively. 

Eco-Friendly Production

Emphasising sustainability is increasingly important in today’s world, where tube laser cutting stands out for its manufacturing approaches that help minimise waste and energy use while maintaining top-notch production quality standards. These enable businesses to reduce their carbon footprint and positively attract environmentally conscious market sectors. 

Cost Effectiveness

Investing in tube laser cutting services can be a cost-effective solution, especially for businesses that don’t need to own the machinery themselves. For lower volumes or specialised projects, it often makes more sense to turn to an experienced service provider who can handle the job efficiently.

Laser cutting reduces material waste and energy consumption, helping to lower costs per part and improve overall production efficiency. Plus, with the durability and precision of laser cutting technology, you can expect consistent, high-quality results without the maintenance concerns that come with traditional cutting methods.

Conclusion

Tube laser cutting has become a valuable asset in manufacturing, offering significant improvements in efficiency and precision over traditional methods. Its accuracy, speed, and versatility enable manufacturers to achieve intricate designs while minimising waste and reducing costs. As industries continue to evolve, the role of laser tube cutting is becoming more prominent in meeting complex market demands. By providing a precise and efficient cutting solution, this technology helps companies stay competitive in an increasingly demanding global market.

Council to bring back landlord licensing scheme in Netherfield to boost housing quality across town

A property licensing scheme is set to be reintroduced in Netherfield in a bid to improve housing quality across the town.

Gedling Borough Council is relaunching the scheme, known as Selective Licensing, that makes it mandatory for landlords to have licences for each of their private rented properties.

The scheme was successfully launched in 2018 in Netherfield, and was expanded to Colwick, Carlton Hill, Daybrook and Newstead Village in November 2022.

The Netherfield scheme ended in September 2023 and, following a consultation, the council now plans to make the ward a selective licensing area again. 

rent keys
Over 81% of properties inspected in Netherfield by the council were found to contain hazards that required work to protect the health and safety of the tenant.

The new designation covering Netherfield begins on January 5, 2025 and will run until January 4, 2030. The council is now accepting applications, which can be submitted online through the Selective Licensing page on the council’s website.

The licence requires that licence holders manage their properties effectively and safely. The council will work with landlords and residents to improve the area but where necessary use the licensing conditions and enforcement powers to bring about improvements.

“We helped over dozens of residents with improvements, and we are confident that the scheme will be a success again.”  – Leader of Gedling Borough Council, Councillor John Clarke MBE

Selective Licensing can be applied in areas where there is deprivation, high levels of antisocial behaviour, high levels of crime, high levels of migration and poor housing conditions. The licensing gives the council’s Environmental Health team powers to do more when landlords are not taking steps to deal with issues relating to property standards and management. 

The scheme, which ran from 2018 – 2023 in Netherfield, was hailed as a success with 662 landlords applying for a licence. Over 81% of properties inspected by the council were found to contain hazards that required work to protect the health and safety of the tenant.

52 properties inspected had imminent hazards around areas such as fire safety and inadequate fire protection or detection, which all required immediate action. Civil penalty notices were also issued in relation to twenty-two properties for failing to apply for a licence.

Leader of Gedling Borough Council, Councillor John Clarke MBE said the scheme had brought about some ‘incredible improvements’ to living standards.

He said: “Selective Licensing reduces hazards, makes homes safer and helps landlords to ensure private properties are being well managed and maintained.

“We carried out a consultation with landlords and we have taken their comments and feedback into consideration.

“We helped over dozens of residents with improvements, and we are confident that the scheme will be a success again.”  

You can find out more about the scheme by visiting: www.gedling.gov.uk/resident/housing/selectivelicensing/

Nottinghamshire Hospice launches ‘Light up a Life’ campaign to remember loved ones

Nottinghamshire Hospice has launched its annual “Light up a Life” campaign to remember loved ones and the joy they brought to people’s lives.

Each year the charity gives local people a chance to shine a light on the lives of loved ones who have died through a donation towards the Hospice’s vital care.

This year dedications will be displayed both in a digital night sky filled with stars for each person remembered, and a dedication wall at the Hospice with hand-written stars.

Visitors are welcome to visit these dedications over the course of November and December.  

Jacqui has supported the Hospice for over a decade after they cared for her mum Margaret, who died of dementia.

Notts_Hospice
Nottinghamshire Hospice is lit up at night over the festive period

She said: “My Dad, then nearly 90, was mum’s primary carer, supported by myself and my sisters. We arranged for some residential respite care to give my father a rest, but Mum found it impossible to settle away from the people and home that she loved, so we made the decision to have her nursed at home.

“Her condition deteriorated, and she became bedridden. When we were able to secure overnight care from Nottinghamshire Hospice, we knew that she would be safe and well looked after.

“The Light Up A Life campaign is an initiative that I always support. Christmas is a time for reflection and looking back to the people we’ve lost. It’s good to turn these thoughts into something positive.”

The Hospice is also holding two remembrance events on Sunday, December 1 People will join one another in a moment of reflection – with candle lighting, readings and refreshments, as well as the chance to see the dedication wall at the Hospice.

Cathie Alcock is a nurse and Head of Community Services at Nottinghamshire Hospice – she and her teams deliver end-of-life care directly in people’s homes: “Our care is special and is a lifeline for people caring for loved ones at the end of their life. We offer relief in their darkest moments and help more people die at home surrounded by home comforts and loved ones.”

In 2023/24, the Hospice cared for 2,498 people, which included 38,774 hours of care in people’s homes. 8 in 10 of Hospice patients would be in hospital if it wasn’t for its care (96% of people would prefer to die at home).

Nottinghamshire Hospice is a charity and relies on donations to make care for people like Margaret and her family possible. £30 pays for an hour of care at someone’s home, £120 pays for a course of bereavement sessions, and £300 pays for a member of our team to stay overnight in somebody’s home.

MATCH REPORT: Carlton Town 2-3 Stocksbridge Park Steels

NPL First Division East
November 9, 2024

The Millers twice led in the game but the visitors scored three times from set pieces and Carlton’s usually reliable defence has now conceded eight goals in those three defeats.  With no midweek games scheduled until the end of the month the club has the opportunity to address the issues on the training ground ahead of next week’s trip to Ossett Utd.

Carlton, playing in front of an excellent 352 attendance, made four changes to the side which had lost to Sherwood Colliery in the Notts Senior Cup in midweek.  In came Felix Annan, Lewis Durow, Charlie Carter and Oliver Clark.  Out went Josh Shatel, Niall Hylton, Jonny Gilbert and Liam Moran.  Stocksbridge included former Carlton striker and fans favourite Alex Hardwick in theor starting line up.

The Millers have an awful record against Steels, winning just three of the 19 previous meetings with the last win coming in the 2016-17 season.  And in a tight opening period Stocksbridge had the first opportunity when the lively Joao Silva lifted a good chance high over the bar.

Carlton’s first effort came soon after with Ben Townsend tipping over a Khyle Sargent volley after Clark had flicked on a Durow throw.

The home side opened the scoring on 34 minutes from the penalty spot.  Sargent chipped a lovely ball through to the advancing Dorow.  It was handled in the area by Paul Iggulden and Niall Davie made no mistake from the spot.

Carlton had their tails up at this stage and the impressive Nat Watson volleyed over the bar after Clark had won another header.  Steels responded and Dean Freeman made one important headed clearance while Dan Bown made another and one of them cleared a dangerous looking attack from near to the goal line.

Davie had a chance to try a spectacular volley in first half added time after a lovely Watson pass but he elected to bring the ball down onto his favoured left foot.  Steels won possession and broke quickly with Durow conceding a free kick on the half way line.  The ball was knocked long, Steels won the header and Marshall steered home at the back post much to Carlton’s frustration.

The Millers responded well and were back in front eight minutes into the second half.  Stocksbridge only half cleared a Durow throw and Clark volleyed into the corner of the net, aided by a deflection from a Steels defender.

Again, the goal lifted the home side and Townsend had to be alert to save from Clark after a Davie cross.  Stocksbridge are in the play off positions and they showed why with a  quick break that was only thwarted by an excellent tackle from Shea Thomspon-Harris.  Silva then fired wide as Steels pushed forward.

The visitors levelled for the second time on 61 minutes when a corner was allowed to reach Marshall and he fired home.  Two minutes later he completed his treble when another corner was flicked on and he converted at the far post.

The goal seemed to knock the stuffing out of Carlton.  There was plenty of endeavour but very little in the way of chances in the final half hour.  Substitute Moran was denied by a clearance from Iggulden and in the final minutes he beat Iggulden with a fine drop of the shoulder after some good work by fellow substitute Hylton but Moran’s angled drive was comfortably saved by Townsend.

Carlton Town: F Annan, S Thompson-Harris (L Gorman 69), L Durow, D Brown, D Freeman, C Carter (N Hylton 69), N Davie, K Sargent, N Watson, O Clark (L Moran 80), A Howes (M Ford 80).  Unused Subs: L Bonser

Goals: N Davie 34 (pen), O Clark 53; Thomas Marshall 45+2, 61, 63

Carlton Town Supporters Club MOTM: Niall Davie

Att: 352

MATCH REPORT: Linby 2 – 0 Holbrook St Michaels

Linby progressed to the next round of the CMAL League Cup , by way of a 2-0 win against a very good Holbrook team in front of a large Church Lane crowd.

After a cagey opening 20 minutes, Linby created the first chance of note in the game.
Liam Cartledge’s first-time cross found the run of Paddy Stefaniak and he hit his shot first
time, but Holbrook’s keeper, Daniel Hartsorn, produced a good save to deny him. Spencer Pollitt followed up, but again, Hartsorn denied Linby.

On 24 mins Archie Brown’s cross found Greg Conn but his header was again well saved by
Hartsorn, diving to his left to keep the header out.

After a series of Linby corners, they eventually found the breakthrough on 34 minutes.
Cartledge’s good delivery into the area from another corner found Captain Josh Wass who headed home from six yards out to make it 1-0.

Three minutes into the second half, Linby doubled their lead. George Skevington,
making his first full appearance after two substitute appearances since his move
from Rainworth MW. He swung a free kick in from left which found the head of Conn, who
headed down for an unmarked Brown to finish from close range.

On 58 minutes, Holbrook could have got one back when Jack Walker’s clumsy challenge on
Saints striker Danny O’Donnell gave the visitors a penalty. O’Donnell stepped up to
take the spot kick but hit the post and rebounded to safety.

Line up: Walker, Conn, Turner, Wass , Skevington, Fells, Gibson, Stefaniak , Pollitt,
Cartledge, Brown.

Subs: Wood (for Fells 59m), Moore (for Pollitt 59m), Godfrey (for Turner 67m) , Trigg (for
Brown 72m), R.Smith (for Cartledge 78m)

Man of the Match: Paddy Stefaniak

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 on w/c 04/11/24

These applications will now be decided by Gedling borough planners.

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

Reduction in height of trees T1-T4 Row of 4 lime trees, which used to be 5
320 Spring Lane, Lambley
Ref. No: 2024/0766TPO

Remedial maintenance to an unspecified number of overgrown hedge plants within the western boundary hedge
Reed Pond House, Park Lane, Lambley
Ref. No: 2024/0761TCA

Installation of air source heat pump
23, Rawnsley Drive, Gedling
Ref. No: 2024/0754

Single storey front extension.
92, Valeside Gardens, Colwick
Ref. No: 2024/0758

Erection of two storey side extension and single storey rear extension and formation of new vehicular access
10, Birchfield Road, Arnold
Ref. No: 2024/0753

Construction

Installation of 8 new signs
Brookfields Garden Centre, Mapperley Plains, Arnold
Ref. No: 2024/0738

Use of land as an Electric Charging Station with associated drainage and landscaping
Land At Magenta Way, Stoke Bardolph
Ref. No: 2024/0740

Single storey side extension and alterations to existing side windows
59, Redland Grove, Carlton
Ref. No: 2024/0717

Full planning application to demolish existing buildings and develop a new private residential therapy and treatment centre, together with associated infrastructure and landscaping.
Nottinghamshire Fire And Rescue Headquarters, Bestwood Lodge Drive, Bestwood
Ref. No: 2024/0708

Alterations to existing cemetery layout, including a larger carpark, hearse turning circle, walled memory garden, toilet block and second access road.
Proposed Cemetery, Hollinwood Lane, Calverton
Ref. No: 2023/0531

UK’s largest fish pass officially opens in Colwick Country Park to give salmon, trout and eels a helping hand to reach breeding grounds

Migrating fish which swim up the River Trent are now getting a helping hand on their journey with the opening of a new £12m ‘fish pass’ at Colwick Country Park

The Environment Agency’s flagship project was officially opened today by Chair of the Environment Agency, Alan Lovell on Friday (8).

It opens up the River Trent and its tributaries for migratory fish, including salmon, trout and eels, making more habitat accessible for fish.

After two years in construction the Colwick (Holme Sluices) fish pass was completed earlier this year. Fish are now able to reach their spawning and feeding grounds.

An arial shot of the new fish pass at Colwick Country Park

Steve Lawrie, Area Environment Manager at the Environment Agency said: “We have held the official opening of this major project with our partner Nottingham City Council, at the site of the fish pass in the council’s Colwick Country Park.

“The fish pass provides a significant step in restoring the River Trent catchment to its former glory for salmon and other coarse and migratory fish.  It also includes an eel pass to help support the critically endangered European eel.

“We also have a public viewing platform above the water, with highly visual interpretation boards. They inform and advise visitors about the local wildlife in and around the river, including the fish that are expected to use the pass.”

The Colwick fish pass has been completed as part of the Environment Agency’s work to improve fish passage across the country. It is 200 metres long, 6 metres deep and 6.5 metres wide.

Fish can now navigate past the Environment Agency-owned Holme Sluices that were built in the 1950s. It forms part of a large-scale flood defence scheme and helps to protect Nottingham from flooding.

The fish pass includes a 2-metre-high fully automated radial gate which constantly monitors the water levels and flow rates in the River Trent. The pass will then open and close based on the differing water levels throughout the year.

The pass is divided into 20 ascending chambers into which water flows through narrow slots. Fish of all species can swim upstream to lay their eggs in the gravel riverbeds of the Trent tributaries such as the River Dove and the River Derwent. They will be able to pass through these slots and rest in the chamber above before continuing.

The direct environmental benefits of the fish pass will be £18.6m. This includes 60 kilometres of river improvement from poor to good status for fish, as well as 60 kilometres of new spawning habitat immediately upstream of the barrier. It will also aid interconnectivity with numerous other fish passage schemes previously constructed upstream by the Environment Agency. 

The decline of migratory fish in the Trent catchment dates back to the Industrial Revolution, when large weirs were built to open up the river for trade. While some fish were able to overcome these barriers not all of them could.

The Environment Agency fisheries service has a statutory duty to maintain, improve and develop migratory and freshwater fisheries as set out in the Environment Act 1995.

‘Incredibly proud’: Meet the inspirational winners of the Pride of Gedling Awards 2024

Community heroes have been honoured at Gedling borough’s annual awards night at the Civic Centre in Arnold.

Residents, business leaders and dignitaries gathered for the ceremony earlier this week , where the winners of the Pride of Gedling Awards were announced. 

The annual awards, organised by Gedling Borough Council, celebrate the efforts and special achievements of individuals, groups and organisations from the across the borough that have made a lasting impact on the community.

Here is the full list of all the winners:

Business in the Community Award

Sponsored by Nottinghamshire County Council, the Business in the Community Award was presented to Number 1 Sandwich Bar led by Melanie Wyatt, who has run the business for over 20 years. Number 1 no Sandwich Bar has been an integral part of the Netherfield community. Melanie’s dedication extends beyond her business; she has raised thousands of pounds for local causes, including the Breast Institute and Maggie’s at City Hospital.

Dylan Barker Young Person of the Year Award

Named in memory of former award recipient Dylan Barker and sponsored by Mellors Group, this award celebrated young individuals under 21 who have shown exceptional community dedication. Kaysey Farnsworth was honoured for her compassionate care for her father and her inspiring work within her community. Other nominees, including Malick McCartney-BojangLillie Brennan, and Phoebe Yates, were acknowledged for their contributions to the Gedling Borough’s community.

Community Hero Award

This award, sponsored by Persimmon Homes was presented to Ian West. Ian is a true pillar of the Bestwood Village community, dedicating countless hours to enhancing the area and uplifting those around him. Ian has recently completed an amazing sponsored walk to Portugal, to raise funds for Guide Dogs, having supported numerous charities throughout his life. 

Ian’s infectious positivity and commitment to maintaining a clean and welcoming environment, inspire residents of all ages. He engages in litter picking, clearing overgrown hedges and planting flowers, all at his own expense.

Environmental Hero Award

Sponsored by The Wilkins Group, the Environmental Hero Award was presented to Erika Jones for her transformative work with the Friends of Breck Hill Park. Her dedication has significantly enhanced the park’s accessibility, leading to its recognition with a Green Flag award for three consecutive years. Erika’s efforts, alongside the Friends group, have transformed Breck Hill Park into a welcoming haven for the community and local wildlife.

She was joined on stage by fellow finalists Richard Button and Nick Baggaley, who also received recognition for their valuable environmental contributions.

Outstanding Community Project

The Mapperley and Arnold Rotary Club won the OutstandingCommunity Project Award, sponsored by Jigsaw Homes, for their impactful work in supporting a wide range of community well-being initiatives. The other nominees, Dice and Balls CICThe Ark Advice Centre, and The CORE Centre, were also recognised for their invaluable support of Gedling residents.

Inspirational Healthy Lifestyle

Award Positively Empowered Kids CIC received the Inspirational Healthy Lifestyle Award, sponsored by Gladstone MRM Ltd, for their mission to promote positive mental health and strengthen community ties across generations. They have organised intergenerational workshops, community fun days and mindfulness activities, promoting health and happiness for all ages.

Runners-up Get Going in Gedling and Simply Dance Nottinghamalso received certificates for their contributions to the well-being of the community.

Lifetime Achievement Award Presented by Councillor John Clarke MBE, the Lifetime Achievement Award was awarded to Professor Nathu R. Puri in recognition of his exceptional philanthropy through the Puri Foundation. Professor Puri has been instrumental in supporting educational opportunities, youth initiatives, and local infrastructure, such as the recent installation of a new footpath at Breck Hill Park. His legacy is felt widely across Gedling and beyond.

Pride of Gedling Award The highly coveted Pride of Gedling Award 2024 went to the Mapperley and Arnold Rotary Club, who also won the Outstanding Community Project category. With this honour, the group’s name will be permanently added to the Pride of Gedling Wall in the council chamber, serving as a lasting tribute to their positive influence on the community.

Councillor John Clarke MBE, Leader of Gedling Borough Council, said: “I am incredibly proud of all the nominees and winners of this year’s Pride of Gedling Awards.

“The evening was a fantastic celebration of the remarkable people who make our community a better place.

“It’s inspiring to see the positive impact these individuals and groups have on the lives of others, and I am grateful to everyone who helps make Gedling such a special place.”

André Rieu’s 2024 Christmas Concert: Gold & Silver – December 7, 2024

0

Date and time

Dec 7, 2024 to Dec 11, 2024

1:30 PM – 7:00 PM

Location

Bonington Theatre
High Street
Arnold
Nottingham
NG5 7EE

Contact

0115 901 3640

Description

Saturday 7 – Wednesday 11 December, various times

Celebrate the holiday season with André Rieu’s dazzling Christmas Concert, Gold and Silver, exclusively in cinemas! This magical event embodies the festive spirit of Christmas, bringing joy, warmth, and sparkle to the big screen.

Get ready to be transported to the wondrous world of enchanting glamour that is André’s winter wonderland! Under the sparkle of 150 chandeliers and 50 Venetian candelabras, feel your heart warm with the magical melody of all your favourite Christmas classics.

Tickets £15 / £12.50 concessions. Find out more and book your tickets on the Bonington Theatre website

Letters: Council needs to realise Arnold is ‘white elephant’

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

Abandon Arnold: there’s no hope for this ‘no-go’ area

Sir,

Following the recent disorder and anti-social behaviour in Arnold, I think the council needs to realise that the town is a white elephant. There is no hope for it.

Millions have been pumped in and it still continues to be a no-go area. When will this funding stop? Still we have more plans for the town centre and propsals to give them new lesiure centres and theatres.

The town has a lot more than other areas in the borough yet still we hear the kids need more to do and its in need of more regeneration.

Really?

Can people in Netherfield access a swimming bath? Is there a theatre in Carlton? Can Calverton people pop down the road to watch a Hollywood blockbuster? No!

I can see us funding a theme park in Arnold to entertain those living in the town – and it still will not be enough.

Let’s have a look at other areas in the borough shall we. Their residents will be more deserving of extra funding – and be more grateful for improved facilities as well.

D Jones,
via email


Changes to current library system would be ‘retrograde step’ 

Picture of library aisle
PHOTO: Adobe Stock

Sir,

I am writing to express my concerns regarding the draft proposals put forward by Nottinghamshire County Council, which updates their current tiered system, impacting directly a number of libraries across Gedling (Tier system planned for Gedling borough’s nine libraries – Gedling Eye 21/10/24)

If approved, my local library in Woodthorpe – and twenty-seven others – would be identified as a mobile library or library access point. The latter are described as typically being co-located in community buildings, delivered in partnership with existing community organisations and volunteers. In short, this would fundamentally alter the existing service provided by these vital community assets.

Libraries such as the one in Woodthorpe are not just an essential resource for children, they also provide a warm space, and a lifeline for residents who may feel isolated or lonely. As a regular library user, I have witnessed first-hand the valuable service the library offers – including most recently when an early years group were engaged in singing and storytelling. It has also played no small part in my nine-year-old daughter’s love and passion for books and reading. 

I appreciate that the County Council has significant budgetary challenges and has to find savings, but the proposed changes to the current tiered system would, in my opinion, be a retrograde step. 

I would strongly encourage Gedling Eye readers to engage with the County Council’s public consultation – which closes on 13th November – to ensure that our voices are heard.

Dr David Hindley,
Woodthorp
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Free buses would cut daily congestion

Sir,

Everyone is fed up with the traffic meltdown, and things can only get worse with the news that bus fares are going up. 

The announcement that the £2 fare cap will increase to £3 will surely see even more people using their cars.

The only way to reduce car use and to cut vehicle emissions is cheaper and better public transport.

Gedling has a fantastic network of railway stations, but train travel can be expensive. We need to see fares cut, and the frequency of trains increased to make them a better option for commuting.

However, it is buses that are the best hope for reducing the area’s daily logjam. And cheaper tickets increase bus use, reduce congestion, and make Gedling greener and cleaner.

Rather than upping bus fares we should be moving to free bus travel for all. If buses were free for everyone then it wouldn’t just be pensioners leaving their car at home.

T Robins,
Carlton


Dangerous cyclists deserve to be prosecuted

Sir,

I support recent correspondent in pointing out the dangers of inconsiderate and negligent cyclists who ride on pavements.

However, as an octogenarian and a slow, careful cyclist, may I point out that the overcrowded roads with countless parked cars makes cycling on the roads very hazardous indeed.

I would appeal to pavement cyclists to be more considerate, but if they pose a danger to pedestrians by their unacceptable cycling then they deserve to be prosecuted, not for cycling on the pavement, but for riding without due care and attention.

V Fisher,
Calverton


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