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Work starts on new £50k defences to help protect flood-hit Burton Joyce during heavy rainfall

Work has started on a £50k scheme to help protect flood-hit Burton Joyce during periods of heavy rainfall.

A team of workers from local rivers charity, Trent Rivers Trust, is beginning works on Crock Dumble, a watercourse that enters the village from the north-west.

The charity is currently working on creating a new wetland area, a bund, the restoration of two defunct ponds, and 20 leaky barriers, all of which will help to store water in the event of heavy rainfall temporarily. The hope is that this will provide residents with vital time to prepare for a potential flood event. 

Winter 2024 has brought extreme rainfall, flooding and disruption to Nottinghamshire. To help alleviate the effects of more frequent and extreme weather events, Trent Rivers Trust and Nottinghamshire County Council have joined forces to reduce flood risk in the town. 

Work takes place on one of 20 leaky barriers to help protect Burton Joyce from flooding

Workers from the charity are creating a new wetland area, a bund, the restoration of two defunct ponds, and 20 leaky barriers

Work is taking place on the £50,000 scheme which aims to hold water in the landscape by restoring or enhancing natural processes

Using a method called natural flood management, the £50,000 scheme aims to hold water in the landscape by restoring or enhancing natural processes. This will provide additional storage for rainwater, allowing it to percolate into the ground or slowly flow into the watercourse once peak river levels have passed.

In the watercourse, logs mounted above the stream bed will help to slow the flow of water before it reaches the town. 

Before the features were created, Trent Rivers Trust monitored the rainfall and the water levels in the Dumble. The data will provide an essential baseline to assess the impact of the scheme. 

Nick Wilding, senior catchment restoration officer at Trent Rivers Trust, said “As well as reducing flood-risk by temporarily holding water in and around the woodland, the scheme also provides a vital habitat for freshwater and terrestrial fauna and flora.

“The measures implemented will intercept water that would otherwise directly flow into the brook, resulting in excess nutrients and soil being kept on land, which will improve water quality.” 

Councillor Neil Clarke MBE, Cabinet Member for Transport and Environment at Nottinghamshire County Council, said: “With two significant storms in the last few months, I am sure that the news of these works starting will be very welcome to local residents. 

“The scheme will not only help to protect homes and businesses from flooding as it will also create a new enhanced habitat for wildlife, boosting biodiversity and ecology in the area for residents to enjoy.” 

Work is taking place for the next couple of weeks. Once completed, water levels will continue to be logged, and measures will be frequently inspected, to ensure the measures are operating effectively. 

More information on natural flood management can be found at Natural Flood Management – Trent Rivers Trust  

Navigating GCSE Prep – A Comprehensive Guide for Notts Parents

As the academic year progresses, the looming spectre of GCSEs can cast a shadow of uncertainty and stress over both students and their parents. Whether you’re navigating these educational waters for the first time or you’re a seasoned pro, supporting your child through their GCSE journey in Nottinghamshire requires a thoughtful approach.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore practical strategies, local resources, and tips to help you and your teenager survive and thrive during this crucial academic milestone.

Understanding the GCSE Landscape

Before embarking on the detailed journey of GCSE preparation, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the GCSE landscape is paramount. After all, the significance of GCSEs extends far beyond the examination hall.

These assessments act as a compass, guiding students toward their academic trajectory by influencing subsequent educational choices. The grades achieved in GCSEs play a crucial role in shaping decisions related to Advanced Level (A-level) studies. A-levels, in turn, are instrumental in determining eligibility for university courses and specialised vocational training.

Of course, the impact of GCSEs is not confined solely to the academic realm; it resonates throughout a student’s professional life. Many employers view GCSE results as a reflection of a candidate’s foundational knowledge and aptitude, making it imperative for students to approach these exams with diligence.

Early Planning for Long-Term Success

Success in GCSEs doesn’t happen overnight; it’s the result of consistent effort and thoughtful planning. Encourage your child to create a study timetable that allocates dedicated time for each subject. This not only helps in organising study sessions but also instils a sense of discipline and routine.

Balancing Act: Managing Stress and Mental Well-being

GCSE preparation can be mentally taxing for students. As parents, it’s crucial to foster an environment that prioritises mental well-being. Encourage open communication, listen to your child’s concerns, and be mindful of signs of stress.

Nottinghamshire offers various mental health resources, including counselling services and support groups, which can be invaluable during this period.

Collaborating with Teachers and Schools

Your child’s teachers are valuable allies in the GCSE preparation process. Attend parent-teacher meetings, stay informed about your child’s progress, and actively engage with the school community. Nottinghamshire schools often organise workshops and informational sessions for parents, providing insights into the curriculum and effective ways to support your child at home.

Tech Tools for Success: Navigating the Digital Landscape

Technology is emerging as a potent ally in the journey of GCSE preparation, offering a plethora of resources that can significantly augment traditional study methods. Encouraging your child to explore educational apps, online platforms, and interactive resources tailored to the GCSE curriculum can bring a dynamic dimension to their learning experience.

Consider introducing platforms like Save My Exams, which provides a wealth of GCSE past papers and GCSE revision notes. These resources offer invaluable insights into exam patterns, question structures, and key concepts. Utilising such online tools can enhance your child’s understanding of the subject matter and offer an effective means of self-assessment, allowing them to identify areas that require further focus.

What’s more, educational apps designed specifically for GCSE subjects can offer an engaging and interactive way to reinforce learning. From interactive quizzes to virtual study groups, these apps cater to various learning styles, making the study process more dynamic and enjoyable.

Inspirational Success Stories: Local Students Who Excelled

Sometimes, inspiration is found in the stories of those who have walked the path before us. Seek out success stories of Nottinghamshire students who excelled in their GCSEs. These tales can provide motivation, offer insights into effective study strategies, and remind your child that success is achievable with determination and hard work.

Healthy Habits for Exam Success: Nourishing the Body and Mind

Amidst the books and study materials, it’s easy to overlook the importance of a healthy lifestyle.

Encouraging your child to prioritise balanced meals, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep can be instrumental in sustaining their overall health and academic performance.

When it comes to nutrition, emphasise the importance of a well-rounded diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Adequate hydration is equally vital, as staying well-hydrated can enhance cognitive function and concentration

Regular exercise should not be overlooked, as physical activity has been proven to have positive effects on cognitive function and stress reduction. Encourage your child to engage in activities they enjoy, whether it’s a brisk walk in one of Nottinghamshire’s picturesque parks or participating in community sports events.

Finally, encourage your child to unwind before sleep, perhaps by reading a book or practising relaxation techniques. Sufficient and quality sleep is integral for memory consolidation and overall cognitive function, ensuring that they approach their studies with a well-rested mind.

Study Groups and Peer Support: Building a Supportive Network

The power of collaborative learning should not be underestimated. Encourage your child to participate in study groups or form one with classmates. Nottinghamshire’s vibrant communities offer ample opportunities for students to connect and support each other, fostering a sense of camaraderie during the challenging GCSE journey.

Beyond the Books: Nottinghamshire’s Extracurricular Boost

While the focus is on academics, it’s essential to recognise the value of extracurricular activities. Nottinghamshire offers a plethora of options, from sports to arts and community service. Engaging in these activities not only provides a well-rounded development but also serves as a valuable stress reliever during the intense GCSE preparation period.

Navigating Exam Season: Last-Minute Tips and Tricks

As the decisive exam season looms closer, the stress levels may understandably rise, sometimes to troubling levels. It becomes paramount to equip your child with a toolkit of effective last-minute strategies to help them relax and feel more confident.

Encourage them to prioritise concise note-making, distilling complex information into manageable, easily digestible snippets. Creating these condensed revision notes not only reinforces understanding but also serves as a quick reference during those crucial exam moments.

Mastering time management during exams is a skill that can make a significant difference in overall performance. Encourage your child to practice allocating time to different sections of the exam, ensuring they have sufficient minutes for each question.

Your local library can serve as an ideal venue for last-minute preparations. Its dedicated work and study spaces provide a conducive environment, minimising distractions and facilitating intense concentration during these crucial final moments.

Celebrating Achievements: Acknowledging Efforts Along the Way

Amidst the hustle and bustle of exam preparation, it’s crucial to celebrate achievements, no matter how small. Acknowledge your child’s efforts, and remind them that success is a journey, not just a destination. Consider organising a small celebration or a special treat to keep motivation high throughout the GCSE process.

Post-GCSE Transition: Planning for the Next Chapter

As GCSEs conclude, it’s time to shift focus to the future. Guide your child in exploring A-level options, vocational courses, or apprenticeships. Nottinghamshire has numerous career guidance resources, including counselling services and career fairs, to assist students in making informed decisions about their educational and professional paths.

Overview

Navigating GCSE preparation in Nottinghamshire involves a holistic and supportive approach. From early planning to celebrating achievements, each step contributes to a positive and fulfilling experience for both parents and students.

By embracing the wealth of local resources and fostering a resilient mindset, you can guide your child not only through exam success but also toward a future filled with endless possibilities.

Match Report: Belper Town 4 – 0 Carlton Town FC

NPL First Division East – 3 February 2024

Carlton Town suffered a second defeat in four days as they were beaten 4-0 at Belper Town.

The Millers had responded to every previous league defeat by winning the next game but after losing at home to Liversedge in midweek they were never in this game as the Nailers bossed it from start to finish.  The only bright spot was the unstinting support from the large number of travelling supporters who made the short trip to Derbyshire and backed the side from start to finish.

Tommy Brookbanks and Mark Harvey made three changes to the side from the Liversedge game with Dean Freeman replacing Peter Dearle, Niall Davie replacing the injured Alex Howes and Shea Thompson-Harris selected in place of the suspended Micah Jebbison.  Thompson-Harris started at left back with Niall Hylton pushed further forward.  Davie was making his 250th appearance for Carlton – a tremendous achievement for the club captain.  Also reaching a milestone was Dan Brown who was making his 150th appearance for the club – again, a fantastic achievement.

Carlton came into the game just two points behind the second-placed Nailers but Belper, who have made some impressive ground improvements since the Millers’ last game here back in the autumn of 2021, got off to the perfect start as they took the lead on just seven minutes.  A ball from the left from Mason Warren found Curtis Burrows at the far post and he fired home unchallenged.

Carlton had to wait until almost the half hour for their only effort of the first half when Daniel Moore saved easily from Davie.  Belper’s defence, superbly marshalled by Danny South and Sidik Atcha, gave Carlton virtually no sight of goal but, in the first half at least, although the home side enjoyed the majority of possession, the Carlton rearguard too kept the home side at bay, with Dan Brown and Freeman alongside Ryan Ebanks and Thompson-Harris dealing with the threat of Karl Demidh and Kevin Bastos.

Hylton had Carlton’s best opportunity of the game four minutes after the restart when he raced away down the left hand side but he fired wide of target.

Belper took advantage and extended their lead on 55 minutes.  Nykah Liburd-Hines came out to claim a long free kick lumped into the area.  The keeper however dropped the ball and Demidh squared for South to fire home.

On 66 minutes the game was over as a contest when Bastos fired into the corner of the net from 25 yards via the inside of the post.   Three minutes later the same player made it 4-0, heading home James Cadman’s cross after Liburd-Hines had made a fine save initially.

It was very much damage limitation thereafter and the home side did see a further goal disallowed for offside.  The Millers kept working, with Greg Tempest constantly looking to create something, but Belper were much the better side on the day and didn’t allow Carlton another shot on goal.  On the final whistle the whole squad came across to thank the 40 or so away fans for their support.

Carlton Town: N Liburd-Hines, R Ebanks (L Gorman 67), S Thompson-Harris, D Brown, D Freeman, G Tempest, D Adegbola (M Ford 72), K Sargent, A Hardwick, N Davie, N Hylton (M Jawarra 60).  Unused Subs: F Annan, P Dearle

Goals: Curtis Burrows 7, Danny South 55, Kevin Bastos 66, 69

Carlton Town Supporters Club MOTM: Greg Tempest

Att: 572

Gedling Lotto results: Winning numbers for Saturday, February 3, 2024

There is a chance to win up to £25,000 every Saturday when you play Gedling Lotto.

You just need to match six numbers to win the £25,000 jackpot.

We now publish the winning numbers each Saturday night.

THIS WEEK’S WINNING NUMBERS (3/2/24)

5 4 4 8 0 2

How does Gedling Lotto work?

Gedling Lotto is a weekly lottery draw that raises money for good causes across Gedling Borough. All good causes supported by the lottery will benefit the Gedling Borough and its residents.

Play the lottery, support Gedling Borough – it’s that simple!

From every £1 ticket you buy, 60p will go to local good causes in the Gedling Borough and improve our community.

Some of the many causes to benefit from the Lotto include:

  • Arnbrook Primary School
  • Arnold Swimming Club
  • Gedling Play Forum
  • Gedling Conservation Trust
  • Lambley Village Cricket Club
  • This is Gedling Magazine

See the latest Gedling borough planning applications – w/e 2/2/24

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 during the last week (w/e 2/2/24) include a number of extensions, tree works and barrows. 

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


Wind has blown some trees down and some in other trees resulting in them being dangerous. Removal of Dead and Dangerous trees.

Abbey Wood House Newstead Abbey Park Nottingham Road Ravenshead Nottinghamshire NG15 8GD.  Ref. No: 2024/


T5 and T6 removal of dead wood and crown thinning of 15%. 

1 Pilgrim Close Ravenshead Nottinghamshire NG15 9EQ.  Ref. No: 2024/0025TPO 


Proposed new build workshop and garage 

1 Ramsdale Cottages Oxton Road Calverton Nottinghamshire NG5 8PS.  Ref. No: 2024/0029 


Two storey side extension and rear alterations, including insertion of a dormer 

11 Douglas Crescent Carlton Nottinghamshire NG4 1AN.  Ref. No: 2024/0022 


Demolition of existing outbuilding. Erection of a single storey side and rear extension, including rendering of existing dwelling. 

80 Sandford Road Mapperley Nottinghamshire NG3 6AH.  Ref. No: 2024/0021 


Beech Tree: Reduce whole crown by 2metres 

161 Main Street Woodborough Nottinghamshire NG14 6DD.  Ref. No: 2024/0018TCA 


Removal of Silver birch and multi-stemmed conifer under sweet Chestnut tree. 

160 The School House Main Street Calverton Nottinghamshire NG14 6LU.  Ref. No: 2024/0007TCA 


Variation of section 106 Legal Agreement (Schedule 5 Provision of Open Spaces – Definitions Section) for outline planning permission 2020/0050 

Land At Top Wighay Farm Wighay Road Linby Nottinghamshire.  Ref. No: 2024/0063 


2 x dead trees (only trunks remaining) 1 x storm damaged sycamore (lightning strike) fell 3 x dead/dying trees of low value. Replace with 3 x young oak trees.

Arbor Lodge Blidworth Waye Ravenshead Nottinghamshire NG15 8GB.  Ref. No: 2024/0006TPO5 


Construction of two open round barrows and a grass covered barrow for the placement of cremation urns, access path and landscaping. 

Land Off Georges Lane Calverton Nottinghamshire.  Ref. No: 2023/0913 


Single story rear extension 

14 Brickenell Road Calverton Nottinghamshire NG14 6PL.  Ref. No: 2023/0894 


Fell dead and dangerous Beech tree (T001) and plant replacement tree. 

10 Colwick Park Close Colwick Nottinghamshire NG4 2DZ.  Ref. No: 2023/0868TPO 


Removal of Oak Tree (F6 on the attached plan) 

26 Main Street Woodborough Nottinghamshire NG14 6EA.  Ref. No: 2023/0863TPO 


Single storey front extension and new roof to the existing single storey rear extension 

76 Lorimer Avenue Gedling Nottinghamshire NG4 4WA.  Ref. No: 2023/0598 


PLANNING REFUSED: Application to build two detached properties on undeveloped site in Woodborough refused by Gedling planners.

An application received by Gedling Borough Council from Planning and Design Group (UK) Limited, Nottingham acting as agents on behalf of Mr. Adrian Bellingham to build two new dwellings on land at 46 Roe Hill, Woodborough, NG14 6DS has been refused.

The application stated that the proposed development would consist of one four bedroom property for market housing and one property described as self build / custom build.

Pictured: Proposed Site Block Plan (Courtesy of Gedling Borough Council planning)

The notice of refusal dated February 2 states that permission was refused for the following reason: ‘The proposal would result in 2 no. narrow plots, containing 2 no. narrow dwellings with little space between each dwelling making them appeared cramped within their plots. This is in contrast to other properties along Roe Hill which are all relatively wide dwellings, located on relatively wide plots. Furthermore, the height of the proposal, in particular plot 46A, does not follow the stepped height of the existing row of dwellings on Roe Hill and, as such, will dominate the existing row of dwellings and appear as an incongruous building within the streetscene. For these reasons the proposal is contrary to policies ACS10 and LPD40a)1.’

A covering letter provided in support of the application from the Planning and Design Group advised that the application site comprised approximately 653sqm of undeveloped grassland at Roe Hill, Woodborough, NG14 6DS and that the site is located between two detached dwellings that are also characterised by this identified pattern of development. 48 Roe Hill, to the north side, is a detached dormer bungalow. 44 Roe Hill, to the south, is a two-storey detached dwelling.

The covering letter also stated that application sought full planning permission for the erection of two detached dwellings, each with associated access, refuse storage and amenity space. Each dwelling, individually designed but complementary in design language, is two and a half storeys in height with four bedrooms. A single garage for each dwelling, with additional off-road parking for two vehicles, is also proposed.

Further details regarding Planning Application 2023/0876 can be accessed HERE.

DECISION MADE: See the latest Gedling borough planning applications to have been decided – w/e 2/2/24

These are the latest applications to have been decided by Gedling Borough Council over the last week.

The roundup of the published decision notices applications in the last two weeks (w/e 2/2/24) from around the borough by the council’s planning officers included two applications having been refused, tree works and a number of extensions granted.

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


Single storey rear and side wrap around extension

11 Cranston Avenue Arnold Nottinghamshire NG5 8DP.  Ref. No: 2023/0907 

DECISION NOTICE: CONDITIONAL PERMISSION


Erection of two dwellings 

Land At 46 Roe Hill Woodborough Nottinghamshire.  Ref. No: 2023/0876 

DECISION NOTICE: REFUSED


The proposed installation of a 20m monopole supporting 6 no antennas and 2 no dishes, together with 2 no ground based cabinets, 1 no meter cabinet and ancillary development thereto.

Land South Of Colwick Loop Road Road No 3 Colwick Nottinghamshire.  Ref. No: 2023/0859 

DECISION NOTICE: PRIOR APPROVAL IS NOT REQUIRED


Demolition of Existing Garages and Erection of New Build comprising of 2 x 1 Bed Units & 2 x 2 Bed Units 

Garage Site Ernest Road Carlton Nottinghamshire.  Ref. No: 2023/0846 

DECISION NOTICE: REFUSED


Single storey rear extension

5 Mill Lane Lambley Nottinghamshire NG4 4PS.  Ref. No: 2023/0825 

DECISION NOTICE: CONDITIONAL PERMISSION


Proposed Side extensions, change of front door location and New Roof 

Greenwood Gardens Ollerton Road Arnold Nottinghamshire NG5 8PR.  Ref. No: 2023/0511 

DECISION NOTICE: CONDITIONAL PERMISSION


Proposed re-use and conversion of existing stables/storage building to dwelling 

Stockhill Farm, The Stables Bridle Road Burton Joyce Nottinghamshire NG14 5FR.  Ref. No: 2022/1082 

DECISION NOTICE: CONDITIONAL PERMISSION


PLANNING REFUSED: Application for demolition of garages to enable development of four dwellings in Carlton refused by Gedling planners.

An application received by Gedling Borough Council from Mr. Adam Jones of Peter Philip Developments Limited acting as agents on behalf of A&B enterprise’s Ltd., Second Floor, 18 The Ropewalk, Nottingham, NG1 5DT to build four new dwellings on land adjacent to 1 Ernest Road, Carlton, Nottingham, NG4 1JU currently occupied by garages has been refused by Gedling planners.

The application states the proposed development or works as ‘Demolition of Existing Garages and Erection of New Build comprising of 2 x 1 Bed Units & 2 x 2 Bed Units’

PICTURED: Proposed Site Plan (Courtesy of Gedling Borough Council planning)

The planning application was refused by planners in their decision notice dated 2/2/24 for the three reasons below:

  • The proposal is out of keeping with the character of the area. Ernest Road is characterised by properties set within relatively long plots of land with substantial rear garden areas. Existing properties are not tight within their plot but the majority have space between the side elevations and side boundaries and there is spacing between existing buildings. The proposal, by contrast, consists of a building occupying the whole of the width of the plot and set up to the rear boundary This is not only out of keeping with the prevailing character of the area but results in the site appearing over-developed and cramped. Furthermore, two of the plots have a flat-roof projecting feature. Surrounding properties all have pitched roofs and this feature is out of keeping with the surroundings. The feature is prominent as it is located to the front of the plot and is also in contrasting materials to the main parts of the proposed host dwellings. As such, the proposal is contrary to planning policy including the NPPF part 12, policies LPD34, LPD40 and ASC10.
  • The proposed development does not afford future occupiers a satisfactory level of residential amenity. None of the dwellings have any private amenity space. Furthermore, some of the front / semi-private amenity space is shared between dwellings and is located directly outside main aspect windows of plot 1 and causing unacceptable issues of mutual overlooking between plot 1 and the shared amenity space. As such, the proposal is contrary to the NPPF (Part 12) and Policies LPD32 and 40.
  • Insufficient information has been submitted to enable the Local Planning Authority to assess whether any existing car parking spaces are to be lost as part of the development. Furthermore, insufficient new car parking spaces are provided to serve the development. As such, the proposal is contrary to Policies LPD57, 61 and Gedling Borough Council’s Car Parking SPD.

The planning application advised that there would be four houses for market housing consisting of 2 X 1 bedroom properties and 2 X 2 bedroom properties including four car parking spaces.

A Design and Access statement provided in support of the full planning application advised that the current use of the site is as 13 garages. However, as all the homes in the area had driveways and typically private garages or on street parking nor did they own the units the garages were mostly vacant or used as old storage for the applicant. They further suggested that the garages are detrimental to the surrounding area as they induce crime, unwelcome dwellers & reduce the value of the adjacent homes whilst being non-utilitarian, unattractive & ugly.

PICTURED: Proposed Site Location (Courtesy of Gedling Borough Council planning)

Further details regarding Planning Application 2023/0846 can be accessed HERE.

Speeding tickets issued as police crackdown continues on motorists breaking the limit in Burton Joyce and Carlton

Speeding tickets were issued to motorists by police during the latest crackdown on drivers breaking the limit in Gedling borough.

PCSOs headed out to Southdale Road in Carlton and Nottingham Road in Burton Joyce, last week as part of their continued crackdown on drivers they say are ‘speeding and ignoring the law’.

The team handed out three fixed penalty notices to motorists driving over the speed limit and spoke to 11 others about abiding by the road laws and keeping to the limits.

The operation has been put in place to address the community’s concerns surrounding speeding in hotspot areas.

They will be issuing fines to those caught blatantly speeding in 30mph and 20mph zones and putting lives at risk.

Officers say their presence also helps to deter those thinking about speeding. It also gives them the chance to stop and chat with motorists about the dangers of speeding and encourage drivers to drive safely to protect themselves and others.

A spokesman for Nottinghamshire Police said: “The team will be continuing its crackdown on speeding so if you see them out and want to raise any concerns, stop and have a chat.

Letters: Our councils should spend money on what matters

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. Join the debate by email.

Names and addresses will be withheld by request but must be included in the email. We reserve the right to edit letters.

Councils should spend our money on what matters

It really is time our councillors stopped wasting our hard earned rates on little used cycle ways , like the one planned for Colwick Loop Road, and fancy schemes which they have not thought through, got total public support for or costed all aimed at stopping the motorist.

I assume these councillors do not use cars at any time. Most likely they aren’t as daft as us and choose to live in West Bridgford where the roads are as smooth as a baby’s bottom.

I want to see these councillors concentrate on things that matter and where in my view council money should be spent such as educating our children, social care, filling potholes, putting roads and pavements into a good condition etc.

You cannot drive in a straight line down most roads across Gedling borough due to potholes but if you know how to weave from one side to the other you are ok!

When I moved the area back in 1982 it was a beautiful borough but successive borough and county councils have let it deteriorate.

Bob Homes
Carlton Hill

Don’t just pick on the elderly

I don’t agree with Beverley Adams at all (‘Give pensioners compulsory driving test’ – Letters 26/01/24).

A refresher driving course for all drivers after a certain period of time regardless of age would be a better idea than just pensioners.

We all think we are good drivers but are we really that good ?

Don’t just pick on the elderly, look at the statistics – bad drivers come from all age categories.

Raymond Ellis,
Address withheld

No more building on our green belt land

We don’t need expensive houses to attract even more people to Gedling borough; we need affordable starter homes and social housing built to a good standard. We need them for those who have grown up in our local towns and villages and wish to start their adult life by moving away from their parents into an affordable starter home of their own.

And yes, absolutely all new houses and buildings should be built with solar panels.

We should not be building on any more farm or green belt land. It is irreplaceable.

Please don’t build on any more of our beautiful green or fertile farmland Gedling Borough Council. Once it’s gone, it’s gone. Actually, it seems as though most of it has already.

Linda Weeks,
Mapperley

Give us better alternatives to using roads

I must take issue with several concerns raised by environmentalist readers on your site recently. To give the impression that people without cars are ignored is wrong.

I agree with the creation of bus lanes to help those who either cannot or choose not to use a car but these should be seen as a short-term measure. These lanes are expensive to build and actually reduce the speed of other traffic when the aim should be to help the flow of all traffic.

There are other measures each small by themselves but adding up to a large amount in time and money, such as pedestrianisation, footbridges and crossing timings.

As for the current situation, I blame poor planning over several decades where the allowance of new and the conversion of buildings to house more residents without addressing the parking needs and traffic flow has led to pavement parking and overcrowded roads. Often local council objection is cancelled by a higher authority.

To imply that the government is locked into a fossil fuel economy is misleading when the present investment in alternatives such as wind and solar is colossal. The help with heat pumps, insulation and other more controversial schemes such as tidal barrages and nuclear power is also being actively pursued.

Why pick on cars? People use cars for work or to get to places where public transport is either non-existent or infrequent, the difficulties encountered with luggage and high cost when compared with carrying two or more passengers is also a factor. Car use will increase as the population increases, unless something radical happens like the ready availability of personal drones.

Finally, does anyone think a car driver would use our existing road network on a daily basis if there were a better alternative?

Paula Griffiths,
Rivendell,

Stoke Bardolph

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