The price hike was planned to come into force from October 16.
The Conservative-run council said its hand had been forced due to rising food, energy and staff costs, but said it would be up to schools if they passed the cost on to parents.
The Independent Alliance opposition and Labour Groups at County Hall called the decision in for further scrutiny, meaning the planned price increase will no longer come into force this month.
A spokeswoman for Nottinghamshire County Council said: “The proposed school meal price increase is currently being considered under the county council’s call-in process.
“Therefore we are not in a position to put the planned price rise in place from October 16, and have this week written to those schools that use our catering services to let them know about this latest update.
“We’ll be in touch with schools again once the call in process is completed.”
According to the Independent Alliance there had been uproar from parents and the decision was ‘called-in’.
When a cabinet makes a decision that causes concern for councillors to such an extent they believe the decision should be changed, the Local Government Act requires authorities to have a mechanism in place which allows for decisions which are yet to be implemented to be ‘called in’ for further consideration and scrutiny.
It is intended to be used in exceptional circumstances and acts as a pausing or delaying mechanism.
Councillor Francis Purdue-Horan, an Independent councillor who called the decision in for further scrutiny, said: “We welcome the fact that this shameless decision by the Tories has been paused.
Occasional Gedling Eye columnist Graham Finch says he wants councils to start tackling cyclists who prefer pavements to roads…
I regularly walk from my home to Carlton Hill to pop to the shops or place a bet and not a day passes without me having to step several times off the narrow pavement and into the busy main road to avoid being knocked over by aggressive speeding cyclists, who “eff and blind” if I say anything to them.
The law is clear: cyclists belong on the road, not on the pavement. I also cycle, but I do so on the road, not on pavements. If a cyclist feels unsafe on the road because of inconsiderate motorists, then the option is there to dismount or to leave the bicycle at home.
The stress occasioned by having a cyclist speed past from behind at close quarters is considerable and, quite apart from the risk of a collision, because of the absence of fitted rear-view mirrors for pedestrians, is not to be recommended for anyone with a heart condition, not to mention the possibility of serious injury to a lady on foot caused by a determined handbag snatcher.
If and when resources permit, I would like to see the ban on cycling on Carlton Hill pavements most rigorously enforced every day, without exception, not just occasionally as at present, until inconsiderate cyclists, with their misplaced sense of entitlement and of their own importance, get it into their heads that what they are doing is illegal, dangerous, socially unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
Lest it be assumed that I am against cyclists, let me assure you that this is not at all the case. I have cycled all my life and still do so, just not on pavements, which were created for the exclusive use of pedestrians. I have also been a driver for almost 30 years and I always give cyclists a wide berth when overtaking. If that is not possible because of traffic conditions, I stay well behind until it is safe for both the cyclist and for me to overtake, sometimes to the annoyance of an impatient motorist behind me.
I welcome any reasonable and safe moves to make cycling both easier and more enjoyable, just not in pedestrianised areas. There needs to be a balanced approach which does not benefit one group at the expense of risking the safety of another. At the end of the day we are all pedestrians, cyclists and motorists at varying times of our lives, or of the day.
A little patience and courtesy go a long way to keeping everyone safe.
These are the latest applications to have been submitted to and validated byGedling Borough Council this week.
Another quiet week in the planning department with applications including new garages, extensions and an agricultural field barn being amongst the applications submitted to Gedling Borough Council and validated over the last week.
Here is a round-up of the latest plans that the council’s planning officers validated this week (w/e 6/10/23) and will now decide on.
Demolish flat roof garage and replace new garage and porch; loft conversion and flat roof dormer to rear elevation; elevation overhaul with new render and timber cladding to existing house and garage extension
Proposed front dormer window, new gable roof, glazing to the rear and new rooflights, external insulated render, replacement of garage door and all external areas of hardstanding
Construction of detached double garage ancillary to single dwelling house
Sunnyhome Greendale Road Arnold Nottinghamshire NG5 6QD. Ref. No: 2023/0688
Erection of an argricultural field barn
145 Main Street Calverton Nottinghamshire NG14 6FE. Ref. No: 2023/0687
First floor extension and loft/dormer extension
2 Broadway East Carlton Nottinghamshire NG4 1AG. Ref. No: 2023/0685
Demolition of the existing garage, porch and sun room; construction of a single storey side, rear & front extension and external alterations to property
72 Chapel Lane Ravenshead Nottinghamshire NG15 9DH. Ref. No: 2023/0682
The storage, cutting, and seasoning of wood for domestic fuel use at Whitehaven Farm, alongside general domestic storage ancillary to domestic use of house, grounds and outbuildings at Whitehaven Farm.
Lawful development certificate application for an existing ménage, lunge pen and area of land (between the lunge pen and stable block) used for the parking of horse boxes / trailers and caravans.
Autumn in the UK is characterised by its crisp air, stunning shades of orange and brown leaves, and the magical transition from summer to winter. While many people believe summer is the prime time for outdoor gatherings, autumn carries its own charm, providing a unique backdrop for memorable social events. If you’re considering hosting an outdoor social event during this season, here are some tips to ensure it goes off without a hitch.
1. Plan for the Weather
Layer Up: One of the unpredictable elements of British autumn is the weather. While afternoons might be balmy, evenings can get quite chilly. Inform your guests beforehand to bring layers. This way, they can add or remove clothing as needed.
Provide Warmth: Consider investing in outdoor heaters or setting up a bonfire area (safety first, of course!). Blankets can also be a nice touch, offering guests an added layer of warmth.
2. Choose the Right Venue
Utilise Your Garden: If you have a spacious garden, it can be the perfect venue. You’ve got the control, it’s free, and there’s no need to transport anything too far.
Public Parks and Spaces: Many parks in the UK allow social gatherings, though it’s crucial to check any restrictions or permissions needed. Plus, the natural landscape during autumn is bound to impress your guests.
3. Get the Right Equipment
One essential for any outdoor event, regardless of the season, is a good quality gazebo. Not only does it offer protection from the unpredictable British weather, but it also adds a touch of sophistication to your event. TFH Gazebos is a great choice, known for their sturdy and stylish designs. Other equipment to consider might include:
Lighting: As the days shorten, effective lighting can set the mood. Fairy lights, lanterns, and candles can make your event feel magical.
Seating: Comfortable seating is crucial. Opt for cushioned chairs or even hay bales covered in blankets for a rustic touch.
4. Autumnal Decor
Natural Elements: Take advantage of the season’s bounty. Pinecones, acorns, and colourful leaves can be used as table centrepieces. Pumpkins can also add an autumnal touch.
Warm Colours: Think deep reds, oranges, browns, and golds. These shades capture the essence of autumn and can be incorporated into tablecloths, cushions, and other decorations.
5. Craft a Seasonal Menu
Warm Drinks: Hot cocoa, spiced cider, or mulled wine are perfect for keeping your guests warm and toasty.
Seasonal Foods: Dishes that feature autumnal produce like butternut squash, apples, and Brussels sprouts are both delicious and fitting. Hearty stews or pot roasts can also be a hit.
Desserts: Think apple crumble, pumpkin pie, or sticky toffee pudding to round off the meal.
6. Plan Engaging Activities
Leaf Pile Jumping: Especially if there are children at your event, a big pile of leaves can be a source of endless entertainment.
Autumn Crafts: Setting up a small crafting station where guests can make autumn leaf garlands or decorate pumpkins can be a fun touch.
Music and Dancing: Create a playlist of your favourite tunes or even consider hiring a local band to play live.
Conclusion
Hosting outdoor events in autumn might require a tad more planning than in summer, but the results can be truly magical. The unique ambience of autumn, combined with the right preparations, can create memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re hosting a simple gathering of friends or a more significant event, the tips above will help ensure its success. So, layer up, serve some hot cocoa, and enjoy the beauty that the season has to offer.
Our readers from across the borough give their weekly take on the biggest issues impacting Gedling and beyond.
Some letters refer to past correspondence which can be found by clicking here. Join the debate by emailing letters@gedlingeye.co.uk and put ‘Letters’ in the subject line.
Names and addresses will be witheld by request but must be included on the email.
Most of borough won’t be shedding any tears over Levelling Up cash call
I think only those living in Arnold will be disappointed by the decision not to give the area money from the Levelling Up fund – not anyone else in the borough.
Cllr Payne might try and claim those living in places like Netherfield, Carlton and Calverton will be sobbing over the decision, but people in these towns would not have benefitted anyway as all the cash was planned for Arnold – as always. All the money coming in goes towards the white elephant that is Arnold and is never spent elsewhere.
The council have had enough chances to win this money for Arnold (to be clear, this latest round of funding wasn’t in response to a fresh council application – Ed) . I think Tom Randall should be in charge of the next application. It is his home town and he must have some clout in Westminster.
Jennifer Worrall-Dixon, Ravenshead
Do our local food delivery riders know the Highway Code?
I used to think that the cyclists delivering food were the most arrogant users of the road. One-way streets, our pavements and traffic lights seem to mean nothing to them.
Dark nights hold no fear to them, but even their escapades have been surpassed by their motorised cousins – the dreaded motorised, scooter/motorcycle fast food delivery riders.
They are just as ignorant as their cycling colleagues, but faster and more deadly.
Queuing traffic is no problem, one-way streets are no problem, no-entry streets are no problem.
Fix an L plate on their motorbike and the highway code has no meaning – surely a minimum level of competence should be attained before they are allowed on the road?
I agree with T Potts (‘What will be left of Country Park? Letters 15/09/23) Let’s not kid ourselves – the Gedling Access Road was put in purely to open up land for building on and nothing more. Why build a road to stop traffic going through Gedling only to open up Arnold Lane again? Gedling Country Park could have matured into a beautiful place !
Kevin Mason, Via email
How can a manufacturer of prefab homes go bust owing £300million?
How does a manufacturer of prefab homes go bust owing over £300million after just five years in business?
Ilke Homes was in the process of building 131 homes at Rolleston Drive in Arnold, but this work has been abruptly suspended after they entered into administration.
Either there has been monumental managerial incompetence or something extraordinary has triggered this phenomenal collapse.
There needs to be a full independent inquiry into what exactly went wrong, where all the investment money has gone and who exactly is responsible for it all.
Everly Brothers & Friends – Bonington Theatre, Arnold , 7.30pm
£16pp
Just as the Everly Brothers were, the Temple Brothers are real life brothers, their harmonies are unlike anything ever heard, with live acoustic guitars, flawless harmonies, a truly impressive outing which will see audiences captivated by their unique sound, look, quality and professionalism and a touch of humour.
Taking you on a walk back down memory lane with all the classic songs that you remember.
Cathys Clown, Walk Right Back, Ebony Eyes, Bird Dog, Dream, Let It Be Me, Love Hurts, Devoted To You, Til I Kissed Ya, Wake Up Little Suzie, When Will I Be Loved plus many many more….
This spectacular 2 hour tribute show is simply unrivalled anywhere, now into its 15th Year and enjoy The Temple Brothers as they bring to life, the magic of THE EVERLY BROTHERS.
A Haunting in Venice (12A)– Bonington Cinema, Arnold
Fri 29 Sep – Thu 12 Oct, Various Times £6.80pp £5pp on Tuesdays
In post-World War II Venice, a retired Hercule Poirot lives alone in his own exile when he receives a visit from an old friend: the world’s number one mystery writer Ariadne Oliver. Enlisting his assistance in the debunking of famed clairvoyant Joyce Reynolds, they attend a séance at the faded and decaying palazzo of famed opera singer Rowena Drake. When one of the guests is suddenly found murdered, could there be more at play than Poirot’s logic can explain?
Based on Agatha Christie’s “Hallowe’en Party”, A Haunting in Venice is directed by and stars Kenneth Branagh and the stellar ensemble cast also includes Tina Fey, Michelle Yeoh, Kelly Reilly, Jamie Dornan, Camille Cottin, Kyle Allen, Riccardo Scamarcio, Ali Khan, Emma Laird, and Jude Hill.
The quiz is a Web based quiz so a phone tablet or laptop will be needed – don’t worry if not 100% with technology it’s really easy and our team are on hand to support if needed
Newstead Soul Club – The Newstead Centre, Newstead, 8.00pm
Newstead Soul Club Saturday residents and guest Dj’s Paul Dooley and Gaz Simpson playing your favourite Northern soul and Motown oldies fantastic dance floor and private car par
Tony Farrell Big Band – Bonington Theatre, Arnold, 7.30pm
£15pp
An evening of vintage swing music from the golden age of Big Bands!
Full of vibrant energy, the Tony Farrell Big Band features musicians performing music from the likes of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Tony Bennett and many more from the golden era of swing! The line-up of four trumpets, four trombones, five saxes, piano, bass, drums, guitar and singers is in-keeping with the traditional swing era bands.
Country boy Nemorino is determined to win the haughty Adina’s heart, but she refuses to give him the time of day. Can Doctor Dulcamara’s so–called ‘elixir of love’ work its magic? Conductor Sesto Quatrini makes his house debut, as does soprano Nadine Sierra in the role of Adina. She is joined by Liparit Avetisyan, Boris Pinkhasovich and the incomparable Bryn Terfel as the genial wheeler–dealer Doctor Dulcamara.
OPERA Music – Gaetano Donizetti Conductor – Sesto Quatrini
Nora and Hae Sung, two deeply connected childhood friends, are wrest apart after Nora’s family emigrates from South Korea. 20 years later, they are reunited for one fateful week as they confront notions of love and destiny.
Nora and Hae Sung, two deeply connected childhood friends, are wrest apart after Nora’s family emigrates from South Korea. 20 years later, they are reunited for one fateful week as they confront notions of love and destiny.
“A must-see story of lost loves, childhood crushes and changing identities.” Guardian ★★★★★
“A directorial debut of remarkable poise and power” Total Film ★★★★★
“Intricate and careful in a way that’s hard to resist” Filmhounds ★★★★
*Food will be served from 6.45pm onwards, with the film starting at 7.30pm
*New York-style bagels will be served with a vegetarian / vegan and gluten free option available
*In English and Korean Directed by Celine Song With Greta Lee, Teo Yoo, John Magaro 1hr 46 mins // US 2023
Please contact venue to confirm availability and details
A quick word from ‘This is Gedling’ Magazine who sponsor The Vibe
Covering the whole of Gedlng borough ‘This is Gedling’ magazine is being distributed now – you can pick up a FREE copy at your local pub, club, venue, theatre, takeaway.
This is Gedling is a Not for Profit (NfP) community initiative that depends on the support of advertisers, contributors, readers and donors to continue to bring FREE borough news and general interest content to the all 46 square miles and 120k residents of Gedling borough.
A major Gedling borough transport project could now receive money from the scrapped extension to HS2, according to the Government.
Following Rishi Sunak’s speech to the Tory Party conference in Manchester, where he confirmed speculation over the decision to axe the northern leg of HS2, the Government has published a list of projects to benefit from the move.
Sunak has dubbed the project “Network North”.
The bid to bring the tram to Geding borough was one of the projects listed that could now receive a slice of the HS2 money.
PICTURED: Prime minister Rishi Sunak
Plans for a tram extension were originally proposed back in 2020, with a new line planned to head from The Meadows in the city, past Meadow Lane then through the Cattle Market. It would then continue along Daleside Road, ending at the Nottingham Racecourse park and ride. It was hoped that the old mineral line used for the Gedling Colliery could be used to take the tram from Netherfield up to Gedling Country Park.
Plans were eventually put on the backburner due to lack of funds – until now.
The money for the new tram route to Gedling would come from a £1.5 billion pot being handed to the new East Midlands City Region Mayor, with the Government suggesting in the projects document that it could be used ‘to fund an extension to the Nottingham Tram system to serve Gedling and Clifton South’.
As well as a tram extension, £2.2 billion has also been promised to tackle potholes across the Midlands and £230 million for more bus services in the region, with the popular £2 bus fare now being extended until the end of December 2024 instead of rising to £2.50 as planned.
The plans were announced by the prime minister at the Conservitive Party Conference being held in Manchester.
“No government has ever developed a more ambitious scheme for northern transport than our new Network North,” the prime minister today told members.
“This is the right way to drive growth and spread opportunity across our country. To level up.”
“I challenge anyone to tell me with a straight face that all of that isn’t what the North really needs.
“Our plan will drive far more growth and opportunity here in the North than a faster train to London ever would.”
A statement from the Department of Transport said: “Today we have announced the launch of Network North, a new approach to transport in this country.
“As a result of the decision to scrap the extension of HS2, every region will now receive investment in the modes of transport that matter to you most.”
A Mapperley man has been jailed after abducting and sexually assaulting a vulnerable child.
Tony Spilsbury, 76, approached the boy in Bulwell marketplace on the morning of July 11, 2023 and engaged him in conversation.
He then asked the child to help him with his van before driving him to a secluded area of a nearby carpark and began his assault.
The 12-year-old victim resisted Spilsbury’s advances and was then driven a short distance before being pushed out of the van.
He then ran back to the market place and raised the alarm to his mother who immediately informed a passing Police Community Support Officer about what had happened.
Spilsby was sentenced to more than four years in jail at Nottingham Crown Court
The retired builder was arrested the following day at his home and tried to claim the incident had been “a misunderstanding”.
He later told officers that the boy had approached him asking for money and that he was merely giving him a lift home.
Spilsbury further claimed that his young victim had initiated the contact with him after he bent into the passenger footwell to pick up a loose bar of chocolate.
Damning CCTV footage, however, contradicted key parts of Spilsbury’s account – clearly showing him making a beeline for the boy after spotting him alone in the marketplace.
Spilsbury, of Fernleigh Avenue, later pleaded guilty to one count of sexual assault by touching.
Although he was not convicted of a specific offence of child abduction, Spilsbury admitted to taking the boy as part of his guilty plea.
Appearing at Nottingham Crown Court on Tuesday (3) he was jailed for four years and eight months. Spilsbury will have to serve another three years on licence when he is released and will also be added to the Sex Offenders’ Register for life.
Detective Constable Stephen Dunn, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “Spilsbury displayed a high level of cunning and premeditation in the moments leading up to this attack – striding confidently towards the boy and engaging him in conversation.
“He then drove him to a secluded area of a nearby car park, and subjected him to a brief but extremely upsetting sexual assault.
“His attempt to explain away what happened as a misunderstanding showed what a devious individual he is.
“I am pleased he has now accepted what happened and hope today’s sentence will provide some comfort to the victim and his family.
“As Spilsbury begins a significant jail sentence, I would also like to pay tribute to the victim in this case for the bravery he showed throughout the investigation.”
Petrol prices remain high across the country, as households across Gedling borough continue to be squeezed by the cost of living crisis.
Gedling Eye has compiled a list of the cheapest petrol pumps in Gedling borough. The data is sourced from PetrolPrices.com, which covers major service stations including brands like BP, Shell, and Texaco as well as supermarkets, smaller chains and independent stations.
The website combines price data from Catalist with its own crowdsource data, which comes from website users and forecourt owners. The site says it hopes to have “the most up to date and reliable price data across the industry”.
The UK’s average fuel price is 1.57p per litre for Unleaded and 1.63p per litre for diesel as of September.
The following prices were reported on 03/10/23
Here are the latest prices from across the borough…
A taxi driver was captured on camera fleeing from a council officer who wanted to carry out a routine safety check on his vehicle in Arnold town centre.
Gedling Borough Council have now prosecuted the Nottingham City taxi driver who fled when approached by one of their licencing enforcement officers back in December 2021.
The vehicle was parked opposite the entrance to Asda on Front Street, Arnold, near to an area reserved for taxis to drop off and pick up passengers.
FLEEING: The vehicle began to speed off as the council officer approached (PICTURE: GBC)GONE: The driver was caught on the officer’s body cam leaving the scene (PICTURE: GBC)
Private Hire Vehicles can only take bookings by prior appointment and cannot pick up fares who flag them down or approach them at the roadside. If a driver does carry out any of these actions, it is known as plying for hire and is a breach of licensing conditions and a criminal offence.
The licencing enforcement officer approached the vehicle to ask the driver what he was doing and to perform a safety check on it. The officer announced that they were going to perform a routine inspection on the vehicle, at which point the vehicle drove off, ignoring the officer’s request.
CCTV footage also showed the driver mounting the pavement to get around other vehicles after the offence.
Gedling Borough Council Officers used this footage to identify the driver and worked in partnership with Nottingham City Council’s Licencing Team to carry out an interview under caution, later taking legal action against the driver through the courts.
The driver was convicted of wilfully obstructing a Gedling Borough Council Licencing Enforcement Officer, fined £336, and ordered to pay a £34 victim surcharge as well as £720 in prosecution costs.
Councillor David Ellis, Portfolio Holder for Public Protection said: “We are committed to ensuring the safety of our residents and checks like these by our Licencing Officers help to protect the public from unsafe and illegal practices, such as drivers who are not properly licensed, insured, or who are operating outside of their licensed area.
“Not only that, but they also help ensure that our Gedling Borough licenced drivers, don’t lose trade to those trying to take advantage and operate outside of the rules.
He added: “We will continue to work in partnership with other licensing authorities to keep our borough safe, and this conviction sends a very clear message that these offences will not be tolerated.”
