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Gedling is UK’s ‘toughest place to find work’, claims research

Gedling borough has been named as the UK’s most challenging place to find work, new research has revealed.

The research analysed the latest data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) on the number of job adverts in each local authority compared against the estimated number of people who are unemployed and seeking work.

The study was conducted by virtual office provider Virtual HQ to explore which parts of the country might be most tempted to consider going freelance or setting up their own business.

The results revealed that Gedling borough is the most competitive local authority for job seekers as its unemployment count stands at 2,400, while its job advert count is just 657. As a result there are just 27 job ads for every 100 unemployed people, or 365 unemployed people for every 100 job ads – the worst ratios in the UK, and a potential reason for those looking for a new job to consider self-employment.

The research analysed the latest data on the number of job adverts in each local authority

Job centre
The results revealed that Gedling borough is the most competitive local authority for job seekers

North East Derbyshire is the second of three East Midlands local authorities to appear in the UK top five most challenging places to find work. It has 622 job ads available for 1,900 people who are unemployed, which is a ratio of 305 people per 100 job ads.

Broxtowe is third in the region and fourth place nationally as there are 296 people for every 100 job ads, due to an unemployment count of 2,500 and the availability of just 846 job ads.

The East Midlands’ fourth toughest place to find work is Ashfield, where there were 1,565 job ads according to the latest government figures, but 3,600 people without a job who are actively seeking work, which equates to 224 people for every 100 job ads.

Oadby and Wigston completes the East Midlands top five with 1,000 job seekers and 532 job ads, resulting in 188 people per 100 ads.

Commenting on the study, Andrew Manning MD of Virtual HQ said: “This study offers a fascinating insight into the evolving UK job market, which continues to shift as AI reshapes the skills employers need.

“When people face a tough job market, sometimes the best option is to consider alternative routes, such as the flexibility of freelancing, or the potential of setting up your own business.

“There are around 1.3 million people who are unemployed and looking for work, while there are roughly 1.6 million live job adverts, but the balance between supply and demand varies sharply.

“Three areas in both the East of England and East Midlands rank among the ten toughest places to secure a role, while six of the ten most favourable locations for jobseekers are in the South East. Wherever people are based, unemployment is a good time to take stock and think about what you want to do next, whether that is starting your own business or changing careers.”

The East Midlands’ top ten most difficult local authorities to find a job, by Virtual HQ

RankLocal AuthorityUnemployment countJob ad countUnemployed people per 100 job ads
1Gedling 2,400 657365
2North East Derbyshire 1,900 622305
3Broxtowe 2,500 846296
4Ashfield 3,500 1,565224
5Oadby and Wigston 1,000 532188
6Bassetlaw 2,600 1,438181
7Bolsover 1,800 1,027175
8Mansfield 2,800 1,640171
9Blaby 1,600 988162
10Rushcliffe 1,700 1,089156

At the other end of the scale, Boston has the East Midlands’ lowest ratio of people to job adverts. The local authority has an unemployment count of 1,400, but a job ad count of 3,268, which equates to just 43 people for every 100 job ads.

The Derbyshire Dales has the region’s second lowest rate of people per job ads due to 1,000 unemployed job seekers, and 2,204 job adverts. This means that for every 100 job ads, there are just 45 people looking for employment. Nottingham is in third place, on 57 people per 100 job ads.

Rutand and North West Leicestershire take fourth and fifth spot on 60 job seekers per 100 job ads each.

Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner ‘not surprised’ by decision to scrap role in 2028

Nottinghamshire’s police and crime commissioner (PCC) has said it “doesn’t come as a surprise” to hear the role is to be abolished in England and Wales.

PCC Gary Godden was reacting to the announcement in Parliament on Thursday in which the policing minister Sarah Jones said the PCC model had “not delivered what it was set up to achieve”.

The Home Office said the PCC role would move to either an elected mayor or council leaders at the end of the commissioners’ terms in 2028.

Godden said he had been working with Mayor of the East Midlands Claire Ward to hand over powers when the role comes to an end in three years time.

In response to the announcement Nottinghamshire PCC Gary Godden and Mayor of the East Midlands Claire Ward released a joint statement.

They said: “Today’s announcement does not come as a surprise, and we have been preparing for the possibility of this change for some time.

“The Mayor and PCCs already work together closely and will continue to do so to ensure a smooth transition.

“Making the region a great place to live and work is about creating communities where people feel safe and supported, and we all remain committed to that goal.

“The public can be certain that the police will still be held accountable, victim services will be maintained and the incredible partnership working across the region will continue on behalf of the public.”

LIVE: latest flood alerts in place as Gedling borough braces for torrential downpour

The Environment Agency has issued flood warnings across parts of Gedling borough with nearby properties at risk due to rising water levels from recent heavy rainfall overnight. –

They warned that rising river levels today may lead to flooding. River Trent levels were reported to have started to rise at 6am this morning (14).

The Agency say the areas most at risk are low-lying agricultural land and roads including communities near to the River Trent with Stoke Lane at Stoke Bardolph featuring in the alert.

An Environment Agency spokesman said: “We are closely monitoring the situation. Take care and avoid walking, cycling or driving through flood water”

Updated 10.25am on November 14, 2025 – A flood alert now in place on Trent tributaries.

This could result in flooding at Arnold, Calverton, Carlton, Lambley and Woodborough.

Areas most at risk are low-lying agricultural land and roads around the tributaries of the River Trent in Nottinghamshire, the Dover Beck, Cocker Beck, Woodborough Brook, Ouse Dyke and others.

Rainfall is forecast over the next 24 hours and river levels are rising rapidly.


Updated 7:27am on November 14, 2025 – Rising river levels today may lead to flooding. 

Flooding is possible on 14 November 2025 . Areas most at risk are low-lying agricultural land and roads including communities near to the River Trent with alert at Stoke Lane at Stoke Bardolph. Rainfall is forecast over the next 24 hours. River levels will begin rising at 06:00 on 14/11/25. 

From Tax Debt to Relief: Tips and Resources for Becoming Debt Free

Struggling with tax debt can be an overwhelming experience, creating financial and emotional stress.

It can lead to a cycle of penalties and mounting debt that feels impossible to escape. However, understanding the options for managing and paying off tax debt is the first step toward achieving financial freedom. Practical steps and guidance from professionals can help turn the tide. In this article, we will explore strategies and resources available to those seeking to eradicate tax debt and work towards a healthier financial future.

Leveraging Tax Debt Forgiveness Programs

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Tax debt forgiveness programs help eligible taxpayers find relief from what they owe. The most common option is an Offer in Compromise, but other forms, like Penalty Abatement, can reduce extra charges. In cases of serious financial hardship, the IRS may classify taxpayers as “Currently Not Collectible,” pausing collections until their situation improves.

These programs aren’t automatic and require a careful application process. Working with tax relief helpers California can make it easier to meet all requirements and avoid mistakes. Staying updated on tax policy changes is also important, as new forgiveness opportunities may arise to help manage or reduce tax debt.

Understanding Tax Debt and Its Impact on Financial Health

Tax debt occurs when individuals or businesses fail to pay their taxes in full by the deadline, often leading to accumulating interest and penalties. This financial strain can damage credit scores, hinder loan approvals, and restrict economic opportunities. Ignoring tax debt may trigger IRS enforcement actions such as liens or levies, which can threaten personal or business assets.

Beyond financial consequences, tax debt can also cause stress and anxiety, affecting both work performance and personal relationships. Seeking guidance from a tax professional or credible resources helps individuals assess their situation, understand potential options, and begin developing a strategy to regain financial stability.

Navigating IRS Payment Plans and Settlement Options

The IRS provides several options for taxpayers unable to pay their tax debt in full. An Installment Agreement allows individuals to make monthly payments based on their financial capacity, while an Offer in Compromise lets qualifying taxpayers settle for less than the total amount owed if full payment would cause financial hardship.

Effective communication with the IRS is key when applying for these options, supported by accurate financial records such as income, expenses, and asset details. Understanding eligibility criteria and documentation requirements helps taxpayers choose the best plan for their situation and avoid additional penalties while working toward the resolution of their tax obligations.

Strategies for Avoiding Future Tax Debt

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Preventing tax debt begins with staying current on tax obligations, including filing returns promptly and making accurate payments. Establishing a budget that treats taxes as a fixed expense helps individuals and businesses manage finances effectively. For self-employed individuals or those with fluctuating income, setting aside funds for estimated tax payments throughout the year prevents large, unexpected bills.

Consulting tax professionals provides valuable guidance for planning, identifying deductions, and ensuring compliance with complex tax laws. Education is also essential, as understanding tax responsibilities empowers taxpayers to make informed decisions, maintain financial discipline, and minimize the risk of accumulating tax debt through better awareness and preparation.

Accessing Professional Tax Relief Services and Support Resources

Engaging with tax relief services can help taxpayers manage and resolve their tax debts effectively. Professionals in tax law and IRS procedures assist in negotiations, establishing manageable payment plans, and ensuring compliance. Choosing a reliable tax relief provider is essential, and taxpayers should review credentials, read feedback, and seek referrals to ensure credibility.

Free or low-cost options such as community tax clinics and non-profit organizations can also offer valuable guidance and legal assistance. However, caution is necessary, as some tax relief schemes may be fraudulent or misleading. Conducting careful research before committing to any service helps prevent further financial complications.

Overall, managing and overcoming tax debt involves a combination of understanding financial obligations, exploring relief options, and taking proactive steps to prevent future liabilities. With the right knowledge and support, taxpayers can transform their tax worries into a clear path towards financial stability and peace of mind.

The Benefits of Implementing a Technology Expense Management System in Your Business

As companies continue to integrate more advanced technology into their operations, managing the associated costs can become a significant challenge.

A technology expense management system can serve as a pivotal tool for organizations looking to better monitor and control their technology-related spending. These systems offer a range of advantages, from improving financial oversight to optimizing operational efficiencies. Below, we’ll explore the ins and outs of technology expense management and discuss the numerous benefits it can bring to your business. Keep reading to learn why such a system might be a valuable addition to your corporate toolkit.

Understanding Technology Expense Management Systems

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Alt text: A woman sitting on a couch, focused on her laptop, exploring Technology Expense Management Systems.

technology expense management system like Cimpl helps businesses track and control costs tied to tech assets such as software, hardware, and service contracts. With centralized data and intuitive dashboards, it offers visibility into spending, allowing teams to spot inefficiencies and make smarter budget decisions, even without deep technical expertise.

Beyond cost tracking, these systems support strategic planning by analyzing spending patterns and uncovering underused resources. This insight empowers companies to reduce waste, improve vendor negotiations, and align tech investments with broader business goals.

Streamlining Billing and Inventory Management

A Technology Expense Management (TEM) system enhances financial stability by automating and consolidating billing, minimizing errors, reducing accounting workload, and preventing overdue payments. It also improves inventory management through real-time tracking, helping organizations maintain accurate records of their tech assets and optimize resource allocation.

By aligning expenses with inventory, TEM systems simplify reconciliation, support internal controls, and ensure compliance through audit trails. Automated alerts for contract renewals, device upgrades, and warranty expirations keep managers informed and prepared. These features streamline administrative tasks, reduce manual efforts, and promote efficient oversight of both financial and asset-related aspects of technology management within a company.

Enhanced Financial Oversight and Cost Reduction

Technology expense management (TEM) systems enhance financial oversight by giving businesses detailed insights into tech-related spending and revealing cost-saving opportunities. They identify usage patterns that may indicate overprovisioning or underutilization, helping companies reallocate resources and improve budget accuracy.

Automated expense workflows reduce manual labor, lower the risk of human error, and streamline operations, keeping costs under control. TEM systems also support vendor negotiations by providing analytics based on historical data, enabling businesses to advocate for better contract terms. This data-driven approach helps organizations avoid overpaying for services or equipment and supports more strategic financial planning through precise forecasting and smarter allocation of technology budgets.

Improving Operational Efficiencies Across the Business

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Alt text: Colleagues working together at a table with laptops, aiming to boost operational efficiencies within the organization.

Technology Expense Management (TEM) systems enhance operational efficiency by automating routine tasks and centralizing tech-related data, freeing staff to focus on strategic functions. They support collaboration through a shared database that improves communication and accountability across departments.

TEM enables timely, data-driven decisions by providing real-time reporting and analytics, helping leaders adapt quickly to market shifts and tech developments. These systems also uncover inefficiencies, offering insights that inform better policies and tighter controls over technology spending. By continuously refining workflows and aligning budgeting with business needs, TEM plays a key role in streamlining operations and driving organizational agility.

Navigating Compliance and Security with Technology Expense Management

Compliance and data security are key concerns for businesses facing increasing regulatory demands. Technology expense management (TEM) systems support compliance by accurately tracking, recording, and reporting expenses, reducing the risk of regulatory violations and financial penalties. These systems also offer strong security features such as access controls, encryption, and security audits to safeguard sensitive financial data.

Their reporting capabilities ease the preparation of compliance documents and facilitate quick responses to audit requests, minimizing administrative workload. TEM systems also enhance governance by helping organizations monitor technology spending, manage risk, and maintain accountability through structured financial and data management protocols.

Overall, implementing a technology expense management system can transform the way businesses approach, track, and govern their technology spending. With improved financial oversight, increased operational efficiencies, and enhanced compliance and security measures, companies can gain a well-rounded approach to managing their technology investments, solidifying their financial position, and staying agile in a changing business landscape.

Nottingham’s best November events and nightlife

November brings a lot of energy to Nottingham with its packed schedule of Christmas markets, live shows, and buzzing nightlife spots. Festive lights start to sparkle, and the air fills with the scent of seasonal cheer from markets and performances. 

Residents in Gedling find these attractions close to home, just a few minutes’ drive or bus ride away. Certainly, this month offers perfect opportunities to get out and explore what the city holds with family and friends.

Family-Friendly & Cultural Highlights

November never falls short of events that cater to families and those with a love for culture. These gatherings foster community spirit and provide entertainment for all ages.

  • Nottingham Winter Wonderland: Opens on 12 November and runs until 31 December in Old Market Square. This spot transforms into a festive hub, featuring an ice rink trail, market stalls selling gifts and treats, and an observation wheel with views over the city. Families often spend hours here skating or browsing handmade items. 
  • Gedling Christmas Light Switch-On: A local favourite that usually takes place in late November. The event brings together community groups and local bands for an evening of carols, the official lighting, and family-friendly entertainment close to home.
  • Nottingham Comedy Festival: Running throughout November, the festival brings together comedy nights that everyone can enjoy. Venues like Canalhouse host affordable gigs that keep the folks laughing. 
  • Local art and craft markets: Regular markets across neighbourhoods (often running until late November) showcase regional makers, seasonal crafts, and hands-on activities. Artisans display handmade jewellery, prints, and textiles, creating a relaxed space for people to explore creativity and pick up unique gifts. 

Each event brings a combination of community spirit, accessible timings, and family-focused activities. Many organisers schedule daytime sessions and early evening slots that are suitable for family routines. Emphasis is on safe, cheerful outings.

Music, Theatre & Live Performances

Nottingham’s entertainment options light up November with a packed lineup of music and theatre.

  • The Motorpoint Arena hosts headline concerts and touring productions, bringing national and international artists to the city. 
  • Theatre Royal stages ‘Here & Now – The Steps Musical’ from 11 to 16 November, a lively production full of hits and dance. Adam Ant appears on 12 November for a dose of classic rock vibes. 
  • Nottingham Playhouse wraps up Eureka Day on 15 November, a sharp play about modern dilemmas, then launches Sleeping Beauty on 28 November for panto fun that families adore. 
  • Rescue Rooms features Still Remains on 12 November, where audiences get close to rising talents in a raw atmosphere.
  • Rock City lines up SPRINTS on 12 November, and CMAT on 14 November, known for their punchy indie and rock sounds that keep nights electric. 

These venues capture the city’s love for live acts, from big arena spectacles to gritty club shows that define Nottingham’s music pulse this month.

Nottingham’s Nightlife Scene

As days shorten, evenings in Nottingham shift to cosy pubs, stylish cocktail bars, and spots that stay open late. Areas like Hockley buzz with places such as The Alchemist for creative drinks or Annie’s Burger Shack for casual bites alongside beers. These venues create welcoming spaces where friends gather over shared plates and stories.

For those looking for something different, Dusk Till Dawn Poker Club hosts the WSOP Circuit from November 14 to 24, featuring ring events and a £1 million guaranteed Main Event that combines strategy with excitement in a social hub. 

If you’re after something a bit more upmarket, then the Alea in Nottingham is a good shout. You can enjoy all of the most popular games you might have played online at sites like NetBet, with the element of opulence and glamour online casinos struggle to replicate. The standout feature of the Alea is Marco Pierre-White’s Steakhouse and Grill, where you can enjoy some of the finest food and drink before a night at the tables, elevating this to the kind of experience it’s tough to have outside of Vegas.

Food, Drink & Local Markets

Source: Freepik

November ushers in Nottingham’s food season with markets and eateries that bring warmth to the colder days. These seasonal food events celebrate local producers and independent hospitality.

  • The Nottingham Vegan Market typically runs on select weekends, offering a range of plant-based street food and artisanal products. Visitors can enjoy freshly baked goods and hot meals that cater to every dietary preference.
  • The Christmas Market at Nottingham Castle will take place from 28 to 30 November, featuring stalls that focus on seasonal foods, including mulled wine and artisan cheeses. 
  • In Gedling, The Gedling Inn serves hearty pub meals with local ales – a perfect stop for anyone craving comfort food and a relaxed, local atmosphere.
  • Hockley boasts options like Kayal for spicy Indian dishes or Belgo for Belgian-inspired fare.

Coffee shops in these areas offer quiet corners for savouring warm drinks. Be sure to support these independent spots to strengthen the community, as vendors pour their heart into making fresh, local dishes that make every visit special.

Closing Thoughts – Celebrating Nottingham’s Vibrant Scene

Nottingham mixes culture, entertainment, and new ideas in ways that keep November alive. Featuring Gedling’s light switch-on and the city’s arenas and markets, the area brims with family-friendly events, concerts, and intimate nights at smaller venues. 

With so many activities happening close to home, residents can find joy in neighbourhood gatherings and urban night events that bring people together. It also keeps the city buzzing as the seasons change. Embrace the season, explore local listings, and get involved in the events that make Nottingham a welcoming place to spend the month of November.

Council leaders prepare to submit ‘preferred option’ for local government shake-up that would see Gedling merge with City

A proposal recommending a merger between Gedling, Broxtowe and Nottingham City Council could soon be on its way to Westminster ahead of an incoming shake up of local government.

Nottinghamshire County Council and Rushcillfe Borough Councils have been working on a recommendation for local government reorganisation in Notts after deciding to reject s joint proposal from the county’s other local authorities.

Last year the Government called on councils across the country to put together plans for the reorganisation of their area’s local authorities as part of the shake up. The process, known as Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) is designed to replace existing ‘two-tier’ structures such as the one in Nottinghamshire 

A two-tiered system means services are shared between two, and sometimes three, councils. The second tier of local government is currently made up of seven borough and district Councils in Notts. In some areas there may also be a third tier – a town or parish council. Nottinghamshire County Council is a first-tier local authority. 

Once a new structure is approved, all seven of Nottinghamshire’s district and boroughs would disappear.

Gedling Borough Council could be forced to merge with Nottingham City Council and form a new authority. Pictured is current Nottingham City Council leader Cllr Neghat Khan

Councillor Neil Clarke
Leader of Rushcliffe Borough Council Cllr Neil Clarke said their proposal was ‘the best one’ given the evidence

Leaders at Nottinghamshire County Council and Rushcliffe Borough Council Mick Barton and Neil Clarke yesterday (12) unveiled their final version of a joint proposal for an LDR structure that would see the creation of two new local authorities. 

Councillors were asked to vote for two of a number of options for reorganisation at a county council meeting on September 2 before a submission is made to the Government. They voted by 43 to 11 in favour of progressing option 1b that would see Broxtowe and Gedling combine with Nottingham City as one unitary authority, and all other districts as another. 

The proposal by other authorities in Notts opted for Nottingham City to expand its boundary to include Broxtowe and Rushcliffe districts as part of a new unitary. A second unitary would then be formed to cover the rest of Nottinghamshire. This is the Government’s preferred option – but was rejected by Nottinghamshire County Council and Rushcliffe.

Nottinghamshire County Council issued a video statement on social media at the time, stating the authority had “hardly” been involved in a public consultation exercise over future council structure and would now be working on an alternative.

Councillor Mick Barton, Leader of Nottinghamshire County Council, said: “Since we were elected in May I was given a job to do, and that was to deliver a proposal on LGR (Local Government Reorganisation).  

“From the very beginning, I wanted communities, residents and businesses to be at the forefront of what this policy represents and delivers. 

“Five months on, we have the proposal ready to go to Full Council on November 20, and I am happy with our final proposal.  

“As I feel that the document we are putting forward is a superior piece of work.  I look forward to delivering this final document to full council and formally signing it off and then sending it to the government at the end of the month.” 

Councillor Neil Clarke MBE, Leader of Rushcliffe Borough Council added: “This proposal is the best one given the evidence – it brings together what works, keeps our communities at the heart of decision-making, and ensures we’re ready for the future.” 

The Government is expected to reach a final decision on the future council structure in Nottinghamshire in March 2026, and they say the new-look councils will be established in 2028.

What does Local Government Reorganisation mean for Gedling borough?

The changes that have been proposed to Nottinghamshire councils could affect how many services are delivered in Gedling borough and beyond.

Back in February, the government invited councils in Nottingham to explore reorganisation again, as with many other councils across the country.

This is a part of Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) in areas with two-tier councils, which includes Nottinghamshire, with it having a county council as well as separate borough councils.

This isn’t the first time the idea has been proposed in Nottinghamshire, with the last plans for a shake-up being dropped back in 2019.

The city council is a separate entity, already under a unitary council, but is still part of the proposed plans.

The government seeks to create a unitary council which they say would make local government more efficient and could save money by taking actions such as sharing more resources and merging departments.

They say the aim is to reduce confusion over council responsibilities and make services more efficient and easier to access.

There are two main ways the councils are considering reorganising.

One, known as option 1b, includes combining Nottingham City council with Gedling and Broxtowe into a new unitary council, leaving the other five areas to form a second unitary council.

The other proposed option, known as option 1e, would see the city council merge instead with Rushcliffe and Broxtowe to similar ends.

These plans have not come without criticism, with leaders of both the city council and Broxtowe council voicing their concerns on the boundary changes.

Some have argued that this could cut the red tape, with residents only having to navigate one website or call one number to get the service they need, instead of the potentially two they do currently.

But others have said that changing the boundaries and a unified council could lose touch with the distinct needs of boroughs such as Gedling.

There are also concerns around the jobs of those currently working for the councils in question.

This comes after back in September, several of the Nottinghamshire councils released a report which detailed residents’ thoughts on the reforms.

It found that two in three residents were against the possible changes to the council boundaries, with 70% of respondents saying they were satisfied with the services they were receiving from their council.

But only 20,000 people were a part of the consultation which happened over the summer (until mid-September), which is less than 1% of Nottinghamshire’s population.

This report was released by seven Nottinghamshire councils, to the disappointment of both the Nottinghamshire County Council (NCC) and Rushcliffe borough council (RBC) who dismissed the report.

In a joint statement The Council Leaders, Councillor Mick Barton (NCC) and Councillor Neil Clarke (RBC) said: “Under 24 hours to review and publish a lengthy and incredibly important report that could form a cornerstone of the future of local government in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire is irresponsible.

“This engagement is not finished and so far, has failed to reach most of our residents and businesses.

“The only clear message from this report is that two in three people here in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire do not want the Labour Government’s reorganisation.”

These two councils have now worked on an alternative proposal which would see Gedling and Broxtowe merge with the City, and Nottinghamshire Cpunty Council join with the remaining authorities.

All proposals are due at the end of November, with meetings and final additions still being made.

After the submission date on November 28, there will then be a review period by the government.

A decision is expected to be made on the proposals made by the Nottinghamshire councils (and 20 other councils across the country) by summer 2026.

If these plans were approved, a unitary council could take over from 2028 onwards.

‘Vulnerable’ future ahead for Gedling bowls club as council pushes back key decision

The future of a Gedling bowls club remains ‘vulnerable’ after a key decision over its inclusion in leisure centre redevelopment plans was deferred.

In September 2025, the fate of Gedling Indoor Bowls Club was left in doubt following a decision by Gedling Borough Council’s cabinet to no longer include the club in its plans to replace Carlton Forum Leisure Centre and the Richard Herrod site with a new building.

Under the plans, a new ‘Carlton Active’ leisure and community facility would be built on the Richard Herrod Site, which could include an eight-lane swimming pool and teaching pool, a 100-station gym, community rooms and a café.

At September’s cabinet meeting, the authority decided to offer what was described as “non-financial support” to the club, for members to look for options to relocate, due to council financial reasons.

Up until that point, the Richard Herrod-based club, that has been running since 1987, had been considered in the redevelopment proposals.

It now has 330 members and a petition was presented to the council in a meeting on Wednesday (November 12), signed by 1,021 people at the time of submission, calling on the authority to “reinstate, retain and protect” indoor bowling within plans. The petition now has 1,181 signatures.

Speaking to the local democracy reporting service (LDRS) back in September, Ian Summerscales, director of the bowls club, said the decision to not include the club in plans was “effectively shortening people’s lives”.

He said it would cause social isolation that “people don’t survive” for long, with the club also offering mental respite for members and provision for disability bowls.

Presenting the petition in Wednesday’s meeting, Jenny Higgins, club director, said the club was a “lifeline” and it wanted to work with the council to find a “balanced solution”.

She questioned the council’s concerns for financial viability, stating the option to include the bowls club would give a surplus to the council in year two.

Speaking during the meeting, Councillor Henry Wheeler (Lab), portfolio holder for lifestyles, health and wellbeing, said a six-rink bowls facility in the plans would add between £5.6 million to £7.7 million to capital costs, leaving the council a subsidy of around £500,000 a year.

He said figures had been “cleared by independent sector specialist consultants using current market rates” and a smaller three or four rink alternative option to include bowls in the plans would not be “operationally viable” for the club due to competition standards.

Cllr Wheeler called for the decision responding to the petition to be deferred to the cabinet – this was later accepted by the council.

The club’s moves to try save its future at the new leisure centre was supported by some councillors.

Cllr Sam Smith (Con) described the club as a “gem” in the borough and called on the council to look at the proposal figures again.

The non-financial support offer to the club was called a “series of words without any substance” by Cllr Martin Smith (Con).

Cllr Darren Maltby (Con) said the council should be looking at increasing its “inclusive” facilities when speaking of the club’s importance in disability bowls, saying: “You can’t measure the benefit people get from this in money, but in the quality of life.”

Speaking on alternatives, Cllr Andrew Ellwood (Lib Dem) said he did have “reservations” financially for a six-rink site but a three or four rink alternative could be looked at, enabling the club to still hold local competitions.

Cllr Andrew Meads (Ind) called it “cavalier” to “rush” any wider redevelopment plans, adding Carlton may find itself under a new local authority with upcoming local government reorganisation plans.

He suggested if people were not happy regarding the subsidy for the Richard Herrod Centre then “lease the whole site to the bowling club, let them run it as a social enterprise and see if they can keep it on its feet on their own”.

Speaking to the LDRS following Wednesday’s deferral decision, Mr Summerscales said he was “pleased” the petition was not immediately rejected but said the club had not been consulted on a smaller-rink option.

He said he believes if the final inclusion decision comes down to the council’s leading Labour group then the “decision won’t change”, saying: “We’re still feeling vulnerable. We really need the council to take on board all those considerations – particularly around the issues affecting health and wellbeing.”

Mr Summerscales says the club is willing to work with the authority on assessing alternative inclusion options and their financial viability on both sides, adding: “We’re fairly confident we would be able to make anything work.”

The club runs 2,200 indoor bowling sessions each month, including sessions offered for disabled bowlers, and members are aged between 25 and 92.

Both leisure centres currently face more than £2 million in backlog works and require a yearly subsidy of around £545,000, making them “unsustainable in their current form”, according to council papers.

The club’s inclusion in redevelopment plans will be discussed further at a future cabinet meeting.

‘FAILED EXPERIMENT’: Police and Crime Commissioner roles to be scrapped by government

POLICE and Crime Commissioner roles are to be abolished, the Government has announced.

The Home Office said the move will save the taxpayer at least £100 million which they say will help fund more frontline officers.

Nottinghamshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner is Gary Godden who was elected in May 2024, succeeding Caroline Henry.

The role of PCCs were established back in 2012 to hold forces to account, but the Home Office say turnout at the polls and public knowledge of who their local PCC is has been ‘incredibly low.’

The 41 elected officials in England and Wales, who are paid between £73,300 and £101,900 a year, will continue in the role until the end of the current term in 2028.

Duties will then be absorbed by regional mayors wherever possible, so that cutting crime will be considered as part of wider public services such as education and healthcare.

Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, called the introduction of Police and Crime Commissioners by the last Conservative government ‘a failed experiment’. 

“I will introduce new reforms so police are accountable to their local mayoralties or local councils,” she said.

“The savings will fund more neighbourhood police on the beat across the country, fighting crime and protecting our communities. 

“I would like to recognise the efforts of all current and former Police and Crime Commissioners, and thank them. These individuals served their communities and will continue to do so until they have completed their current terms.”