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Tram hopes for Gedling could be dashed if Labour get into power

Gedling Eye Reporter
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Tram hopes for Gedling could be dashed if Labour get into power

Hopes for a tram extension to Gedling could be dashed if Labour get into power at the next general election.

Speaking during a visit to Nottingham, the shadow transport secretary Andy McDonald said Nottingham’s tram network would be extended from Phoenix Park to Kimberley, and from Toton to East Midlands Airport if Labour got into power.

It had been hoped that the tram network could next be extended out to Gedling.

Mr McDonald said: “Nottingham’s tram is a great example of what can be achieved in a city on this scale.

PICTURED: Shadow transport secretary Andy McDonald, right, in Nottingham earlier today

“But there is yet further potential that we could do, and there are plans to look at extensions to the system, so that’s a really exciting prospect, because we need to capitalise on the success that’s already there.

“We’ve already got that infrastructure there. It’s already established it’s a case of getting greater benefits by expanding that.”

Asked about how much the extension would cost, and how he planned to pay for it, he said: “Frankly the cost of this whole system is surprisingly economical and under control. I’m really quite impressed by the cost.

“The challenge for this sector is to bring those costs down and there is already a consultation underway about where further tram networks can be expanded.

“But we are talking about hundreds of millions for certain stretches, which I think represents an excellent return.”

Tram_Nottingham

Councillor David Mellen, leader of Nottingham City Council, and said: “We’re pleased that there’s a recognition of the success and popularity of our tram network, with different areas keen to explore the possibility of bringing its swift, reliable services to them.

“There’s no doubt that expanding our already well connected tram network would help to further reduce congestion around the city, and we are continuing to look at options for future extensions across the whole of Nottingham.

A spokeswoman for the Department for Transport said: “Passengers across Derby and Nottingham are benefitting from new technology, including real-time travel information and a roll out of smart ticketing, thanks to £7 million from our Transforming Cities Fund.

“We are also working with both councils to develop plans for a share of the second £1.22 billion round of the fund, supporting larger improvements to public and sustainable transport in the city regions.

“We will consider proposals to fund additional tram schemes, based on value for money for the taxpayer and benefits for passengers and the wider community.”

Gedling leaders: ‘Time running out to help Gedling Country Park secure top award’

Gedling Eye Reporter
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Gedling leaders: ‘Time running out to help Gedling Country Park secure top award’

Two Gedling leaders are asking people in the borough to back a bid to secure Gedling Country Park a top award – before time runs out.

Gedling MP Vernon Coaker and Gedling Borough Council Leader Councillor John Clarke are urging residents of Gedling to support the park in a UK-wide competition organised by green space charity, Fields in Trust by voting for the park before Monday’s deadline.

It’s a race to the top, Gedling Country Park is one of 17 parks in the East Midlands region that has been nominated.

The leaders are asking local people to vote for Gedling Country Park online:  www.fieldsintrust.org/best-park/east-midlands  

Time is running out and you only have until noon on Monday, August 19 to vote.

Vernon Coaker MP said “Gedling Country Park is a much-loved part of Gedling and we are very proud of it. I think Gedling Country Park is not only an exceptional place with something for the whole community to enjoy, but it has maintained strong connections to the local mining heritage and history, which is very important to people across Gedling.

PICTURED: Gedling MP Vernon Coaker, left, and Cllr John Clarke, leader of Gedling Borough Council

“I was at the Park only last week with the Leader of Gedling Borough Council Councillor John Clarke, talking to local people about what a fantastic place it is and walking one of the many footpaths.  

“Gedling Country Park has something for everyone, providing a retreat for many, a chance to be outdoors. It creates a real appreciation for nature and wildlife. The paths, trails, playpark, cafe and viewpoints at Gedling Country Park have created a destination that everyone in Gedling can be truly proud of. I am once again urging everyone to please vote for the exceptional Gedling Country park, let us bring this award to Gedling’

Leader of Gedling Borough Council, Councillor John Clarke said: “We’re delighted that Gedling Country Park has been shortlisted for this award and we ask residents of Gedling to get behind us and vote for it to be recognised as one of the best in the country.

“Visiting the Park again only last week with Vernon Coaker MP, it was great to see so many residents enjoying the various aspects of the park, it really is a beautiful part of Gedling. The park has some of the best facilities including a fantastic children’s play area, a modern café and ‘changing places’ facilities for the severally disabled. 

Mr Clarke added: “Voting is really quick and easy so please visit the Fields in Trust website and vote for Gedling Country Park. Time is running out, it would be great if as many of you as possible could please place your vote Gedling Country Park”

Designs for £790,000 Carlton Square upgrade revealed

Gedling Eye Reporter
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Designs for £790,000 Carlton Square upgrade revealed

People are being invited to have their say on new designs for an upgrade of Carlton Square, which were unveiled this week.

Gedling Borough Council have been working on the new designs with Waypoint, the company that manages Carlton Square and will be at the shopping centre this week to get the views of local people.

The £790,000 scheme to improve the Carlton Square shopping centre was given the green light by Gedling Borough Council back in February.

As part of the improvements there will be upgrades to the entrance areas, new paving and lighting changes to the car park layout and new street furniture.

It is hoped that Carlton Square upgrade will be finished in time for Christmas 2020.

This is the second consultation to be carried out about the Carlton Square revamp by the council. Local residents were quizzed earlier in the year about what they’d like to see included in plans to regenerate the area.

A council spokesman said: “We are still working together to finalise the elements that will make up the scheme but have addressed the comments you made.

“This next stage is to show you the sort of changes that could happen and to get your feedback. Do you like the proposals? Do you see any problems? Are there parts you really dislike? Let us know.”

Gedling Borough Council will be visiting Carlton Square at the following times and will be located under a Council banner:

Wednesday, August 14 between 12:00pm -14:00pm

Thursday, August 15, between 10:00am -12:00pm

Monday, August 19, between 14:00pm-16:00pm

The team will also be at the Carlton Fun Day at 13:00-16.00 on Wednesday, August 21.

You can also send your comments to ecdev@gedling.gov.uk

You can see the proposed changes in more detail by reading the council’s Before and After Document, which shows you impressions of various views of Carlton Square so you can see the sort of changes that may be made.

Watch out for these roadworks across Gedling borough this week

Gedling Eye Reporter
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Watch out for these roadworks across Gedling borough this week

These are the latest planned roadworks taking place across Gedling borough over the next few weeks.

This list contains only the roadworks considered to be most likely to cause delays on key routes as well as those involving road closures and temporary traffic lights.

The list is not exhaustive and does not feature some minor or emergency repairs that come up after publication.

Other roadworks may finish or start before schedule or be cancelled altogether.

All information is from Highways England, local authorities and utility companies.

BURTON JOYCE

A612 Church Road

August 20 — 22

Delays possible due to some carriageway incursion

CARLTON

Greenhill Rise

August 19 — 20 August

Delays likely due to road closure

B686 Burton Road

August 13— 15

Delays possible due to some carriageway incursion from the junction with Orlando Drive to opposite to the junction of Freemans Terrace

B686 Carlton Hill

August 14 — 16 August

Delays possible due to some carriageway incursion

Station Road

August 15 — 19

Delays possible due to some carriageway incursion opposite 90 (Health centre) on Station Road.

GEDLING

Wood Lane

August 19 — 21

Delays likely due to road closure

A6211 Arnold Lane

August 20 — 22 August

Delays possible due to some carriageway incursion while rusted interactive sign post is replaced.

LAMBLEY

Spring Lane

August 15 — 16

Delays possible due to traffic control (two-way signals)

MAPPERLEY

Mapperley Rise

August 14 — 16

Delays possible due to traffic control (give & take)

Works location: Between No. 70 and No. 54…

Gedling pub’s 12-hour static cycle challenge will raise money for Notts children’s charity

Gedling Eye Reporter
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Gedling pub’s 12-hour static cycle challenge will raise money for Notts children’s charity

A number of volunteers will not be going anywhere on October 5 – despite undertaking a 12-hour cycling marathon.

The Gedling Inn is organising a static cycle challenge to raise funds for a local charity on October 5 and is calling on people to take part.

Every mile on the clock raises more funds for the Harley Jae Trust, who support children’s intensive care wards at the QMC.

The Gedling Inn’s landlady Beccy Webster said: “People taking part in the challenge can do from as little as one mile or as many as they can

gedling-inn
PICTURED: The Gedling Inn

“We will have multiple static bikes on the day and the aim is to do a relay to keep them all moving until 9pm and see how many miles in total we can cover in that time.”

“With every mile we cover on our bikes we raise more money, so let’s try and ride to Paris, Rome or even New York in 12 hours!”

The event will have a 90s theme, so a themed disco will also be taking place on the day along with raffle and kids’ entertainment.

Volunteers will need to raise a minimum of £50 to take part.

If you want to sign up for the challenge email jenny@theharleyjaetrust.org or call 07495184545. You can also contact Beccy at The Gedling Inn on 0115 9878686

Gedling Conservatives select Tom Randall as candidate to take on Labour’s Vernon Coaker in next election

Gedling Eye
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Gedling Conservatives select Tom Randall as candidate to take on Labour’s Vernon Coaker in next election

A former Oxford student from Arnold is set to take on Labour to stand as a Conservative parliamentary candidate in Gedling at the next general election.

Tom Randall has now been selected as the Conservative candidate for Gedling by members of Gedling Conservative Association.

Tom grew up and was educated in Arnold. He went on to read law at Oxford and currently works for a professional membership body.

Mr Randall said he will focus his campaign on championing the benefits of Brexit, ‘so our country gets back on the road to a brighter future.’

BATTLE: Mr Randall will have to defeat Vernon Coaker MP to claim the Gedling seat in the next election

He also wants to ensure Gedling gets its share of the 20,000 new police officers announced by the Prime Minister and ‘making sure they have the powers to keep local streets safe’.

Mr Randall said: “I am delighted to be selected as the Conservative candidate for Gedling, I feel very privileged to have the opportunity to represent the place I call home.”

“I believe in serving society and local communities, standing up for those who do the right thing, those who do the work, those who raise families and those who start the businesses which fund our public services.

“With Boris Johnson as Prime Minister, only the Conservatives can get Brexit done by October 31 so that we can deliver the change people want across Gedling with a great new deal.

“I want to become MP for Gedling to make sure the people of this area see their hard work recognised and rewarded and I’ll be a local champion with a plan to get things done, making sure local people see a difference and have their views and opinions heard loud and clearly,” he added.

148 new homes to be built on outskirts of Arnold

Gedling Eye Reporter
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148 new homes to be built on outskirts of Arnold

A new housing estate has been given planning permission and will now be built on the outskirts of Arnold.

A total of 148 new homes will be built on land to the east of Mansfield Road – the A60 – and north of Georgia Drive.

Outline planning permission was granted by Gedling Borough Council’s planning committee last night (Wednesday, August 7).

This means no exact details of the proposal have been decided, but the development has been agreed in principle.

Concerns were raised that the estate could become a ‘rat-run’, with drivers using it to get to and from Mansfield Road. 

But planning officers assured the committee access to the site would be from Mansfield Road only, meaning drivers couldn’t cut through. 

There will however be pedestrian access to the east of the site.

Labour councillor Paul Wilkinson, who represents the Carlton ward, said: “I’m happy to support this, and I particularly welcome the joined-up thinking which seems to be going on in terms of the access. I think that has countered some of the objections that have been raised.”

Mike Avery, the borough’s planning boss, said: “There will not be the creation of a rat run with vehicular access through the site from the west to the east.

“There will be one vehicular point of access. Pedestrian links, potentially, but only one vehicular access.”

As part of the scheme, the Labour-run Gedling Borough Council is asking developers Langridge Homes to pay £604,748 towards a new primary school in the Arnold area.

They have also asked that a contribution be made towards the cost of expansion of secondary places at Redhill Academy.

At the planning meeting last night, 14 councillors voted in favour, with two abstentions. 

Hundreds of new homes to be built in Calverton

Gedling Eye Reporter
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Hundreds of new homes to be built in Calverton

Hundreds of new houses will be built on a plot of land in Calverton after permission for a new development was approved. 

The land, to the north of Park Road and Collyer Road, will now see a mixture of two-to-five-bedroom homes built.

After planning permission was approved last night by Gedling Borough Council, contributions will be made by developers Persimmon Homes for bus service provision, and school places.

However no new community infrastructure, such as schools, is being built as part of the 365-home development.

The application had originally been for 430 homes, with land to the north of the plot included in the first application. 

This second plot of land could have included a road through to provide access onto Oxton Road, the B6386. 

But instead, the second plot was safeguarded, meaning it can be used for a future application.

PICTURED: A diagram showing where the new homes will be built

This meant the access road for the new estate couldn’t be built through to Oxton Road, and will have to come through the primarily-residential streets of Collyer Road and Park Road, to the south. 

Independent Councillor Mike Hope, who represents the area, said this was a serious flaw in the design which would have a significant impact for people living on the two roads. 

Speaking at the borough council’s planning meeting last night, he added: “The aim of the planning committee is to make sustainable communities that gel together, with the right infrastructure. 

“But there’s no infrastructure there at all, we’re not doing it.

“No thought has been given to the impact of development on the community, and let’s face it this is a big development. In itself it’s probably about 20 percent of the size of the village, so it’s a lot to take in, and nobody has tried to mitigate the effect of that on my community.

“Because Calverton is being developed piecemeal, what we’re getting is itty-bitty bits. Take schools. (With several other developments), there are 122 primary places that are going to be needed in Calverton, in schools that are already full. 

“That is a problem because there is no provision in the plans we have got for a new school.

“I would like to see this planning application taken back and referred to our planning officers and to say ‘find a way round this that will be better for the community of Calverton’.”

The councillors at the borough council’s planning committee last night (Wednesday, August 8) also agreed to seek contributions of £250,000 to improve bus services, £1,466,696 for primary school provision, and £1,029,674 for secondary school provision.

It is anticipated the extra schools funding will be used to expand the capacity at Colonel Frank Seely Academy secondary school, and at one of the three primary schools in the nearby area.

Councillors approved the scheme by 14 votes to one, with one abstention.

Eggcellent effort: Youngster raises charity cash after being inspired by Easter visit to hospice in Mapperley

Gedling Eye Reporter
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Eggcellent effort: Youngster raises charity cash after being inspired by Easter visit to hospice in Mapperley

A ten-year-old girl has raised over £500 for a hospice in Mapperley after being inspired to raise the cash while taking part in an Easter event at the centre.

Alexia said she fell in love with the hospice when she came for the Easter Egg hunt in March.

And when her mum Debbie explained what the hospice is for,  Alexia – who has recently lost her own grandma to pancreatic cancer – was determined to do something to help.

Nottinghamshire_Hospice
PICTURED: Nottinghamshire Hospice

So she signed up for the Water Wipeout challenge – billed as the UK’s wettest, muddiest fun run –  tackling water slides, tightropes, tunnels, hurdles, giant walls, cargo nets, spider’s webs, balance beams, and lots of water and mud.

Alexia, who does figure skating at the National Ice Centre where she trains six days a week, easily coped with the 3k course. She smashed her fundraising target, bringing in an impressive £546 for the hospice.

Debbie said: “When I explained what end of life care was she just wanted to help. As well as losing her nan, her grandad has cancer so she understands. It means more if you are going through it yourself.

“She’s done fundraising challenges before but this is the most she’s raised. I’m very proud of her. She works hard and she really enjoyed Water Wipeout. Now she wants to do a 10k but is too young to register, so she will have to wait until she’s 12.”

Alexia said: “I am just happy I can help make a difference.”

Roxanne Hickling, fundraiser at Nottinghamshire Hospice, said: “What Alexia’s done for the hospice is truly impressive. The money she’s raised will provide crucial care for patients at the end of their lives.”

Bee-friendly products go on sale at Morrisons in Netherfield

Gedling Eye
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Bee-friendly products go on sale at Morrisons in Netherfield

Surpermarket giant Morrisons has launched a series of bee-friendly products, with one the most popular being bee-Friendly eggs which are now available at their store in Netherfield.

The retailer has launched their ‘Project Pollinator’ programme following growing concerns about the decline in wild bees throughout the UK, echoed in a recent UN report on potential mass extinction

Initially launched with Morrisons free range egg farmers, the scheme has so far seen 57 acres of bee friendly pollen and nectar rich habitat planted across the UK.

Eighty per cent of the farms supplying directly in to Morrisons Chippendale egg packing site in Yorkshire have now subscribed to the project.

Morrisons agriculture team has worked with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust to formulate a unique bee-friendly flower mixture, designed to optimise bee numbers. The mixture of plants – including Phacelia, Red Clover and Sainfoin – are drilled in to five per cent of the land on each farm to establish dedicated bumblebee habitats.

The supermarket and the Trust have also trained farmers to become ‘bee walkers’ – in order to monitor and check the bee numbers on their farms. This includes farmers being taught how to spot different species of bumblebee.

As a result of ‘Project Pollinator’, Morrisons has introduced ‘bee-friendly’ eggs into their Netherfield store this month.

Gill Perkins, CEO of Bumblebee Conservation Trust said: “Bumblebees are amongst the most loved and familiar of insects. But sadly these charismatic creatures are struggling to survive and the loss of habit has been a primary reason for this. Morrisons work to make their farms ‘bee friendly’ – by ensuring land is set aside for habitat and providing bumblebee identification courses – has been an amazing success. It’s a brilliant initiative.”

Sophie Throup, Agriculture Manager at Morrisons said: “Looking after our farmed and natural environment is important for us and our customers. Our bees play a vital role in pollinating our crops and we want to work with our farmers look after them. The eggs from our bee-friendly farms give our customers the chance to support our bee population and we hope to roll out this scheme to other types of farming.”

Morrisons bee conservation was recently recognised by Compassion in World Farming, where it received a Sustainable Farming Award for its bee-friendly eggs.

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