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Council safety warning following death of boy, 16, in Colwick Country Park lake

David Bratton
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Council safety warning following death of boy, 16, in Colwick Country Park lake

A council has issued water safety advice following the death of a 16-year-old boy who entered the water at Colwick Country Park yesterday (30) evening.

Nottinghamshire Police this morning confirmed a body had been recovered following a search.

Nottinghamshire City Council’s Cllr Sam Lux, the Council’s Portfolio Holder for Carbon Reduction, Leisure and Culture, said: “As the current warm spell continues and as we approach the summer season we urge people to follow the guidance at Colwick park and other sites and not enter the water unless as part of properly supervised open water swimming sessions.”

There are many hidden dangers in open water:

  • The water may look calm on the surface, but there may still be strong undercurrents that can pull even the strongest swimmers under.
  • The water may also feel relatively warm on the surface, but just a few feet below it will be icy cold even in hot weather and can very quickly induce shock, cause severe cramp and hypothermia.
  • As well as currents; plants, reeds, and rocks can also be present below the surface of the water. Though they might sound harmless, rocks can be sharp and reeds can get caught around limbs. 

More information on water safety is available as part of the National Fire Chiefs Council’s Be Water Aware campaign: Be Water Aware – NFCC and Nottingham Fire and Rescue Service: Water safety – NFRS

Cllr Lux added: “Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the young person who has sadly died.

“We will be working with Notts Police and Notts Fire and Rescue Service to understand the full circumstances of what happened but we join with them in highlighting the extreme dangers that open water such as lakes, rivers, quarries or canals can present.”

Papplewick Pumping Station looks to build new visitor centre to protect machines from the past

Joe Locker (LDR Reporter)
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Papplewick Pumping Station looks to build new visitor centre to protect machines from the past

A historical pumping station in Ravenshead is looking to build a new visitor centre to better protect and celebrate a number of mechanical relics from Nottinghamshire’s past.

Papplewick Pumping Station, in Rigg Lane, is regarded by English Heritage as the most complete Victorian fresh water pumping station in the country.

It has all of its original features, machinery and grounds, including the large ornate pump house which still has two working beam engines.

The station was constructed between 1882 and 1885 and provided clean fresh water to people in Nottingham for almost 100 years.

It was in continuous operation until 1969, before opening as a museum in 1975 under a trust.

Under new plans, submitted to Gedling Borough Council, a new multifunctional space to facilitate an exhibition and dining area could be created.

An open-air café dining area would be complimented by an adjoining exhibition space, separated by a glass wall.

Ashley Smart, museum director, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service he wants to better protect two steam engines that are currently exposed to the elements.

The exhibition space would also feature new graphic panels and interactive screens to showcase the historical machinery on display.

“The new building would house two pieces of machinery that have for many, many years been exposed to the outside weather,” he said.

“It would tidy up that area and help us restore the engines for people to enjoy.

“The engines run but because they are exposed to the outside elements it is a lot of work to keep them running.

“We currently have them under a lorry trailer canvass to keep the weather off, but the idea is that they will be properly housed. These two main engines are from Nottingham’s past. They show the development of steam over the years.

“The next step now is to get the money. We might approach the Heritage Lottery Fund and package it up as helping restore the engines and make them more accessible.”

Mr Smart said he hoped the plans would be completed within the next two to three years.

More than £500,000 was recently spent on the pumping station in a major restoration project that began in February last year.

The funding was awarded by Arts Council England’s Museum Estate and Development Fund (MEND) after the site was added to Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register in 2023.

The beam engines, a type of steam engine where an overhead beam is used to apply force from a vertical piston to a connecting rod, are steamed several times a year.

Visitor facilities were built in 1991, and a major restoration of the beam engines and pump house was completed in 2005, following a £1.6m grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

As well as the beam engines, the site houses several other engines, which are also demonstrated on steaming days.

One is a colliery winding engine from the nearby Linby Colliery, which was built by Robey & Co of Lincoln in 1922.  It is the only operational steam-powered winder in Britain, planning documents say.

Outside the main pump building is a triple expansion engine, made by the Kilmarnock firm of Glenfield & Co. in 1897.

It was used at Stanton Ironworks near Ilkeston, where it supplied the site with hydraulic power.

In 2002, two engines were obtained by the museum from the Player’s Tobacco Factory, and a single-cylinder oil engine, which formerly generated power for the arc lights on the projector at Bolsover Cinema, is also kept at the museum.

Why more homebuyers are turning to short-term loans

Graham Finch
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Why more homebuyers are turning to short-term loans

In the fast-paced UK property market, where competition is fierce and opportunities can disappear in a matter of days, homebuyers are increasingly turning to short-term loans as a way to secure the property they desire. Traditional financing methods, such as long-term mortgages, often take weeks or even months to complete, making them less effective in a market where speed and agility are crucial. This is where short-term loans, particularly bridging finance, come into play. These financial products are changing the way buyers approach property transactions by providing the speed, flexibility, and buying power needed to make quick decisions and close deals faster than ever before.

The Rise of Short-Term Loans in the Property Market

Short-term property finance, most commonly seen in the form of bridging loans, allows buyers to secure immediate funding for property transactions. These loans are often used when a buyer needs quick access to funds to complete a deal but has not yet secured long-term financing, such as a traditional mortgage. Bridging loans are typically secured against the property being purchased or a property the borrower already owns.

The appeal of short-term loans lies in their ability to provide quick access to funds, often in a matter of days, as opposed to the lengthy application processes and waiting times associated with traditional mortgages. This speed gives homebuyers the advantage they need in a property market that moves at an increasingly fast pace. Whether buying at auction, making a time-sensitive offer, or purchasing a home in a competitive area, short-term loans allow buyers to act decisively and secure a property before other potential buyers have the chance.

A Critical Factor in Today’s Property Market

One of the key reasons more homebuyers are turning to short-term loans is the speed they offer. In today’s market, properties can go under offer within hours or days of being listed, particularly in high-demand areas. Buyers who rely on traditional mortgages often face delays of several weeks while their application is processed, leaving them vulnerable to losing out on the property they are interested in.

Short-term loans provide a quick solution to this problem. With bridging finance, buyers can secure funding within 24 to 48 hours, enabling them to move quickly when an opportunity arises. This speed not only allows buyers to secure a property speedily but also gives them the flexibility to negotiate better terms, as sellers are often more willing to accept offers from buyers who can close a deal rapidly. In a competitive market, where time is often the deciding factor, this speed can make all the difference between winning and losing a property.

Flexibility in Financing

Another significant advantage of short-term loans is the flexibility they provide. Traditional mortgages come with rigid terms and conditions, often requiring a long commitment and specific payment schedules. Short-term loans, however, can be tailored to suit the borrower’s particular needs, making them a more flexible solution for buyers with unique financial circumstances.

For instance, if a buyer is purchasing a property that requires extensive renovation before it can be sold or rented out, a bridging loan can be structured to allow for interest-only payments during the loan term. This allows the borrower to complete the renovations before the principal amount is due for repayment. Similarly, if a buyer is purchasing a property as part of a chain, where the sale of their current home is still in progress, short-term financing can help bridge the gap until the long-term funding is finalised.

This flexibility also extends to the loan terms. Bridging loans can be arranged for periods ranging from a few weeks to several months, depending on the buyer’s needs. This allows buyers to choose a loan term that fits their specific situation, whether they need quick funding to secure a property or a longer period to finalise their plans.

Increased Buying Power in a Competitive Market

One of the most significant benefits of short-term loans is the increased buying power they provide. In a competitive property market, being able to make a quick offer with the certainty of financing can give a buyer a distinct advantage. Sellers are often more willing to accept offers from buyers who can complete the transaction quickly, as it reduces the risk of deals falling through or being delayed due to financing issues.

By using short-term loans, homebuyers can effectively become cash buyers, which is often seen as more attractive by sellers. In some cases, buyers using short-term loans may even be able to negotiate a better price, as their ability to close the deal quickly may persuade the seller to accept a lower offer. This increased buying power makes it easier for buyers to secure a property, even in a market where demand is high and properties are in short supply.

The Cost of Short-Term Loans

While short-term loans offer numerous benefits, buyers need to be aware of the costs associated with them. Bridging loans typically come with higher interest rates than traditional mortgages due to the quick turnaround time and the higher risk for the lender. Additionally, there are often arrangement fees and other charges associated with securing short-term financing.

Homebuyers must weigh these costs against the benefits of securing a property quickly. In many cases, the ability to secure a property in a competitive market may outweigh the additional costs, especially if the buyer can negotiate a better price or avoid missing out on an opportunity. However, it is essential to have a clear repayment plan in place to ensure that the loan is repaid on time and that the costs do not become a burden.

The Right Time for Short-Term Loans

Short-term loans are an excellent solution for certain types of property transactions, particularly those that require speed and flexibility. However, they are not the right option for every buyer. Buyers who have the luxury of time and are not under pressure to secure a property quickly may find that traditional mortgages are a more cost-effective solution.

Short-term loans are best suited for buyers who need to act quickly, such as those buying at auction, purchasing a property in a competitive area, or dealing with a time-sensitive offer. Buyers in a property chain or those buying a property that requires renovation may also find short-term loans to be a valuable tool for bridging the gap until longer-term financing is secured.

Personalised canvas experiences added to world-first final farewell in 4D at Gedling Crematorium

David Bratton
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Personalised canvas experiences added to world-first final farewell in 4D at Gedling Crematorium

The bereaved can now remember and celebrate the lives of their loved ones even more uniquely, thanks to new personalised canvas experiences at Gedling Crematorium. 

In a world first, last autumn the crematorium on Catfoot Lane started offering families a chance to experience the funerals of the future, today, thanks to state-of-the-art technology.

It meant services could be uniquely personalised, using the projection of dynamic theming, such as seasons, in the chapel, accompanied by harmoniously coordinated soundscapes and lighting.

Now, families can take this experience even further thanks to personalised canvas experiences.

Families can take the 4D experience even further thanks to personalised canvas experiences

From the moment mourners arrive at the chapel, they’ll be welcomed by an image of their loved one displayed on external welcome screens – gently setting the tone for the service to come.

In the waiting room, a gallery-style showcase of treasured photos will offer a quiet space for reflection and remembrance. Then, as they enter the chapel, a personalised canvas theme paired with soft, complementary lighting will create a serene and intimate atmosphere.

At the heart of the service, the loved one’s name and a beautifully set holding photo will be displayed as a touching focal point on the canvas, honouring their memory throughout the service.

From the moment mourners arrive at the chapel, they’ll be welcomed by an image of their loved one

During the service, up to 25 carefully chosen photographs, accompanied by a special piece of music, will beautifully celebrate the life and memories of the life once lived.

New personalised canvas experiences have four categories: the floral collection, with 12 options ranging from Forget-me-nots to roses; the classic collection, with 10 colour opions; and the scrapbook collection with seven themes including DIY, cars, travel, pets and music. 

The fourth category allows supporters of Nottingham Forest FC or Notts County FC to select an interactive canvas wall from the football collection and bring their loved one’s favouite football team’s stadium into the chapel.

The experience is further enhanced by having the name of the deceased scrolling on what would usually be an electronic advertising board running all around the stadium. 

The innovative experience is the result of a partnership between Westerleigh Group, which operates Gedling Crematorium, and the UK’s leading audio-visual provider to the bereavement industry, Obitus.

Gedling Crematorium Manager Giulia McDonough said: “Since the immersive experience was launched last year with an introductory selection of canvas wall backgrounds, 99% of families who have held funerals here have chosen to have a wall or element of the wall included within the service.

“We’ve had many mourners mouth the word ‘wow’ as they have walked into our chapel, and saw them well up, telling us they have loved the canvas wall and how it added a truly personal touch to the funeral.”

The world-first launched last year with a choice of ten dynamic backgrounds, from Country Hills and Waterfall to a Gentle Glimmer and a Football Stadium, all of which are still available, and are known as Canvas Walls.

But now a number of new themes have been added together with additional options for personalisation. 

These ‘personalised canvas experiences’ offer even more options for tailoring the displays to be specifically relevant to the person being honoured in the service.

Giulia added: “We are now looking at the next phase of what the Canvas wall has to offer to help families honour their loved ones in an even more personal and meaningful way.

“The options can reflect a loved one’s passions, they can commemorate them in ways that feel personal and close to the heart.

“We’re very proud of the touching ways in which we can help the bereaved pay a very personal tribute to their loved ones.

“We said when we launched last year that this was only just the beginning and that we would be looking to increase even further the personalisation options available, and we’re now in the position to do that.”

Westerleigh Group is one of the UK’s largest independent owners and operators of crematoria and cemeteries, with 41 sites across England, Scotland and Wales, all set within beautifully landscaped gardens of remembrance which provide peaceful places for people to visit and reflect.

For more information about the innovative immersive themes available at Gedling Crematorium, visit: www.gedlingcrematorium.co.uk/personalising-a-funeral or www.obitus.com/personal

Body found in lake at Colwick Country Park during search for missing 16-year-old boy

David Bratton
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Body found in lake at Colwick Country Park during search for missing 16-year-old boy

A body has been found at Colwick Country Park during the search for a 16-year-old boy who went missing after entering a lake.

Emergency services were called to the park at 5.20pm on Wednesday (30) after the boy got into difficulty whilst swimming in the water.

A multi-agency rescue operation involving a police underwater search team, assisted by Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, led to the discovery of his body shortly before 8pm.  

The boy’s family have been informed of the development and are now being supported by specially-trained officers following the incident.

Picture of East Lake at Colwick Country Park
PHOTO: East Lake at Colwick Country Park (PHOTO: Nottingham City Coumcil)

Chief Inspector David Mather, of Nottinghamshire Police, said:

“Emergency services have sadly recovered the body of a teenage boy from the lake, despite the best efforts of rescue teams.

“This is a tragic discovery and our thoughts are with this boy’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.

“While work is now underway to understand how the boy came into difficulty, I would like to take this opportunity to highlight this case as a reminder of the devastating consequences of entering open water – regardless of whether people do so deliberately or inadvertently.

“As in this tragic case, open water can have hidden dangers that can prove fatal and I would urge anyone who spends any time on or near open water to use this case as a devastating reminder of that – particularly during the recent warm weather we have been experiencing.”

The boy’s death is not being treated as suspicious and a file will now be prepared for the Coroner.

Group Manager Tom Staples, of Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, said:

“Despite the tireless efforts of all the emergency services involved, we are deeply saddened to confirm that the body of a 16-year-old boy has been recovered at Colwick Country Park.

“On behalf of the Service, and personally, I would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the boy’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.

“This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the hidden dangers of open water. We urge everyone to take care around lakes, rivers, and other natural bodies of water. Safety information and guidance are available on our website, and we encourage the public to familiarise themselves with it to help prevent future tragedies.”

Councillor Sam Lux, Nottingham City Council’s Executive Member for Carbon Reduction, Leisure and Culture, added:

“This is an absolutely tragic incident and our hearts go out to the family and friends of the young person who has sadly died.

“We will be working with Notts Police and Notts Fire and Rescue Service to understand the full circumstances of what happened but we join with them in highlighting the extreme dangers that open water such as lakes, rivers, quarries or canals can present.

“As the current warm spell continues and as we approach the summer season we urge people to follow the guidance at Colwick park and other sites and not enter the water unless as part of properly supervised open water swimming sessions.”

Nottinghamshire Police announce Chief Constable Kate Meynall being treated for cancer

David Bratton
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Nottinghamshire Police announce Chief Constable Kate Meynall being treated for cancer

Nottinghamshire Police has announced that Chief Constable Kate Meynell has been diagnosed with cancer and is currently away from work while she undergoes treatment.

A temporary Chief Constable has been appointed to cover the absence of Meynell, who has held the position since 2022.

In her absence, PCC Gary Godden has asked DCC Steve Cooper to step up with immediate effect as the temporary Chief Constable.

ACC Rob Griffin will in turn become the temporary Deputy Chief Constable.

Before her appointment, Meynell had led investigations into some of the most high-profile crimes in the East Midlands, including the murder of 15-year-old Leicestershire schoolgirl Kayleigh Haywood, and the Philpott case – where six children were killed in a house fire in Derby.

She also spent two-and-half years as Nottinghamshire Police’s assistant chief constable leading the force’s knife crime strategy, and she chaired the regional strategic response to the Covid pandemic.

Jail for prolific shoplifter banned from Arnold who threatened city store manager before fleeing with stolen items

Emily Sanchez
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Jail for prolific shoplifter banned from Arnold who threatened city store manager before fleeing with stolen items

A prolific shoplifter banned from Arnold’s high street has been jailed after threatening a Nottingham city centre store manager before fleeing with stolen items.

The court heard Kristan King is currently under a Criminal Behaviour Order which prevents him from attending Front Street in Arnold due to previous shoplifting offences – and that his offending had recently moved to Nottingham city centre.

Kristan King entered Sainsbury’s Local, in Wheeler Gate on Saturday (26) and grabbed two bottles of wine before heading for the exit without paying.

When the store manager challenged him about payment, King reportedly shouted back: “Try stopping me and I will break the glass bottle on your head.”

The 49-year-old then walked out the store with the items.

Magistrates heard the incident happened shortly before 5.30pm and that minutes later he returned to steal another two bottles of wine.

A description of King was provided to police who found him nearby in Old Market Square.

They arrested him and he was charged with two counts of theft and using threatening words with intent to cause harassment, alarm or distress.

King appeared at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on Monday (28) and pleaded guilty to all three counts.

Magistrates jailed him for 12 weeks and ordered him to pay £104.50 in compensation.

PC Serena Ali, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “King is a prolific shoplifter who has caused serious issues for a number of retail stores.

“He has repeatedly walked into shops and made no attempt to hide the fact he was grabbing items from shelves and leaving without paying.

“Making violent threats towards shop staff who are simply trying to do their job by confronting him is completely unacceptable.

“I am pleased the court has given him a custodial sentence and hope this sends a clear message that we take shoplifting very seriously. We will pursue offenders and put them before the courts.”

Clerke named new Carlton Town joint manager

David Bratton
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Clerke named new Carlton Town joint manager

Andy Clerke is set to become the new joint-manager of Carlton Town’s senior football team following the departure of Tommy Brookbanks from the dugout.

He will joint manage the side alongside Mark Harvey for the 2025-2026 season.

Clerke was appointed assistant manager of the side two years ago.

Millers chairman Mick Garton said: “It’s fair to say Clerky has impressed everyone with his commitment, attitude and persona and has built relationships with players, supporters and the committee over his time here.

“It was Tommy’s recommendation when he told us he was stepping away from the role and the Executive Committee at the club had no dissenting voices to the proposal I am delighted to say”

“Myself, Vice Chairman Barry North and Strategic Development Officer Dave Hodgson have all had constructive conversations with Mark Harvey over the last week or so and he’s also very much on board with working alongside Clerky going forward.

“We as a club are really happy to give him this opportunity and wish him all the very best”

Local Elections 2025: All you need to know ahead of vote in Gedling borough

Gedling Eye
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Local Elections 2025: All you need to know ahead of vote in Gedling borough

Gedling borough residents will go to the polls tomorrow (May 1) to vote in the latest round of local elections. 

People across the borough will vote to decide who will be elected as their county councillors for the nine divisions in Gedling.

Nottinghamshire County Council is responsible for housing, education, social care and fixing roads. Yet, like many other local authorities, it is facing a funding crisis and constantly readjusting its budget to protect key services.

Which elections are taking place on May 1?

Unitary authority: Nottinghamshire County Council

There is also an election within the Porchester ward of Gedling Borough Council on the same date due to the resignation of Michelle Welsh.

How can I vote in the May elections? 

You can vote in person at your local polling station on polling day (Thursday, May 1) between 7am and 10pm. The deadline for postal votes has now passed.

You can find your local polling station here.

When will the May election results be known?

The count will take place on Friday, May 2 at 11am at Carlton Forum Leisure Centre (CFLC). Results should start to be announced from around 1pm.

What ID do I need to vote? 

Voters across the UK will be required to show ID to vote in Local Elections.

There are more than 20 forms of acceptable ID, including a driving licence, passport, and blue badge. Take a look at the full list here.

You can still use your photo ID if it’s out of date.

Who are the current county councillors in Gedling borough?

Arnold NorthPauline Annette Allan Labour
Arnold NorthMichael Richard Payne Labour
Arnold SouthWilliam John Clarke Labour
Arnold SouthMichelle Welsh Labour
CalvertonBoyd Bryan Elliott Conservative
Carlton EastMike Adams Conservative
Carlton WestJim Creamer Labour
Carlton WestErrol George Henry Labour
NewsteadChris Barnfather Conservative

Who is standing for election as a county councillor in Gedling borough?

Arnold North

Edward Jayamaha – Conservative and Unionist Party
Tad Jones – Liberal Democrat
Wendy Lukas – Reform UK
Darren Maltby – Conservative and Unionist Party
Sarah O’ Conner – Labour Party
John Semens – Reform UK
Patrick Shannon – Liberal Democrat
Jim Stuart – Green Party
Margret Vince – Green Party
Henry Wheeler – Labour Party

Arnold South

Tony Burnett – Green Party
Adam Chadwick – Green Party
Alisha Chambers – ReformUK
John Clarke – Labour Party
Liz Clunie – Labour Party
Mark Dillon – Conservative and Unionist Party
Andrew Ellwood – Liberal Democrat
Steve Higgins – Reform UK
Paul Key – Independent
Tracy Maltby – Conservative and Unionist Party
Robert Swift – Liberal Democrat

Calverton Division

Maggie Dunkin – Liberal Democrat
Boyd Elliott – Conservative and Unionist Party
Andy Meads – Independent
Oscar Power – Green Party
Jody Stoll – Reform UK
Dean Wilson – Labour Party

Carlton East Division

Mike Adams – Conservative and Unionist Party
Ian Barlow – Green Party
Sam Boultby – Reform UK
Cate Carmichael – Labour Party
Richard Fife – Liberal Democrat
Russell Whiting – Independent

Carlton West

Paul Brill – ReformUK
Jim Creamer – Labour Party
Andrew Dunkin – Liberal Democrat
Charlie Godwin – Conservative and Unionist Party
Errol Henry – Labour Party
Paul Hughes – Liberal Democrat
Charlotte Leask – Green Party
Will Richardson – Green Party
Jim Vernon – Reform UK
Carol Walker – Conservative and Unionist Party

Newstead

Stuart Bestwick – Conservative and Unionist Party
Eddie Stubbs – Reform UK
John Sutherland – Liberal Democrat
John Taylor – Labour Party
Ian Whitehead – Green Party

Porchester Ward

Pauline Allan – Labour Party
Mark Dillon – Conservative and Unionist
John Semens – Reform UK
Richard Sutton – Green Party
Robert Swift – Liberal Democrat

Developer who has won approval to build 73 new homes in Calverton criticised at council meeting for taking ‘years’ to complete projects and leaving roads unfinished

Gedling Eye Reporter
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Developer who has won approval to build 73 new homes in Calverton criticised at council meeting for taking ‘years’ to complete projects and leaving roads unfinished

A housing developer that is about to embark on a new housing project in Calverton has been accused of taking ‘years’ to fully finish projects in parts of Nottinghamshire – leaving roads incomplete after residents have moved in.

The record of Langridge Homes has been criticised in a Gedling Borough Council meeting, held to discuss one of its latest projects.

The development of 73 homes on the land south of Main Street in Calverton was approved during the discussion, but councillors questioned whether anything could be done to make sure it is finished quickly once work starts.

Langridge first submitted the original planning application in April 2018 for 79 houses, with permission granted on April 2021.

A new application was later submitted in March 2024 reducing the number of houses to 73.

Councillors approved the plans at the planning committee on Wednesday, April 23.

During the meeting, Cllr Jane Walker (Con) raised concerns about the length of time the development might take to finish, and questioned whether more can be done to speed up the process.

She said: “I’m conscious that this builder takes much longer than other house builders.

“Their projects seem to take years [to complete], Maple Close took years to finish.

“I’m just conscious roads are not done for residents, and I’m concerned about that.

“I don’t know whether there’s any conditions where we can state a time or will it be the same?”

Case officer Nigel Bryan said: “Once permission has been granted it can be built at any rate [the developer] chooses.”

Case officer John Krawczyk said the council “can’t do much” about lengthy developments as it is up to the developer to complete the site in a timely manner.

He added: “I know its been raised by a couple of councillors there are concerns about whether developments will be completed in a timely fashion.

“We are a bit stuck with the system unfortunately. The planning act does allow the service of a completion notice, but it’s not a tool that’s very effective.

“I think the Government are looking at ways to encourage developers to complete sites in a more timely fashion – so neighbouring occupiers aren’t adversely affected for long periods of time.

“Right now, the completion notice would require a developer to complete a site within 12 months and then planning permission is withdrawn.

“Then what happens with the rest of the site? If it’s been stripped or partial build, it will be left without planning permission and they can’t complete it.

“We’d be left with a site that’s probably even worse than a building and then people are potentially living on it. Unfortunately its a quirk of the system that we’re working with, but we can’t do much about it unfortunately.”

The vacant site is surrounded by residential developments to the north and east, with the south boundary of the site being open space and a public footpath.

Five residents objected to the plans following a public consultation, raising concerns about flood risks, noise pollution, traffic congestion and parking.

One also claimed the Calverton village is “not sufficient to support a new development” with an influx of residents.

The plans were later amended to include more public open space, play equipment, as well as changes to surrounding landscape, layout and appearance of the houses.

The houses will have a mixture of frontage parking and
some to the side, and small areas of front gardens and planting to improve its layout.

The developer must also provide £285,720 for a primary school expansion, £195,283 for secondary school places, £42,606 for NHS health facilities, £50,000 for local bus service improvements, and £15,000 for bus stop upgrades.

Documents read: “Concern has been raised about a lack of services to the site and access to infrastructure; however the site is considered to be in a sustainable location, with contributions secured toward education, health and public transport.

“There is no reason to consider why the site would lead significant noise
complaints or mental health issues with the end use residential in nature and the build at the site being temporary in nature.”

Langridge Homes Ltd were contacted for comment but did not receive a reply.

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