A road in Gedling borough is to be resurfaced following a funding boost from the new East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA).
EMCCA has now taken over the role of directing the allocation of local transport funding and is providing funding for projects in Nottingham.
They are now going to invest more than £16m of funding into Nottingham city’s transport network.
The cash will pay for parts of Porchester Road to be resurfaced.
Walking and cycling improvements were recently made to Porchester Road
Preventative road maintenance to tackle potholes and improve safety will also be carried out.
The cash will also allow Nottingham City Council to continue work on the next phase of walking and cycling improvements on Porchester Road, which will begin immediately.
Money will also be spent on creating a new off-road bridleway on Old Colwick Road and resurfacing sections of Daleside Road.
Councillor Neghat Khan, leader of Nottingham City Council and executive member for Strategic Regeneration, Transport and Communications said: “We are delighted to receive this investment into Nottingham thanks to the East Midlands Combined County Authority.
“A 100% increase in the money we have available to maintain and fix our roads will mean we’re able to make a big difference tackling the potholes which risk the safety of cyclists, drivers and pedestrians.”
Thanks to this funding, we’ll be able to make many positive changes to Keep Nottingham Moving, promote integrated transport and active travel, support our local economy, reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality, creating a happier, healthier city.”
Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “I am delighted we have been given this additional funding to invest in our roads and local transport programmes across the region.
“This is more than filling potholes and getting people from A to B, it’s about transforming lives and communities, and it will give us a fantastic opportunity to connect people across the region and make it easier to access jobs, skills training, health appointments, and our incredible tourist attractions.”
New stats have been released revealing how many parents and carers in Bassetlaw secured a place at their preferred school for their children.
Nottinghamshire County Council yesterday (16) contacted thousands of families on national offer day about their child’s school place for September 2025.
More than 8,000 applications were received from parents and carers whose children will be starting school in September 2025.
This year, 96% of Nottinghamshire children were offered a reception place at their parents’ first preference school in September, with over 99% securing a place at one of their preferred schools.
1148 applications were processed from residents living in the Gedling borough for first admission to primary school including schools outside of Nottinghamshire
• 1083 were offered their first preference – 94.3%
• 1147 were offered one of their preferences – 99.9%
• 240 made only one preference – 20.9%
• 1 alternative offer was made where the single preference could not be met – 0.1%
Peter McConnochie, Nottinghamshire County Council’s Director of Education and Inclusion, said: “I am delighted that, once again, the vast majority of Nottinghamshire children have received an offer of a place at a preferred primary school this year. This is positive news for parents across the county who are receiving their school place offers today.”
Building a great app product isn’t enough – you also need to understand how people interact with it. That’s where Google Analytics comes in.
This powerful tool helps mobile app developers and marketers gain deep insights into user behavior, engagement, and performance.
By tracking the right metrics, you can make smarter decisions, improve retention, and boost overall app success.
Google Analytics isn’t just for websites. With Firebase integration, you can track everything from screen views and session duration to in-app purchases and custom events.
Whether you’re trying to identify drop-off points or optimize your onboarding flow, Google Analytics offers the data you need – if you know how to use it.
Essential Ways to Use Google Analytics in Your App
To get the most out of Google Analytics for mobile apps, it’s important to focus on the metrics that drive real insights. Whether you’re fine-tuning user experience, optimizing marketing spend, or identifying technical issues, the following use cases will help you understand and improve every part of your app journey:
Track user acquisition sources – see which channels (organic, paid, referral) are bringing in the most valuable users. This helps you optimize your marketing spend and focus on high-performing sources.
Monitor user engagement – analyze session length, screen views, and active users to understand how engaged your audience is. These insights help you spot where users lose interest.
Set up conversion events – define and track custom events like sign-ups, purchases, or level completions. Monitoring these milestones lets you measure performance against your KPIs.
Segment your audience – use demographics, device type, behavior, and location to create user segments. This allows for more personalized marketing and UX improvements.
Understand user retention – cohort analysis helps you see how often users return after their first session. Strong retention signals a healthy app experience.
Track in-app revenue – if your app includes purchases or subscriptions, use Google Analytics to measure revenue performance and identify the highest-value users.
Analyze funnels – create funnels to identify where users drop off in a process (e.g., registration or checkout). These insights help you remove friction and improve conversion.
These features can be accessed through Firebase Analytics, which is built to work seamlessly with mobile apps. You’ll get a real-time view of how your app is performing and where to focus your efforts for growth.
From Insight to Action
Data only becomes powerful when it’s turned into action. That’s why using Google Analytics effectively means more than just tracking – it means learning, iterating, and refining. Use the data to test new onboarding flows, improve your UI, or tailor your messaging. Regularly review your dashboards and set up alerts for key metrics to stay ahead of potential issues.
Most importantly, make your analytics strategy part of your app development cycle, not an afterthought. Involve your product, marketing, and UX teams so everyone’s aligned around what success looks like – and how to measure it.
Conclusion
Google Analytics offers a clear window into how users behave inside your mobile app. With the right setup and a consistent focus on data, you can turn insights into real impact – improving performance, reducing churn, and driving sustainable growth.
RadASO complements your analytics efforts by helping you optimize your app store presence based on performance data. With RadASO, you can refine keywords, visuals, and metadata to increase visibility and conversions. Combine the power of Google Analytics with RadASO to build an app that not only gets downloaded but also gets used.
Health bosses have confirmed that some pharmacies in Gedling borough will be staying open this coming Easter break.
As the weekend is bookended by the Good Friday and Easter Monday bank holidays, most pharmacies will close at the end of the day on Thursday April 17, and not reopen until Tuesday April 21.
But NHS Nottinghamshire has confirmed six pharmacies will be opening on one of the bank holidays – or not closing at all.
Pharmacies opening over Easter
Arnold
Asda Pharmacy 111-127 Front Street Open Good Friday – 14:00pm – 16:00pm Closed Easter Sunday and Easter Monday
Boots 85 Front Street Open Good Friday – 8:30am – 17:30pm Open Easter Sunday – 14:00pm – 16:00pm Open Easter Monday – 10:00am – 15:00pm
Forest Pharmacy 131 Arnold Road Closed Good Friday and Easter Sunday Open Easter Monday – 14:00 – 16:00
Mapperley
Boots Pharmacy 944 Woodborough Road Open Good Friday – 08:30am – 17:30pm Closed Easter Sunday and Easter Monday
D. Parmar Ltd 298 Woodborough Road Closed Good Friday and Easter Sunday Open Easter Monday – 10:00am – 12:00pm
Netherfield
Boots Victoria Retail Park Open Good Friday – 09:00 – 18:00 Open Easter Monday – 09:00 – 17:30
Dr Dave Briggs, Medical Director at NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, said: “Pharmacists can give advice and treatment on a range of minor illnesses, and many can offer services like a repeat supply of oral contraception without the need to visit a GP.
“Most pharmacists can also offer treatment and some prescription medicines for seven common conditions under the Pharmacy First scheme.
“Of course, nobody wants to be poorly over the long bank holiday weekend, but we hope local people will be reassured that the NHS is here for them.
“If you’re unsure about which service is best for your needs, visit 111.nhs.uk or phone 111.”
Under the Pharmacy First scheme, pharmacists can help with these seven common conditions:
earache (aged 1 to 17 years)
impetigo (aged 1 year and over)
infected insect bites (aged 1 year and over)
shingles (aged 18 years and over)
sinusitis (aged 12 years and over)
sore throat (aged 5 years and over)
urinary tract infections or UTIs (women aged 16 to 64 years)
In the UK, smartphones have become integral to daily life, with over 90% of adults now owning one.
These versatile devices have revolutionised the way we communicate, entertain ourselves, shop, and work.
In Birmingham, locals are no exception to this trend, utilising their smartphones for a wide range of activities. From staying connected with friends and family to managing their finances, smartphones have made their way into almost every aspect of life.
But what exactly are Birmingham residents using their phones for?
Staying Connected: Communication is Key
One of the primary uses of smartphones in Birmingham, as in the rest of the UK, is for communication. With multiple ways to connect, from traditional phone calls to messaging apps and social media platforms, smartphones have redefined how we interact with others. In Birmingham, people are increasingly using their devices to stay in touch with loved ones and colleagues. Apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Telegram allow quick, convenient communication, whether it’s a simple text or a video call to catch up.
Entertainment: Gaming, Streaming, and More
Birmingham locals are also using their smartphones for a wide range of entertainment. Mobile gaming has become a huge pastime, with an ever-growing range of games available for download on both Android and iOS devices. Whether it’s casual puzzle games, strategy games, or even online casino games, smartphones offer a portable and accessible gaming experience. Casual games have grown popular amongst locals who only have a few minutes to spare for entertainment and want something fun and light-hearted to fill their time. Similarly, online casino games like slots and blackjack have also boomed in popularity. Many bettors in the area opt to visit international casino sites, which are licensed abroad and bypass the UK’s GamStop rules, because the best non GamStop casinos offer players huge game libraries, access to unique bonuses, and flexible wagering options online. Many residents play games during their commute, while waiting in queues, or just for relaxation at home.
Streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and BBC iPlayer are also commonly accessed through smartphones in Birmingham. Whether it’s watching the latest episode of a popular series, catching up on a documentary, or streaming live sports events, smartphones make it easy for locals to access entertainment anywhere, at any time. Mobile streaming has become especially important for those on the go, offering a convenient alternative to traditional TV watching. Given the city’s vibrant cultural scene, many people in Birmingham also use their smartphones to keep up with local events, watch live performances, or listen to music from their favourite artists.
Shopping: A Mobile Revolution
The rise of e-commerce has fundamentally changed how we shop, and Birmingham locals are fully embracing this shift. With the majority of retailers offering mobile-friendly websites and apps, shopping via smartphones has become second nature. Birmingham residents are frequently using their phones to browse, compare prices, and make purchases on the go. From clothes and electronics to groceries and local artisan products, almost anything can be bought with just a few taps on a smartphone.
The convenience of online shopping also means that Birmingham locals often use their smartphones to check deals and promotions, saving time and money. Shopping apps like Amazon, eBay, and ASOS have become particularly popular, as they allow users to explore a vast range of products, read reviews, and have items delivered directly to their doorstep. Additionally, many local businesses in Birmingham are capitalising on this trend, offering mobile-friendly websites and apps for easy browsing and ordering, particularly in the restaurant and takeaway sector.
Banking and Finances: Managing Money On the Go
Another important way in which Birmingham locals are using their smartphones is for managing their finances. Mobile banking apps allow individuals to check balances, transfer money, pay bills, and even set up savings plans, all from the comfort of their phones. Financial services like Monzo, Revolut, and Starling Bank, which offer app-based banking, have grown in popularity due to their ease of use and modern features, making it easier for users to manage their financial lives directly from their smartphones.
In addition to traditional banking apps, Birmingham residents are also using their phones for budgeting and investing. Apps like Yolt and Mint allow users to track their spending, set budgeting goals, and receive insights into their financial habits. Many locals are also taking advantage of mobile investment platforms like eToro and Trading 212, which allow individuals to manage and grow their investments through easy-to-use apps.
Navigating the City: Practical Uses for Locals
Given Birmingham’s busy urban landscape, it’s no surprise that smartphones are regularly used for navigation. Locals rely on map apps like Google Maps and Apple Maps to find the quickest route, avoid traffic, and discover new places to visit. With the city’s ongoing development and changing traffic patterns, real-time navigation is invaluable for getting from point A to point B. Smartphone apps also help Birmingham residents find public transport options, including live updates on bus and train schedules, making it easier to navigate the city’s extensive public transport system.
Smartphones are also used for finding nearby restaurants, cafes, and entertainment venues. Apps like TripAdvisor, Yelp, and Google Reviews allow users to read recommendations and make informed decisions when choosing where to eat or visit in the city. Whether it’s finding a new place to dine or booking tickets for a show, smartphones serve as an indispensable tool for navigating Birmingham’s many attractions.
Brits have access to some of the biggest gambling brands on the market. This is great if you love to bet and play casino games. For starters, these companies are highly regulated and adhere to strong consumer protection laws.
Additionally, casino gaming, sports betting, lottery, bingo, and online poker are all legal. Casinos support modern online gambling payment methods, which make them highly accessible.
Not to mention that operating within a competitive market usually means better user perks. However, are UK online casinos objectively the best option? We know that many players actively seek out hidden markets, even if they are fully aware of the potential dangers. Let’s discuss why it is so.
Advantages and Risks of Regulated Casinos
One of the biggest advantages of regulated casinos is that UK players who are at-risk gamblers are significantly safer. All UKGC casinos need to use games that don’t have auto-spin and turbo feature which prevents players from spending money fast. Moreover, customer support will follow up with you if you spend a few hundred pounds. Most importantly, players can apply for self-exclusion by using GamStop’s register. Once they do that, the only way to gamble is through Non UK licensed casinos or independent casinos that accept British players. Content-wise wise these operators aren’t any different from those regulated by UKGC, and they even have bigger match deposits.
Additionally, if you play on UKGC gambling sites, transactions via regular online casino payment methods are processed faster. After all, these won’t be cross-border payments, and therefore, processing fees will be lower, and players will have quicker access to their winnings. Not only that, but gambling sites are also obligated to comply with cashout requests. To clarify, players who don’t claim any bonuses aren’t obligated to fully wager their deposits. They can cash out their funds whenever they choose.
Unfortunately, even with such strong regulations, gambling sites overstep their bounds. UKGC regularly fines brands for failing to comply with and facilitate a safe gaming environment. So, no one can guarantee you are 100% secure when playing on a licensed site, but you are definitely safer compared to the alternatives.
Benefits and Concerns with Independent Casinos
One of the main reasons why gamblers seek out independent casinos is due to self-exclusion. Independent casinos also use different bookmakers, so it’s possible to find more competitive odds on those sites. Not only that, but unique betting markets that aren’t available in the UK can be found here. Similar logic applies to poker networks. Poker players who find it difficult to compete in the UK or are banned from certain sites will also look for sites that use other networks. This gives them access to a less competitive environment or simply access to a site that lets them play.
This is ideal for poker beginners, who just want to read about rules and start participating in low-stakes poker tournaments. Competing with people who are on a similar skill level makes things feel fair, and you are more likely to improve.
It’s also worth pointing out that Independent sites are also licensed and have tools or features players find useful:
Compatible with the best casino payment methods – e-wallets, credit and debit cards, crypto, bank transfer
Responsible gambling tools – Deposit limits, loss limit, reality check, internal self-exclusion register, and time out
Tech that protects user accounts – 2FA, SSL encryption, AML tools, and KYC verification software
Bonuses and freebies – Big deposit match, cashback offers, free spins, and free bets
Despite all of these features, players can’t really take legal action against these operators if they feel wronged. Because they don’t fall under the UKGC’s jurisdiction, consumer protection laws cannot be enforced.
Which Choice Offers Better Safety, Payouts, and Legal Protection
As far as overall gambling safety goes, local sites are a better choice. Furthemore, payment processing fees are lower and there are guarantees that operators can cover big wins. That said, crypto gamblers will always opt for independent casinos. These allow them to use bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies and even stay anonymous. This, on its own, addresses some of the big concerns when it comes to online safety.
Overall, if you wish to gamble casually, then local options are better, especially if you have to undergo account verification. The UK has better data protection laws, and if overseas operators sell your data, you might get caught in online scams that can do serious harm. If you are an experienced gambler and want to bet big, then independent operators are potentially a better choice. They don’t have the same spending limits and can handle big volume transfers through a blockchain payment network.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle in Gedling and the surrounding Nottinghamshire area has become increasingly accessible, thanks to a variety of local initiatives and resources.
Residents have access to numerous health services, including fitness groups, mental health support, and wellness events that cater to diverse needs. Whether you’re aiming to improve physical fitness, enhance mental well-being, or discover effective relaxation techniques, the community offers ample opportunities to support your health journey.
Engaging with these resources not only promotes personal well-being but also fosters a sense of community and connection among residents.
Local fitness groups provide structured environments for individuals seeking to stay active and healthy. From yoga classes that focus on flexibility and mindfulness to walking clubs that encourage cardiovascular health, these groups offer both physical benefits and social interaction.
Participating in regular physical activity has been shown to boost cardiovascular health, improve mood, and enhance overall quality of life. Moreover, engaging in group exercises fosters a sense of community, making the pursuit of health a shared and enjoyable experience. For instance, the “Good Boost” sessions at Carlton Forum Leisure Centre offer water-based exercises tailored to individual needs, aiming to reduce pain and improve mobility.
Incorporating relaxation into daily life is essential for maintaining balance and reducing stress. Digital platforms offer various ways to unwind, such as streaming your favourite shows, listening to calming music, or engaging in online games.
For some, exploring online entertainment options can be a form of leisure—this includes casinos not on GamStop, which are sites that operate independently of the UK’s self-exclusion program, offering greater freedom and a wider variety of games. These platforms can provide a more flexible and expansive gaming experience.
Ultimately, choosing activities that align with your personal preferences and contribute positively to your relaxation routine is key. Engaging in such digital downtime can provide a convenient and enjoyable way to relax after a busy day.
Mental health resources are also readily available in the area, providing crucial support for emotional and psychological well-being. Services such as Nottinghamshire Talking Therapies offer confidential counselling and therapy sessions for common mental health issues like stress, anxiety, and depression.
Additionally, local support groups, such as the Mental Health Befriending Group in Arnold and the Bereavement Buddies at Nottinghamshire Hospice, provide safe spaces for individuals to share experiences and receive support from peers. Accessing these resources can be a vital step toward achieving overall well-being and resilience in the face of life’s challenges.
Wellness events in Nottinghamshire, including those in Gedling, offer additional avenues for relaxation and self-care. Events like sound baths, meditation workshops, and wellness fairs provide opportunities to explore various methods of stress reduction and personal growth. Attending these events can introduce new practices into your routine, enhancing your approach to health and wellness. For example, mindfulness practices have been shown to reduce stress and improve focus, contributing to overall well-being. Engaging with these events not only promotes personal health but also strengthens community ties by connecting individuals with similar interests.
Creating a personalised wellness plan can help integrate these resources effectively into your daily life. Combining physical activities, mental health support, and relaxation techniques ensures a comprehensive approach to health. Setting achievable goals, such as attending a certain number of fitness classes per week or dedicating time to mindfulness practices, can keep you motivated and focused on your well-being journey. Regularly assessing your progress and adjusting your plan as needed can help maintain momentum and address any challenges that arise.
Community involvement further enhances the wellness experience by fostering connections with others who share similar health goals. Participating in local events and groups not only provides support and accountability but also creates a sense of belonging. These interactions can lead to lasting friendships and a supportive network that encourages continued engagement in healthy activities. For example, joining a local walking group can provide both social interaction and physical exercise, contributing to overall well-being.
Access to accurate and up-to-date information is crucial for making informed health decisions. Local directories and online platforms often list available health services, upcoming wellness events, and support groups in the Gedling area. Staying informed about these resources empowers individuals to take proactive steps toward their health objectives. Additionally, consulting with healthcare professionals can provide personalised recommendations and guidance tailored to your specific needs and goals.
Employers and educational institutions in the area also contribute to wellness by offering programs and initiatives focused on health. Workplace wellness programs may include fitness challenges, mental health workshops, and resources for stress management. Schools and universities often provide health education and counselling services to support students’ well-being. Engaging with these programs can complement personal wellness efforts and provide additional support systems.
Nutrition plays a vital role in overall health, and accessing fresh, healthy food is an important aspect of a wellness plan. Local markets and community gardens in Gedling offer access to fresh produce, encouraging healthy eating habits. Participating in cooking classes or nutrition workshops can further enhance understanding of balanced diets and their impact on well-being. Incorporating nutritious meals into your routine supports physical health and can improve energy levels and mood.
By actively engaging with the available services and incorporating relaxation practices into daily life, residents can cultivate a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. Prioritising health not only benefits individuals but also contributes to a vibrant and thriving community.
Remote IT support is no longer a backup plan. It’s become the backbone of how many businesses manage their daily operations. Whether you run a small firm or a growing team across multiple sites, having remote access to expert technical help can mean the difference between lost time and smooth running.
Read on to see how this shift is reshaping the workplace and what it could mean for your business.
Increasing Efficiency Without Location Limits
One of the most obvious advantages of remote IT support is that you no longer have to wait for someone to arrive on-site. If something goes wrong, support can begin immediately, often within minutes. This means less downtime and fewer disruptions to your daily workflow.
Furthermore, the fast response time is especially useful for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that rely on every working hour. If you’re looking for a professional and trusted IT support provider, Mustard IT ensures that businesses receive expert help no matter where their team is located.
Reducing Costs While Improving Service
Remote IT support is generally more cost-effective than hiring in-house IT staff or relying solely on on-site visits. Businesses avoid expenses linked to travel, full-time salaries, and equipment maintenance. Instead, they pay for what they need, when they need it.
Many support packages also include 24/7 monitoring, updates, and system health checks. These services help prevent issues before they occur, which ultimately saves money over time.
Helping Businesses Stay Secure
Cyber threats have grown more sophisticated, but so have remote IT services. Remote teams can install updates, monitor for vulnerabilities, and respond quickly to incidents. This proactive approach improves data security and ensures compliance with standards like GDPR.
Remote IT support providers can also help you roll out secure cloud services and set up VPNs, firewalls, and remote access tools. This gives your team the flexibility to work safely from any location without compromising business data.
Supporting Scalability and Growth
As your business grows, your IT needs will change. Remote IT support makes it easier to scale services without the cost and complexity of building new infrastructure.
Whether you’re opening a new office or switching to hybrid work, remote support can help deploy systems quickly, train staff, and manage the transition smoothly. With flexible support packages, you can also adjust your coverage as needed, perfect for businesses planning ahead without overcommitting resources.
Enabling Access to Expert Knowledge
Not every SME can afford a full-time IT expert on staff. Remote support bridges this gap. Thus, you gain access to trained professionals who understand your systems and can offer tailored solutions when needed.
This can be especially useful for complex projects, compliance requirements, or setting up secure networks. Instead of guessing or Googling for answers, you have a direct line to people who know what they’re doing.
Building a Smarter Way of Working
Remote IT support is not just a temporary fix, it’s part of how businesses are working smarter. It brings convenience, security, and scalability without the traditional limitations of in-house or on-site-only solutions.
With more businesses embracing hybrid and remote work models, having access to reliable IT help from anywhere is becoming essential, not optional.
Make the Most of Modern IT Support
Remote IT support is more than a service, it’s a smarter way to run your business. Whether you need help with cyber security, cloud setup, or system troubleshooting, having fast, reliable access to experts will keep you one step ahead.
Thinking about upgrading your IT support? Make sure you choose a partner that understands your business and grows with it.
East Midlands Railway (EMR) has today unveiled its first fully refurbished Class 170 train, which serve routes in Gedling borough.
The revamped train is the first in a £23 million programme to modernise EMR’s Class 170 regional fleet, with brand-new seats and tables, modern power and charging facilities, refurbished toilets, upgraded flooring, and a newly installed passenger information system.
It also includes a dedicated bike storage area and redesigned interiors.
The train is the first of the 44-strong Class 170 fleet to be refurbished. The next train in the programme is scheduled to enter service next month. Following that, a newly refurbished unit is expected to join the fleet each month.
EMR’s Class 170 fleet operates regional services across the East Midlands and South Yorkshire, including: Matlock to Derby and Nottingham; Nottingham to Worksop via Mansfield; Newark Castle to Crewe via Nottingham, Derby and Stoke-on-Trent; Peterborough to Doncaster via Lincoln; Nottingham to Skegness via Grantham; Cleethorpes to Leicester via Lincoln and Nottingham; and Cleethorpes to Barton-on-Humber. It is also frequently used on the Liverpool to Norwich route.
The upgrade of the Class 170 fleet is part of a wider £60 million programme, which will also include the refurbishment of EMR’s Class 360 and Class 158 trains.
Will Rogers, Managing Director of East Midlands Railway, said: “This refurbishment is more than just a lick of paint – it’s a complete transformation that puts our customers first.
“We’ve focused on creating an environment that is comfortable and functional – and it’s just the beginning. Over the next year, customers will start to see real, tangible improvements across our network.”
Government inspectors have sided with a developer’s appeal to convert an Arnold nursing home into apartments after the council originally refused the plans.
The Labour-run Gedling Borough Council previously rejected plans to convert Ernehale Lodge Nursing Home in Furlong Street into 19 apartments.
That decision was taken on September 26 last year and was based on limited car parking spaces. This was because the plans proposed 13 spaces, short of the council’s requirement for 16.
Applicant Waseem Shafiq submitted an appeal of the decision in October 2024 following its refusal.
Gedling Borough Council previously rejected plans to convert Ernehale Lodge Nursing Home in Furlong Street into 19 apartments
The council has now given approval for planning permission on Friday, April 11, after the planning inspectorate sided with the applicant.
A report carried out by an inspector following a visit in March found the parking shortfall was not significant enough to justify its refusal, especially given the site’s “sustainable” location.
The inspector said the proposed site would provide “sufficient off-street parking” and “would not result in a harmful increase in on-street parking pressure”.
The report also stated that car ownership levels in the area are “relatively low”, given that the majority of proposed units are one-bedroom flats.
Approving the appeal, the inspector’s report said: “On the evidence before me, I am satisfied that the level of off-street parking proposed would be sufficient to accommodate the expected demand arising from the development, having regard to the size of the units and the highly accessible location of the site, and that there would not be a material increase in demand for on-street parking on James Street or Furlong Street.”
The nursing home, which has been vacant since 2021, will see its current 21 bedrooms converted into 19 self-contained apartments.
Plans included one studio flat, along with 12 one-bed and six two-bed flats.
The council has agreed to pay all the costs incurred by the applicant towards the appeal process. Papers do not confirm how much this will be.
Speaking to the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) on Monday (April 14), the applicant said he is happy about the appeal being granted.
He said: “This decision confirms what was clear from the outset — that our application for 19 apartments, supported by planning officers as being both locally and nationally policy-compliant, was refused on ‘vague and inaccurate assertions”.
“The Inspector found that the council had behaved unreasonably and failed to consider relevant material considerations, resulting in a waste of time and public funds.
“The financial penalty now imposed on the council could have been avoided entirely — those funds could have been directed towards essential local services.”
A spokesperson for Gedling Borough Council added: “The applicant has the right of appeal to the Planning Inspectorate against any decisions to refuse planning permission by the Council.
“In this instance, the Planning Inspector did not agree with the Council’s decision and considered that the development would have an acceptable impact in planning terms”
