Is the sun going down on town centre sundial?
COUNCIL DRAWS UP PLAN TO REVITALISE SUTTON SQUARE
SUTTON-IN-ASHFIELD’S town centre sundial could be removed and replaced with new green space.
The plans, part of an Ashfield Independent-led local authority’s £62.6m Towns Fund investment, involve the sundial being replaced by two large, raised, planted green areas with builtin seating, designed around a large, centre space.
The plans have been unveiled by Ashfield District Council, with green spaces and a revamped pedestrian area central to the proposals. New trees and flowers are expected to be added.
Shoppers and local business owners say Sutton-in-ashfield is “sad looking” and welcomed the plans.
Clare Yates, 45, said that the changes could entice more people to the town.
The retired teacher said: “I’d be happy for green space – it’s like a concrete town. It might attract more people. It’s just looking a bit sorry for itself at the minute, with some of the shops empty. It’s sad looking.”
Andy Cunnington, who owns A. Cunnington Butchers &
Son with wife Pat, said the green space would be a good idea.
But he also suggested the area could be used more effectively as a car park.
Mr Cunnington said: “Personally I think it would be better if they make it a free car park or first hour free, to encourage people to come into the town and spend on the small businesses.
“The sundial, no. The green space would be nice as long as it’s maintained. I do think a car park would be more beneficial. The problem here is parking – people struggle to park. A lot of people park at Asda and have to walk into the town.”
Pat, 59, said the removal of t h e 27-yearold sundial wouldn’t bother her.
She said: “If it was fit for purpose it would be better – it’s just a statue.” But Charles Paull, who is 88 and was speaking while out and about in the town centre, said he would like the sundial to stay.
Mr Paull said: “I’ve been here for 88 years. I’m quite happy with it as it is, if it was kept clean.”
A public consultation inviting discussion will be launched under the new plans for the square. Local residents will be asked for their views on the project.
I’d be happy for green space – it’s like a concrete town. It might attract more people
Clare Yates, 45