Masterplan for ‘revitalising’ Arnold to be revealed to public in December
A MASTERPLAN to ‘revitalise’ Arnold’s town centre has received further backing ahead of it being revealed to residents.
Gedling Borough Council has been awarded £150,000 to support the formulation of a plan to regenerate the town centre.
The council has been given £150,000 from the One Public Estate (OPE) programme, a partnership between the Cabinet Office and the Local Government Association, to conduct studies to see how the town centre could be improved.
The local authority previously decided to spend £200,000 from existing budgets on a business plan, surveys and design works to try to attract external funding for the ‘Ambition Arnold’ project after two unsuccessful Levelling Up funding bids.
Last year Gedling Borough Council bought the vacant Working Men’s Club and properties at 135-141 on Front Street, Arnold, in preparation for the northern part of the longterm project.
It said retailers and shoppers were concerned by the number of dilapidated buildings, empty units, the poor public realm, anti-social behaviour and that council facilities needed replacement.
The masterplan, which has now received a cash injection from the OPE fund, is said to prioritise accessibility, inclusion, and community pride.
In line with the council’s commitment to Net Zero by 2030, the proposal focuses on green spaces, cycling routes, public transport enhancements and EV charging facilities.
Leader of Gedling Borough
Council, councillor John Clarke said: “We are taking a decisive step forward in our commitment to revitalising our town and realising our Ambition Arnold plans. By creating a masterplan, we are demonstrating a prudent and forward-thinking approach to town centre regeneration. “This plan not only addresses our immediate challenges but also sets the stage for securing much-needed government funding after our previous attempts were unsuccessful. This plan aligns with our commitment to be Net Zero by 2030, as it focuses on green spaces, cycling routes, public transport, and EV charging facilities.
“We will, of course, consult with the local residents, businesses and communities on this plan and we are confident this proposal will pave the way for a vibrant and sustainable future for Arnold. A consultation on the masterplan will take place in May and the plan is due to be published by December 2024.”
The council added it was currently working with consultants Willmot Dixon to create a plan that will focus on “economic viability, deliverability, and future sustainability”.