Nottingham’s Creative Quarter has won a prestigious European award after bringing more than £3m to the local economy and creating 650 jobs.
The team behind the project fought off competition from 3,000 similar schemes from across Europe, and picked up the award at a glitzy ceremony in Luxembourg – home of the European Parliament.
The project won the ‘Improving the Business Environment’ category, after transforming the Hockley area of the city by encouraging creative business growth, filling empty shops and upping property prices.
Picture: The Creative Quarter scheme has transformed Hockley
Now considered a thriving business centre, the quarter features independent shops and cafes as well as the National Video Game Arcade.
The project was also commended for its efforts to redevelop Sneinton Market and Dakeyne Steet.
It’s invigorating to see growth in the area
Craig Chettle, vice-chair of the quarter’s board and chief executive of Confetti Media Group, said: “This award is a really big achievement for the Creative Quarter.
“The project is only two and a half years old and we’ve made great strides in that time. From significant increase in visitor expenditure, to the creation of new jobs – it’s really invigorating to see the rate of growth and investment in the area, supporting a creative culture that’s seldom seen outside the capital.”
The project was praised by the European Commission, who judged the entries for their work with grass-roots entrepreneurs and use of funding received from the commission.
Anna Soubry, Minister for Small Business and MP for Broxtowe said: “I want to congratulate the Creative Quarter for promoting enterprise in my local city of Nottingham and winning this prestigious European award. It is a great example of local businesses and a city council working together.”
Earlier this month the quarter also scooped an award from Enterprising Britain – a scheme backed by the Prime Minister – for its achievements in the area.
Councillor Nick McDonald, in charge of jobs, growth and transport at Nottingham City Council, added : “The quarter has always been about promoting enterprise, creating jobs and growth.
“The rate at which this is happening – and the impact for Nottingham’s businesses and young people – is fantastic. I’m delighted that the impact of the quarter has been recognised internationally.”
