By Jamie Waller, Local Democracy Reporter
Mansfield is on the “cusp of a renaissance”, local leaders have predicted as a vision is launched to direct millions of pounds worth of investment.
The Make It In Mansfield campaign aims to regenerate the town into a better place to live and work.
Mansfield Place Board unveiled their new aspirations on Monday (November 13) to an audience of business and public sector leaders at the Nottingham Trent University Hub on Derby Road.
The board is a collection of council, Government, education and other representatives set up to generate and manage economic improvement in the area.
The strategy is currently light on detail, but is focused on the four areas of building thriving communities, creating opportunities, growing the economy and enjoying a better life.
Some of its aims include increasing average pay levels, cutting joblessness, boosting tourism and investment and helping to improve health, including life expectancy.
“This is a time of real opportunity for Mansfield,” the board’s Chair Andrew Cropley says in the launch statement.
“Tens of millions of pounds have been earmarked for big local projects, and there’s a renewed determination to make our district a fantastic place for everyone.”
It’s hoped the vision will invite further government funding, and lay a blueprint for future investment.
Executive mayor Andy Abrahams (Lab) said the town was “ready to take off” after decades of decline, and urged people to get involved with the plans.
“After decades of under-investment and decline, Mansfield District is on the cusp of a renaissance,” he said.
“People want better shops, better entertainment, better leisure and a reason for people to visit. It’s time to sweep away negative perceptions.”
He pointed to large sums of money being invested in the town, including £20m of Levelling Up cash and another £20m from a ‘left behind towns’ fund.
“Devolution is bringing potentially billions into the East Midlands – we need to make sure we get the gets the lion’s share for Mansfield,” he said.
The proposed Mansfield Connect development and White Hart residential plans were pointed to as examples of reviving the town centre.
The elected mayor said residents would feel the benefits of projects soon, with others awaiting approval – “We’re ready to go, just give us the funding.”
He addressed negative perceptions of the town, saying people wouldn’t believe in change until they saw proof of improvement.
“There are great big challenges but we’re ready to tackle them,” he said.
The board’s partners include the county council, Nottingham Trent University, West Notts College, government departments, Mansfield Business Improvement District and health bodies.
Members of the public can have their say on the plans or help guide investment.
