Public views sought on plans for new arts centre, leisure centre and library in Arnold
The proposed 'cultural heart' in Arnold town centre (Gedling Borough Council)
By Joe Locker, Local Democracy Reporter
Residents will be asked to share their thoughts on a significant project to create a brand-new arts centre, leisure centre, and library in the north of Arnold town centre.
Gedling Borough Council is looking to build the new facility, which will feature a theatre, a new leisure centre and library, under its ‘Ambition Arnold’ project.
The project, which also includes plans to enhance the public spaces around the market and high street area, commenced in 2022.
This was when the council approved a budget of £200,000 to support the development of a town centre masterplan.
An initial consultation was held last summer, when 650 residents and stakeholders gave feedback on the masterplan.
The key features of the overall plan include upgrading leisure, cultural, and retail offerings to attract more visitors, enhancing public spaces, shopfronts, and access to green spaces, developing a car parking strategy and safeguarding public transport links, and exploring a modern library facility and better access to council and healthcare services.
According to council documents published on Tuesday (May 27), a further public consultation will take place on plans for the new arts centre, leisure centre and library facilities.
The consultation begins May 27 and will run until June 30.
The council says: “A web page will also be made available to the public with an opportunity to submit opinions online or via a paper option including large print.
“The council is also intending to use established forums to update stakeholders and other groups such as the Youth Council, Seniors’ Group, Developers’ Forum, Gedling Business Partnership, and South Place Based Partnership.”
The visionary masterplan was first approved by the council’s cabinet in December 2024, and work is underway to develop and complete a
viable business case for the north of Arnold town centre.
The final masterplan document will be presented to the council’s cabinet in the autumn, following the consultation.
Leader of the council, Cllr John Clarke (Lab), previously said: “Arnold is a vibrant community with great potential.
“This masterplan gives us a clear vision for creating a thriving town centre that meets residents’ needs and attracts investment.
“Public feedback has been central to shaping this plan, and we are committed to delivering improvements that make a real difference.
“We need to be clear that this is just a plan, for us to realise any of this, we will need huge investment, either from central government or through the private sector but this document makes it clear that if you invest in the area, it will deliver incredible results for the region.”
The council has been using contractor Wilmott Dixon, and Leonard Design Architects, to help create the masterplan and ensure its feasibility.
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