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Discover Ashfield celebrates all that is best about living, visiting, learning, working, and doing business in Ashfield.

Time to get artistic as Ashfield Creates takes centre stage
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Ashfield communities are being urged to embrace their artistic flair as a £1 million creative programme takes a huge leap forward.
Ashfield District Council, together with the Ashfield Arts Partnership, is excited to announce the appointment of Nonsuch Studios as the Programme Managers and Producers for Ashfield Creates.
The programme sees arts, creativity and culture take the spotlight thanks to a £1 million investment from Arts Council England. Launched in Summer 2024, this is a community-led programme to enable more people than ever before to embrace creative events and opportunities.
Nonsuch Studios will lead and deliver the programme and will also be responsible for appointing key project staff. It will bring the ambitious vision of the programme to life from April 2025 onwards.
Local Creative Networks will be established in Hucknall, Kirkby, Sutton, and across the rural villages to engage communities with creative activities, events, and experiences.
There will also be commissions for artists, a creative workforce development programme and dedicated resources. Ashfield Creates aims to reach over 160,000 live audience members, over 14,000 participants, 250 volunteers and over 500 creative practitioners.
Cllr Jason Zadrozny, Leader of Ashfield District Council said: “Ashfield Creates is something we are proud to be part of to encourage arts and creativity across the District. This is an exciting development in the project and I would like to take this opportunity to welcome Nonsuch Studios as the new Programme Manager and Producer.
“It has already done great things as part of the Ashfield Arts Partnership and we look forward to seeing what the future holds.
“The arts are something I have always been passionate about and this £1 million investment is already helping us to reach more people and groups. Creative industries bring excellent economic benefit as they bring skills and employability to the District. Creative events also bring people into areas where they spend and support the locality.
“We have had some excellent feedback so far on what you would like to see happen across the District and it shows how much enthusiasm there is out there for this.”
Edward Boott, Artistic Director and CEO of Nonsuch Studios said: “The entire Nonsuch Studios team is absolutely delighted that we have been appointed as the Programme Managers and Producers of Ashfield Creates.
“Having worked extensively in Ashfield since 2019 and supported much of the groundwork, designing and shaping of the Ashfield Creates programme, we really can’t wait to get started and begin creating some truly amazing moments and experiences.
“Having already run lots of consultation sessions and spoken with hundreds of artists, organisations and individuals over the past two years, we know how important this investment is and understand how crucial it is to ensure this funding genuinely reaches everyone across Ashfield; building creative skills, providing amazing cultural moments and supporting their stories to be told.”
Local organisations, individuals and community groups will work with the dedicated Ashfield Creates staff to plan regular activities across dance, theatre, art, music, and craft. The co-created programme will include weekly local events and performances, and a yearly community arts festival, as well as large-scale events and festivals working with national and international artists.
More than 1,400 people have engaged with creative events, meetings and consultations since the programme was announced in July 2024. These have helped shape the next stages with the creation of Ashfield’s first ever Cultural Strategy that will support arts, culture and creativity until 2035 and will be launched later in the Spring.
More information on how to get involved in Ashfield Creates is available at ashfieldcreates.co.uk
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Time to get artistic as Ashfield Creates takes centre stage

<h1>Business grants</h1>
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If you are an established business looking to grow, there may be grants available to help you develop your projects.
<h2>Find available grants</h2>
You can search for available grants using the following websites:
<ul>
<li>website:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.grantsonline.org.uk/search/grants">Grants online&nbsp;(external link)</a></li>
<li>website:&nbsp;<a href="https://grantnav.threesixtygiving.org/">Grant Nav - threesixtygiving&nbsp;(external link)</a></li>
<li>website:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.grantfinder.co.uk/">Grant finder&nbsp;(external link)</a></li>
<li>website:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fundsonline.org.uk/">Funds online&nbsp;(external link)</a></li>
<li>website:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gov.uk/business-finance-support">Business finance support - GOV.UK&nbsp;(external link)</a></li>
</ul>
<h2>Local grants available</h2>
<h3>Enterprise development grant</h3>
This grant scheme is being offered by Ashfield District Council and is funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. It can provide up to £10,000 (excluding VAT) or 75% of eligible project costs and is available to small and medium sized established enterprises with commercial premises based in the District of Ashfield.&nbsp;
This grant can be used towards the following eligible project costs:
<ul>
<li>Capital expenditures that increase productivity and efficiency</li>
<li>3rd&nbsp;Party consultancy advice and services. &nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
<li>Specialist training and accreditation's.</li>
<li>Support with accessing new markets/supply chains or increasing existing commercial operations.</li>
</ul>
If you are interested, please contact our business support team to request further information or to arrange an online appointment to discuss your business growth project in more detail.&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>commences&nbsp; 23 April 2025</li>
<li>closing date: 31 October 2025 or sooner, subject to available funds.</li>
<li>email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:business.support@ashfield.gov.uk" class="email">business.support@ashfield.gov.uk</a></li>
</ul>
<h3>SWEF Programme</h3>
The SWEF fund is a national charity initiative, aimed at enhancing the activities of young business owners, innovators, and entrepreneurs. If you are aged between 18 to 30 years old, from a low-income household or facing other challenges preventing you from developing your business, and you live and work Nottinghamshire then this programme may help you with grant funding up to £2000. You can be at pre-start, start up or established trading stages as long as you have not been trading for over 2 years.
This grant can be used to help pay towards:
<ul>
<li>equipment that will help a business bring in a second revenue stream</li>
<li>equipment that will help a business increase production where there is proven demand</li>
<li>materials/stock for a new product line</li>
<li>prototypes</li>
<li>website/booking system build.</li>
<li>training</li>
<li>product development</li>
<li>website:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nottscf.org.uk/grant/swef-grant-programme/">SWEF grant programme&nbsp;(external link)</a></li>
<li>website:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.swef.uk/">SWEF Funding&nbsp;(external link)</a></li>
</ul>
<h3>Invest to grow</h3>
The University of Derby's Invest to Grow programme provides loans and grants to support private sector businesses across the East Midlands, to innovate, grow, and create new jobs or safeguard existing jobs. Funding can cover 30% of agreed capital project costs, therefore an award of £15,000 would be for a minimum project cost of £50,000. The maximum award is £250,000. This is a Regional Growth Fund (RGF) grant, with no closing date.
<ul>
<li>email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:investtogrow@derby.ac.uk" class="email">investtogrow@derby.ac.uk</a></li>
<li>website:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.derby.ac.uk/business-services/funding/access-to-funding/">Invest to grow&nbsp;(external link)</a></li>
</ul>
<h3>Innovate UK Business Growth</h3>
Attracting funding to support innovation is a key priority for fast growing, innovative businesses that ultimately want to scale up. Innovate UK Business Growth can support you to develop your finance and funding strategy and review your application as a critical friend. This is a key part of the UK innovation agency’s investment to drive economic growth, and work with industry sector specialists that can support all types of businesses across our region.
<ul>
<li>email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:information@emc-dnl.co.uk" class="email">information@emc-dnl.co.uk</a></li>
<li>website:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.innovateukedge.ukri.org/">Innovate UK Business Growth&nbsp;(external link)</a></li>
</ul>
</div>

Grant News

Enterprise Development Grant

<h1>Test trading opportunities</h1>
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<h2>Are you ready to turn your passion into profit?</h2>
Ashfield District Council are providing people with an opportunity to develop and try out their business ideas trading to the public.
Our Test Trading places provide 4 days free trading as a guest at the following local markets, subject to availability:
<ul>
<li>link:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ashfield.gov.uk/community-leisure/markets-town-centres/sutton-market/">Sutton outdoor and indoor market</a></li>
<li>link:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ashfield.gov.uk/community-leisure/markets-town-centres/kirkby-market/">Kirkby outdoor market</a></li>
<li>link:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ashfield.gov.uk/community-leisure/markets-town-centres/hucknall-market/">Hucknall outdoor market</a></li>
</ul>
<h3>Benefits to your business</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trial your products at an established market</li>
<li>Gain feedback from customers and visitors to your stall</li>
<li>Help to refine your sales and marketing approach</li>
<li>Reach a broader audience</li>
<li>Have peer support</li>
<li>Make money</li>
<li>Increase your visibility to local consumers.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Eligibility criteria</h3>
<ul>
<li>Must be a resident of Ashfield.</li>
<li>Aged over 18 years.</li>
<li>Not have traded in the declared line of goods before</li>
<li>Be interested in setting up a brand-new business.</li>
<li>Or have an existing online business that they now wish to interact with general public.</li>
<li>Must not have a physical High Street presence in Ashfield.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Expression of interest</h3>
If you meet the eligibility criteria and would like the opportunity to test your business idea, email our Markets team. Please put ‘Test Trading Opportunity’ into the subject box on your email.
<ul>
<li>email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:all_markets@ashfield-dc.gov.uk" class="email">markets@ashfield.gov.uk</a></li>
</ul>
If you are accepted by our Markets team, they will provide you with an opportunity to visit some of our local markets and receive advice on what you might need to help you start trading. Once you know this you can also apply for a small grant to help you become market ready.
<h3>Opportunity terms and conditions</h3>
When receiving a stall from Ashfield District Council, traders automatically sign up to the rules and regulations of the market set out in the trader’s permit, the code of conduct and Market byelaws. We will provide details of these to all successful applicants, and we will also pay for public liability insurance to cover 4 days trading at our markets under this scheme. Participants can also apply for a small grant of up £500.
<ul>
<li>link:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ashfield.gov.uk/community-leisure/markets-town-centres/">Find out more about trading in Ashfield markets</a></li>
<li>email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:all_markets@ashfield-dc.gov.uk" class="email">markets@ashfield.gov.uk</a></li>
</ul>
There is a small grant available, if:
<ul>
<li>you want to start your own business</li>
<li>you are on not engaged on any other business start-up programme</li>
<li>you have a business idea (or ideas) that you want to test</li>
<li>you are prepared to commit time and energy to testing your idea and trade for 4 full days at Ashfield markets.</li>
</ul>
<h3>How can you use your grant?</h3>
Use this grant to build knowledge about your business, market, or industry. This could be:
<ul>
<li>Test selling&nbsp;to understand if customers want to buy your product or service</li>
<li>Carrying out&nbsp;market research&nbsp;to help you understand who your customers are and how you can reach them</li>
<li>Working out&nbsp;how you will deliver&nbsp;your product or service, and the&nbsp;costs involved</li>
<li>Gaining skills, knowledge and experience&nbsp;to find out if this business is right for you</li>
<li>Towards materials (not stock or vehicles) that can help you to transport and set up trading at Ashfield Markets</li>
</ul>
For example:
<ul>
<li>Table</li>
<li>Fixtures</li>
<li>Banner</li>
<li>Tablecloths</li>
<li>Baskets</li>
<li>Card Reader and Phone or Tablet (for cashless payments)</li>
<li>Money belt or cash tin (for cash payments)</li>
<li>Clear protective sheets (protection against wind and rain)</li>
<li>Price and product cards/stickers</li>
<li>Various size clips (to attach sheets, table cloths, price and product notices, etc)</li>
<li>Weights (to secure the stall, products, display cases, etc)</li>
<li>Plinths and shelving units (at different heights and sizes to create layers of products)</li>
<li>Battery lights (to display and highlight products)</li>
<li>Branded protective clothing (such as aprons, t-shirts, etc to reinforce brand)</li>
</ul>
If selling food:
<ul>
<li>hand wash facilities</li>
<li>cool boxes</li>
<li>power banks, etc.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
We recommend test trading applicants speak with our Markets team to learn more about what you may need so that you can maximise on your 4 days of free trading.
<ul>
<li>email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:all_markets@ashfield-dc.gov.uk" class="email">markets@ashfield.gov.uk</a></li>
</ul>
<h3>How much is the Test Trading Grant?</h3>
You can apply for up to £500 to test your business idea:
<ul>
<li>We will ask you for quotes, a budget and a clear plan of how you will test your idea</li>
<li>The amount you are offered will depend on your test activities</li>
<li>You must use this grant within 3 months</li>
</ul>
<h3>You cannot make multiple applications</h3>
<ul>
<li>This grant can only be applied for once</li>
</ul>
</div>

Trading Opportunities

Test Trading Opportunities

Summer is just around the corner and Ashfield District Council will be kicking it off with two blockbuster films in the park.
Selston Films in the Park will return on Saturday 21 June with 2 huge releases being shown on the big screen at Selston Country Park.
Families are invited to join the Council as it welcomes everyone’s favourite bear for the 2pm showing with Paddington in Peru. The untold story of the Witches of Oz will be shared at 6pm as Wicked will get film-lovers singing into the evening.
The event, organised by Out of the Box Events on behalf of Ashfield District Council, will also include acoustic acts playing in the bar area, inflatables, face painting and a bar.
It is the first event of Summer which will also see the return of the popular 3-day Ashfield Show in August, Hucknall Fest and the Ashfield Food and Drink Festival.
Cllr Jason Zadrozny, Leader of Ashfield District Council, said:
“There is nothing better than sitting in the park, hopefully in the nice weather, and watching a good film. We put out a poll on Facebook to find out which films people wanted for this year’s Selston Films in the Park.“I have to say they are excellent choices. This is a free event and just the first of a wonderful Summer of events for the people of Ashfield. Please come along and show it your support.“We hope to hear everyone singing along with Wicked to end what promises to be a fun evening.”
This is a free event; no tickets or booking required - just bring your chairs, blankets, and snacks.

Paddington in Peru and Wicked join Selston Films in the Park

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<h1>New artist impressions reveal homes plan for West Kirkby Gateway</h1>
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Artist impressions have revealed plans for brand new high-quality homes heading to Kirkby.
Ashfield District Council is pushing forward with plans for 12 apartments to be built close to Kirkby railway station.
This will allow for quality homes, designed to meet high levels of energy efficiency in a well-connected location.
The work at the site will also improve the openness and visibility of the station entrance.
A planning application for the project is due to be submitted in Summer 2025 and, subject to planning approval being granted, the construction phase will start in early 2026.
The plans are just one of the Council’s projects being funded by the £62.6 million Towns Fund. Other Towns Fund projects include the now completed Planetarium and Science Discovery Centre at Sherwood Observatory, redesign of Portland Square, and the Enterprising Ashfield project.
The Council initially developed plans to construct a new destination pub at the site. However, further market testing found interest was very low so it was decided that this was not the best use of the area. &nbsp;
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<img src="https://media.umbraco.io/dev-discover-ashfield-heartcore/0owdub15/24031-wkg-image-02-context.jpeg?mode=max&amp;anchor=&amp;width=500" alt="" width="500" height="144">
Cllr Matthew Relf, Ashfield District Council’s Executive Lead Member for Growth, Regeneration and Local Planning, said:
“This is a huge project to improve an important gateway into Kirkby, providing more high-quality energy-efficient homes.“We have carried out a lot of consultation with residents and councillors to find out what would be the best fit for this location. We listened to the feedback to the earlier plans and redrafted our approach to ensure we deliver the right outcomes for our area.“Work on this project is due to start early 2026, delivering a landmark building at the entrance to Kirkby town centre and more footfall for our excellent town centre businesses.“This is one of the many ways we are breathing new life into the District. We have already seen the opening of the new Sherwood Observatory and Planetarium, which has been become an excellent and well used facility bringing people into Ashfield. Work is also well underway on many other regeneration projects such the Cornerstone Theatre and Portland Square. After so many years of bidding, securing funding, construction planning, etc. it is fantastic to see these projects reaching their construction phase.”
Network Rail is currently in the process of sourcing funding for improvements to Kirkby railway station, which includes changes for disabled access. A previous bid for Access For All funding, a programme to enhance stations for disabled passengers, was unsuccessful but future funding opportunities will continue to be monitored.
A Network Rail spokesperson said:
“We remain committed to seeing significant improvements at Kirkby which will benefit all visitors to the station and complement the other great developments in the area.“The plans for these apartments would mean the station entrance space being upgraded, and this would give a glimpse of the more widescale positive changes still to come.”</div>
</div>
</div>

New artist impressions reveal homes plan for West Kirkby Gateway

<div class="xdj266r x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs x126k92a">
<div>Calling all Mural Artists&nbsp;</div>
<div></div>
</div>
<div class="x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a">
<div><a tabindex="-1" class="html-a xdj266r x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak xexx8yu xyri2b x18d9i69 x1c1uobl x1hl2dhg x16tdsg8 x1vvkbs"></a>Ashfield Creates are bringing bold new street art to Kirkby Town Centre, and we’re looking for a muralist to lead the way!</div>
<div></div>
</div>
<div class="x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a">
<div>We are excited to support proposals from artists that are ambitious, exciting, and set the tone for the energising developments that will be happening in Kirkby in the coming years.</div>
</div>
<div class="x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a">
<div>This mural will be informed by a period of engagement with local voices, resulting in a public artwork that is colourful and joyful, and celebrates diversity, pride, and community.</div>
</div>
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<div>
<ul>
<li>Artist Fee: £3,750 (this fee is for your time and creative input) An additional budget will be provided to cover all project-related expenses, including materials, scaffolding, licenses, and any other expenses.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Project timeline: 21 July - Sept 2025</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Application Deadline: Monday 7th July, 10am</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Interviews: w.c. Monday 14 July</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
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<div>We strongly encourage applications from artists with a connection to Ashfield, or to any of the communities, cultures, and histories present in the area.</div>
<div></div>
<div>You can read the full brief and <a href="https://ashfieldcreates.co.uk/kirkby-mural-project-call-out/">apply here</a> - <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" tabindex="0" href="https://ashfieldcreates.co.uk/kirkby-mural-project-call-out/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBEwbDVDS0R2d0J2SFM1ek1OSAEe3m1bDxXs7yl1DPy9jQ46sMJaUt8yMkjpDS2WAWqBzqdez5_QYBTbdkIdyj4_aem_YSKhbhays89Cez152SDxLw" target="_blank" class="x1i10hfl xjbqb8w x1ejq31n x18oe1m7 x1sy0etr xstzfhl x972fbf x10w94by x1qhh985 x14e42zd x9f619 x1ypdohk xt0psk2 xe8uvvx xdj266r x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak xexx8yu xyri2b x18d9i69 x1c1uobl x16tdsg8 x1hl2dhg xggy1nq x1a2a7pz xkrqix3 x1sur9pj x1fey0fg x1s688f">https://ashfieldcreates.co.uk/kirkby-mural-project-call-out/</a></div>
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Ashfield Creates are bringing bold new street art to Kirkby Town Centre, and they're looking for a muralist to lead the way!

Work has finished on an exciting new venue for theatre, cinema and live music in Sutton.
Sutton Community Academy has been handed the keys to Cornerstone Theatre, following a 15-month programme of work.
Ashfield District Council oversaw the project to completely transform the old theatre into a vibrant events space, with the works undertaken by building contractor Miller Knight.
The project was funded through the £6.27m Future High Streets Fund secured by the Council and is central to its ongoing work to revitalise Sutton town centre and to develop the evening economy. Cornerstone will open to the public in March next year with residents and visitors able to enjoy professional theatre performances, cinematic experiences, music and comedy nights. A number of test performances are being held as the college builds expertise and resources to manage the theatre.
Students at the college will also use the facility for their rehearsals and performances.
Cllr Matthew Relf, Executive Lead for Growth, Regeneration, and Local Planning, said:
“It is fantastic to see another of our regeneration projects reaching completion. Access to great arts and culture is such an important part of a thriving community that is often overlooked, so we are very proud to be able to bring more to Ashfield.
"An exciting programme of events is taking shape with something for everyone, from community dance through to large music acts, serious drama through to stand-up comedy. It will be a space welcoming shows from our community through to hosting national touring shows. With great local parking and access to great public transport this is yet another great facility within easy reach of all in Ashfield and surrounding areas.
“This is yet another part of our plan to reinvent our town centres as places to not only shop but to live, work, study and play.”
Liz Barrett OBE DL, Principal of ATTFE College, said:
“Everyone is incredibly grateful for the fantastic collaboration that has taken place to create Cornerstone Theatre. We are looking forward to ensuring it rapidly becomes another beating heart within the community of Ashfield for residents and people further afield to enjoy."
Work on transforming the theatre has included new dressing rooms and a green room, toilets - including a changing places room - foyer and box office.
The auditorium has been completely refurbished with new flooring, ceiling, acoustic wall treatments and doors. It has a retractable seating system and specialist lighting.
The building was officially handed over to the college by Miller Knight at an event to mark the theatre's completion.
<a href="/regeneration" title="Regeneration Projects">You can find out more about this regeneration project on the Regeneration page</a>

Curtain up – work finishes on Cornerstone Theatre

Sherwood Observatory has been awarded a UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) grant after experiencing an extraordinary surge in visitor numbers, welcoming over 25,000 guests in just 8 months, far exceeding its initial target of 20,000 for the first year.
Since opening its doors in November 2024, the Observatory has seen unprecedented interest from the public, prompting the need for additional resources to maintain high quality visitor experiences and manage growing demand. The grant is a direct response to this success and aims to ensure the Observatory can continue to thrive while keeping ticket prices affordable.
The funding is supporting the employment of two new staff members, who will support volunteering opportunities, events and activities and marketing activity.
Cllr Matthew Relf, Executive Lead Member for Growth, Regeneration and Local Planning at Ashfield District Council said:
“The response from the public has been phenomenal. It’s fantastic that residents and visitors to Ashfield are making the most of the Observatory and it is helping to inspire interest in STEM subjects.It’s a real positive that the Observatory has proved to be so popular and with the funding from this grant it will continue to flourish and remain a beacon of learning and discovery for years to come.”
Dr Steve Wallace MBE, Chair of the Observatory said:
"We have been blown away with the level of interest from people of all ages in what we are delivering. During the school holidays we welcomed over 1000 visitors, giving us the opportunity to inspire children of all ages.The extra staff will allow us to maintain our footfall without compromising the quality of experiences that our visitors have come to expect.&nbsp; We are extremely grateful to Ashfield District Council for their support."
Sherwood Observatory’s rapid rise in popularity highlights its importance as a regional attraction and its potential to contribute even more to local tourism and engagement in Ashfield.
<a href="/regeneration" title="Regeneration Projects">You can find out more about this regeneration project on the Regeneration page</a>

Sherwood Observatory awarded grant following surging visitor demand

Now is the time to nominate community heroes to get the recognition they deserve at the Discover Ashfield Awards 2025.
Discover Ashfield, alongside Ashfield District Council, is looking for people to nominate their community champions, businesses that go that extra mile and projects that make a real difference.
The categories for this year are:
<ul>
<li>Outstanding Organisation</li>
<li>Phenomenal Project</li>
<li>Community Champion</li>
<li>Place to Visit</li>
<li>Business of the Year</li>
<li>Brilliant Start-Up Business</li>
<li>Best High Street Business</li>
<li>Best Skills Provider</li>
<li>Best Employment Support Provider &nbsp;</li>
<li>Made in Ashfield (Young Person Award)</li>
<li>Made in Ashfield (Teacher/Mentor Award)</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://www.ashfield.gov.uk/discover-ashfield-awards-2025" title="DA Award full details">Click here for the full Discover Ashfield awards website</a>

Discover Ashfield Awards 2025 – now open!

Work has now started to transform Sutton’s former Wilko store into the Portland Square campus for college students.
Ashfield District Council purchased the building earlier this year using money from their £62.6million Towns Deal and have leased it to West Nottinghamshire College.
The former Wilko building is now in the process of being fully refurbished, creating a campus for students aged 16-18, adults and apprentices to gain trade skills and qualifications in plumbing and electrical installation.
The move will bring a host of benefits to Sutton; as well as bringing a huge vacant unit back into use, students spending more time in town before and after college, the town centre will see more footfall, a bigger spend in local businesses, and a livelier town during the day.
Cllr Matthew Relf, Ashfield District Council’s Executive Lead for Growth, Regeneration and Local Planning, said:
“Wilkos has stood empty for a couple of years now and we are so pleased to be able to bring it back into use. It’s a fantastic space, and will make a great new addition to West Nottinghamshire College’s offering. “This new facility’s town centre location makes it easily accessible by public transport and brings more young people into our town centre. Breathing life into the former Wilkos complements the wider work we are doing to regenerate Sutton town centre, including the new and improved Portland Square, and the newly renovated Cornerstone Theatre, all of which are bringing new opportunities and vibrancy into Sutton.”
Portland Square campus will also be a centre for ‘green skills’ courses including ground source and air source heat pump, photovoltaics, and the wiring of electric vehicle charging points for homes.
Andrew Cropley MBE, Principal and Chief Executive at West Nottinghamshire College, said:
“I’m thrilled that work has begun to create another fantastic training facility for local people and local businesses.“The construction sector is of huge strategic significance, both locally and nationally, and I hope this forward-looking centre will inspire even more young people to seek careers in plumbing and electrical installation, and help adults who wish to advance their careers in these valuable trades.“This opportunity has already enabled us to complete the UK’s first Gene Haas Centre for Advanced Manufacturing on the outskirts of Sutton and will allow us to modernise and further increase our capacity in other construction trades, as well as motor vehicle maintenance.“I can’t wait to see the new campus come to life.”
The conversion, carried out by Vaughandale Construction Ltd, will involve a major programme of internal works to create classrooms, workshop space, offices and student social space across three floors within 29,428 sq ft, plus renovation and redesign of the building’s façade.
Darren Atkins, Contracts Director at Vaughandale Construction, said:
“As one of the leading construction companies in the East Midlands, we are delighted and proud to be working with West Nottinghamshire College to deliver this prestigious project, transforming the former Wilko building in Sutton into a new construction training campus.&nbsp;“We are particularly pleased to be involved in the development of the new training centre. Along with our apprenticeship partnership with the college, this facility will provide tremendous benefits to our local community, inspiring the next generation of young people entering the construction industry, which closely aligns with our company values and ethos.”
<a href="/regeneration" title="Regeneration Projects">You can find out more about this regeneration project on the Regeneration page</a>

Sutton's former Wilko gets new lease of life

Ashfield District Council has submitted two planning applications outlining plans to regenerate Chapel Street and Central Walk in Hucknall.
Using £600,000, partly from their UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the Council aims to improve feelings of safety and reduce anti-social behaviour, promote Hucknall’s history through art, introduce a green link through the town centre, and create a welcoming, attractive, accessible place to encourage more visitors, supporting local businesses.
Throughout September, the Council gathered the thoughts and feelings of residents about the plans. The public consultation revealed that the majority of people were happy with the ideas to rejuvenate Central Walk and Chapel Street.
After taking onboard public comments, the plans for Central Walk include removing the dated arcade canopy, introducing more streetlights and ambient lighting, building planters with integrated seating and bins, standardising the shop fronts, and painting street art.
Over at Chapel Street, the canopy outside B&amp;M will be removed, new paving laid – including the ramp access, the stairs will be widened, new planters, seating and ambient lighting installed, and a mural painted on the side of B&amp;M, highlighting Hucknall’s history.
Cllr Matthew Relf, Executive Member for Regeneration, Growth and Local Planning said:
“These plans for Hucknall will ultimately encourage higher footfall, make people want to spend more time in the town centre and make people feel safer. A lot of the comments we received on the plans mentioned that Chapel Street in particular didn’t feel safe as it gets darker due to the lack of lighting, so we are addressing this directly with a new streetlight and ambient lighting to soften the walkway. “These two key links in between the town centre and Piggins Croft are in dire need of a facelift. Our planned improvements will make a huge difference to the area and will mark the start of the next phase of regeneration for Hucknall.”
<a href="/regeneration" title="Regeneration Projects">You can find out more about this regeneration project on our Regeneration page</a>

Plans to refresh Hucknall Revealed

Plans to refresh Hucknall revealed

This week, the demolition of the dilapidated former factory shop on Ellis Street, Kirkby, has begun.
Ashfield District Council purchased the run-down building earlier this year with plans to knock it down and rebuild a more attractive building. The site will welcome a modern apartment complex featuring a flexible ground floor space, bringing desirable town centre living to Kirkby.
As well as removing an eyesore and reusing the land for development, this project will have real benefits for the town centre. Increasing the amount of people living in Kirkby’s town centre means more spending power, with local businesses feeling the positive impact.
Demolition is expected to be completed by the new year, allowing work to start on the new building. During the demolition, the wood, metal, bricks and concrete are separated out to be recycled and reused in the new build, wherever possible.
The project is one piece of the Council’s wider aims of regenerating town centres across the District to attract more investment, support local businesses, provide more jobs for local people, more quality housing, and to improve quality of life.
Councillor Matthew Relf, Executive Lead for Growth, Regeneration and Local Planning, said:
“It’s fantastic to see progress on this project now with demolition well underway. This site has been steadily deteriorating over the years, and its central location made it one of the top contenders for our regeneration plans. The North Kirkby Gateway project will bring a wonderful new building looking out across the plaza, bringing new commercial and residential spaces right into our town centre. This will help increase footfall in the town centre and help frame the plaza, bringing more buzz and activity back to Kirkby.”“This is yet another of our many regeneration projects moving through to delivery, helping make Ashfield a fantastic place to live, work, study, shop, and play.”
This project is one of 21 which are funded by the Council’s combined £70m Towns Fund and Future High Streets Fund, that are changing the face of Ashfield for the better.
Langcroft Developments, in partnership with Ashfield District Council, will be remediating and developing the derelict Pond Hole site to provide 55 retirement and care units. <a href="/regeneration">You can find out more about this regeneration project on our Regeneration page</a>

Demolition starts on the former factory shop

As part of Ashfield District Council’s multi-million-pound investment into Kingsway Park, work has started to demolish the old changing rooms.
Once knocked down, new changing facilities for football, tennis, hockey and other sports will be built in its place. The car park extension has also begun, which will result in&nbsp;58 additional spaces, easing pressure on the popular main car park and surrounding residential streets.
The plans also include a new bowls pavilion, new football pitches and refurbishment of the existing grass pitches.
The project, known as Kingsway Park Sports Hub, is one of the Council’s 17 projects funded partly by their £62.6m Towns Deal, and aims to improve access to sports on the park for everyone.
During the works, the children’s play area, skate park and the Acre View Café will all remain open. The Acre View Café will be kept as is and will become a separate building from the new changing facilities.
The Council is hoping to secure funding towards new football pitches from the Football Foundation, a sports charity who aim to make sure everyone has a great place to play.
Cllr Matthew Relf, Executive Lead Member for Growth, Regeneration and Local Planning said:
“It’s great to see yet another of our regeneration projects hitting the ground. The old changing rooms are coming down to make way for the new and improved facilities. Kingsway is a fantastic park that is used heavily by families, dog walkers, and countless sports clubs so they will all benefit from this project. The extended car park will really help alleviate the congestion that the current car park sees every weekend.”“The Council knows how important it is for people of all ages to have safe places to enjoy sport, not just for the physical benefits but for mental health and wellbeing. This project is going to make a real difference to people living in Kirkby, allowing more residents than ever the chance to experience sports and the life-changing improvements it brings”. 
<a href="/regeneration">You can find out more about this regeneration project on our Regeneration page</a>

Kingsway Park sees changing rooms demolished

High quality public sports and leisure facilities are planned for Selston thanks to a £1million investment by Ashfield District Council.
The Council has revealed plans to contribute to the funding of a new sports hall and studios in Selston. This is part of its commitment to providing more sports facilities in the rural areas.
Working with Selston High School and Selston Parish Council, these plans will provide residents with access to high quality sports and leisure facilities.
Selston High School, as part of the Two Counties Trust, had been seeking to invest in a new four court sports hall with studio space using its own funding. Investment by the Council will help to secure public access to the new leisure facilities on evenings, weekends and school holidays.
Activities which could operate from the new facility include netball, five-a-side football, badminton and a wide range of fitness classes.
Cllr Arnie Hankin, Ashfield District Council’s ward member for Selston, said:
“It is a top priority for us that sports and leisure facilities are available to everyone and we know that it can be a struggle for those in rural areas to get to our leisure centres.“This is a fantastic opportunity for the people of Selston and we are delighted to be working with Selston High School and Selston Parish Council to deliver this. This building will be built to the highest standard of&nbsp;sustainability, helping reduce its carbon impact.”
A planning application is set to be submitted in the coming months.
This sports hall will sit alongside the new PlayZone at Selston High School which will provide a new football and multi-sports facility. This will also be available to residents.

£1 million plans revealed for new Selston sports facilities

Ashfield District Council have formally submitted their plans for the former factory shop site, Kirkby.
The run-down shop on Ellis Street, which has now been demolished, was purchased by the Council earlier this year. Once cleared, the site will welcome a modern apartment complex featuring 20 homes and a flexible ground floor space, bringing desirable town centre living to Kirkby.
The 3 storey building will use fabric first techniques as well as air source heat pumps and solar panels, to ensure that heating, water, lighting and ventilation is as energy efficient as possible. There will be a living green roof to introduce a habitat for insects and provide further insulation as well as being an interesting feature.
This project will have real benefits for the town centre. Not only will it provide a modern, attractive new frontage on Kirkby Plaza, it will hopefully act as a catalyst for further external investment into Kirkby. Increasing the amount of people living in Kirkby’s town centre means more spending power, with local businesses feeling the positive impact.
The project is one part of the Council’s wider aims of regenerating town centres across the District to attract more investment, support local businesses, provide more jobs for local people, more quality housing, and to improve quality of life.
Councillor Matthew Relf, Executive Lead for Growth, Regeneration and Local Planning, said:
“The factory shop was a place of great memories for many who worked there but time has moved on and the site had deteriorated significantly. The North Kirkby Gateway project is redeveloping this site to bring a wonderful new building looking out across the plaza, bringing new commercial and residential spaces right into our town centre. This will help increase footfall in the town centre and help frame the plaza, bringing more buzz and activity back to Kirkby.”“This is yet another of our many regeneration projects moving through to delivery, helping make Ashfield a fantastic place to live, work, study, shop, and play.”
This project is one of 21 which are funded by the Council’s combined £70 million Towns Fund and Future High Streets Fund, that are changing the face of Ashfield for the better.
Langcroft Developments, in partnership with Ashfield District Council, will be remediating and developing the derelict Pond Hole site to provide 55 retirement and care units. <a href="/regeneration">You can find out more about this regeneration project on our Regeneration page</a>

Plans submitted for new apartment complex

Ashfield District Council’s Planning Committee has given the green light to the Council’s plans for a new apartment building next to Kirkby train station.
The new build will compromise of 12 one-bed and two-bed flats with onsite parking, planting and cycle storage. The building will go up on the site of the old Wyvern Club that was demolished earlier in the year, after being identified as a key location for redevelopment.&nbsp;The design of the building reflects the industrial heritage of the site, celebrating the history of the railway and its workers, whilst providing an attractive welcome into Kirkby.
The proximity to the train station and the town centre provides an opportunity to kickstart the regeneration of this side of Kirkby, encouraging external investment into the other derelict areas around Lane End.
Construction is expected to start in early 2026.
Councillor Matthew Relf, Executive Lead Member for Growth, Regeneration and Local Planning said:
“As one of the main entrances into Kirkby it is important that people are greeted with attractive signs of investment, that Kirkby is a town on the up. This new build will do that whilst providing quality homes in a great location, perfect for people who commute into Nottingham or beyond.“This project has been a long time coming and we can’t wait to see real progress on this site. It is a fantastic use of a brownfield site in great need of redevelopment. The apartment building is going to be a striking new addition to Kirkby and fantastic homes for those renting them.”
This project is one of 17 funded by the Council’s £62.6 million Towns Deal, which along with the apartment complex being built overlooking Kirkby Plaza, are introducing new homes and increasing footfall into Kirkby town centre.
<a href="/regeneration">You can find out more about this regeneration project on our Regeneration page</a>

Apartment plans given green light

Ashfield District Council’s Planning Committee has approved plans to regenerate Chapel Street and Central Walk in Hucknall.
After taking onboard public comments, the plans for Central Walk include removing the dated arcade canopy, introducing more streetlights and ambient lighting, building planters with integrated seating and bins, standardising the shop fronts, and painting street art.
<figure><img src="https://media.umbraco.io/dev-discover-ashfield-heartcore/pjlpzi41/central-walk-oct25.png?mode=max&amp;anchor=&amp;width=500" alt="Artist impression of how Central Walk could look after the improvement works" width="500" height="330" data-caption="Artist impression of how Central Walk could look after the improvement works">
<figcaption>Artist impression of how Central Walk could look after the improvement works</figcaption>
&nbsp;</figure>
Over at Chapel Street, the canopy outside B&amp;M will be removed, new paving laid – including the ramp access, the stairs will be widened, new planters, seating and ambient lighting installed, and a mural painted on the side of B&amp;M highlighting Hucknall’s history.
The Council aims to improve feelings of safety and reduce anti-social behaviour, promote Hucknall’s history through art, and create a welcoming, accessible town centre to encourage more visitors, in turn supporting local businesses. The Council is investing £600,000, partly from their portion of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, to make improvements to Chapel Street and Central Walk to achieve this.
Cllr Matthew Relf, Executive Lead Member for Growth, Regeneration and Local Planning said
“These plans for Hucknall will ultimately encourage higher footfall, by making people want to spend more time in the town centre and contributing towards feelings of safety. A lot of the comments we received on the plans mentioned that Chapel Street in particular didn’t feel safe as it gets darker due to the lack of lighting, so we are addressing this directly with a new streetlight and ambient lighting to soften the walkway. “These two key links in between the town centre and Piggins Croft are in dire need of a facelift. Our planned improvements will make a huge difference to the area and will mark the start of the next phase of regeneration for Hucknall.”
Following the green light from planning, work is expected to start early in 2026.
<a href="/regeneration">You can find out more about this regeneration project on our Regeneration page</a>

Hucknall town centre improvements approved

It was announced this week that the newly renovated Cornerstone Theatre, Sutton, is up for an award at a the EEM Building Communities Awards.
Funded by the Council’s Future High Streets Fund, in partnership with Academy Transformation Trust Further Education, the theatre at Sutton Community Academy was fully refurbished in 2025. The project, completed by Miller Knight, is now a finalist in the EEM Building Communities Awards for Refurbishment Project of the Year.
Since the improvement works, which saw new dressing rooms, a green room, foyer and box office as well as a complete refurbishment of the auditorium, the theatre has provided a fantastic facility for students at the college and members of the community. The multi-functional community orientated space now allows residents and visitors to Sutton to watch professional theatre performances, cinematic experiences, music and comedy nights as well as local productions.
Cornerstone will welcome the first professional production in February with the one-woman show ‘Where is Mrs Christie?’ based on the 11-day disappearance of Agatha Christie on 7 February.
Councillor Matthew Relf, Executive Lead Member for Growth, Regeneration and Local Planning, said:
“Cornerstone is a fantastic community asset that we have been really proud to champion and help secure funding for. This award recognises how much of a difference the project has made to the theatre but also to the wider area. The theatre refurbishment will open up a new world of culture and arts to Sutton, Ashfield, and beyond.&nbsp;“Several fantastic trial events have taken place, and we can’t wait for the full programme to start in February. Having a state-of-the-art venue here in Ashfield, accessible to communities that might not have the means to access other venues, is so valuable. This will boost the local night-time economy, town centre footfall, as well giving residents access to great shows.”
The EEM Building Communities Awards celebrate excellence across the construction and built environment sector, recognising organisations and projects that deliver meaningful social, economic, and environmental impact.
Managing Director at Miller Knight, Matthew Flower commented:
“The transformation of the Cornerstone Theatre has created a truly immersive, future-ready space that will provide long-term value for students and the wider community. It’s been a complex refurbishment project delivered through close collaboration, and we’re proud to have played a part in bringing this fantastic facility to life.”
Winners will be announced at the EEM Building Communities Awards ceremony in March.
<a href="/regeneration">You can find out more about this project on our Regeneration page</a>

Cornerstone refurbishment nominated for regional award

Hucknall and the Rurals are set for huge funding boost from Ashfield District Council’s £1.35million allocation from the Pride in Place funding scheme.
The Council, with approval from the Discover Ashfield board – made up of representatives from local businesses, education and health sectors and community leaders – plan to spend over £600k in Hucknall to improve the High Street and Market Place with upgraded paving and street furniture. These upgrades would complement the Council’s current work on Chapel Street and Central Walk that is set to start in the coming weeks.
The Council will also invest £125k in Jacksdale to update the ageing skatepark. Replacing the steel ramps with a modern concrete design that offers more variety and challenges for users. The Parish Council are working with a Nottingham skate company to develop the plans with local young people. Ashfield District Council’s £125k contribution to this would be matched by s106 from housing developers and Parish Council funds.
Over half a million pounds will be awarded to community organisations through grants of varying amounts to help them upgrade facilities, host events and further support their work engaging with Ashfield residents.
£150k is being pledged towards supporting local businesses in Sutton and Stanton Hill via a shop front grant scheme. This grant scheme will be used in conjunction with the High Street Rental Auction powers that the Council have recently adopted. Allowing new businesses to take on vacant units and bring them back into use.
The remaining £30k will be used as match funding for the Football Foundation funds towards the Playzone at Selston High School.
Cllr Matthew Relf, Executive Lead Member for Growth, Regeneration and Local Planning said:
“We are pleased to have reached an agreement on how this funding should be spent, thanks to the joint work of the Discover Ashfield board and the Council. We have come to the decision to spend most of this funding in Hucknall and the rural areas as they haven’t been eligible for the other funding streams we have recently accessed or been allocated. The Pride in Place fund will allow us to invest into our rural communities, where they desperately need it.”
“This £1.5m will make an immediate difference to our communities, giving them the tools to make decisions about what matters to them. We are looking forward to seeing all these projects come to life to help us achieve our aim of putting pride back into Ashfield, making it a great place to live, work, visit, learn and do business in.”
The aim of the Pride in Place fund is to deliver visible improvements to high streets and improve places of community value including community facilities and public spaces such as parks and play areas, to improve health and wellbeing, bring people together, strengthen communities and help to rebuild community pride in local areas.
<a href="https://discoverashfield.co.uk/regeneration">You can find out more about this project on our Regeneration page</a>

Over £1m heading to Hucknall and the Rurals

A night celebrating those who go above and beyond in Ashfield is back.
The Discover Ashfield Awards 2025, now in its sixth year, celebrate the fantastic people, organisations and businesses within Ashfield and their achievements over the past 12 months.
Discover Ashfield, alongside Ashfield District Council, will recognise community champions, young people who are making a real difference and businesses that go the extra mile.
The awards have grown each year and 2025 is no exception. Those who make the shortlist are invited to a glittering awards ceremony held at Kirkby Leisure Centre.
The categories for this year are:
<ul>
<li>Outstanding Organisation</li>
<li>Phenomenal Project</li>
<li>Community Champion</li>
<li>Place to Visit</li>
<li>Business of the Year</li>
<li>Brilliant Start-Up Business</li>
<li>Best High Street Business</li>
<li>Best Skills Provider</li>
<li>Made in Ashfield (Young Person Award)</li>
<li>Made in Ashfield (Teacher/Mentor Award)</li>
</ul>
Cllr Matthew Relf, Executive Lead Member for Growth, Regeneration and Local Planning, said:
“All across Ashfield are individuals, organisations and businesses who go above and beyond for their communities but don’t receive the recognition they deserve. The annual Discover Ashfield awards are a great opportunity to shout about these great news stories so we can celebrate their great work.
“So if you know an individual, organisation or business that you think should be celebrated then please nominate them so we can thank these wonderful local heroes at this amazing event.”
We are also supported by our amazing sponsors Specsavers Sutton in Ashfield and Actifire.
<a href="https://www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/suttoninashfield?utm_source=gmb&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_campaign=345&amp;y_source=1_MzgwNjkwMy03MTUtbG9jYXRpb24ud2Vic2l0ZQ==" title="Specsavers Sutton in Ashfield Website" data-anchor="?utm_source=gmb&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_campaign=345&amp;y_source=1_MzgwNjkwMy03MTUtbG9jYXRpb24ud2Vic2l0ZQ==">Specsavers Sutton in Ashfield Website</a>
<a href="http://www.actifire.co.uk" title="Actifire Website">Actifire Website</a>
<img style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" src="https://media.umbraco.io/dev-discover-ashfield-heartcore/bokagtvz/untitled-1.png?mode=max&amp;anchor=&amp;width=500" alt="Actifire and Specsavers Logos" width="500" height="178">

Discover Ashfield Awards 2025 is right around the corner!

Stay connected with the latest developments in Ashfield, including updates about seasonal events, competitions, awards stories, and regeneration news. 