Stapleford regeneration moves a step closer with ambitious plans

The regeneration of Stapleford has moved a step closer after suggestions for how the £25m Towns Fund could be distributed were discussed by the town’s Executive Board.

The key points of the plans – futureproofing the town’s high street, the creation of a cycle network, and improvements to community, leisure and recreation facilities – were tabled at the latest meeting (24 July), with the board agreeing on a long list of potential projects for the funding.

One of the potential interventions discussed by the Stapleford Town Executive Board included redeveloping the public spaces around Walter Parker Square, as well as provisions for a new community leisure facility, with options including an off-road cycle track and active adventure play parks.

The suggested projects will now be reviewed for their deliverability, before potentially being included in the Town Improvement Plan (TIP), which acts as a roadmap for the distribution of the £25m Towns Fund.

Paul Sweeney, vice chair of the Stapleford Town Deal Executive Board, said: “The proposals that have been brought to the table have the ability to create long-lasting benefit for the community. This investment is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to realise the town’s great potential, forge a prosperous new future and build a lasting legacy.”

Rebecca Ogden, major projects officer at Broxtowe Borough Council, said: “This meeting was a big step forward for the project, giving the Executive Board the opportunity to review the proposals in detail and work out how they can match the outcomes that are required by the government as part of the funding.”

The proposals were developed by GT3 Architects following engagement with both the town’s Stakeholder Group and the wider public through the MyTowns portal, which allowed local residents to have their say on what they would like to see the money spent on.

Liz Clarke, associate director at GT3 Architects, said: “It’s great news that the plans are taking another step forward. We received valuable feedback from the local community on our initial designs, which helped us to really solidify our proposal. As a company we believe that engagement with the community and stakeholders is vitally important – by involving participants they feel engaged and part of the process.

“It was therefore a pleasure to present the scheme to the Executive Board and we are confident that the plans will make a tangible difference to Stapleford and its community.”