Colliery future planned out by Harworth

PLANS for the redevelopment of Thoresby Colliery have been unveiled by Harworth Estates.

The defunct colliery, which closed along with Kellingley Colliery. Both were given a £4m fund to help with the managed closure last year.

Now, Rotherham-based Harworth is looking at several options for the Nottinghamshire site.

There is land enough for 800 homes to be built including a retirement village and starter homes, or a 25-acre business park.

There is also potential for pit yard buildings to be retained for leisure employment. Sports pitches and education developments at the Ollerton Road site near Edwinstowe.

Plans have also been suggested which would develop a 350-acre Country Park with views of Sherwood Forest.

Stuart Ashton, planning and development Manager at Harworth Estates, said: “We’ve thought long and hard since the colliery’s closure about striking the right balance between bringing housing and employment opportunities forward whilst restoring the majority of the site back to greenland to support the Sherwood Forest.

“We feel that we’ve managed to do that within our plans and we’re keen for as many local people and groups to come to the event to see what we’re suggesting. The event also includes the opportunity for people to tour the site in a Land Rover so they can see how the redevelopment of Thoresby fits within the regeneration of the wider area.

“Local people will get the chance to comment on the proposals, give us alternative suggestions and let us know about any other issues we need to consider prior to finalising our plans. We look forward to welcoming people on the 21st.”

Consultation will begin on 21 July, 2pm-8pm.