Residents Share Their Desires for Change on ‘Forgotten’ Nottinghamshire Estate
Residents of a Nottinghamshire estate have shared their thoughts on the changes they would like to see implemented in their community. The Bellamy Road estate, which has often felt overlooked, is set to undergo a significant transformation as part of a £7 million redevelopment project led by Mansfield District Council.
Scheduled to commence in August 2023, the project will include the construction of new energy-efficient affordable homes, the creation of a village green space and a new shop. These additions will complement the recently opened play park and learn-to-cycle track, aiming to provide a safer and more inclusive environment for residents.
Extensive consultation with residents, landlords, and key organizations involved in the estate’s affairs has shaped the final scheme. The aim is to enhance the quality of life for residents and offer them greater opportunities for recreation and physical activity.
Many residents expressed their hope for improvements to the estate, which has been neglected over the years. An 86-year-old resident, who has been living there since 1968, emphasized the need for action: It’s been left far too long. It’s been forgotten, that’s what I feel.
Kimberley Wilson, a 34-year-old mother of three, highlighted the importance of providing better facilities for children: They promised the kids a skate park and stuff like that, but that’s not been done. It would be nice, especially for the older kids like teenagers, to have something.
To address the concerns raised by residents, the redevelopment project will incorporate the demolition of existing flats and shops on Egmanton Road, making way for a new parade of retail outlets. Furthermore, five flats and existing shops will be replaced with a convenience store, café, and takeaway. Plans also include the planting of a community orchard and the implementation of traffic calming measures to ensure safer road conditions.
Traffic safety emerged as a significant issue for residents, as speeding drivers pose risks to pedestrians and residents. John Woods, a 66-year-old retired resident, called for measures to address this problem: We get idiots driving at 80mph, it’s a huge problem now. It’s either going to be a dog or a little kid that gets hit someday, it’s unbelievable.
To tackle this issue, Ann Woods, John’s wife, proposed the installation of speed bumps to slow down vehicles. The Nottinghamshire County Council’s highways manager stated that speeding is an enforceable offense, and they rely on road users adhering to speed limits. They encourage residents to report concerns about speeding through their website, where interventions such as temporary interactive speed signs can be implemented.
Councillor Stuart Richardson, Portfolio Holder for Regeneration and Growth, expressed his satisfaction with the progress of the redevelopment. He acknowledged the positive impact already made by the project’s first phase, which involved the construction of the play park and cycle track. Richardson thanked the Mansfield District Council staff involved in the development and looked forward to the commencement of construction for the high-quality social housing.
With the support of residents and local stakeholders, the Bellamy Road estate’s regeneration is poised to transform the community and revitalize its quality of life. The forthcoming improvements, coupled with the diligent efforts of Mansfield District Council, aim to create a safer, more inclusive, and sustainable environment for all residents to enjoy.
