A derelict site is set to be transformed into a striking gateway, bringing more businesses and homes to Kirkby.

Ashfield District Council has revealed its plans for North Kirkby Gateway, one of its largest Towns Fund projects.

This will concentrate on the redevelopment of the long-derelict Pond Hole area as well as a former factory shop in nearby Ellis Street. These plans include 55 units providing retirement living for Ashfield residents.

There will also be 24 apartments, along with business units providing a frontage to Kirkby Plaza.

The Pond Hole site work will be delivered by Langcroft Developments in partnership with the council.

The first visible work will be the demolition of the old factory shop building later this
year.

The plans are just one of the council’s projects being funded by the £62.6m Towns
Fund. Other Towns Fund projects include the now completed Planetarium and Science
Discovery Centre at Sherwood Observatory, redesign of Portland Square, and the
upcoming West Kirkby Gateway project.

Coun Warren Nuttall, who represents Greenwood and Summit on Ashfield District
Council, said: “This site has become an eyesore and is in desperate need to transforming to
create a stunning gateway into Kirkby.

“We are excited to be able to share these plans for North Kirkby Gateway, offering desirable
town centre living, community space and business opportunities. We are committed to
developing these sites that appear to be long forgotten into somewhere Ashfield can be
proud of.

“I am looking forward to seeing the work start on this project and the area transformed. This
is one of the many ways we are making Ashfield a more desirable place to live and work.”

Craig Cameron, of Langcroft Developments, said: “We’re excited to announce that we’ve
now exchanged on Pond Hole. A big step forward in bringing this
exciting regeneration project to life.

“This marks a key moment for the Ashfield Town Fund programme and we’re proud to be
playing our part by delivering much-needed, high-quality and affordable provisions
designed with older residents in mind – promoting independent living in a safe, accessible
setting.

“We’ve appointed CPMG Architects to lead the design and planning process and we’re
working closely with Ashfield District Council to make sure the scheme ties in with the wider
vision for the area – from housing and skills to enterprise and community infrastructure.

“We’ve had great support from the Council, the UK Government and the local community so
far and with grant funding in place, we’ve already started the remediation and enabling
works to help move things forward quickly.”