Work has begun on the transformation of the derelict Fox Street, Sutton, into an event and market space.

Ashfield District Council plans to create a flexible outdoor space that links pedestrians from the Asda store to the town centre, and can accommodate markets and events.

The site is located behind Lloyds Bank and is currently disused wasteland. The work will see a 41-space car park created, with new lighting, CCTV, and trees and hedging planted.

The River Idle, which runs through the back of the site, will be cleaned and restored.

Funding has come from Ashfield District Council’s £6.27m Future High Streets Fund. Council leader Jason Zadrozny said: “We can’t wait to see this project begin. The Fox Street site has been an eyesore for a long time and our renovation works will breathe life into it, creating a space that can be used for events and markets — capitalising on the natural footfall in this part of Sutton.”

The next stage of the regeneration of Sutton town centre will start shortly after work on Fox Street, when plans for Portland Square to create a modern town centre, funded as part of the £62.6m Towns Deal, will begin.

The new-look Portland Square will feature two raised lawns with inbuilt seating, ambient lighting, planting, and semi-mature trees. Alongside the planters will be CCTV cameras, streetlighting, a new level flooring, and more room outside businesses for seating.

Both sites are expected to be completed this year.

Lindum Group managing director Kevin Damarell said: “We are delighted to be continuing our partnership with the council through this scheme in Sutton.

“We’ve been working with the authority since mid-2023 to help find the most cost-effective way to deliver the works, which will make a huge difference to the town centre, and ultimately provide a much-needed boost to the local economy.”

Lindum will be calling on the skills of local businesses to deliver this project, including street furniture manufacturing company Townscape Products, based on Fulwood Road South in the town.

Its head of sales, Jess Fergusson, added: “Townscape is very pleased to be working with Lindum Group and Ashfield District Council to help realise this town centre improvement scheme.

“The raised platers and seating will provide a vibrate focal point for the local community, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the square and adding a much-needed green space for all to enjoy.’’