Hucknall councillor hails 'transformation' of town centre as Central Walk works continue
A Hucknall councillor says the town centre is beginning to show real signs of change, with work at Central Walk already giving one of the town’s busiest pedestrian routes a brighter and more open feel.
Coun Lee Waters (Ash Ind), who represents Hucknall Central on Ashfield Council, said the project was about making practical improvements that residents could see and feel.
Work on the £600,000 project – which has been funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) – began in April.
The old canopy on Central Walk has now been removed and new paving is also being laid as part of the improvement to help to smarten up the area and make it more attractive for residents, shoppers, visitors and local businesses.
Further improvements are planned, including new planters and bird control measures to help keep the area cleaner and more pleasant.
The council is also working through delivery timescales for some elements of the scheme and further updates are expected once dates are confirmed.
The work comes as Hucknall looks ahead to a busy summer, including the popular Food and Drink Festival, which is expected to bring more people into the town centre and support local traders.
Coun Waters said: “Town centres matter because they are often the first impression people get of a place.
"Central Walk is an important route through Hucknall and I want it to feel cleaner, smarter and more welcoming for everyone who uses it.
“This is the sort of visible improvement people want to see. Residents do not want endless talk, they want to see action, investment and pride in the town centre.
“New paving, planters and better bird control might sound like practical things, but they all make a real difference to how a place looks and feels. It is about making the town centre cleaner, smarter and more welcoming.”
Plans are also continuing for new murals and street art celebrating Hucknall’s heritage and identity.
"The council is close to finalising arrangements with the murals team, with the artwork expected to bring more colour and character to the town centre later in the year.
The Chapel Street element may follow separately due to wider challenges at that location.
Coun Waters added: “Hucknall has a proud history, strong local businesses and a community that cares about the town.
"The murals are a chance to celebrate that and add something distinctive.
“There is always more to do, and residents are right to expect high standards but Central Walk is a positive step forward.
"It shows progress is happening and that Hucknall town centre is getting the attention it deserves.”