Works 'well underway' on £600,000 Hucknall town centre area revamp
Improvement work on the Central Walk area of Hucknall is ‘well underway’ according to an update from Ashfield Council.
The £600,000 project – which has been funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) – is intended to create a brighter, cleaner and more welcoming space for residents, shoppers and local businesses.
The first phase, which began in April involved opening up the area, with the initial canopy removal taking place overnight to help keep disruption to a minimum.
From there, the project has moved on to new paving and a wider package of public realm improvements.
In a statement on its Facebook page, the council said: “The next stage of the improvements to Central Walk, Hucknall, are well underway with the new paving nearing completion.
The new lighter blocks bring a modern airy feeling to the walkway compared to the old grey slabs and match the paving used on Hucknall's high street.
"The removal of the canopy has also opened up the space, allowing natural light to fill the walkway.
The final stages of the investment are installing the bespoke planters and ambient lighting which will line Central Walk, creating a softer environment and introducing much-needed greenery.
"All of these changes are aiming to improve feelings of safety for visitors and business owners, and to attract more people into the town centre.
“A mural will be painted on Central Walk as the finishing touch, representing Hucknall's rich history and heritage.
"Details of this will be shared soon.
The approved plans include upgraded surfacing, better lighting, improved seating, bins and planting, all designed to make the area more attractive, more inviting and better for everyday use.
The works are currently programmed to run until around mid-July, although that could change depending on site progress and any unforeseen delays.
There is also hope that work to improve Chapel Street will follow after the Central Walk works are completed, although that remains subject to the necessary approvals which are currently sitll being being worked through.
The council commented: “The planned improvements to Chapel Street are still on pause whilst we work through details with partners.”