Nottinghamshire County Council is poised to approve a £7.4 million investment in its ongoing efforts to enhance front-line services, reduce costs, and promote sustainability.
The comprehensive programme, which will be discussed at a cabinet meeting on 19 December, involves modernising council facilities, co-locating with public organisations, and generating revenue through leasing opportunities.
Key projects include the relocation of staff, upgrades to energy-efficient buildings, and targeted economic boosts to local communities through construction contracts.
Revamping Council Headquarters and Local Offices
With plans to vacate County Hall by 2025, council operations will shift to nearby Trent Bridge House in West Bridgford. The move aims to reduce costs associated with the aging County Hall annex, which is set for demolition at an estimated cost of £2.5 million. This decision aligns with the council’s strategy to increase the long-term land value of the site while streamlining operations.
Trent Bridge House will undergo essential upgrades, budgeted at £500,000, to accommodate staff and support efficient service delivery.
Oak House: A Flagship Sustainable Development
The construction of Oak House, a low-carbon, all-electric office in Hucknall, is progressing despite challenges posed by inflation and adverse weather. Scheduled for completion in spring 2025, the project has required an additional £888,000 investment due to complex groundwork requirements. Designed and managed by Arc Partnership with Morgan Sindall Construction, the building reflects the council’s commitment to sustainability and economic development.
The project has prioritised local spending, with 86% of subcontractors and tradespeople sourced within a 20-mile radius. Hucknall-based R&R Joinery Services Limited and nearby Oakfield Construction have played significant roles, boosting local employment and training opportunities.
Richard Allen, Managing Director of R&R Joinery, highlighted the project’s impact: “This opportunity has expanded our client base and will allow us to grow and take on an apprentice in the coming months.”
Carl Tyson of Oakfield Construction echoed these sentiments: “We are proud to have contributed to such an important project, which also provided valuable experience for our apprentices.”
Investments Across Nottinghamshire
The council’s transformation strategy extends beyond Hucknall. A £3.5 million contribution has been allocated to a new hub in Mansfield, set to house key services and rejuvenate the town centre. Meanwhile, early work is underway on an energy-efficient contact centre and office in Worksop, expected to open by early 2026.
Leadership’s Vision
Council Leader Sam Smith emphasised the programme’s focus: “We are an ambitious council, and this additional investment is all part of our wider plan to prioritise delivering services rather than just running expensive buildings.”
Councillor Keith Girling, Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Asset Management, added: “This programme not only addresses the inadequacies of our older buildings but also supports the local economy by awarding contracts to regional subcontractors.”
The council’s forward-looking measures aim to create a network of cost-effective, sustainable buildings, ensuring that services remain accessible and impactful for Nottinghamshire residents while fostering local economic growth.
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