A decision on the redevelopment of a Worksop shopping centre into an entertainment centre is now due next month.
The Priory Centre will be redeveloped into a family-focused area with tenpin bowling, a trampoline park, indoor soft play, and a café.
The government provided nearly £20m of Levelling Up Funding – now rebranded as Local Government Funding – to pay for the project in early 2023.
The planning application is due to go before Bassetlaw District Council’s Planning Committee next month.
If approved, the demolition works will begin in the autumn to make room for the entertainment centre, and the existing café will be moved to a new location.
It is expected that the scheme will be completed by early 2026.
The wider plans include a food court, indoor market space and a health hub, which will be included in a separate planning application.
A new green footpath and towpath link will also be created along the Chesterfield Canal, making a “green corridor through the town centre”.
The main contractor for the Priory works has been appointed, and around £6m has been spent to date.
Work is also progressing on projects under the £20m Levelling Up Partnership, which was awarded to address “deep-rooted” challenges in Bassetlaw.
Eight projects have been proposed to improve town centres, health and training across the district.
Discussions are under way for a £5m heath hub in vacant units of the Priory Centre, including a gym, dance studio and business start-up space.
Terms have been agreed to purchase a derelict Harworth and Bircotes site to build a £3m community and learning centre.
Initial plans have also been drawn up for a £6m training and workshop-based education centre in Worksop’s former print rooms, which would be taken over by a private provider.
The money – given by the previous Conservative government – is intended to tackle serious problems which areas which have been left behind.
It has previously been rolled-out in towns such as Grimsby, Blackpool and Blyth.
Bassetlaw District Council’s Cabinet will discuss overall Levelling Up progress at a meeting on Tuesday, August 3.
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