Renovation work has started at 9-11 Low Street, Sutton — the second empty shop to be given new life by Ashfield District Council.

It bought the former YMCA shop on Low Street as part of its £6.27m Future High Streets Fund, having completed the transformation of the old Yorkshire Bank, on Low Street, from a dilapidated eyesore to a modern café. Plans for 9-11 Low Street include refitting the interior to bring it back to a useable commercial space, and renovating the first floor into accommodation.

Coun Matthew Relf, executive lead for Regeneration, Growth and Local Planning, said: “It is fantastic to see work starting on another of our Future High Streets Funded projects. When all our 20 plus projects are completed, they will work together to transform our town centres and how people shop, visit, and do business in Ashfield.

“To some people it may just be repurposing a long-standing empty unit, but in conjunction with the Makerspace and business hub at High Pavement House, the redesign of Portland Square which will start in the new year, and work in the outer edges of Sutton at Kings Mill Reservoir and Sherwood Observatory, you can start to see our vision for the District. A place where businesses and aspirations can grow and succeed.”

Coun Jason Zadrozny, leader of the council, added: “Ashfield District Council are transforming Ashfield, as a District but also as a place to visit, start a business, receive an education, and make a home. The future of Ashfield is truly bright thanks to the hard work of the Council. We have secured over £120million external investment to allow us to fulfil our ambitions for Ashfield, so keep watching for our progress.”

The two councillors are pictured above.