A major scheme to make Stanton Hill a better place to live and work is under way.

Ashfield District Council has taken the first steps to invest in the village and improve life for residents and businesses.

Members agreed initial proposals to improve accessibility, create cleaner streets, and provide upskilling opportunities.

The council has been working with Teversal, Skegby and Stanton Hill Neighbourhood Forum to create a 10-year programme of priorities and interventions for the area.

The plan, which has been created with the community and information from what residents would like to see, is centred around five key objectives:

Community spirit – building stronger community connections to enhance identity.
Rebuilding the High Street – boost appeal, encourage investment, and support businesses to revitalise the area.
Cleaner, safer and healthier – looking at tackling issues such as litter, crime, health, and housing.
Connected Stanton Hill – improve accessibility and connections for residents, visitors, and tourists.
Skills for Stanton Hill – empower residents with skills and aspirations for high-quality jobs.

Coun Helen-Ann Smith, deputy leader of the council and ward member for Stanton Hill and Teversal, said: “Community is at the heart of this programme. Stanton Hill has a real sense of community and we want to support the people living there as much as we possibly can.

“This has been identified as an area that needs some extra support and it is through working with the Neighbourhood Forum and its residents that this has been made possible.

“We are still in the first stages so watch this space as there is plenty more to come from this project.”

Andrew Jenkins, chair of the Stanton Hill Neighbourhood Forum added: “We strongly support this initiative. When we first heard about it we were very committed to support it and continue to be committed.

“This is very positive and what has been encouraging is the level of communication and engagement we’ve had from the council.

“The participation from the people in Stanton Hill is crucial and we are very supportive and appreciative of the council’s co-operation.

“What is important for us is that this is a 10-year plan and we want to work with the council to engage with as many residents in the area as possible.”