A former empty charity shop on Low Street, Sutton, has been transformed into a clean and green building by Ashfield District Council.

9-11 Low Street, the former YMCA shop, has been renovated as part of the council’s £6.27m Future High Streets Fund, from an empty eyesore to an attractive, green commercial unit.

The buildings eco credentials come from the installation of photo voltaic panels on the roof, insultation, innovative sun tubes that provide natural light inside the building, and a living, green roof. The roof has been planted with sedums that will not only help capture carbon emissions, and absorb rainfall, but also benefit pollinators when flowering during summer.

Coun Jason Zadrozny, leader of the council, said “This project is a great example of how we are transforming former grotspots in town centres, in ways you can see, and those that you can’t. The green roof is a clever and easy way for the council to increase biodiversity whilst helping the environment, helping us achieve one of our key priorities; cleaner and greener.

“Projects across Sutton and Kirkby are really picking up pace now with the start of works on Fox Street and Portland Square this month. It won’t be long until residents, businesses, and visitors start seeing real transformational change in Ashfield.”