Excitement builds as work starts on flagship stage transformation of Portland Square in Sutton in Ashfield

Ashfield District Council’s transformation of Sutton in Ashfield town centre has moved up a gear, after ground was broken at Portland Square, marking the latest stage in its exciting, major transformation.

The new-look Portland Square will feature 2 raised lawns with inbuilt seating and 8 new semi-mature trees to bring greenery back into the urban setting. Alongside the planters will be new street lighting, a new level paving and more room outside businesses for outdoor seating. State of the art CCTV cameras will also be fitted.

Work is expected to be completed mid 2025. The plans for Portland Square form part of the Council’s £62.6 million Towns Deal which is funding 16 transformational projects across the District.

Cllr Jason Zadrozny, Leader of Ashfield District Council, said: "We’re delighted that another transformational project is starting. Portland Square is a vital part of our town centre and it’s an exciting time for Sutton.

"The plans for Portland Square are ambitious, not just with the physical changes but how we are creating a cultural shift towards a thriving night-time economy."In combination with the development of Fox Street and the brand-new Cornerstone Theatre, Sutton’s future looks bright. Ashfield District Council was the most successful council in the whole UK to bid for this Town’s funding. We are transforming Sutton before resident’s eyes.”

To complement this, the Council is also redeveloping the derelict Fox Street site (behind Lloyds bank) to create a flexible outdoor space. The site will be the new home of Sutton’s outdoor market, events, special markets, as well as providing a 41 space car park when not in use for markets. The river Idle, which runs through the back of the site, will be cleaned and restored, providing a natural focal point.

The improvements to Fox Street are being funded by the £6.27 million Future High Streets Fund, with work expected to finish in early 2025.

Lindum Group Co-Chairman Edward Chambers said: "We are delighted to be continuing our partnership with Ashfield District Council through this second phase of public realm regeneration work in Sutton in Ashfield. We've been working with the council since mid 2023 to find the most cost-effective solution to delivering these projects. The scheme in Portland Square, together with the work underway in Fox Street, will enhance the town centre with improved community spaces that will promote social interaction and help bring local economic growth."

Discover more about major regeneration projects in Ashfield.