Huge new industrial units could be built on Ashfield border
Plus: Future of historic dress shop to be decided
Welcome to Thursday’s edition of Ashfield News, where we bring you the latest on plans for a huge new industrial site, the future of a popular former high street shop, a kestrel rescue and much more.
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Decision due on major new industrial site
A decision is set to be made next week on a major industrial development that could create new jobs and investment
Outline planning permission is being sought for two large employment units with office space, service yards, and up to 687 car parking spaces, depending on final use.
The site at Cartwright Lane, South Normanton, sits partly within Ashfield and partly in South Normanton, Derbyshire.
It proposes two units totalling more than 39,000 sq m of floor space.
The application is flexible, allowing for either general industrial or warehousing and distribution use.
Parking would range from 389 spaces for warehousing up to 687 for industrial use, including disabled and cycle parking, documents submitted to Ashfield District Council show.
The 12.2-hectare site lies between the existing Panattoni Park development and Fulwood Industrial Estate, with access planned via the A38 at Cartwright Lane.
A public footpath running through the land would be diverted around the edge of the site.
The land is currently classed as countryside under local planning policy, meaning the application is a departure from the Ashfield Local Plan.
However, a report to councillors says the site's location—between existing employment zones—limits its impact on the landscape.
Officers say the proposal could support future regional demand for industrial space along the M1 corridor, and would deliver economic and employment benefits.
Although the final appearance and landscaping are yet to be decided, planning officers have recommended approval.
A similar application has already been supported to Bolsover District Council, pending final comments from the Lead Local Flood Authority.
Ashfield District Council’s planning committee will consider the application on Wednesday, 24 July.
Ashfield Show returns with star-studded tribute line-up
The Ashfield Show is set to return this summer with a packed weekend of live music, tribute acts and community performances.
Taking place over three days from Friday 8 August to Sunday 10 August at Sutton Lawn, the popular annual event promises something for everyone, with a host of tribute acts lined up to entertain crowds.
Friday’s line-up includes tributes to Mumford and Sons and Olivia Rodrigo, as well as performances from solo artists Oliver Vawdrey and Ant Green. Returning favourites Tribute—last year’s headliners—will also be back on stage.
On Saturday, the event will showcase tributes to a string of legendary artists, including Oasis, UB40, Tina Turner, Lady Gaga, Dolly Parton, Adele, Elton John, and Tom Jones.
The Sunday finale will feature tributes to Pink, Taylor Swift, Sabrina Carpenter, George Ezra, Dua Lipa, Harry Styles, Katy Perry, and Ariana Grande. The Kaiser Monkey Killers—a tribute act covering hits by Kaiser Chiefs, Arctic Monkeys, and The Killers—will also take to the stage.
Each day will begin with performances from local community acts, giving residents the chance to support home-grown talent.
The Ashfield Show is organised by Ashfield District Council and attracts thousands of visitors each year.
Further event details, including stage times and ticket information, are expected to be released in the coming weeks.
Historic dress shop could become a home
A former ladieswear shop which operated in Sutton-in-Ashfield for more than 70 years could soon be turned into a house, under new plans submitted to Ashfield District Council.
The property at 174 Outram Street, once home to the long-running boutique Marie, is the subject of a prior approval application to change its use from a shop to a residential home.
Rather than seeking full planning permission, the applicants – Mr and Mrs Wanjiku – are asking the council to decide whether formal approval is needed to go ahead with the change.
The application was submitted on 7 July and a decision is due by 17 August.
Built in the 1930s, the building became Marie's gown shop in 1947 and remained in business until its closure in 2024.
The shop was a familiar name to generations of local shoppers and was recognised by Ashfield District Council in 2019 for its longstanding role in the community.
The application is currently listed as pending on the council’s planning portal.
Firefighters rescue trapped kestrel
Firefighters from Ashfield Fire Station rescued a kestrel that became trapped in netting earlier this week.
The bird, which appeared exhausted, was safely freed by the crew and placed in a cool, quiet space to recover.
The fire service contacted a specialist bird of prey rescue organisation to provide the kestrel with appropriate aftercare.
Kestrels are a protected species in the UK and are currently on the Amber conservation list due to declining numbers.
The incident highlights the wider role firefighters play in responding to a range of emergencies beyond fires, a spokesperson for the station said.
They added: “Our crews respond to all kinds of incidents. On this occasion, we were pleased to assist in the safe rescue of a protected bird.”
The kestrel is now being cared for by professionals. The fire station did not announce the location of the rescue.
Major Oak Pop Choir raises thousands for hospital charity
A charity concert hosted by The Major Oak Pop Choir raised close to £4,000 for cancer services at Sherwood Forest Hospitals.
Funds came from ticket sales, raffle prizes, donations—including one from Experian—and a handmade quilt sale.
Hospital governor Peter Gregory, who organised the event alongside wife Helen, said the full house enjoyed a “wonderful evening” and praised the choir’s performance.