Drop in to get updates on Long Eaton’s £10m revamp

PEOPLE keen to know more about a huge £10million makeover that is transforming the heart of their Erewash town are being invited to monthly “drop-in” events so they can be kept up to speed.

The first of the specially arranged sessions for them to meet some of those behind the new vision for Long Eaton is on Tuesday 7 July. The venue is a former drapers shop on the High Street – where work on the town’s colossal revamp got underway at the start of June.

Residents and local business people are being encouraged to get the lowdown by popping into No22 – now a popular bar called Rowells – from 11am to 2pm.

Further sessions will be held on the first Tuesday of each month. The aim is to provide updates and the opportunity to ask questions about how work is progressing to turn the High Street and nearby Tamworth Road into a thriving destination for shopping and leisure.

The transformation is thanks to the £25million Long Eaton Town Deal – which has been funding a string of projects after Erewash Borough Council clinched the regeneration investment from the government. A successful town hall exhibition in the run-up to the High Street work starting was a previous chance for people to ask all about the project.

Local business leader Richard Ledger, who chairs the Town Deal Board, said: “The High Street project is definitely the showcase one and has taken years of meticulous planning – not least to ensure that shops and businesses can remain open while work is underway. This is something we are very keen to stress.” Signs have even been put up around town to underline the message.

The remodelled town centre will be greener and more welcoming – while boasting a vibrant new main square. Design elements include benches that have been made to look like comfy sofas – in a tribute to Long Eaton’s proud furniture-making industry.

There will also be a trail dedicated to one of the most acclaimed artists of the 20^th Century – the late Dame Laura Knight. She was born in the town.

The refurbishment of the High Street and Tamworth Road – which will get wider pavements – is due to be completed by next spring. Town Deal chair Richard said: “It is going to be a truly massive boost for Long Eaton.”