URGENT UPDATE: Community members in Gedling are calling for the redevelopment of the vacant site of the former Sherwood E-ACT Academy into a recreational green space. The academy, which closed in 2016, has remained abandoned and overgrown since the demolition of its buildings in 2019. Local officials and residents are now advocating for the site to serve the community’s recreational needs.
The site, located off Wollaton Avenue, has been identified in the Gedling Borough Council’s Issues and Options document, released in July 2025, as a potential area for redevelopment. As discussions heat up, local voices are making their preferences known.
Long-time resident Mrs. Matthews, 89, expressed concern over the possibility of new housing developments. “I would hate to think I could one day face a new housing development,” she said, adding that while she doesn’t mind a few homes, she is apprehensive about dense constructions.
Conversely, Alex Bridges, a nearby resident for 25 years, argues that the site should remain a green space. “Where it could be made into a mini park. It’s the only bit of green space around here without going into Gedling Country Park,” he stated. His sentiment echoes that of Clive Towsey-Hinton, a Liberal Democrat borough councillor, who championed the reopening of the academy’s multi-use games area in 2021. Towsey-Hinton emphasized, “There are no recreational facilities in the area for our youth to enjoy.”
Residents have voiced a variety of opinions on the future of the site. While some, like Mrs. Smith, do not oppose the idea of new homes, she remains skeptical about the parking situation. “I understand these days they need to get as many houses as they can,” she remarked, highlighting a common concern among residents regarding infrastructure.
The local democracy reporting service (LDRS) has reached out to both Gedling Borough Council and Nottinghamshire County Council for updates on the site. A spokesperson for the county council confirmed that discussions regarding the site are ongoing as part of their disposals program, aimed at revitalizing the area.
“This site is part of our ongoing disposals programme, and we have been working with Gedling Borough Council to bring this forward as part of a wider regeneration scheme,” a Nottinghamshire County Council representative stated, underscoring the potential for future developments.
The borough council also confirmed that the site is included in their Local Development Plan, with assessments currently underway to inform future allocations. “The Draft Plan will be referred to Cabinet in the spring,” said a spokesperson.
As the community continues to advocate for green space, the urgency for recreational facilities grows. The dialogue surrounding the former school site is a stark reminder of the importance of community input in local development plans, especially in areas lacking sufficient recreational amenities.
Residents are encouraged to stay engaged in the process as plans evolve. The future of the Sherwood E-ACT site rests in the balance, and local voices will be critical in shaping its direction.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
