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Here is the Nottinghamian from Monday, January 16.
Hello,
Today's edition of the Nottinghamian takes a look at calls for the new Broad Marsh site to last at least 150 years. It comes after environmental campaigners want to ensure the site is as sustainable as possible.
We will also take a look at ten of Nottingham's much loved owl sculptures that went under the hammer for charity. Plus a new afternoon tea venue opens and a round up of the top ten things to do this week.
150 years
Environmental campaigners are calling on Nottingham City Council to build the next Broad Marsh so sustainably that it will last for at least 150 years. Plans show the shell of the old shopping centre is set to be reused and turned into a "unique structure" as well as the creation of a 'Green Heart', an area the size of the City Ground pitch that will be covered in trees and planting.
As a crucial decision on £20million of funding for the project is expected this month, a letter has been sent to the council signed by figures including former Nottingham South MP Alan Simpson and Cath Sutherland, chair of Nottingham Green Party. Ms Sutherland said: "We have called for 70% of that area to be parkland and it's going to end up being about 20% as the plans currently stand.
"Our key point is that the Broad Marsh redevelopment is a massive opportunity for Nottingham to do something that is environmentally sustainable and socially inclusive and we shouldn't waste this chance to set an example. I think what the council has said so far in terms of the sustainability of the project has been pretty vague and we need some more clarity because a lot of carbon is produced in the destruction of a site, so this one should be so forward-looking that it can last for 150 years." Read more here.
Charity auction
Ten of the landmark Nottingham owls have been auctioned off in an effort to raise vital funds for charity. Nottingham Business Improvement District (BID) raised money for Switch UP CIC. by selling the city's Wise Owl sculptures. They were used as part of the Nottingham Owl Walk 2020 which invited people back to the city after lockdown.
Marcellus Baz, chief executive of Switch Up CIC, said: “It’s fantastic to work in collaboration with Nottingham BID. The owls have heritage and they’re landmarks in different parts of the city. I’m grateful for Nottingham BID for raising vital funds which will go towards giving people food parcels, educational materials and supporting families during the cost of living crisis. Some of the funds going to the Robin Hood Fund will ensure that other organisations, similar to ours, won’t be struggling.”
Alex Flint, chief executive at Nottingham BID, added: "Over the years, the owls have provided a free, fun activity to residents and visitors to the city centre, and this was an excellent opportunity for us to give back to the community." Read more here.
Weather and trivia
Weather: Very cold conditions will continue on Tuesday, remaining dry with temperatures only reaching low single figures during the afternoon. Maximum temperature 3 °C.
UV: Low
Further reading: Zip wire and trampoline to be added to Nottinghamshire play area as part of £100,000 revamp
Trivia question: In 2015 Nottingham was named the home of what activity?
The answer to today's trivia question is at the bottom of the newsletter.
What's on
An Inspector Calls, Theatre Royal - January 17 to January 21
Stephen Daldry's multi award-winning National Theatre production of JB Priestley's classic thriller returns to Nottingham this week. When Inspector Goole arrives unexpectedly at the prosperous Birling family home, their peaceful dinner party is shattered by his investigations into the death of a young woman. His startling revelations shake the very foundations of their lives and challenge us all to examine our consciences. Tickets from £19 can be booked here.
Chinese and British Exhibition, Beeston Library - January 17 to February 25
Celebrate the history and legacy of the Chinese communities that have been calling the UK home. In a new display from the British Library, this long history is presented through photographs, manuscripts and interviews with those who have lived through it. Tracing their heritage back to regions in East and South-East Asia, they’ve established a rich and diverse culture across the UK. Entry is free and is open Monday to Saturday until February 25.
Gluten Free Extravaganza, the Poppy and Pint - January 19 to January 22
To mark receiving an official gluten free certification on their core beer, Session, the Poppy and Pint is celebrating until the weekend. It will be about all things gluten free with an array of gluten free food specials and street food, plus their gluten free beer. Entry is free.
Patchworks of Places, the Harley Gallery - January 18 to March 12
The Harley Gallery in Worksop is inviting people to get creative and make a bunting flag to add to its community art installation. This is inspired by the exhibition Well Travelled by textile artist Anne Kelly, where embroidered textiles are a collection of memories, making, travel and textiles. The gallery wants to celebrate everyone's special places, which could be real or imaginary. The free sessions run from 10am till 4pm and no booking is needed.
Movie Club, the Embankment - January 19 to January 21
Throughout this week, a movie club will be meeting at the Embankment for evenings filled with classics. Showcasing a range of genres, there will be a specially curated food menu to go alongside the film. This week is a Tarantino special with Kill Bill and Kill Bill 2 on Thursday, Reservoir Dogs and Pulp Fiction on Friday and Four Rooms and From Dusk Til Dawn on Saturday. The first film starts at 6pm and the second at 8.30pm. Entry is free. Booking recommended.
BBC Introducing in the East Midlands, Metronome - January 19
Go watch some of the best live, local music for free as BBC Introducing in the East Midlands returns. The show will be filmed and recorded for radio broadcast, hosted and curated by the legendary Dean Jackson. The line-up includes Airport Dad, Katie Keddie, Harri Georgio and The Well Behaved Young Men, and Shadows of a Silhouette. The show runs from 7pm till 11pm. Book your free place here.
Songwriting with ROB.GREEN, Metronome - January 20
This songwriting workshop is designed for all songwriters, from artists who may have already penned a few songs to people looking to explore different ways to get song ideas flowing, or maybe it’s something you’d like to try for the first time. Independent soul and pop artist ROB.GREEN from Nottingham will talk through lyrics, melody and telling your story through music. It is open to 16 to 24-year-olds. Book here.
Just The Tonic, Metronome - January 21
Just the Tonic has been producing comedy shows in Nottingham for over 25 years and have found a new home in Metronome. This Saturday sees Lindsey Santoro, Phil Ellis, Peter Brush and Scott Bennett take to the stage. Doors open from 6.45pm and shows start at 8pm. Book here.
The 1975, Motorpoint Arena Nottingham - January 22
Indie pop band The 1975 will head to Nottingham's biggest indoor stage this weekend as part of their month-long UK tour. Expect to hear new tracks from their latest album Being Funny In A Foreign Language as well as hit favourites. Book remaining tickets here.
Queen Extravaganza, Royal Concert Hall - January 22
Rescheduled from Febraury 2021, the official Queen tribute band, produced by Roger Taylor and Brian May, returns to Nottingham following sell out shows across the globe. The band, who began touring back in 2012, is made up of a rolling cast of musicians who have been hand-picked by Roger and Brian. The 90-minute show features more than 20 Queen classics drawn from the band’s biggest hits. Book here.
Tea with a side of history
Afternoon tea is a centuries-old tradition but in recent times it has enjoyed a resurgence. Restaurants, cafes, bars and even garden centres across Nottinghamshire offer a lavish spread of sandwiches, scones and cakes - from big slabs of sponge to mini patisserie. The latest venue to launch the popular way to eat and catch up with family or friends is a characterful 400-year-old country house, in the village of Woodborough.
Woodborough Hall has always been known as a wedding venue but since a takeover, there's a new focus on serving food and drink throughout the week. Woodborough Hall has three different settings for tea - there's a cosy wood-panelled lounge with sofas overlooking the fireplace. It's opulent and refined but comfortable and relaxed. Another option is the orangery, with an atrium, and big glass windows looking out onto the picturesque gardens. Last but not least is the stylish restaurant and bar.
For those who like a side-helping of history with their afternoon tea, there's plenty of it. Although the present hall was built in 1660, there's been a hall at that location for centuries. Prominent owners have included William the Conqueror’s son William Peverel, a former Sheriff of Nottingham. The hall is also said to be where MI6, UK's Secret Intelligence Service, has its origins.
Events manager Samantha Potter said: "The aim is to give it a look of timeless elegance. There are lots of plans and we are slowly testing the water." Take a look at life writer Lynette Pinchess' full run down here.
That's all for today
Thank you for joining me for today's edition of The Nottinghamian. I hope you enjoyed it, and if you did why not sign up to receive it directly in your inbox every weekday by clicking here.
The answer to today's trivia question, in 2015 Nottingham was named the home of what activity, is Home of English Sport.
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