A £3.5m revamp of Nottingham’s principal public square has been unveiled as part of a broader initiative to revitalise the city centre.
The Old Market Square regeneration scheme would introduce additional vegetation, trees, garden areas and a new fountain feature to the space.
The project forms part of a proposed £19m investment strategy spanning three years, intended to restore the city’s infrastructure and address critical maintenance needs.
Approximately £11.6m of this allocation would be directed specifically toward the historic Council House building.
The landmark structure has served as the focal point of civic activity since its official opening in 1929.
As its hundredth anniversary approaches, the proposed programme would ensure the building remains protected for generations to come.
Planned improvements encompass roof restoration, stonework remediation and comprehensive security upgrades to both the interior and exterior of the property.
The investment would work alongside proposals to redesign the surrounding Old Market Square, producing a greener and more attractive environment around the civic headquarters.
The maintenance initiative would extend across the council’s operational property portfolio, with roof works scheduled for Loxley House and further investment proposed for buildings including St Ann’s Valley Centre, Byron House and the Royal Concert Hall.
Work would be sequenced according to risk assessment and critical need.
Adopting a systematic approach to maintenance would help avert further degradation, prevent escalating expenditure and minimise interference with council operations.
Councillor Jay Hayes, holding the housing and planning portfolio, commented that the Council House stands as one of Nottingham’s most distinctive structures and has played a significant role in the city’s civic life for nearly a century.
He stated that this investment would help preserve the building for future generations while maintaining it as a source of local pride.
The regeneration of Old Market Square would complement these plans by creating a more appealing green space surrounding the civic headquarters.
Together, these initiatives align with the broader goal of rebuilding Nottingham and establishing a city centre that residents value and enjoy.
The proposed £19m package would also enable the council to address essential maintenance across its wider estate, with resources directed toward the most urgent requirements in a methodical manner.
The proposal will be examined by the council’s Executive Board on October 20th.