Former charity shop turned into green unit

Council leader Jason Zadrozny said the roof was a clever way to increase biodiversity

A former charity shop in Nottinghamshire is being turned into an eco-friendly business unit.

Ashfield District Council said the old YMCA shop in Low Street, Sutton-in-Ashfield, was being renovated as part of its £6.27m Future High Streets fund.

Four solar panels will be installed on the roof, which will also have plants sewn to absorb rainfall, capture carbon emissions and attract pollinators during summer.

Council leader Jason Zadrozny said it was "a great example of how we are transforming former grotspots in town centres".

Other projects being completed as part of the Future High Streets fund include renovating the theatre at Sutton Academy, works on Fox Street and the refurbishment at High Pavement House.

The council said internal works to the Low Street site were "almost complete".

Mr Zadrozny said: "The green roof is a clever and easy way for the council to increase biodiversity whilst helping the environment, helping us achieve one of our key priorities: cleaner and greener.

“Projects across Sutton and Kirkby are really picking up pace now with the start of works on Fox Street and Portland Square this month.

"It won’t be long until residents, businesses, and visitors start seeing real transformational change in Ashfield.”

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