Mansfield District Council is launching a consultation on the Mansfield Connect development, inviting people to share their views on the proposals before the planning application is submitted.
Mansfield Connect is the flagship regeneration project to redevelop the long vacant former Beales department store and parts of the former Co-op building into a modern multi use civic and community hub. The project aims to bring services, learning, culture and enterprise together under one roof in the heart of the town centre, creating new activity and confidence while stimulating further investment and growth.
The Council purchased the former Beales building in 2021 to take control of this private sector asset and ensure that such a prominent site could play a central role in the wider regeneration of the town centre. Located at a key gateway opposite the Four Seasons shopping centre, the building has been empty since Beales closed in 2020 and is considered a strategically important site under the adopted Town Centre Masterplan, designed to unlock change across a range of adjacent sites and a range of other regeneration projects currently under way across Mansfield. The project is supported by significant UK Government investment, which has been ringfenced for regeneration projects.
The council is now seeking further feedback on the emerging plans, designs and planning considerations. This feedback will help shape the final planning submission and ensure the development reflects both the needs and ambitions of the wider Mansfield community. Residents can view the new proposals online and submit comments through the dedicated Mansfield Connect webpage.
Executive Mayor of Mansfield District Council, Andy Abrahams said:
“Mansfield Connect is a key regeneration project that will transform the long vacant Beales department store into a multi-use community and civic hub. Its creation will improve access to a wide range of public services, support skills and enterprise, re- open long closed frontages and help bring new footfall into our town centre. This is a once in a generation opportunity to breathe new life into the town centre and boost confidence in Mansfield. I encourage everyone to take part in this consultation and help shape the future of Mansfield.”
Clearance works and asbestos removal for the site is currently underway, alongside the removal of the Stockwell Gate bridges, which is expected to be completed by the end of the month. This is progressing ahead of the main construction phase, subject to planning permission.
Residents, businesses and community groups can view the latest plans and submit feedback through the Mansfield District Council website at:
www.mansfield.gov.uk/mansfield connect
The consultation is open until Sunday 1st March and will contribute to the final planning submission later this year.