Newark and Sherwood District Council wants public's say on how to boost the night-time economy

The public is being asked to have a say on how to encourage people into towns after dark and boost the night-time economy.

Night-time offerings are being reviewed in Newark, Southwell, Ollerton and Edwinstowe.

It is part of efforts by Newark and Sherwood District Council to create a strategy for vibrant, inclusive and safe places to attract evening and night-time visitors.

Council leader David Lloyd said: “Let me be clear, this is not about opening up lots of nightclubs in the district. Instead, this strategy is about ensuring that all businesses flourish and fulfil their potential after what has been an incredibly challenging couple of years.

“We will receive feedback from residents, businesses and community groups to ensure that the final strategy will reflect what is needed for our excellent town centres.

“I am excited to see where this project takes us.”

As well as reviewing the current condition of the evening economy, the strategy will consider late-night shopping and markets, promotion of heritage assets through late openings and night-time tours, early evening entertainment and cultural facilities such as the theatre, cinema and art galleries, cafés, restaurants and bars.

It will also include street performances and outdoor evening events during the summer to make greater use of open spaces, festive events, leisure facilities such as sports centres, libraries, and bowling alleys.

The council is expected to award a contact next week for an expert to lead the Evening and Night-time Economy Strategy.

Work will start in the next couple of months and involve surveys, workshops and holding interviews with evening economy businesses, residents and users.

The strategy will focus on the district’s four main urban and economic centres and will cater to each area’s specialities, researching strategies that will result in greater footfall, dwell time, and visitor spending during the evening and night-time.

The council said it was another step forward in its ambitious plans to revitalise the district, promoting economic growth and providing opportunities for businesses post-pandemic, as well as giving residents and visitors more of what they want.

One aim is to combat the challenges faced by businesses and the detrimental impact covid-19 has had on the district’s economy.

Proposals will be in addition to what is already promised through the likes of the Towns Fund.

To take part in the research, email will.parkinson@newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk by January 31 to express interest.