Students help to improve Worksop neighbourhood

North Notts College students on placement have been making improvements to Priory Mews in Worksop which has previously seen anti-social behaviour and some areas falling into disrepair.

This community rejuvenation project is a collaboration between the College, regional charity Groundwork Five Counties, and Bassetlaw District Council – as part of its Thriving Neighbourhoods Strategy.

Students enrolled in bricklaying and joinery courses have been working since last summer on a wide range of improvements in the area including repairing walls, pergolas and fencing.

Cllr Lynne Schuller, Cabinet Member for Housing and Estates said: “We carried out this project after listening to residents and recognising the need to enhance the area. Our aim is to help people feel happier and more positive about where they live, and these repairs and improvements are an important step in rebuilding pride and creating a better environment for everyone.

“We have welcomed the progress made over the months which has benefitted students and their learning, alongside those living in the Priory Mews area of the town.” 

Every Wednesday and Thursday the students are on-site and supported by charity Groundwork Five Counties, who manage and oversee the project.

Rish Mills, Environment Delivery Manager at Groundwork, says: “The results are fantastic, every week the area is improving and it’s great to hear the feedback from residents.

“The joinery students have replaced dozens of disintegrating pergolas, gates, fences and drying stations. The bricklayers have been busy repairing crumbling and missing walls, as many around the area were damaged or had poorly bonded brickwork.

“The students receive valuable experience which gives them an advantage when they start looking for work, and their skills are improving by leaps and bounds throughout their 45-day placement.

“It’s a great project to be involved in, and we’re very proud of everything we have achieved so far.”

For more information about the Priory Mews rejuvenation project, visit: https://www.groundwork.org.uk/fivecounties/student-work