Drug rehab centre plan for former fire headquarters

Anderson Orr An artist's impression of a two-story modern largely flat roofed complex with large windows, set in plaza style gardensAnderson Orr
The proposed clinic will have 32 ensuite rooms along with therapy and administration areas

The former headquarters of Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service could be demolished and turned into a rehab centre to support people with addictions, new plans reveal.

Proposals have been submitted to develop the vacant site in Bestwood Lodge Drive, Arnold, into a 32-bedroom complex.

The buildings, which have been empty for two years, could be bulldozed to make way for the clinic.

Developer Delamere Health said the facility would help people recovering from drug, alcohol and mental health problems.

Planning documents show that a gym, cinema, spa, massage rooms and a leisure room could be built on the site.

Google A Streetview image of the entrance to the old fire service headquarters, showing a gate and fence, with low brick buildings and an open field behindGoogle
The site is in the green belt but developers say it will reduce the visual impact on the area

The developer said it had supported about 1,000 people since opening its first £7m clinic in Cheshire in 2020.

More than 200 trees could also be planted in addition to a therapy garden, according to the application.

In 2019, the fire service confirmed it would be sharing its headquarters with Nottinghamshire Police’s Sherwood Lodge facility as part of a £18.5m refurbishment.

Access would still be off Bestwood Lodge Drive but some improvements for pedestrians would be made.

The playing fields, which formed part of the fire service site, are not included in the application which was submitted to Gedling Borough Council in October.

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