Mini News Stories
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IMPACT
From coal power station to incinerator: Ratcliffe-on-Soar’s “backward step” against climate change In June of this year, it was decided that the Ratcliffe-on-Soar coal power station, visible from University Park Campus and one of the largest of its kind in Europe, would be converted into a waste incinerator. The decision came as the Ratcliffe-onSoar site was found to have a predicted electrical efficiency 5.9% percent lower than the average UK coal power station, despite the EMERGE (East Midlands Energy ReGeneration Centre) facility supplying energy to on-site businesses. During a Nottingham County Council meeting, the £330 million proposal was approved by nine votes to three, despite protests from environmental campaigners who have called the plans a “backward step” for tackling climate change. They say that the incinerator will discourage recycling and continue to burn fossil fuels through petroleum-based products in the form of plastic. Other concerns include significant carbon dioxide emissions. Doctor Andy Read, the redevelopment manager for Uniper, said: “Our vision for Ratcliffe is for development that creates high value jobs based on modern industry and manufacturing served by an on-site energy hub.” By Victoria Mileson
Nottingham Castle reopens post £30 million makeover After three years and a £30 million regeneration project, Nottingham Castle has reopened its doors to visitors. The project included repairs to preserve one thousand years of Nottingham’s history. New additions to the Castle include landscaped gardens and a café that uses local produce, as well as gallery and exhibition spaces showcasing the ‘city of rebels’ and the region’s past. Visitors will also have the opportunity to explore the caves, which run beneath the Castle’s grounds. For younger visitors, there is a Robin Hood themed playground. The highly anticipated project was pushed back due to the pandemic. However, just a five minute walk from Nottingham’s Old Market Square, there are hopes that the Castle will welcome more than 300,000 visitors each year, boosting tourism in Nottingham as a whole. General admission tickets, which can be purchased in advance on the Nottingham Castle website, are £13 for adults and £12 for students. By Victoria Mileson
