Nottingham residents asked for more greening and the return of a water feature to the city’s flagship public space. Now those ideas are set to become reality.
Long known as ‘Slab Square’, Nottingham’s iconic Old Market Square is set for its biggest transformation in two decades as Nottingham City Council begins work to develop a new water feature, more trees and vibrant planting.
The £3.5m project – set to be funded through a combination of Government Pride in Place funding and investment from the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) – subject to acceptance via the Council’s Executive Board meeting in November – will transform the square into a greener, more welcoming destination for residents, visitors and city centre workers.
Shaped by feedback from residents and visitors, the plans will ensure Old Market Square will continue to host Nottingham’s major events, celebrations and markets, while also offering more opportunities for people to relax, enjoy nature and spend time in the square throughout the year.
The new designs will bring together the city’s stories, its civic role and the ambitions residents have shared for a vibrant, greener city centre, and will celebrate Nottingham’s Children’s Forest and City of Legends identity, launched through Nottingham Vision earlier this year, while creating a greener, more welcoming and family-friendly space at the heart of the city.
The transformation will include:
- A new water feature at the heart of the square
- A relaxing greenspace with trees and drought resilient planting, providing cooling shade in hotter weather
- Improved public space that is flexible enough to host events throughout the year
- New lighting and public realm, creating safer and more welcoming environment.
The scheme forms part of the wider Nottingham Vision, creating greener city spaces, improving biodiversity and helping people connect with nature in the city centre.
A feedback survey will also be shared with residents and visitors asking for their input on what they’d like to see in a revamped Old Market Square.
The council will appoint design specialists to develop detailed plans for improvements to the Old Market Square, with work expected to begin on site in January 2027 after Winter Wonderland has closed. Further details, including designs and construction timelines, will be shared as the project develops. Residents will continue to be kept informed with plans as they progress as well as the latest on events that are usually held in the Old Market Square.
The impact on hosting events is currently being worked through as part of the project.
Councillor Neghat Khan, Leader of Nottingham City Council, said:
“Residents and visitors have been clear through the Climate Assembly, Nottingham Vision engagement and direct feedback that they want to see a greener city centre, more planting, more shade and the return of a water feature in Old Market Square.
“Old Market Square is one of Nottingham’s most important civic spaces and we want people to feel proud of it.
“For too long, it’s been referred to as ‘Slab Square’ this investment is about changing that perception by bringing back greenery, water, life and character to the heart of the city.
“We want to build on the success of the Green Heart and extend that sense of greenery, welcome and pride into Old Market Square. This investment will help create a space that people can enjoy every day; whether they are meeting friends, attending an event, taking a break from work or simply passing through.
“This project is about creating a city centre that is greener, healthier and better prepared for the future. By introducing more trees and planting, alongside a new water feature and improved public space, we can create an Old Market Square that reflects what Nottingham people have told us they want for their city.
“Thanks to Pride in Place funding from the Government, alongside investment through the East Midlands Combined County Authority led by Mayor Claire Ward (EMCCA), we are now able to take the next step in delivering that ambition.”
Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said: “Old Market Square belongs to everyone, so it’s great to see local people helping shape its future. This investment will help create a more welcoming centre for Nottingham – somewhere people can meet, relax, and enjoy.
“Bringing trees, plants and water back into the square will celebrate Nottingham’s identity and bring more nature and life to this iconic space.
“Upgrading Old Market Square helps make Nottingham an even better place to live, work and visit. Creating public areas that people can enjoy for years to come is exactly the kind of investment I want to support.”