Work to begin on Mayor-backed improvements to major Nottingham road Gregory Boulevard

Work is set to begin on a project to make a major Nottingham road safer, especially for those walking and cycling.

The Nottingham City Council project, which has benefited from funding from the Mayor of the East Midlands, received support from 69 per cent of respondents during public engagement carried out in May and June.

The scheme will improve the wider cycle network and provide a flat, safe route for people walking and cycling on Gregory Boulevard, Nottingham city centre and Sherwood. It will also improve connections to facilities including Djanogly City Academy, Nottingham High School, Djanogly Leisure Centre and the new and improved Forest Sport Zone.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “I know how important safe, reliable roads and routes are for people going about their everyday lives, whether they are travelling to school, work, local shops or community facilities. Gregory Boulevard is a key route for Nottingham, close to some of the city’s best-known historic sites, sporting facilities and green spaces, as well as major events such as the world-famous Goose Fair.

“By investing in these improvements, it will make everyday journeys safer, easier and more reliable for everyone. This project will also make it easier for people to walk, wheel and cycle locally, while helping communities stay better connected across Nottingham and the wider East Midlands.”

The improvements between the A60 Mansfield Road and Noel Street include:

• Addition of 850 metres of cycle path, separate from the road;
• Resurfaced road and footpaths;
• Upgraded crossings and the addition of a new toucan crossing, for both pedestrians and cyclists;
• Adding plants which help manage surface water and create habitat for wildlife.

Councillor Patience Ifediora, Nottingham City Council executive member for regional development, growth and transport, said:  “These changes will make a real difference to enable people to get to work, school or the shop without having to rely on a car. When sustainable travel is the easy, quick and safe choice, everyone benefits.”

Gregory Boulevard schedule of work

Work is set to begin at the end of July and is scheduled to last about 13 months, concluding late summer 2027, just in time for Goose Fair. There are four phases of work:

• Phase 1, summer 2026 – creating a new crossing at eastern end of Gregory Boulevard – with contractors on site beginning 27 July, and work from 3 August 2026;
• Phase 2, autumn/winter 2026/27 – footpath improvements on northern side (opposite Forest Rec) of Gregory Boulevard;
• Phase 3, spring/summer 2027 – cycle path construction on southern (Forest Rec) side of Gregory Boulevard;
• Phase 4, spring/summer 2028 – the road will be resurfaced during the drier months – dry conditions are needed in order for the new surface to set properly.