Nottingham City Council is beginning work to revamp one of the city’s most iconic spaces, Old Market Square, often known as ‘Slab Square’. The project aims to address public demand for more greenery and the return of a water feature to the flagship public space.
The £3.5 million project is funded through a combination of Government Pride in Place funding and investment from the Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, via the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA). This investment is intended to make the Square a greener and more welcoming destination for residents, visitors, and city centre workers.
Mayor Claire Ward stated, “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.”
The plans, shaped by feedback from residents and visitors, will ensure the Square continues to host major events, celebrations, and markets, while also providing more opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment of nature throughout the year. The designs aim to celebrate Nottingham’s Children’s Forest and City of Legends identity, launched through Nottingham City Vision.
Key elements of the transformation include a new water feature at the heart of the square, a relaxing greenspace with trees and drought-resilient planting for shade, improved public space for events, and new lighting to create a safer environment. This scheme is part of the wider Nottingham Vision to create greener city spaces and improve biodiversity.
Councillor Neghat Khan, Nottingham City Council leader, highlighted the public’s desire for a greener city centre, more planting, shade, and the return of a water feature. She commented, “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.”
The council will now appoint design specialists, with work expected to begin on site in January 2027 after Winter Wonderland concludes. Further details on designs and timelines will be shared as the project progresses.
