'It can only be a positive for the area,' is how some residents have described the plans for the Broxtowe Retreat in Trowell. If approved by Broxtowe Borough Council, the greenbelt land off near Station House could see a 'world class' sanctuary for endangered animals with themed spa and restaurant.
The plans were put forward by Reece Oliver in December 2022, and, since then, images have shown what the retreat could eventually look like.
Broxtowe Borough Council is set to make a decision on the application at a future planning meeting. And now local residents told Nottinghamshire Live what they thought of the plans for the Broxtowe Retreat.
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Helen Draper, who has lived in Trowell for 30 years, said the plans are positive. She said: “I think it’s fantastic, from what I've read on Facebook he’s going to help endangered animals. It’s just going to bring in more work, more money and hopefully more tourism. Bringing more people in."
Under the plans visitors would be able to stay in 27 guest lodges, each with unique views into the expansive animal habitats. If approved the facility will be the first project of its kind to be carbon neutral and is expected to create more than 60 jobs.
Sara Butler, 39, said: “I think the plans are brilliant. At first I wasn’t sure but the more I read about it the more I thought it would be positive. It’s just something different for this area, it’s refreshing. I think it’s about time we have something new here, better than having new builds. I’m all for it.
CEO of the proposed Broxtowe Retreat and zookeeper Reece Oliver, who is also known for keeping big cats in an enclosure at his family farm in Strelley Village, previously explained how the Trowell facility would be operated by an experienced team of experts to the highest animal welfare standards. He said the project would be a "shining example" of environmental design, and said he would do everything possible to support wildlife.
Another resident, who wished to be anonymous, added: “For me personally I do like the plans. I do appreciate that those living nearby may have a problem with it but I do think it can only be a positive for the area. It might help the area thrive a little bit.”
The plans are still yet to be decided by Broxtowe Borough Council. Earlier this month animal campaigners protested against the plans outside of the council's offices in Beeston
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