Contractor appointed for Mansfield town centre regeneration scheme

Mansfield District Council has appointed Kier Group to undertake phase one for the Mansfield Connect project, which involves transforming the 1930s former Beales building in the heart of the town centre into a modern community hub.

Project work is expected to start on site in January 2025, with the building being fully operational and open in January 2027.

The project is anticipated to cost around £30M to complete. This will be made up of £20M from the Levelling Up Fund, £5M from the Levelling Up Partnership, with the balance from partner contributions and from Mansfield District Council.

Executive Mayor Andy Abrahams said: “Mansfield Connect is a key regeneration project that will transform the long vacant Beales department store into a multi-use, multi-service community and civic hub.

“Its creation will significantly improve access to a range of public services to support our communities; create new opportunities for enterprise and skills development; provide important new town centre amenities; and, by re-opening long closed frontages, will support greater footfall and high street vibrancy.

“This once-in-a-lifetime regeneration project is a fundamental step forward in creating a brighter and transformative future for Mansfield’s residents, and we anticipate it will stimulate further private sector investment and economic opportunity in the town centre and beyond.”

The council purchased the building in December 2021 to take control over shaping a new future for the town centre. It forms a key part of the council’s adopted Town Centre Masterplan and complements several other regeneration projects and developments being progressed across the area.