Plan to 'futureproof' city's oldest charity

AS Nottingham’s oldest charity plans to leave a part of its history behind, it could also play an important part in the city’s future.

- By GEORGE PALMER-SOADY

Adam Carlton, manager of Nottingham Mechanics Institute (NMI) told the Post that the charity has been in discussions with Homes England, the new buyers of the Broad Marsh area in a bid to relocate there.

The government agency hopes to transform the former shopping centre site to a new development with around 1,000 homes and various retail, office and community spaces - the latter of which the Nottingham Mechanics Institute could play a crucial part in.

"Homes England are interested in working with us and building up that bit for the community," Adam said.

"We've been a part of the community since 1837 - we're not starting a new charity or community centre.

"The idea is to futureproof the charity - we don’t want to find ourselves in the same situation every 20 years looking for a new building. It’s going to be a challenge and talks are still ongoing.

"But Homes England are really interested in us - it fits into everything they are trying to do with the new development".

When the NMI opened in 1837, it was one of many mechanics institutes across the UK.

Today, only two remain - the other being in Ipswich in Suffolk. Adam says the charity has faced rising rents, heating and staffing costs.