Plans to turn former bookies into Birds bakery in Nottinghamshire village

Plans have been submitted to turn a former bookmakers in a Nottinghamshire village will become a bakery. Plans submitted to Rushcliffe Borough Council propose that the unit on High Street in Ruddington - formerly a Coral - be turned into a Birds.

The current vacant site wouldl be rebranded - painted in a new Birds green colour, with new embossed signage bearing the new Birds logo being presented above the front door. The branch will resemble the store in Ashby De La Zouch in Leicestershire, which already bears the new calligraphic text and colour scheme that is being slowly implemented across the brand after a recent rebrand.

There are no proposed changes to the physical fabric of the building. The application argues that the removal of a bookmakers and replacement with a "local, historic, family-owned bakery" provides "clear enhances to the character of the site".

The Coral on the high street was the village's only betting shop. But it closed in April this year, having previously been open 364 days per year.

It had reopened in late 2019 after a full refurbishment. But a spokesperson confirmed in May that it had shut for good, with no reason given for its closure.

On X, formerly Twitter, locals reacted positively to the news that the premises will be in use again so soon. Graham said: "We needed a bakers in the village. Will be good to buy proper fresh bread."

Gareth said: "Ace" and Kirstie said: "Wonderful. I love Birds."

The Birds would slot in between the Elms Farm Costock butchers and the Dhaka Deli Indian restaurant. It will add to the East Midlands-based brands 60+ current stores across the region.