We often start January? thinking about what we?d like to change for the coming year. ?This year, many people will be worrying about money, which can lead to anxiety and depression, so, why not try to think about the positive changes that you might be able to make, no matter how big or small, to your overall wellbeing, which can support your mental health.

Creating a health and well-being action plan or improving your health and fitness can have a positive impact on your physical and mental well-being, while managing stress levels can ease feelings of anxiety and depression and connecting with others can help reduce loneliness.

Your mind and body are closely linked so improving your health and fitness can increase your energy levels whilst reducing your risk of long-term illness. Just taking steps to build more activity into your daily routine, like going for a walk or taking the stairs instead of using the lift can make all the difference.

If you are worried about money and have noticed changes in your mental health, you can find online support and guidance. For more information visit www.asklion.co.uk/mentalhealth

A new licensing scheme for landlords to improve standards in the private rented housing sector could take a step forward next week when it goes to Executive Board for approval to submit to Government.

The proposals would require private landlords who rent out properties in certain parts of the city to obtain a licence, demonstrating that they and their properties meet required standards. Many of the 45,000 plus privately rented properties in the city are well-managed but poorly managed properties cause problems for local neighbourhoods that see higher crime and anti-social behaviour rates. As part of the first Selective Licensing scheme, which was welcomed by residents, we still find properties that are managed and maintained to a very poor standard.

If approved by Government, a second scheme would help us to continue to make sure that privately rented homes are safer, suitable for tenants to live in and that they are managed effectively. It would also give Safer Housing Officers the resource and powers to safeguard tenants and hold non-compliant landlords to account.

More information here

We?re delighted that latest figures show a near five-fold increase in usage at our multi-award-winning Broad Marsh car park across 2022.?

More than 30,000 drivers parked here in both November and December, which is up from 7,700 last January. This is averaging out at between 1,000 and 1,500 cars a day during the working week. We always said that any car park would take time to build capacity, but we?re really encouraged to see so many people choosing to use this state-of-the-art, safe and secure facility when driving into the city centre.

We have outstanding public transport in our city, but for journeys where the car is the chosen option, our car park is a great choice that lots of people are making.

You can read more here

Essential Cadent gasworks are currently taking place to replace pipes under the A52 Derby Road. The road is closed westbound (leaving the city) between QMC and Priory Island for 12 weeks ? so traffic is likely to be heavier in the evening when commuters may be leaving the city. The eastbound lane (heading towards the city) remains open.

The Cadent roadworks are causing traffic delays, so why not use the Toton Lane Tram Park & Ride to avoid the queues?

• A signed diversion takes drivers along the A6005 (University Boulevard) and Woodside Road before re-joining the A52 at Priory Island. Please avoid travelling by car if you can ? and allow extra time for journeys.
• Trent Barton services i4 and Red Arrow will be impacted, with delays expected to Skylink and Indigo services using University Boulevard.
• Nottingham City Transport services orange 35 towards Bulwell and Orange 36 will divert
• Other bus services including Medilink may be affected by extra traffic on nearby roads.

During the winter months, when there are fewer daylight hours, it?s really important that you take care of yourself, by keeping warm and well.

To help keep costs down and stay warm, you should try and have plenty of warm drinks, make sure the rooms that you regularly use, are heated to at least 18?C and wear extra layers of clothing whether you are inside or outside.

To try and stay well, going for a daily walk, exercising regularly, eating a well-balanced diet and trying to connect with other people can all help prevent colds, flu & more serious health issues.

If you?re worried about the cost of keeping warm or other bills, you can find advice here

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