Family business say they are ‘still fighting’ to save business with ‘overwhelming support’

The Notts Maze based on Lime Lane in Arnold have had an overwhelming amount of support since they set up a petition to save their business. Since 2018 they have offered outdoor activities such as a giant maize maze, laser tag, an outdoor cinema and axe throwing.

Owner of Notts Maze, Aaron Cowley, said: “We’ve had around 50 to 60 letters of support from Councillors, other businesses, past and future customers which has been really good for our mental state.

“People are still signing the petition and we are currently building a case as to why we should stay here. It’s not just our family that want us to stay it’s all of Gedling and Arnold.”

The business had to submit a full planning permission application to change the land from agricultural to one that supports outdoor sports. This comes after it was put at risk of closure following the decision by Gedling Borough Council that a change on the land was needed.

Over 2,500 signatures have been added to the online petition as they await a final decision to be made on whether the site can remain.

The average waiting time for a decision is six to nine months as Aaron says: “It’s a waiting game at the moment.

“Gedling Borough Councils response is that we should be located somewhere else but why should people have to drive 30 to 40 minutes away for outside activities, all our activities are accepted under the Green Belt Legislation.”

Despite their uncertain future Notts Maze have continued to offer outdoor activities everyday 10 till 5pm.

Notts Maze may be a small business but they provide local jobs and use other businesses in Nottingham to provide their other services such as food.

He continues: “We are just trying to continue at the moment, we would love to win and keep offering good cheap activities that get people outdoors doing some exercise. There is a lot of support but people can’t believe we still haven’t won.

“We are open for the summer and Halloween and still fighting.”