New Local Plan to shape Derby’s growth for the next 20 years

Derby City Council has drafted a new local plan, which aims to create 12,500 new homes in the city by 2043.

The draft plan is set to be presented to the city council’s cabinet this week, to seek approval for public consultation on the plans.

Consultation on the draft plan, which covers 2023-2043, is essential for the council to gather responses and make changes in time for the second consultation in summer 2026.

According to the city council, the existing Local Plan, which concludes in 2028, needs updating to address current and future development needs, and meet government housing targets that have changed since it was adopted.

The new plan aims to create 12,500 new homes by 2043, which is the limit of the city’s capacity.

The remaining need is met by agreement through developments in South Derbyshire and Amber Valley.

Of these new homes, a minimum of 5,500 will be delivered in the city centre, with further large allocations proposed at sites in Littleover, Chaddesden, Spondon and Mickleover.

The plans also include modifications to green wedge boundaries, to create new ‘Green Gaps’.

On top of housing, 130 hectares of land has been allocated for employment, with a focus on key strategic locations like Infinity Park Derby.

Retail investment is also prioritised in the city centre to enhance vibrancy.

The new draft plan has been shaped by a consultation took place from February to March 2024.

With this feedback incorporated, the draft plan will undergo another round of consultation in January to ensure continued community involvement.

The council said that climate change and the environment have been central to decision making for this proposed plan, which incorporates sustainable design guidelines.

Heritage policies have also been reviewed and updated, giving enhanced protection and focus to the Darley Abbey Mills World Heritage Site and the wider historic environment.

Councillor Shiraz Khan, the city council’s cabinet member for housing, strategic planning and regulatory services, said: “This new Local Plan for Derby has been designed to address the needs of our city both now and for the future, and ensure we meet the targets set by the Government.

“These documents are crucial for guiding our developments, encouraging investment and economic development, and implementing protections for the environment.

“Therefore, the next step will be to consult on these proposals to ensure they meet local needs.”

The proposals will be reviewed by cabinet at a meeting on Wednesday 12 November.

To view the papers, click here.