New images and video reveal scale of Market Place vision

New images and a video have revealed the scale and ambition behind plans to redevelop Derby city centre’s Market Place.

Last month, plans to regenerate the area – including the Assembly Rooms – were lodged with Derby City Council.

The proposals are being brought forward by VINCI UK Developments and ION Developments, working in partnership as preferred developer with the city council, follow two rounds of public consultation.

The city council is currently reviewing the submitted plans – but in the meantime new CGIs – and a video – of the scheme, known as Derby MADE, have been released.

The emerging proposals include new Grade A office space, a four-star hotel, and a flexible, multi-purpose, visitor destination on the site of the former Assembly Rooms.

This will be supported by public realm designed to create welcoming spaces for people to meet, work, relax and enjoy the city centre.

In a statement, the city council said: “For centuries, the Market Place has been a meeting and gathering place for the people of Derby, a hub for entertainment and a key part of the social scene and life of the city.

“Several different buildings have stood on this site, and as the city has changed, the area evolved with it. Now it is time for something new.”

The video showcases the future of the site, with a new public space for meeting, studying or working at its heart.

This multi-use building will include a music venue, cultural/exhibition space, and dedicated flexible working and meeting areas.

It will also give visitors space to catch up with friends, work and study, or simply get together over a coffee, a drink or a meal in one of the cafes, restaurants or rooftop bar.

According to the council, the new building will complement the regeneration work and cultural facilities which operate across the city, such as Vaillant Live and the refurbishment of the Guildhall and Derby Theatre.

A business case for the redevelopment is expected in the coming months.

Meanwhile, a separate application has been lodged to clarify the planning conditions for the demolition of the Assembly Rooms.

The council said that demolition will begin once these conditions are satisfied, with construction following shortly afterwards.

View the new video below, or by clicking here.

To find out more about the redevelopment of the Market Place, click here.

To find out more about this and other city centre developments, visit the award-winning Derby City Lab, located inside Derby Market Hall.