Consultation launched on Derby’s new public realm strategy

A public consultation has been launched on the vision for Derby’s streets and public spaces.

Derby City Council has commissioned specialist urban design consultancy PlanIt to develop its new Public Realm Strategy, building on its success working in towns and cities across the UK, including Sheffield, Bradford, Manchester, Leeds and more.

The new strategy aims to help improve how the city centre looks, feels and functions.

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, city council leader and cabinet member for city centre, regeneration, strategy and policy, said:  “Derby’s city centre is continuing to evolve, and the Public Realm Strategy is giving us the opportunity to carefully think about how we want our public spaces to connect with key landmarks such as Derby Market Hall and Vaillant Live.

“This is an opportunity for residents, visitors and businesses to help create a city that’s vibrant, inclusive and safe.”

The strategy sets out a long-term vision for the city’s streets and public spaces, focusing on how public areas connect to key landmarks to support a vibrant and welcoming city centre.

The work so far has developed a deep understanding of the city’s current form, strengths, challenges, gaps and opportunities for improving public spaces.

This has helped to identify routes through the city alongside prime locations for delivering further projects.

The city council is now inviting residents, visitors and businesses to share their views on the proposals.

Nick James, principal urban designer for PlanIt, said: “We have worked closely with Derby City Council to design a visionary Public Realm Framework, which will reinvigorate Derby’s city centre.

“Derby is rich in history and innovation – home to the world’s first factory spinning silk, threads and fabrics.

“The new Public Realm Strategy is inspired by SILK threads. The ‘thematic routes’, focuses on people, inclusivity and biodiversity.

“Six SILK threads will stitch together the city centre by improving its connectivity, celebrating its heritage, culture and community and maximising its green and blue assets.

“Derby’s residents have been central to our strategic thinking and we’re now looking forward to getting their thoughts on our design proposals.”

Earlier this month, the council’s cabinet was asked to accept more than £20 million of Pride in Place investment – part of the Government’s strategy to strengthen local communities, revitalise neighbourhoods and increase local pride through long-term, community-led investment.

It is made up of two funding streams, including the Pride in Place Impact Fund, which would provide £1.5 million to support improvements in the city centre

It would be used to support improvements that inspire pride and potential of public places in the city centre.

The initial phases of the Public Realm Strategy could be implemented through the Pride in Place Impact Fund.