Key decision due on next chapter for Assembly Rooms

Plans for the redevelopment of Derby’s former Assembly Rooms – seen as a key element of the city centre’s regeneration – are set to be decided on by councillors.

Tomorrow evening, Derby City Council’s planning control committee is due to decide on proposals to redevelop the derelict building after delaying a final decision in May over design concerns.

The site is seen as a pivotal part of the overall regeneration of the Market Place, led by the council’s city centre strategic development partner, ION Developments, and overarching efforts to breathe new life into the city centre.

Towards the end of last month, the East Midlands Combined County Authority’s Investment Committee approved plans to award £3 million to the council to clear the site, ready for investment.

The funding will also support design work and improvements to the streets and public spaces around the Market Place, helping the council move forward with the wider regeneration masterplan.

Following a fire more than a decade ago, the Assembly Rooms has stood unused while the city council completed the preparatory work needed to bring the site back to life.

However, demolition work can only begin once the planning conditions attached to the Assembly Rooms building have been satisfied.

Developed over the past few years in consultation with residents, local organisations and key stakeholders, the Market Place masterplan includes proposals for Derby HOTEL, a full-service, four-star hotel; Derby WORKS, new high-quality Grade A office space and Derby MADE – a multi-use building on the site of the former Assembly Rooms, featuring a music venue, cultural / exhibition space, a young people and family library, and dedicated flexible working and meeting areas.

Speaking last month, Steve Parry, managing director of ION Developments, said: “Working in close collaboration with the city council and after much detailed stakeholder engagement we have presented a clear case that demonstrates the importance of this work to revitalise the city centre.

“The demolition of the Assembly Rooms and adjoining multi-storey car park is a pivotal step in delivering this vision.”

A letter of support for the scheme, written by Marketing Derby on behalf of the Derby Economic Development Advisory Committee (DEDAC), is referenced in the papers to be considered by the council’s planning control committee.

DEDAC views the redevelopment plans as critical to regenerating the long-derelict, high-profile city centre site, which has negatively affected footfall, the Market Place, and nearby venues such as QUAD.

Its regeneration is seen as urgent by the committee, especially alongside the restored Market Hall and planned Guildhall Theatre improvements.

Bob Betts, executive chairman at Marketing Derby said: “The number one question we are asked by local businesses and investors in Marketing Derby’s networks, as well as visitors to the Derby City Lab, is ‘What is happening with the Assembly Rooms?’

“The regeneration of the site is of significant economic and social importance at the heart of our city centre and will be a catalyst for further investment.  It is time to deliver on the promise.”

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, leader of Derby City Council and cabinet member for regeneration, strategy and policy, said on news of EMCCA’s investment: “We are preparing for the next chapter of Derby’s Market Place, and this funding marks another milestone in our journey to transform the former Assembly Rooms site.

“These plans represent an exciting future for the Market Place and for Derby city centre as a whole.

“We are incredibly excited about what lies ahead and the positive impact this development will have for residents, businesses and visitors alike.”