Derby’s Market Place takes a step closer to redevelopment

Plans to redevelop Derby’s Market Place have been approved, taking the site a step closer to its complete transformation.

Last week, Derby City Council’s Planning Control Committee approved an outline planning application submitted by Ion Developments.

Back in May, the committee opted to delay a final decision over design concerns – but now the council can submit an application to discharge the planning conditions attached to the demolition of the former Assembly Rooms.

It will also formally enter into a contract with Ion Developments, who will bring forward the regeneration of the whole site.

At the meeting, Andrew Webster, senior development manager at Ion Developments, addressed the committee, explaining how city council members, officers, along with representatives from Historic England and members of the project team, had come together for a “constructive” workshop, which resulted in a number of refinements to the design code.

He said: “Importantly, the principles of the scheme remain unchanged. The parameter plans continue to define the approved development envelope, while the refined design code provides a clear code for securing the quality of architecture, materials and public realm appropriate for this important and sensitive city centre site.

“I would like to thank members, officers and Historic England for the constructive and positive way in which they have engaged throughout this process.

“The amended design code is the product of that collaborative approach.”

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, city council leader and cabinet member for regeneration, strategy and policy, said: “It’s impossible to overstate just how momentous this milestone is for our city, allowing us to move forward with the transformation of the site.”

Plans for the site have been developed over the past few years, in consultation with residents, local organisations and key stakeholders, and include Derby MADE – a multi-use building on the site of the former Assembly Rooms, featuring a music venue, cultural / exhibition space, a young person and family library, and dedicated flexible working and meeting areas.

It also features proposals for Derby HOTEL, a full-service, four-star hotel, and Derby WORKS, new high-quality Grade A office space.

Councillor Peatfield added: “We’ve been listening closely to our residents and stakeholders.

“We know you want us to crack on, that is exactly what we are going to do.

“Getting this green light is a massive achievement for everyone involved, and I’d like to thank members of the Planning Control Committee for their diligence and support.

“Together, let’s get this done and continue building a Derby to be proud of.”

Once the planning conditions associated with the demolition of the Assembly Rooms have been removed, Ion Developments will begin preparing the site for demolition.

This will include disconnecting utilities and creating a secure and safe working environment and will take number of weeks.

Work to demolish the site is expected to take around 12 months. Once this is complete, work on the new buildings will begin.

Steve Parry, managing director of Ion Developments, said: “While the planning application has been progressing, our team has continued working closely with the council and project partners on the detailed preparations needed to move quickly into delivery.

“Subject to the necessary further approvals, that advance work will help us maintain momentum and get activity under way on site at the earliest opportunity.”

Bob Betts, executive chairman at Marketing Derby, said: “Marketing Derby is delighted that approval has been granted – and looks forward to seeing this important project move at pace.”