People urged to have their say on new public realm strategy

Derby City Council is urging people to have their say on a new Public Realm Strategy, which sets out a vision for the city’s streets and public spaces.

The survey, published on the Let’s Talk Derby platform, follows on from a Derbion engagement event held last week, which invited the public to join the consultation and share their views in an interactive session run by the University of Derby’s civic team through its research and innovation space – S.H.E.D (Social Higher Education Depot).

The city council has commissioned specialist urban design consultancy PlanIt to develop the strategy, building on its success in 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 for everyone.

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.

“I encourage everyone to take part in the survey so that we can create a city that thrives for everyone.”

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.”

The survey is open until midnight on Tuesday 24 February and can be filled out on the Let’s Talk Derby platform.

To take part in the survey click here.