Ambitious plans announced to level up Derby

Three key city sites are to be submitted to the government in and attempt to receive funding as as part of plans to level up Derby.

The plans include a new Theatre on the Assembly Rooms site, a premium hotel at Becketwell and the redevelopment of the Friar Gate Goods Yard into work and living space.

Assemble – A new learning theatre

Assemble would be a new learning theatre constructed in partnership with University of Derby on the key city centre site of the former Assembly Rooms. It would use culture to regenerate the area bringing events and activity to the city centre. The new theatre would contribute to Derby’s City of Culture 2029 bid.

Derby City Council would lead the development of the venue which would be operated by Derby Theatre which is a subsidiary of University of Derby. A Levelling Up Fund bid of £20m is proposed for this project, delivery of the project would also require Council borrowing.

Becketwell hotel

Capitalising on visitor demand from the delivery of the 3,500 capacity Becketwell Performance Venue, a new hotel is being proposed. It would also add value to Derby’s business community especially the larger global companies with a strong local presence, including Rolls-Royce, Toyota and Alstom. The hotel would be delivered in partnership with St James Securities.

Friar Gate Goods Yard and Bridge

Friar Gate Goods Yard is a major high profile regeneration opportunity in the north of the city centre being brought forward by Clowes Developments (UK) Ltd. The development proposals consist of a mixed-use development including workspace, residential units and green space. It will bring Friar Gate Goods Yard back to life and develop a scheme which Derby will be proud of whilst restoring some of the city’s most iconic historical buildings

The council will apply for funding to renovate Friar Gate Bridge to create new active public space and invest in the City’s heritage. The scheme would refurbish Friar Gate railway bridge and restore this superb listed Victorian structure to being a fitting gateway to the city centre.

The Council’s Cabinet meeting to consider the bold proposals to Level Up Derby is on Tuesday 5 July.