Consultation launched on eight-storey Becketwell HQ
St James Securities has launched a public consultation on plans for an eight-storey office building at Derby’s £200m Becketwell regeneration scheme, with the development shortlisted as a potential headquarters for Great British Railways.
The developer is seeking feedback on proposals for a 106,544 sq ft Grade A office building on the former Duckworth Square site, one of two final locations being considered after Derby was selected by the government as the national home of the new rail body.
Plans for the building also include an extension to Springwell Square and the creation of a new pocket park on Macklin Street to complement the wider Becketwell regeneration.
A planning application is expected to be submitted in September.
“We’re delighted to share our plans for 3 Springwell Square with residents, businesses and the wider public, and invite them to help shape this important next phase of the Becketwell regeneration,” said Oliver Quarmby, managing director of St James Securities.
“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver exceptional Grade A office space in the heart of Derby city centre, support investment, create jobs and further strengthen Becketwell as a place to live, work and do business.
“We’d encourage everyone to visit the virtual exhibition, explore the proposals and share their feedback. Their views will play an important role in informing our planning application and helping to ensure the development delivers lasting benefits for Derby.”
A final decision on the location of Great British Railways’ headquarters is expected shortly from the government, and if chosen the building could support more than 1,200 jobs, bringing thousands of workers into Derby city centre each week and potentially increasing footfall for shops, cafés, restaurants and other businesses.
The online consultation runs until 11 September, with two online presentation and Q&A sessions also set to be held, with the first taking place on 13 August.
According to an independent economic impact assessment commissioned for the project, locating GBR at the proposed headquarters could generate up to £151m in economic value for Derby.
