Derby Market Place redevelopment inches forward
VINCI UK and Ion Developments, working with the city council, have triggered the next stage of consultation on the future of the Assembly Rooms and its surroundings, as offices and a hotel join the mix.
The public is now invited to share their thoughts on the proposals for the masterplan, building on initial comments received earlier in the year on the cultural hub planned at the site, tentatively called DerbyMADE.
Feedback from both consultations will be used to shape the final planning application for the whole development.
The newly revealed proposals for the site include grade A office space billed as DerbyWORKS, and DerbyHOTEL, a full-service four-star hotel, as the plans are fleshed out.
Derby Assembly Rooms closed in 2014, following fire damage.
Feedback from the public has informed the latest plans for DerbyMADE, which include flexible and adaptable space for: a public space for meeting, studying or working, a small music venue, cultural / exhibition space, dedicated co-working areas, an additional library focussed on families, children and young people and several food and beverage outlets, and a rooftop bar.
The proposed masterplan aims to build on the work happening across Derby to regenerate and revitalise the city centre.
An outline planning application will be submitted to Derby City Council in early 2026.
Cllr Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council and cabinet member for city centre, regeneration, strategy and policy, said: “The Market Place is an important part of Derby’s identity, and we know that our residents are eager to share their thoughts and help shape the future of the site.
“This is an opportunity for everyone who works, lives or visits Derby to share have their say on the latest plans before a full planning application is submitted in the new year. We’re excited to move into this next part of the process to transform the space into a vibrant part of the city centre that connects communities, supports local businesses, and celebrates the best of Derby.”
The partners propose a mix of uses. Credit: via Royal Pilgrim
Richard Fagg, development director from VINCI UK Developments, said: “These plans build on the exciting DerbyMADE vision and will form a key part of Derby’s ongoing city centre transformation.
“This part of the city centre has huge potential, and our partnership aims to deliver a place that reflects Derby’s ambition and creativity. Our goal is to create a destination that residents can be proud of, one that attracts investment, delivers new jobs and brings new life to the heart of the city.”
A public drop-in consultation event will take place on Friday 21 November, from 2pm to 7pm at the Derby City Lab on the ground floor of the Market Hall, with members of the project team on hand to explain the vision and answer questions.
As well as the consultation event, members of the public can learn more about the vision for the site and share their thoughts on the online consultation site, from Friday 21 November.
Consultation will run until Friday 19 December.
