Major step forward for regeneration of Derby’s Market Place

Credit: Marketing Derby

Plans to regenerate Derby’s Market Place have now been submitted, marking a major milestone for the site, which includes the former Assembly Rooms.

The proposals, which are being brought forward by VINCI UK Developments and ION Developments, working in partnership as preferred developer with Derby City Council, follow two rounds of public consultation.

Both rounds of engagement included consultation events, including sessions held at Derby City Lab, a consultation website and discussions with key stakeholders.

The emerging proposals include new Grade A office space, a four-star hotel, and a flexible, multi-purpose, visitor destination on the site of the former Assembly Rooms.

This will be supported by public realm designed to create welcoming spaces for people to meet, work, relax and enjoy the city centre.

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, leader of Derby City Council and cabinet member for city centre, regeneration, strategy and policy, said: “The Market Place is a vital part of our city centre, and the submission of this planning application marks a fantastic step toward the site’s total transformation.”

Richard Fagg, development director at VINCI UK Developments, said: “The Market Place has enormous potential, and the level of engagement we have seen through both consultation phases demonstrates how much people care about the future of this part of Derby.

“Submitting the planning application marks an important step forward.”

An initial consultation in early 2025 focused on the DerbyMADE vision, while a second, wider consultation provided an opportunity for the public to comment on the emerging masterplan for the wider Market Place area regeneration and how they would like to use this area in the future.

The plans aim to deliver a vibrant, mixed-use destination that builds on the regeneration work taking place across Derby city centre, such as the recent transformation of the historic Market Hall, opening of The Becketwell Arena and the restoration of the Grade II listed Guildhall.

Nadine added: “We have listened carefully to feedback – which clearly showed an eagerness to crack on with redevelopment – and this has been instrumental in shaping these plans.

“We know this work is long overdue, and I am pleased with the city’s support as we begin making tangible progress.

“This submission is a major milestone, these proposals will transform the heart of our city centre, bringing new life, activity and investment to the city and creating a place that we can all be proud of.”

Richard added: “Our ambition, alongside Derby City Council and ION Developments, is to help create a revitalised city-centre destination that delivers new jobs, attracts investment and supports Derby’s long-term economic growth.”

The proposals form part of wider regeneration activity already underway across Derby city centre and are intended to complement existing investment, strengthening links between key destinations and encouraging increased footfall and activity.

The city council is now reviewing the submitted plans, with a business case for the redevelopment expected in the coming months.

A separate application has been lodged to clarify the planning conditions for the demolition of the Assembly Rooms.

Demolition will begin once these conditions are satisfied, with construction following shortly afterwards.

For further information about the Market Place proposals click here.