Public square officially opens in Derby following major transformatio

A public square, which has been upgraded as part of the £35.1 million refurbishment of Derby Market Hall, has officially opened.

The reopening of Osnabrück Square was marked with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Derby City Council leader Councillor Nadine Peatfield, the Mayor of Derby, Councillor Ajit Atwal, Oberbürgermeisterin Katharina Pötter and a delegation from Osnabrück in Germany, which Derby has been twinned with for 49 years.

The reopening of Osnabrück Square marks a significant milestone in the regeneration of Derby Market Hall and its surrounding areas.

The square has been completely transformed, showcasing an accessible, modern and flexible space in the heart of the city.

Councillor Peatfield, who is also cabinet member for city centre, regeneration, strategy and policy, said: “The reopening of Osnabrück Square marks a significant step in the transformation of Derby Market Hall, and I was thrilled to officially open the revitalised space alongside the Mayor of Derby and a delegation from our twin city, Osnabrück.

“Osnabrück Square is so much more than an outdoor area – it’s a carefully curated public space designed for visitors to gather, listen to entertainment, visit pop-ups and to enjoy a vibrant green space in the heart of the city.

“Alongside the transformation of the Market Hall, Osnabrück Square is a fantastic addition that will bring more people into the city from across the region.”

The transformed square is seen as a vital connecting space within the city centre, connecting the Grade II listed Victorian Market Hall to Exchange Street, Albion Street, St Peter’s Quarter and the Derbion shopping centre, increasing footfall for local businesses.

It is now a flexible green space for events and entertainment with outdoor café seating and artistic installations.

It also features new raised planting beds, trees and shrubs, along with accessible benches.

Accessibility has also been central to the transformation of Osnabrück Square, with free-standing benches, wide, open pathways and re-aligned pedestrian crossings.

Mark Jones, from Wates, said: “Our work on Derby Market Hall has revitalised a key city landmark, now complemented by the transformation of Osnabrück Square.

“This project showcases our building expertise and the care invested by our teams.

“By reimagining the square, we’ve delivered a modern, accessible space that improves connectivity through the centre and offers a calming, communal environment where people can relax, reconnect and take pride in their surroundings.”