Derby businesses worried over The Strand changes

The Strand in Derby city centre could be pedestrianised in a bid to increase footfall. Image by LDRS

Businesses on a historic Derby street fear they could face problems down the road should major plans to pedestrianise it proceed.

New Derby City Council documents show a long-term plan is in the pipeline to make The Strand a pedestrian-only street.

The aim of the proposal is to make the city centre more attractive, visitor-friendly and bring in more footfall to the Victorian street.

The plans are part of a wider strategy to improve public realm spaces at key sites around the city centre.

It includes plans for a big revamp to nearby Sadler Gate, which has been highly welcomed.

It is hoped the Sadler Gate works will help increase footfall at The Strand where a number of units currently stand vacant.

Gary Whitmore from Hobsons – a leather specialist and shoe repair store – welcomed the plans at a time when he said business was “not great”.

He said: “I’ve felt for a long time, years ago, The Strand needed pedestrianising.

“Cafés here could have tables and chairs outside and maybe once in a while there would be street markets on or something different here to bring people in.

“The changes at Sadler Gate are long overdue – it’s a mess there. The walkway looks shabby.”

But any pedestrianisation plans could see parking spaces on the street removed completely.

Paige Hudson and Gabby Congiu from neighbouring coffee and cake shop Glamberry said pedestrianisation would be beneficial for footfall.

But they warned it could be “difficult” for its customers as they often take large cakes out of the shop.

And Steve Jardine, owner of Dream Doors, expressed concern, stating that immediate access to vehicles was already a problem because he and his staff often have to carry heavy furniture.

Mr Jardine, who has run the firm for 13 years, said he finds it difficult to park outside his shop due to the demand for the parking spaces, meaning he has to carry bulky items at longer distances.

He said he had received a parking fine several times for parking on the kerb opposite his shop.

He said: “I struggle to get to and from my property. We have heavy products, so we need access. I carry heavy doors to appointments.

“I have a problem parking here without being fined. If the council pedestrianises it, it will make the practicalities of the business difficult.

“I can’t park outside here most of the time when I come here. If I pull up on the kerb opposite, I get an instant £70 fine.”

The council public realm report says it plans to pedestrianise The Strand “while retaining servicing and emergency access”.

Chaddesden councillor John Wright told a Derby City Council meeting last week he was alerted to concerns from businesses on the street.

He said: “I’ve had a representation from local businesses there [The Strand] asking why, with all the issues of parking and need for investment in that area, is it going to be pedestrianised and all parking being removed.”

Tammy Whitaker, director of city growth and vibrancy at Derby City Council said any works for The Strand would involve a “large period of consultation” and talking with businesses would be “a key part” of the process.