Derby City Lab moves to Derbion shopping centre

Derby City Lab has announced its move to a new location inside the Derbion shopping centre.

Originally launched in 2022 in St James’s Street, the lab is a collaboration between Marketing Derby, Derby City Council, and the University of Derby.

Now, it is relocating to Level 2 of Derbion, which will also become one of its partners for 2024.

The revamped lab will debut on February 20, hosting people from Marketing Derby’s Annual Business Event, and will open to the public seven days a week starting.

The Derby City Lab aims to involve the community in understanding the city’s growth and investment plans, inspired by Urban Rooms in cities like London, Amsterdam, and Shanghai.

The lab will now feature the City Living Room providing detailed information about the investment pipeline and showcase the Derby City Model—a 3D model of Derby’s city centre illustrating ongoing regeneration. The lab, situated on Level 2 of Derbion, will host exhibitions, and discussions, and be staffed by Marketing Derby and recruited ‘lab assistants.’

Beth McDonald, managing director at Derbion, said: “We are delighted to be working with Marketing Derby in bringing the national award-winning Derby City Lab to Derbion. We know our visitors will be excited to see the plans and development projects that will transform Derby’s city centre over the coming years.”

Adam Rodgers, inward investment executive at Marketing Derby and Derby City Lab lead, said: “Our fantastic new location will enable us to build on the huge success of the award-winning lab. It presents a great opportunity to engage with a wide variety of people, gain their feedback and discuss ideas on regenerating the city centre.”