Assembly Rooms unveils major redevelopment project
Derby City Council has announced plans for a major redevelopment project at the site of the long-closed Assembly Rooms.
The proposed project includes the creation of a new cultural, commercial, and public space, featuring a versatile building with areas for meetings, workspaces, artistic endeavours, as well as restaurants and commercial establishments.
Last month, Derby City Council announced VINCI Developments UK and ION Developments as their preferred partners for the Assembly Rooms site redevelopment.
Together, they have outlined plans to establish a new cultural quarter at the location, serving as the heart of Derby’s cultural scene.
Cllr Nadine Peatfield, deputy leader of Derby City Council, said: “For the past ten years the Assembly Rooms has stood empty, waiting to be regenerated into a hub of cultural activity. After several unviable plans being put forward over the past decade, this administration is confident that we can deliver on these plans for the citizens of Derby.
“I’m thrilled to be announcing that we plan to progress on the demolition of the Assembly Rooms this autumn.
“We’re on a journey to transform Derby into a vibrant city centre with culture at its heart, creating a go-to destination which not only attracts visitors from outside of the wider region but also offers an affordable place for our citizens to enjoy.
“It’s fantastic to see change happening in the city centre, with the Market Place taking centre stage at the heart of Derby’s transformation.”
The outdated 1970s theatre building will be demolished to make room for a new multi-purpose development, integrating leisure, commercial, and community amenities, with a focus on promoting culture in the city centre.
Detailed proposals are currently being developed in collaboration with stakeholders in the city.
Pre-demolition work commenced in 2023 and is progressing with the main structural demolition slated to commence in autumn 2024 to pave the way for the new development.
