Major step forward in regeneration plans of Derby’s Market Place
Proposals have now been officially submitted to redevelop the area, including new offices, a four-star hotel and a revamp of the former Assembly Rooms site
Plans for the regeneration of Derby’s Market Place, including the site of the former Assembly Rooms, have been officially submitted.
The proposals, which have been developed by VINCI UK Developments and ION Developments in collaboration with Derby City Council, represent a significant milestone for the area.
Two rounds of public consultation informed the proposals. The first, held in early 2025, focused on the DerbyMADE vision. A subsequent consultation provided an opportunity for residents, businesses, and stakeholders to offer comments on the emerging masterplan for the wider Market Place area and its future uses. Events, a dedicated website, and stakeholder discussions were part of the engagement process.
A mixed-use destination for Derby
The new plans aim to create a mixed-use destination that complements ongoing regeneration work in Derby city centre, including developments such as the transformed Market Hall, Vaillant Live, and the renovated Grade II listed Guildhall.
The proposals include new Grade A office spaces, a four-star hotel, and a multi-purpose visitor destination on the site of the former Assembly Rooms.
These developments are supported by high-quality public spaces designed to encourage people to connect, work, and relax in the city centre.
Responding to feedback
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. 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."
Next steps
Richard Fagg, Development Director for VINCI UK Developments, commented:
"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. 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 plans are part of broader regeneration efforts in Derby city centre, aiming to strengthen links between key locations, boost footfall, and drive activity.
Derby City Council is now reviewing the submitted proposals, with a business case for the redevelopment expected soon.
A separate application has been submitted to clarify planning conditions for the demolition of the Assembly Rooms. Once approved, demolition will begin, followed by construction.
More details about the project can be found on the Market Place redevelopment website.