The transformation of Shipley Lakeside came a step closer after Derbyshire County Council's cabinet gave the go-ahead for negotiations to start on the sale of 160 acres of the site to Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, and Waystone has been announced as a preferred bidder for the inner part of the site.

Derbyshire Wildlife Trust's vision for the outer part of the site is to create the largest nature reserve in the county.

In the future, this could create 20 new jobs and would include an eco-build visitors centre, staff headquarters, visitors' facilities and a small car park.

The plans are subject to the Trust securing the necessary funding.

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The core part of the site includes the lake and measures 112 acres.

Waystone's preliminary masterplan proposes a range of uses including office and industrial development, commercial and retail development, education and learning development, leisure use, healthcare, residential and a hotel.

The site currently does not have planning permission for the development planned and Waystone Ltd will need to gain permission from Amber Valley Borough Council.

Derbyshire County Council's Cabinet Member for Finance and Management, Councillor John Harrison, said: "We needed to find a developer to take on this important site and we are confident that Waystone has the right experience to make it a success. This is a good deal for Derbyshire council tax payers.

"The site won't transfer to Waystone until it has gained the necessary planning permissions. As part of that process there will be plenty of opportunities for local people to have their say."

It is planned that Woodside Pumping Station will be sold to the Coal Authority, who already lease the Pumping Station, and the council plan to sell Lodge Farm and Lodge Farm Cottage by auction.

(CD/KMcA)