Plans to regenerate Derby's Market Place, including the historic former Assembly Rooms, have been officially submitted, marking a significant step forward for the city-centre redevelopment.

The proposals are being led by VINCI UK Developments and ION Developments, working as the preferred developer in partnership with Derby City Council. The submission follows two rounds of public consultation with residents, businesses, and local stakeholders, designed to shape the future of this key urban site.

The first consultation in early 2025 focused on the DerbyMADE vision, while the second allowed the wider public to comment on the emerging masterplan for the Market Place area, including how the space could be used in the future. Both rounds included consultation events, an online portal, and engagement with key stakeholders.

The proposed plans aim to create a vibrant, mixed-use destination that complements other recent city-centre improvements, such as the restoration of the Market Hall, the opening of Vaillant Live, and the refurbishment of the Grade II listed Guildhall.

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Highlights of the proposals include:

• New Grade A office space

• A four-star hotel

• A flexible, multi-purpose visitor destination on the former Assembly Rooms site

• Enhanced public realm with spaces designed for work, leisure, and social activity

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council and Cabinet Member for City Centre Regeneration, 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."

Richard Fagg, Development Director for VINCI UK Developments, added: "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 proposals are part of wider regeneration efforts across Derby city centre, aimed at improving connectivity between key destinations, increasing footfall, and supporting long-term economic growth.

Derby City Council is now reviewing the submitted plans, with a business case for redevelopment expected in the coming months. A separate application has been lodged to clarify planning conditions for the demolition of the Assembly Rooms, which will begin once approvals are in place, followed by construction.