New images show how one of the final plots in Derby’s Cathedral Quarter regeneration area could look.
Wavensmere Homes and Wilson Bowden Developments want to build apartments on land next to the River Derwent, with views of the 16th Century Derby Cathedral and its 212ft tower. The site had initially been earmarked for an office development of up to 100,000 sq ft, but the developers now hope to get planning permission for the flats, with a public consultation under way.
The land, off Full Street, and next to the Museum of Making, was previously occupied by a 1960s police station, which was demolished in 2013.
Phase One of Wilson Bowden’s Full Street development was completed in 2016 and included the refurbishment of the Riverside Chambers office complex, 46 new apartments at Number One Cathedral Green, and a Premier Inn hotel.
Nottingham-based Franklin Ellis Architects has drawn up the plans for the red brick apartment building, inspired by existing architecture nearby. It would have 189 one and two-bedroom apartments within a u-shaped building that rises up to nine storeys.
There could also be 3,000 sq ft of space on the ground floor overlooking Cathedral Green and Full Street which could be used for a café or residential facilities such as a gymnasium, co-working zone or concierge point.
James Dickens, managing director of Birmingham-based Wavensmere Homes, said: “This site is one of the best located within Derby city centre, with rich views of the Cathedral Quarter and the River Derwent.
“It has been vacant for 10 years and there is now an opportunity to create an exemplary development, reflective of the prime gateway location.
“The designs we are now seeking public opinion on could help towards Derby City Council’s housing targets by appropriately densifying a derelict brownfield site within this prized and popular part of the city.
“The fine architectural detailing and refined material palette is designed to ensure the Cathedral is always the star of the show, while creating Derby’s most sought-after apartment development. We look forward to engaging with local people during the consultation process.”
Wavensmere Homes, which has become one of Derby’s most prominent residential developers, is behind the £175 million Nightingale Quarter on the former Derby Royal Infirmary site in London Road.
After laying derelict it has been transformed into a new community with more than 900 houses and apartments.
The company has also recently submitted plans for the 11.5-acre historic Friar Gate Goods Yard in central Derby, which it wants to turn into 276 houses and apartments, and more than 110,000sq ft of commercial space.
