Wavensmere Homes and Wilson Bowden Developments have submitted revised plans for the redevelopment of one of the final plots of vacant land within Derby’s Cathedral Quarter.
The plans, which were drawn up by Nottingham-based Franklin Ellis Architects, propose the creation of 195 studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments at the 0.2-hectare Full Street site within a redesigned u-shaped nine-storey red brick building.
The site, which was previously occupied by a 1960s-built police station, had been earmarked for an office development of up to 100,000 sq ft, but Wavensmere Homes is now bringing it forward for an apartment scheme.
Reflecting the concerns of local stakeholders, the height of the proposed development has been reduced to bring it inline with the extant office planning permission for the site.
James Dickens, managing director of Birmingham-based Wavensmere Homes, said: “This challenging brownfield site occupies one of the best locations within Derby city centre and benefits from rich views of the Cathedral Quarter and the River Derwent. It has been vacant for 10 years and the opportunity to create an exemplary development, reflective of the prime gateway location is exciting.
“Our proposed scheme will help towards Derby City Council’s target to provide a minimum of 11,000 new homes throughout the city over the coming decade. By appropriately densifying this derelict brownfield site within such a prized and popular city location, we will create highly energy-efficient homes for well over 250 people who will then spend their time and disposable income locally. We look forward to continuing to work with Derby City Council’s officers, councillors, and wider stakeholders, as our revised plans are considered.”
Matthew Branton, managing director of Franklin Ellis Architects, added: “Throughout the design process, our team has been conscious of the need for this proposed development to carefully close the wider urban block and positively front Full Street, Cathedral Green and the waterside, improving the safety, attractiveness, and animation of the adjacent public areas.
“We have taken a context led approach to a layered facade design, incorporating quality detailing and a refined material palette, whilst paying homage to the surrounding architecture and heritage assets, ensuring the Cathedral is always the star of the show. Since first submitting plans last October, we have spent considerable time refining the design and generating these revised plans, which address stakeholder feedback.”
