University’s city vision showcased as business school plan lodged

Among the major Derby schemes showcased at this year’s MIPIM was the University of Derby’s City Hub Masterplan.

First unveiled in February, the project focuses on the development of the area around One Friar Gate Square, Ford Street, Bridge Street, Agard Street and Nuns Street, in Derby.

Devised in conjunction with Matthew Montague Architects, the overall vision is to create two distinct but linked areas in the city: an Academic Zone, centred around the university’s current Sir Peter Hilton Court site, and an Enterprise Zone, based around the Princess Alice Court halls of residence and Enterprise Centre area.

Last May, the university announced its vision for a new iconic Derby Business School in Agard Street.

That building is projected to be the study base for over 6,000 students by 2030.

In addition to the new Derby Business School, the Academic Zone will have the capability of delivering additional learning space, Union of Students’ facilities, catering, and student residential space, as well as staff and lettable office accommodation.

Meanwhile, the Enterprise Zone will aim to deliver a mixed-use development comprising commercial lettable and business start-up/grow-on space, as well as provision for retail, entertainment and student residential space.

The plan has been created to be flexibly phased, with the new Derby Business School, set to open in 2024, representing the first phase.

This week, the university confirmed it has submitted a planning application for the business school to Derby City Council.

If approved, construction could start as soon as November.

Professor Kathryn Mitchell CBE, the university’s vice-chancellor and chief executive, said: “An immense amount of hard work and consideration has gone into our plans for the business school, and we are confident that this application reflects not only our ambitions, but those of our local stakeholders who have shared their views and ideas throughout the consultation period.

“Through the launch of our City Masterplan we have clearly set out our long-term commitment to supporting the city’s ongoing regeneration and growth, as well as enhancing its overall vibrancy and appeal as a place where people want to study, live and work.

“The business school has a key part to play in this and we are excited to see our plans come to fruition.”

Professor Kamil Omoteso, pro vice-chancellor dean for the university’s College of Business, Law and Social Sciences, said: “Not only will the Business School provide our students with an outstanding learning environment, but it will also put a wealth of knowledge, research and innovation within easier reach of those who could really benefit from that expertise.”