Latest News | 17 July 2020
Derby to go al-fresco
Bondholder Derby City Council has today announced the transformation of the city’s Market Place into a 330-seater al-fresco meeting and eating venue, featuring bookable chalets, outdoor tables, a bar and a performance area.
The area – which will be lit at night, have its own toilet facilities and be laid out in accordance with social distancing guidelines – will open on Saturday 25th July, when visitors will be able to reserve a table for up to six people either outside, or in one of the 30 chalets, through the website derbymarketplace.co.uk.
Guests will be able to consume food that they have either purchased from city outlets beforehand, or order online from the venue and have delivered right to their tables.
Councillor Robin Wood, Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Tourism, said the initiative was symbolic of the city’s determination to build back better following COVID-19.
“We are very aware that many within the hospitality and leisure sector have suffered incredibly because of the coronavirus crisis and the resulting lockdown. We also understand that many businesses don’t have sufficient space to trade effectively while observing the current health guidance.
“We desperately want to help these outlets and demonstrate that Derby is very much open to business with an exciting new venture that would not look out of place in somewhere like Camden or Covent Garden.”
Bondholder Katapult produced the concept and designs, supported by new Bondholder Phi Advisory, and the initiative has received a massive welcome from Bondholders in the hospitality sector including Bondholders Annie’s Burger Shack and BEAR who will both be participating.
The Derby Market Place initiative was the brainchild of the Derby Economic Recovery Task Force, made up of representatives from both public and private sectors – including Marketing Derby – formed to lead and drive forward Derby’s economic recovery from the effects of the coronavirus crisis.
Councillor Matthew Holmes, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Planning and Transportation said: “A vibrant city centre is a priority for the Council and its partners as Derby looks ahead to our recovery from the impact of Covid-19. That is why, together with partners, we have worked really hard to launch this al-fresco experience.
Whilst there may be some minor initial teething troubles due to how quickly this is being launched, the concept is one that absolutely has the potential to be expanded and developed over the coming months, putting Derby firmly back on the map.”
Annie Spaziano, Owner of Annie’s Burger Shack said: “The more a city has to offer the better it is for both visitors and businesses alike. It gives people the impetus to come out, and Derby offers all that and more. I love this city. The more diversity, the better reason to come out and try new things and new places.”
Craig Bunting, Co-founder and Marketing Director at BEAR added: “We’re excited to be part of a number of business to bring Derby City Council’s vision for The Market Place dining Experience to life. Anything that promotes this part of the city and supports businesses, by driving footfall is always welcome. Delivered well, I believe the experience will add a great atmosphere to the area.”
Last week it was announced that a new 3,500 capacity venue would be built at Becketwell on top of the plans for a new public square, hotel, offices, and apartments. The process of re-developing the former Assembly Rooms site has also started with the Council working with partners on ideas for new development opportunities that will contribute to Derby’s future prosperity. It’s envisaged that the development will complement the new vision for the Cathedral Quarter, including the historic Market Hall, the successful Quad offer and the refurbishment of the Guildhall.
The Market Place opening hours will be from 11.00am until 2.00pm Sunday through to Wednesday, and from 11,00am until 2.00pm, and 6.00pm until 9.00pm Thursday to Saturday.
More information will be made available through social media channels in the next few days, and on the website derbymarketplace.co.uk.
