Vision revealed for major riverside apartments scheme

The first visuals of a major new riverside apartments scheme proposed for Derby’s Cathedral Quarter have been released.

Wavensmere Homes, in partnership with Wilson Bowden Developments, has released computer generated images of the scheme, known as Cathedral One.

It coincides with the launch of a public consultation on the plans, which involve creating 189 one- and two-bedroom apartments with a nine-story building, as well as 3,000 sq ft of mixed-use space.

Located off Full Street, the proposed site, which is currently vacant, sits next to the River Derwent and is next to Cathedral Green, close to Derby Museums’ Museum of Making and Derby Cathedral.

James Dickens, managing director of 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 site was previously occupied by a police station, which was constructed in the 1960s and demolished in 2013.

Phase One of Wilson Bowden’s Full Street development was completed in 2016.

This includes the refurbishment of the Riverside Chambers office complex, delivery of 46 new apartments at Number One Cathedral Green, and a Premier Inn hotel.

The remaining parcel of land had been earmarked for an office development of up to 100,000 sq ft, but it will now be brought forward by Wavensmere Homes for Cathedral One.

The scheme is designed to complete the jigsaw of this prime Derby city centre location, enhance the street scene and increase footfall and activity.

Franklin Ellis Architects has drawn up plans for a red brick apartment building, inspired by the traditional architecture and heritage assets within the vicinity.

James said: “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 has become one of Derby’s most prominent residential developers, with the £175 million multi-award-winning Nightingale Quarter becoming one of the finest regeneration and restoration assets in the region.

The company has also recently submitted plans for the 11.5-acre historic Friar Gate Goods Yard in central Derby, which could be transformed into 276 houses and apartments, and over 110,000 sq ft of commercial space.

To view the One Cathedral plans and submit feedback visit http://www.fullstreetderby.com . The consultation will close on Friday 8 September.