Latest News | 20 July 2021
Consultation reveals ‘overwhelming support’ for performance venue
A public consultation carried out by St James Securities has revealed ‘overwhelming support’ for a new performance venue at Becketwell.
Ahead of submitted a planning application to Derby City Council for the 3,500-capacity venue, the firm which is driving forward the £200 million regeneration of the area, sought the views of residents, the business community and other stakeholders.
It had now reported that hundreds of people visited a virtual consultation at www.becketwell.co.uk, where they were able to examine the plans, download information and give feedback.
A series of virtual presentations and Q&A sessions also took place, with attendees able to find out more about the scheme, which is being built on the site of the former Laurie House offices and Pink Coconut nightclub.
The consultation found that 93% of respondents agreed that Derby needs a new concert and entertainment centre.
91% agreed that it will benefit other city centre businesses and 85% agreed the city needs a new conference and exhibition venue.
80% of respondents would like to see music concerts, 51% comedy, 43% theatre, 27% exhibitions and 21% musicals.
30% would be encouraged to visit by renowned acts and performances, 31% by the diversity of events, 18% by a first- class venue and facilities and 11% by competitive ticket prices.
16% would be discouraged from attending by the fear of crime in this part of the city, 15% by a lack of nearby car parking and 11% by unreasonable ticket pricing.
The performance venue would be located at the heart of the wider mixed-use Becketwell development. It will be forward funded and owned by Derby City Council and run by world class operator ASM Global.
Oliver Quarmby, managing director of St James Securities, said: “We’re delighted with the response to our ambitious plans for Derby’s new performance venue.
“Due to Covid restrictions, we were forced to hold our consultation virtually but have been encouraged by the large numbers of visitors we received to our website and the overwhelming support the scheme has received from residents, key stakeholders the local business community and the public.
“The feedback we have received will help us shape our planning application and ensure the performance venue delivers the maximum possible benefits to the people of Derby.
“This ambitious project is set to significantly increase Derby’s cultural attraction and the overall profile of the city, and bring an outstanding, modern performance venue to Derby.”
It is projected that the venue will host over 200 cultural and commercial events each year and attract an additional 250,000 visitors to Derby.
It is also expected to create over 200 new local jobs, generate more than £10 million per year for the area and increase levels of investment in surrounding areas of the city centre.
