Architects help with designs for revitalised ‘cultural quarter’

Matthew Montague Architects has announced it is part of the design team involved in a major project led by Derby City Council to regenerate the cultural heart of the city centre.

The firm is collaborating with VINCI UK Developments and ION Developments – the city council’s preferred development partner – on plans to rejuvenate key areas of the city centre.

Among the initial plans is a revitalised ‘cultural quarter’, which includes a new cultural, commercial, and creative public space, which would be located on the site of the former Assembly Rooms.

Matthew Montague, principal architect at Matthew Montague Architects, said: “As Derby-centric architects, we are thrilled to contribute to the design team for this ambitious project.

“Our goal is to create spaces that not only elevate the urban landscape but also enrich the lives of residents and visitors alike in an area we know so well.”

The city council first announced VINCI and ION as its preferred development partner in February.

The partnership is now working collaboratively with the council, businesses and community stakeholders to develop their vision and design for the regeneration of the city centre.

The revitalised ‘cultural quarter’ plan will offer a range of leisure, commercial and community facilities, connected to a new business and residential district, incorporating the Bold Lane area and Northern Quarter.

The plans for the former Assembly Rooms site involve a multi-functional building, with spaces for meeting, working, and creating above restaurant and commercial space, to enhance the city centre offer.

The plans are set in a redesigned and enhanced Market Place, which will become a focal point for the city and will create new and improved green spaces, including ‘pocket parks’ to support relaxation and wellbeing.

The scheme also aims to create ‘green and blue corridors’ to improve connectivity between open spaces, such as Cathedral Green and the River Derwent and encourage more active travel across the city centre to underline the city’s net zero ambitions.

Daniel Evans, architect at Matthew Montague Architects, said: “We were approached due to our deep-rooted local knowledge and understanding of the architectural landscape of Derby.

“We have introduced the VINCI UK Developments team to other key stakeholders within the city including Marketing Derby, representatives from the estates department at the University of Derby and Down to Earth Derby, who are behind the Electric Daisy.

“We are passionate about Derby. To be part of the team that developed design ideas for two key projects within the plan has been fantastic.”