Historic hall set for new lease of life after developer sale

Derby’s historic Allestree Hall is set to be given a new lease of life after being sold by Derby City Council to a city-based developer.

The Grade II-listed building, which sits within Allestree Park, has been sold after being marketed by Salloway Property Consultants.

The buyer now plans to turn the site into a wedding venue. In the meantime, winterisation works have taken place to protect the hall from the elements.

A key condition of sale was for the preferred bidder to take immediate action to prevent further deterioration of the historic property, and to maintain access to public toilets at Allestree Park.

Built in the early 1800s on land once owned by the Mundy family of Markeaton Hall, Allestree Hall was commissioned by Bache Thornhill and designed by architect James Wyatt.

By disposing of the building through a long lease, the city council has paved the way for its renovation, safeguarding its future and preventing it from falling into further disrepair. A number of outbuildings were also included in the sale.

Councillor Kathy Kozlowski, the city council’s cabinet member for governance and finance, said: “After years of searching for the right buyer, we’re thrilled to have found a Derby-based preferred bidder with experience of revitalising historic properties.

“Allestree Hall, a building rich in history and potential, is poised for a new chapter.

“Disposing of the long-lease interest generates much-needed income for the council and an opportunity for the new owner to breathe new life into the building.

“With careful restoration, this stunning country house can reclaim its former glory.”

Allestree Hall has been bought by Staton Young, owner of Cubo.

Staton Young has a proven track record in restoring and repurposing historic buildings, including Northgate House – the landmark former HMRC building in the city centre.

Its portfolio also includes numerous serviced offices and modern co-working spaces across the country.

The company now intends to apply for planning permission to re-purpose the hall as a wedding venue.