Marketing Derby backs new city centre apartments scheme

Marketing Derby has given its backing to plans for a major new apartments scheme in Derby city centre.

Last month, Wavensmere Homes and Wilson Bowden Developments submitted a full planning application to Derby City Council to build Cathedral One, which will consist of 186 one- and two-bedroom apartments.

The nine-storey building would be constructed on vacant land bounded by Full Street to the west and the River Derwent to the east.

In the letter of support for Cathedral One submitted to the city council’s planning department, John Forkin, managing director of Marketing Derby, writes: “Marketing Derby is delighted to see plans submitted to bring 186 new homes onto this important site, which has laid vacant for too long.

“Wavensmere is a proven contributor to Derby’s regeneration, and we couldn’t think of a more appropriate developer for this sensitive riverside site, contributing significant benefit and positive impact to the setting of Grade-I listed Derby Cathedral and the Museum of Making and UNESCO Derwent Valley World Heritage Corridor.”

The development 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.

It included the refurbishment of 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 is now being brought forward by Wavensmere Homes for Cathedral One.

In addition to the apartments, 2,000 sq ft of mixed-use space has been accommodated at ground floor level to overlook Cathedral Green and Full Street.

A range of uses are earmarked for this space, including a new café and residential facilities such as a gymnasium, co-working zone, and concierge point.

Currently, Wavensmere Homes is delivering the £175 million Nightingale Quarter residential scheme, which features more than 900 houses and apartments.

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

To view the plans for Cathedral One visit http://www.fullstreetderby.com .