24 C O N T E X T 1 3 3 : M A R C H 2 0 1 4 VALUING HERITAGE CHLOE OSWALD Positive results for Derby city centre A partnership scheme for Derby city centre faced a backlog of poor repairs, neglect and inappropriate alterations that obscured just how varied and distinctive the place was. Many high street businesses have closed, and buildings have vacant floors or are vacant as a whole.We need to stop the downward spiral before we lose what makes our town and city centres locally distinctive and vibrant. The successful partnership scheme for Derby city centre is about to finish after six years.The principle of the scheme was simple: to reinstate the specialness that had been lost from the frontages of many historic buildings.A backlog of poor repairs, neglect and inappropriate alterations had obscured just how varied and distinctive the centre of Derby was. This was tackled building by building, using the best research-led design work with traditional craftsmanship to transform the appearance of several important streets. ‘The opening of new malls on the edge of Derby raised the bar in terms of shop presentation, exposing the tiredness of the city centre – a conservation area which is rich in heritage,’ writes local estate agentTrevor Raybould. ‘Without the scheme, large areas of the city centre would now lie barren.With the scheme, as shops have been improved, they have been let.Three years ago more than 60 small shops were vacant: today, fewer than 20, contrary to the national trend.’ The joint English Heritage and Derby City Council scheme has had a budget of more than £1.2 million (including the budget for a grants officer), with additional private investment.The scheme has repaired and reinstated lost architectural features of more than 70 properties, regenerating part of the city centre economically, socially and visually. The rationale was that improvements in appearance and environmental quality improve its attractiveness to new businesses, shoppers and visitors. The scheme was part of the overarching city-centrewide Derby Regeneration Framework.There was support from stakeholders such as local land and building owners and the Cathedral Quarter Business Improvement District. It focused on two city centre conservation areas, City Centre and Friar Gate. It was essential to collect baseline surveys on vacancy, condition and economic data throughout the life of the scheme to ensure analysis and evaluation of the impact. An integrated development team was established with development management, building control and a conservation officer to maintain high standards and, where possible, integrate disabled access. Continued The Strand Arcade after refurbishment (Photo: 360imagery)
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