Compendium Living moves closer to Castleward revamp

Derby has taken a step closer to major regeneration this week after the planning application for a £100 million revamp of Castleward was submitted to Derby City Council.

Regeneration specialist, Compendium Living, along with project partners Derby City Council and the Government’s Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) is set to breathe new life into the 30-acre area of land between Derby Midland Station and Westfield, creating a sustainable community of homes and businesses.

The application, covering both the first phase of the project, about two hectares of the site, and the overall project proposals, was submitted on 9th May. The first phase proposals include 163 residential units, 1,500 square metres of commercial space, a boulevard and a new urban park.

Dave Bullock, Managing Director of Compendium Living, comments: “We’re delighted to have made this next significant step towards the transformation of Castleward and we are looking forward to beginning the redevelopment later this year.

“Our vision for Castleward involves complete rejuvenation of the area and we plan to bring this part of Derby right up to date with the creation of an attractive gateway into the city centre and a highly desirable place to live, work and socialise.

“In total, we will bring more than 800 new homes, 36,500sqft of commercial space, a contemporary boulevard that will replace the existing footpath leading from the train station to Westfield, a school and public open spaces, which will create a new front door for the city and create hundreds of new jobs.”

Adam Wilkinson, Chief Executive of Derby City Council said “This is a major scheme for the city and we are pleased that Compendium Living has submitted a planning application for the area.

“Castleward is a key strategic element of our city centre plans and part of the Council’s on-going commitment to stimulating the local economy, supporting economic growth and giving a quality choice for prospective residents in our vibrant city.”

Subject to planning approval being granted, construction work could begin later in the year, while plans for phases two to five are progressed in detail.

The submission of the planning application follows a public consultation earlier in the year, which offered the opportunity to take a look at the new vision for this part of the city.

Dave Bullock adds: “The public consultation offered us a fantastic opportunity to find out what local people think of the plans we have in store for Castleward and the feedback we received was very positive.

“Currently, the land is home to industrial units and unused land, so our aim is to unlock the area’s potential with modern features and contemporary building designs, creating a bench mark for future regeneration and something that Derby can really be proud of.

“As the biggest project Compendium Living has undertaken, we are looking forward to getting started on this cutting edge project and seeing it take its place in Derby’s continuing evolution over the next decade.”

Compendium Living, which will work with Lovell and The Riverside Group on the project, was selected by Derby City Council and the HCA as the preferred developer for the high profile scheme just over a year ago.