Next steps outlined for Our City, Our River at Derby Riverside

Published: 7 March 2023

Photo of pathway between brick flood wall and metal railing with trees around. Below is an artists impression of the same path with new black railings on the right and a new brick flood wall to the left.

Photo of the view from Exeter embankment and an artists impression of what the area could look like.

A series of major transformations at Derby Riverside are set to move a step closer as proposals head to Cabinet next week.

The work at Derby Riverside will complete the next phase of the Our City, Our River project, and will deliver new flood defences, a desirable urban community, and further sustainable development opportunities.

A planning application has also been submitted, and subject to approval, works will start on site in 2024.

At the centre of the plans is the creation of a new flood wall running from Causey Bridge in the north to the railway at Derwent Bridge, future proofing the area against the effects of climate change. The wall would offer enhanced protection to residents, businesses, and transport infrastructure, particularly at Exeter House, Raynesway and Meadow Lane.

Improvements would also provide the protection and resilience needed to allow the delivery of new, high-quality homes, creating a sustainable urban community that contributes to the city’s housing needs.

Several office buildings are proposed to be removed around Stuart Street and Derwent Street. The remaining land will then be transformed with sustainable developments and green open spaces along the river, unlocking its potential for leisure and enjoyment through improved access, experiences and biodiversity.

To deliver these exciting improvements, the Council will work with landowners and businesses to purchase the land and property required. This includes Peat House, Epworth House and Derwent Court on Stuart Street, and Crompton House and Bio House on Derwent Street. The Council is already in negotiations with affected parties and has offered support with relocation where appropriate.

The OCOR project was awarded extra government funding in 2021 and 2022 to deliver Derby Riverside.

Cabinet will be asked to approve the next phase of activity, including design, procurement and construction, as well as the plan for acquiring land, and the acceptance of a further £1m of funding from the Environment Agency.

Councillor Steve Hassall, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Decarbonisation & Strategic Planning & Transport said:

Derby riverside presents an exciting opportunity to transform the area for the better, opening up new spaces and opportunities. We know the importance of protecting livelihoods and businesses, and these flood defence works will provide resilience to key employment areas of the city.

There is still work to be done to achieve the desired outcomes, and we will now wait for Cabinet to approve the next steps.

We have worked closely with stakeholders throughout this process and will continue to do so. We’d like to thank the Environment Agency for their ongoing support throughout the Our City, Our River project.

The full application and images can be viewed on Derby City Council's planning portal.