The design proposal sets out the vision for the reanimation of two landmark Grade II listed buildings into over 110,000 sq ft of commercial space, with 276 new dwellings also planned for the 11.5-acre site.

A restoration of the 19th century bonded warehouse and engine house aims to deliver a total of 111,275 sq ft of offices, health and fitness space, a restaurant/café, together with a regional sales centre for Wavensmere’s Birmingham headquarters.

The plans also include extensive new areas of public open space, including play spaces and pocket parks.

A new multi-purpose public realm and community space is also proposed for the elevated area adjacent to Friar Gate bridge, with retention of some of the original railway arch facades.

New vehicular, pedestrian and cycle access would be created at various points around the site, from Uttoxeter New Road, Great Northern Way, and Friar Gate.

Derby’s city centre amenities are within a five- and 10-minute walk of the site, with Derby train station 1.5 miles away.

The proposals promote sustainable development using low carbon materials, MMC, and renewable energy generation.

The redevelopment would see the retention of many of the protected mature trees, together with a range of biodiverse enhancements.

Friar Gate Goods Yard has been in the ownership of the Clowes family for over 40 years, with a number of options for redevelopment proposed but not progressed, due to heritage constraints and commercial viability.

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Wavensmere and Clowes have worked with Glancy Nicholls Architects and Pegasus Group to incorporate the views from over 200 local public consultation responses into the plans.

James Dickens, MD at Wavensmere, said: “This is the most comprehensive planning application we have ever submitted.

“We have 3D-modelled the entirety of the bonded warehouse and engine house, which has enabled us to present how the buildings could be carefully brought back to life.

“The opportunity to work collaboratively to reanimate this landmark city centre site is an honour and the plans showcase our vision, fine attention to detail, and bold investment into this regeneration project.

“We have a database of over 500 prospective purchasers wishing to buy one of the townhouses — indicating the demand and appeal — and we look forward to continuing to work with Derby City council and wider stakeholders as this planning application is considered.”

Adam McPartland, director at Glancy Nicholls Architects, added: “We have brought our expertise in restoration and retrofit design to sustainably restore two of Derby city centre’s most notable historic structures. 

“By having a mix of commercial uses within the two buildings — and opening the inaccessible site up to create a series of new linear parks — it could enable hundreds of people to appreciate these heritage assets on a daily basis. 

“In addition to the proposals for the listed buildings, the designs for the 227 two- and three-bedroom townhouses celebrate the beauty and vista of the bonded warehouse, while incorporating a range of energy saving technologies and strategies.”