The legendary Derby arena, which hosted Take That, is being transformed into a cultural hub.

According to The Sun:

Transformation Planned for Iconic Derby Venue

A venue in Derby that has hosted legendary acts like Take That and Elton John in the 70s is getting a major facelift. The Assembly Rooms in Derby is on track to be torn down and replaced with a new Market Place, complete with a rooftop bar, library, offices, and shops.

Development Underway for Derby MADE Project

The Derby City Council is gearing up to replace the once-popular 'living room' of the city with a new 'landmark community building' as part of the Derby MADE project. The venue was damaged by fire a decade ago and has been abandoned ever since.

The public is encouraged to share their thoughts on the new building, which developers envision as a vibrant and inclusive space for all members of the community. The Market Place is intended to become the new heart of the city, a natural gathering place for the people of Derby.

The developers have ambitious plans to attract over 750,000 visitors annually to the Market Place, breathing new life into the area and supporting local businesses. The project will be rolled out in stages, starting with hospitality venues and a rooftop bar, followed by office spaces and a luxury hotel.

Concerns Over Timeline for Demolition

Some council members are worried that the demolition of the Assembly Rooms could be years away, given that the plans are still in their early stages. Consultations for the Derby MADE project kicked off in May, aiming to gather feedback from the public.

Councilor Nadine Peatfield is hopeful that demolition will begin by the end of 2025. The council and its partners in development are putting the finishing touches on their proposals for the site and anticipate engaging with residents in the near future.