Rooftop bar in new plans for Assembly Rooms

The public are being asked for their views on fresh plans to transform the derelict Assembly Rooms site in Derby.

Developers behind the revamp of the Assembly Rooms are launching a consultation on a proposed multi-use community building called "Derby MADE".

It would span 60,000 sq ft (5,574 sq m) and include an office and exhibition space, on-site library and rooftop bar.

The Assembly Rooms, which has been unused for 10 years following a fire, was due to be knocked down in "late autumn" last year.

But the council is yet to confirm a new demolition date or timescale for completion.

"Derby MADE" would operate throughout the day and evening and also include spaces for retail units.

It would form the first phase of the broader redevelopment of the city's Market Place.

It is the latest iteration of what leaders envision for the future of the site, with a number of plans having been put forward since the fire.

Derby City Council's Labour leader Nadine Peatfield said the demolition of the old site would happen "as soon as possible" but could not give a date.

The consultation was "a huge step forwards" for the site, she added.

"I see [Derby MADE] being a public space where everyone feels comfortable and welcome - we're calling it 'Derby's living room'."

Opposition councillors have recently expressed concerns that demolishing the building could still be "years away".

A final business plan and outline planning application is still in the process of being developed.

VINCI UK Developments said the plans would create a "newly bustling market place".

"We are only too aware of our responsibility in transforming the site of the former Assembly Rooms, with something that is equally iconic, but also of equal or greater relevance to Derby's citizens."

Ion Developments said it had taken inspiration from projects such as the Storyhouse in Chester and Culture House in Sunderland.

Managing director Steve Parry said: "We are hoping to draw over three-quarters of a million visitors a year to the Market Place, we expect that will be a new lease of life for the square and hopefully for the businesses that are understandably relying on its careful rejuvenation."

The leader of Derby Conservatives Steve Hassall said he welcomed "any progress" around the site given the previous delays, but said the public should be consulted on multiple ideas for its future.

The leader of Reform Derby Tim Prosser said the plans needed "a clearer focus and a better direction".

The consultation will run online for a number of weeks from 7 May, as well as in-person drop-in events on 7 May and 8 May at the Derbion Shopping Centre.

Derby City Council will launch its own formal consultation on the finalised plans at a later date.

Follow BBC Derby on Facebook, on X, or on Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected] or via WhatsApp on 0808 100 2210.