Tall & Urban News

A developer responsible for controversial plans to build a block of flats in Derby worth millions of pounds has given his explanation as to why the development will be a good thing for the city.

Stephen Pratt, of Godwin Developments, spoke out during a week in which Derby City Council's planning committee will finally decide the fate of The Landmark, the 17-story apartment block. 

Planning officers have recommended that the scheme be turned down, while critics of the development say the high-rise building will overshadow the city's rich heritage.

Mr. Pratt said he believes if the committee agrees with the recommendation, Derby will miss out on millions of pounds of investment, not to mention hundreds of new jobs, at a time when it could be argued that Derby needs an economic boost more than ever.

This Thursday, 18 June 2020 The Landmark was once again up for discussion with the planning committee.

To address these concerns, he set about to create a development in Phoenix Street, which would set a new standard for city living.

They recommended a tall, modern building for Derby’s very first Build to Rent (BTR) scheme, comprising 202 high quality apartments, which will they claim will also make a significant contribution to the city’s housing requirement – more than nine per cent of the council’s housing target.

Mr. Pratt said he is aware that Derby city center has suffered a gradual decline in footfall over recent years – which is why the city council is currently seeking £23.7 million ($29.8 million) from the Government to reinvigorate it.

What is more, the Derby City Plan recognises that a substantial proportion of its higher earner workforce commutes from outside of the city - meaning that wealth is not retained in Derby.

The Landmark will tackle both these points – by bringing substantial investment and providing desirable accommodation for more than 500 professionals - to not just work in the city but live here.

For more on this story, go to Derby Telegraph.