Derby's former Bennetts department store to be transformed into flats and offices

An empty department store in Derby is set to be given a new lease of life as development plans are approved.

The former Bennetts store which occupies an expansive Grade II listed building will be transformed into a range of accommodation, it has been revealed.

The city centre property, which became vacant just before the first Covid lockdown, features more than 36,000 sq ft across four floors, plus an extensive basement.

Read more: Love Derby

Manston Investments is the commercial property company that has secured planning permission and listed building consent to repurpose the historic property in Derby city centre.

The firm has been given the green light to repurpose 8-9 Iron Gate into a mixed-use development that will include a suite of offices, residential units, and space appropriate for food, drink, and leisure operators.

A local team including JSA Architects and cost consultants Armsons Barlow will work on the project.

Flats, offices and a retail space

Partial demolition at the rear of number 8 will allow secondary access and goods receiving area, which is thought to facilitate better daylighting to the upper floors.

The large single-occupier space will be divided to cater to a variety of independent uses.

Approved plans show two smaller independent ground floor units fronting Iron Gate and suited to retail, food, and beverage or other leisure uses.

There will be an independent suite of offices to the rear and a first floor with potential for open plan or serviced office use. The upper floors show eight residential units.

Allowing for the proposed demolition, the building will offer a total area in its proposed format of approximately 30,000 sq ft.

Tom Boardman-Weston, director of Manston Investments, said: “This has been a lengthy process due to the historic single use nature of the building and also the Grade II listed status of number 9 Iron Gate.

“Repurposing the floor space to attract a range of current day uses more readily has been a complicated task, but we are delighted that a way forward is now clearer.”

Chris Wood, owner of JSA Architects, said: “Though the public benefits are clear, gaining planning permission was a challenge due to the intricate nature of the building’s history and its importance to the local community.

“The process was long and very involved, reflecting our dedication to preserving the essence of the city’s architectural heritage while providing modern functionality.

“Our approach was to blend the old with the new, ensuring that the building continues to tell its story while serving the contemporary needs of the city.”

Investors who want to shape the future of the building have an opportunity to take on the next stage of the project after the property went on the market with local agents.

John Forkin, managing director of Marketing Derby, said: “We are delighted to see that Derby City Council has granted planning permission.

“We look forward to witnessing the next chapter for this wonderful building, which plays an important role, both in Derby’s heritage and in its future."