‘We’re so excited for incredible opportunity’: Neglected Derby site to be transformed into food complex
Discover how Bustler plans to transform a neglected Derby site into a vibrant food complex in the city centre.
Award-winning hospitality and events business Bustler has announced plans to open a new hub of independent street food, micro-restaurants, lifestyle and retail units at St James Yard, in the heart of Derby City Centre.
Founded in 2017 as a monthly street food market, Bustler brought something completely new to the city.
It championed independent food traders and created vibrant social spaces centred around food, drink and entertainment.
Since then, the business has grown into a multi-venue operation across the East Midlands, known for transforming underused spaces into thriving food and drink destinations in both Derby and Nottingham.
Bustler is taking that same energy and experience to St James Yard, reimagining the long-unused site as a bustling destination built around independent businesses and exciting forward thinking hospitality.
The development will be constructed from over 20 shipping containers across two levels designed to bring new life, footfall and social vibrancy to the area from day to night.
There will be gallery walkways, large seating areas and people can expect a ‘carefully curated mix’ of micro-restaurants, street food, bars, cafes, entertainment spaces, retail and lifestyle units.
“We’re so excited to finally announce this,” said Andy Darke, Operations Manager of Bustler Market.
“St James Yard is an incredible opportunity to use our experience and bring a neglected space back into use and create another reason for people to visit and stay in the City Centre, a destination that feels genuinely futureproof and exciting for Derby”.
“We’re ready for this next iteration of Bustler. It really feels like the right idea, right location and right time. Our plans for this project feel like a step up and a culmination of everything we’ve worked so hard at over the past 8 years.”
Bustler are now calling for applications from independent traders and businesses to take space within the new area. The opportunity is aimed at ambitious food, service and retail operators ready to grow as part of a proven, well-loved brand with a strong track record of delivering successful, high-footfall destinations.
Further details, including timelines and application information, will be announced shortly.