As a resident of Derby for over 15 years, I can say with authority that I have seen the city change and go through various evolutions.
First off, Derby is not the only place in the UK that is struggling.
Walk down any high street in the country and you are most likely to see empty, boarded up shops, or hoardings that appear to be a permanent fixture, promising of good things to come.
People are frustrated by this, their discontent over empty shops spilling over online as they take to social media to lambast the council, and wider local and central government.
My most recent visit to Derby city centre filled me with hope and here’s why.
Derby has some innovative operators creating new experiences and events in the city.
New businesses are attracted to the city, and the knock-on effect is customers are also drawn to explore these businesses and the area too.
Here are three reasons why my trip to Derby city centre fills me with hope.
5. The Hall is a gorgeous, Grade II Listed building. Did you know, St Pancras Station’s architects designed Derby Market Hall? Pictured is St Pancras International, London.
Their events calendar is busy and evenings and the weekends have live music. This is a great way to create experiences. It gives people a reason to leave their homes, grab a bite to eat in the Hall, maybe do some shopping, and support local businesses and local bands that have been platformed in one of the most stunning venues in the city. And the Hall is a gorgeous, Grade II Listed building. Did you know, St Pancras Station’s architects designed Derby Market Hall? I noticed similarities during a trip to London over the summer and it filled me with pride. I remain positive that more traders will make Derby Market Hall a home. | Ria Ghei
6. Osnabrück Square Derby is one of the city's newest spaces offering an al fresco community space
Great effort is being put into creating experiences in the Hall and the surrounding area. The newly transformed Osnabrück Square which opened to the public on August 20, is a great al fresco area for larger groups. | Ria Ghei
7. Osnabrück Square Derby is one of the city's newest spaces offering an al fresco community space
I visited Osnabrück Square on a sunny Sunday afternoon and loved it - I just wish the market hall was open longer than 3pm. | Ria Ghei
8. Sadler Gate and Friar Gate are top Derby, must-visit districts
It takes resilience and a steely character for shop owners to weather this current trading environment and continue trading. It takes courage and real mettle to open a new store too. Nash McLean is Derby’s newest resident on Sadler Gate. The interior design showroom and consultancy offers the people of Derby something different in the city. I visited several times and have come away inspired with new ideas for my home. Nash McLean belongs on Sadler Gate which is one of my favourite districts in Derby. We need to see more creative businesses like this in Derby that will inspire and educate. | Ria Ghei