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 hereās 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.
9. Sadler Gate and Friar Gate are top Derby, must-visit districts
Speaking of education, I have to mention Suds & Soda, a craft beer and tasting room on Friar Gate. Based just a few minutes away from Nash McLean, Suds (as the locals fondly call it) is an education in beer, craft ale and everything in between. Owner Lee Roach has created a convivial environment where people can try different beers and learn more about breweries. Themed events such as Beers Over Borders showcased breweries and artisan beer from US and Canada rarely seen in the UK. Suds is also a place where I learnt about Double IPA, a style of beer which is the grown up sibling of your regular IPA. I love a good DIPA and Suds usually have at least one on the board. I cannot find DIPAs served anywhere in Derby city centre. I have even rang up pubs in my local area and many have not heard of DIPAs. This means I usually make my way to Suds where I enjoy my usual third or half DIPA. Whilst in town I wander down Sadler Gate, duck into Market Hall and then head home. By offering something unique in the city centre, Suds is giving beer fans a reason to come into the city centre - something that more businesses in Derby could pay heed to and potentially implement in their business model. | Ria Ghei