Following concerns raised by Historic England and heritage consultants, the design has been altered from the original proposal and now includes a roof that more closely reflects the historic tearooms building. A number of other design features have also been amended, including, reducing the size of the outside storage area, changes to the guttering and changes to the columns on the veranda.
The building is fully funded with £320,000 committed by Amber Valley Borough Council, with a further £100,000 provided by Belper Town Council. A build contract has also been awarded to Alliance Contracting Solutions, so there are no significant obstacles remaining to prevent the new building moving ahead.
Demolition of the existing derelict building is planned to take place this summer, whilst more detailed design drawings are produced by architects Pinnegar Hayward. Design of a number of the new building’s features, which will enable the components to be ordered and construction to commence soon after.
Cllr Ben Bellamy, Deputy Leader of the Council and portfolio holder for Regeneration and Community Safety, commented: “I’m extremely pleased that the council has been able to respond so speedily to the heritage concerns and through great efforts, make the required changes to the tearooms design. Now, with all the funding in place and the planning permission secured, I can’t wait for the work to start this summer.”
