Plans for council HQ revamp project submitted

A project to turn Derbyshire County Council's headquarters into a hotel has moved a step closer after planning applications to revamp the site were submitted.

The authority previously said it wanted to restore County Hall in Matlock to its original use.

Permission will be sought to change the south block of the building into a hotel "and associated uses", with the north part earmarked for flats and ground-floor commercial spaces.

An application also includes plans for the "refurbishment and renovation of the Winter Gardens", demolishing the Smedley Street bridges and "various outbuildings", and "general repairs and improvements".

The applications to transform the Grade II listed site have been submitted to Derbyshire Dales District Council.

A county council budget report has estimated the cost at about £130m, but deputy leader Simon Spencer previously said taxpayers would not foot the bill for the project.

He said the authority would be looking for "the right partner or partners" for the project later this year, adding it would continue engagement work with local businesses and residents.

"This is an important milestone for this project, the council, the town and wider area," he said.

"We have a unique opportunity to restore this beautiful local landmark and return it to its original purpose as a hotel, and by doing so, support our community by growing the local economy, delivering new homes and generating jobs.

"This project will bring significant investment into Matlock and reduce operating costs for the council."

The authority previously said it had the aim of opening the hotel in 2030.

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