One of the most iconic and historical buildings in Derby will now benefit from refurbishment that will make it a major community hub for the Osmaston Neighbourhood.
Marble Hall is a much loved building in Osmaston by the local community. Rolls–Royce is donating the building and some surrounding amenities to Derby City Council in order for the refurbishment work to begin. In partnership with Osmaston Community Association of Residents (OSCAR), and a design team led by architects Bauman Lyons, plans have now been developed. There will be meeting rooms, a nursery and café as part of the new community facility that will play a significant part in the wider Osmaston Regeneration area project.
Councillor Martin Rawson, Cabinet Member for Planning, Environment and Regenerations says of the proposed works, “This is fantastic news for the community of Osmaston. We can now make much needed changes to a fabulous building, part of our local heritage that will benefit local residents and businesses for years to come.”
Refurbishment work will begin shortly and will be complete by July 2015. The contractors who will be carrying out the work are Robert Woodhead Ltd, who has a specialist Heritage Team, Woodhead Heritage with considerable experience in delivering this type of development. Woodhead Heritage were selected via a competitive tender process, with OCSAR members representing the community through all stages of the selection process.
Jamie Keegans, Project Manager at Woodhead Heritage said, “We are delighted to have been selected to deliver the Marble Hall project which will transform this landmark building into a valuable community resource. The outstanding architectural features which lead to this building being grade 2 listed will be preserved for future generations whilst incorporating sustainable construction techniques to achieve a BREEAM rating”
Rolls-Royce Property Manager EMEA Robert Orgill said: “Rolls-Royce as one of the main employers in Derby recognises the responsibility to behave as a good neighbour and the importance of supporting the local community. This is why we are donating our redundant Marble Hall facility and are making a donation towards the costs of refurbishment for a new community centre which will provide a focal point for services in the area.”
The estimated cost for the works, including all project management, architect and legal fees is estimated at around £4 million. The funding for the project will be provided by:
• Rolls- Royce - European Regeneration Development Fund – the Council has signed a contract for grant funding towards the capital costs.
• Osmaston Regeneration Partnership LLP –D2N2 Growing Places Fund – the Council has been awarded funding, to be repaid using rental income from the building
• Regeneration Capital Programme will provide fundingfrom the existing approved programme.
In addition, the Council will be submitting an application to the Heritage Lottery Fund to enable resources to be established which will ensure the story behind the heritage of the Marble Hall is told to local people and visitors.
Notes to Editors:
Rolls-Royce occupied the site on Nightingale Road from 1907 to 2011. The Marble Hall building was constructed as offices in 1912 and extended to include the Marble Hall in the 1930’s. Although some remodelling has taken place, many original features remain including a staircase from 1912, the 1930’s wood panelled Board Room and the Marble Hall, with its Tuscan style polished limestone columns.
In 2007, Rolls-Royce relocated their activities from this site to new sites within Derby, leaving the Nightingale Road site vacant. In 2011, all buildings on the site were demolished, with the exception of the Marble Hall which was retained, achieving grade ii listed building in 2009, pending development as a Community facility.
Pictured, Cllr. Baggy Shanker, Rachel Collins and Craig Pygall, Construction Director (Robert Woodhead Ltd.)