We submitted applications for planning consents earlier this year, and now understand that Derbyshire Dales District Council will consider the applications at a meeting in early January.
A full planning application has been submitted for the refurbishment and renovation of the Winter Gardens, demolition of one of the Smedley Street bridges, demolition of various more recent outbuildings on the site and general repairs and improvements. Listed building consent for these works is also being sought.
Alongside this outline permission, change of use of the south block of County Hall into a hotel, Smedley’s Hydro, and associated uses and consent to turn County Hall north block into flats with commercial space on the ground floor will also be sought. This will boost other local traders on Smedley Street, which is becoming a recognised destination for local businesses.
The final consent being sought as part of the integrated set of applications is outline planning permission for new homes and a new low cost, low energy office building for the council.
Local residents are able to submit their comments on the applications so that local councillors at the district council can take those into account.
Council Leader, Councillor Alan Graves, said:
“We’ve taken our time since being elected to have a good look at this project and what it would mean for the council, our employees and local residents.
“We believe this is a really exciting project. The economic benefits to the local community are huge – we expect to add £66 million to Matlock’s economy through increased visitor spend.
“It will create 100 new permanent jobs and over 800 construction roles, and apprenticeships in hospitality, construction and restoration.
“By restoring this magnificent building and return it to its original purpose as Smedley’s Hydro saves it for future generations.”
Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Business Services, Councillor Stephen Reed, said:
"This project will offer so much to the local community, giving new cultural and community spaces.
“The complex will also provide new flexible workspace for small businesses and start-ups to help local enterprise.
“County Hall costs the council a huge amount to upkeep, and does not offer the right sort of office accommodation for the 21st century. This project gives us an opportunity to save money on our running costs, and whatever the shape of local government in Derbyshire to come we will still need a significant office presence in the town.”
The planning documents are on Derbyshire Dales District Council’s website. The reference number is 25/00272/FUL. Residents are encouraged to submit their comments by early January so that they can be taken into account by the district council.