North East Derbyshire District Council is set to turn a derelict and dangerous former school building in Clay Cross into a high quality low-carbon housing development as part of a multi-million pound scheme to kick-start regeneration in the town.
The former Clay Cross Junior School has lain derelict since 2009 and fallen into a state of disrepair, with the plans now in place to make sure this area is brought back to life as part of the wider regeneration projects happening in Clay Cross.
The demolition is part of a phased regeneration of the former school’s site. The former primary school was demolished and replaced with Smithybrook View, a very popular extra care facility.
The former junior school will form part of a wider development site that will deliver high quality, low carbon housing as part of the £24.1m received from the Government, from the highly successful Towns Fund bid to regenerate Clay Cross.
Key parts of the building will be saved and reclaimed during the demolition such as plaques and ornamental brick works to mark the historical significance of the building and its heritage and will be reused within the regeneration plans for Clay Cross.
Councillor Alan Powell, Cabinet Member for Housing said: “The building has been closed for over a decade and has been the focus of anti-social behaviour.
“Alternative uses of the building have been considered, including converting the existing structure into residential accommodation. However, this wasn’t viable due to the poor condition of building and it will now be replaced with excellent low carbon housing for the community, helping tackle Climate Change and regenerate the area”.
Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Corporate Services and Budget, Councillor Simon Spencer, said: “We’re pleased to be able to work with the district council so that much needed housing can be built in the town centre.
“The plans to regenerate Clay Cross are much welcomed, and by working together we can use the money from the Government to make a real difference to those who live and work in the town.”
More information on the Clay Cross Town Deal can be found on North East Derbyshire District Council’s website: www.ne-derbyshire.gov.uk