Joint Statement from Amber Valley Borough Council and Derbyshire County Council: Agreement Reached on The Grammar in Heanor
Amber Valley Borough Council and Derbyshire County Council have reached agreement on the terms of a new tenancy at The Grammar in Heanor.
Under this agreement, two-thirds of the space will be leased to Derbyshire County Council.
The remaining third will be retained by Amber Valley Borough Council, which will provide exclusive community space available throughout the day, seven days a week, alongside the Baby Grammar that will be offered for small and start-up businesses to rent.
Cllr Emma Monkman, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Planning, Regeneration & Estates at Amber Valley Borough Council, said:
"I’m pleased that we have reached this agreement with Derbyshire County Council, and I want to thank their officers for their constructive engagement throughout the process. Negotiations of this nature take time, and it was important that we arrived at an outcome that is financially responsible, protects the building’s long-term future, and secures meaningful community access.
"The Grammar is a significant asset for Heanor and the wider area, and this agreement allows us to move forward with confidence about its future use. Having more public services based in the town centre will increase footfall and activity, which in turn will help support local businesses.
"Alongside this, the dedicated community space and the Baby Grammar offer will provide opportunities for local groups and small and start-up businesses to come together, work, and thrive in a high-quality environment.
"We’re looking forward to seeing this space brought back into use following the building’s recent renovation, and we will shortly be sharing practical information on how community groups and small businesses can rent and use these spaces."
Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Business Services, Councillor Stephen Reed, said: "I am delighted that we have been able to agree terms with Amber Valley Borough Council for us to use Heanor Grammar.
"We wanted to find a location that brings our teams and services closer to the people we serve. Moving into Heanor Grammar means our residents will have easier access to council services. It also ensures we are making good use of the public estate, while providing our employees with a well-equipped working environment to deliver the best possible support to the community.
"We’re confident that having our employees based in the town centre will bring benefits to local businesses.
"While we’ll be using part of Heanor Grammar, there will still be plenty of space available for local people to make use of, and we’re looking forward to working alongside the community."
This agreement reflects the strength of collaboration through the One Public Estate Programme. By working closely together, both councils have identified a positive and practical solution that secures a sustainable, long-term future for this important building - ensuring it continues to serve the community for generations to come.
Contact the team directly on 01773 570222 or email enquiry@ambervalley.gov.uk
