Keys were exchanged today, Tuesday 15 September, between Amber Valley Borough Council and Derbyshire County Council for The Grammar in Heanor.
The county council will undertake minor internal works to prepare its new office accommodation, ahead of employees moving into The Grammar shortly.
As previously announced, Derbyshire County Council will lease two-thirds of the space, while Amber Valley Borough Council has retained a third to provide space for both community and business use.
Councillor Chris Emmas-Williams, Leader of Amber Valley Borough Council, said: "I’m really pleased to see The Grammar moving into its next phase, with more of the building being brought into use and more people coming into Heanor town centre.
"Having stood empty for around a decade and fallen into disrepair, we’ve worked hard to give this important building a future. Having Derbyshire County Council as a long-term tenant is an important part of that, helping to ensure The Grammar remains in use and financially sustainable for years to come. I’m pleased that we’ve been able to work together to reach this point and look forward to welcoming their employees to The Grammar."
Derbyshire County Council's Cabinet Member for Environment, Councillor Carol Wood, said: “This marks an exciting step forward for The Grammar and for Heanor. By relocating staff to the building, we're securing modern office space while also helping to bring more footfall into the town centre and supporting local businesses.
"We're delighted to be working in partnership with Amber Valley Borough Council to ensure this landmark building has a sustainable future and continues to benefit the local community."
Elsewhere on the site, discussions are also progressing regarding the future of the standalone business hub, known as the Baby Grammar. The council is currently in talks with a local private business interested in leasing both floors of the building. These discussions are ongoing, and we look forward to sharing a further update when we are in a position to do so.
Work is also continuing on the future of the former Science Block. A feasibility study has recently been completed and is helping to inform the next stages, with further preparatory studies now being carried out across the site.
This work is an important part of preparing for the future of the Science Block, helping to put the council in a strong position to pursue future funding opportunities and, should funding be secured, ensuring the site is as well prepared as possible for the next stages of development.
The Grammar will also continue to welcome community groups, local organisations and businesses, with the Main Hall and meeting room available to hire. Anyone interested in using the space can find out more and make an enquiry through the council’s website at https://www.heanorgrammar.co.uk/community-use/
We’ll continue to keep residents updated as more information becomes available.
Contact the team directly on 01773 570222 or email enquiry@ambervalley.gov.uk
