Wates has been appointed to carry out a £2.5 million refurbishment project at Derby City Council's headquarters (HQ) building.

The Council House, located on Corporation Street, is being renovated to maximise the space and improve the services offered to the residents. Work recently began on site and completion is expected in mid-2018.

Features of the project include reconfiguring and redeveloping existing space on the ground floor in several phases. Once finished, the building will provide new office space allowing Jobcentre Plus Services to co-locate at the Council House. Other highlights include new accessible internal meeting rooms and an improved reception area.


The project was procured through the empa framework, which is managed by Scape Procure, a public-sector organisation, dedicated to creating ongoing efficiency and social value via the built environment.

John Carlin, Wates Construction's Business Unit Director for the Midlands, said: "We're very happy to be collaborating with Derby City Council to improve the services it is able to offer the local community. A priority for our team is ensuring minimal disruption to the staff and general public, who will continue to use the building while we refurbish the first floor of The Council House.

"We will consult with stakeholders throughout the build to ensure the very best standards and levels of continuity are achieved."

Cllr Baggy Shanker added: "We're happy to be working with Wates to help us redevelop the space on the Ground Floor to improve facilities for customers who chose to visit us. This redevelopment means we'll be able to provide even more services under one roof, including the co-located Job Centre Plus services."

(LM)