New uses for County Hall in Matlock are being explored by Derbyshire County Council.

The building is under used and the council are asking for expressions of interest from developers, hotel operators and others for their ideas for the future of the historic complex of buildings.

Deputy Leader, Councillor Simon Spencer, said they want to give County Hall a new lease of life.

“We are just not using the building to its full potential, particularly post pandemic, when many of our employees are working from home for several days a week.

“This does give us a once in a lifetime opportunity to make the most of this wonderful building.”

Every option suggested for the future of the building will be considered, and could include:

· hotel, conferencing, and associated facilities

· flexible office space in new and/or refurbished space on site for the council

· residential units to meet local demand

· co-working space and studios for the creative sector

· facilities for the local community

Councillor Spencer added: “Our vision for County Hall includes the council remaining on site in either a new, low energy building on a much smaller footprint, or a dedicated space within the existing buildings that can be repurposed to meet current and future needs.”

An expression of interest document has been circulated and anyone interested is asked to contact either David Couch, email david.couch@realestate.bnpparibas or Harry Douglass, harry.douglass@realestate.bnpparibas by the 21 July 2023.

Before any decisions are made on the future of County Hall, a full consultation will be held, and any potential changes will also need planning approval.