Historic Buildings

Derby Cathedral: Building Foundations for the Future

Derby Cathedral has struggled to increase footfall and income to pre-pandemic figures. Under-investment in the Cathedral’s fabric over several decades has culminated in the closure of the iconic tower, the organ is unreliable, access is poor and visitor facilities inadequate. By 2027, our centenary as a cathedral we want to be in a position to deliver our new strategic plan to conserve our heritage and treasures, be a cultural hub, financially sustainable, organisationally resilient and carbon neutral. We will have a Conservation Management Plan which prioritises repairs. A Visitor Engagement Plan will have recommendations on how to overcome barriers to participation, improve the visitor experience and increase understanding of the heritage. An options appraisal will provide solutions to these issues. A business plan will have tested the viability of an agreed option. We will have developed new skills and partnerships and be clear about our role in placemaking in Derby.