Built on the site of the former Pink Coconut nightclub, Becketwell Live is a major part of Derby’s £200 million regeneration and will host a range of events, from concerts and comedy to exhibitions and business gatherings.
Working in close collaboration with developers St James Securities, owners Derby City Council, and operators Legends and ASM Global, our North Midlands & Yorkshire team has brought this major project through to practical completion. The venue has now been formally handed over and will soon welcome the public to experience a dynamic programme of entertainment in the heart of the city.
The flexible layout includes retractable bleacher seating, floor seating, and fixed upper tier seats, complemented by high-performance acoustics and purpose-built backstage facilities.
The scheme is expected to attract over 250,000 visitors annually and generate over £10 million in GVA per year for the local economy, helping to significantly boost the night-time economy and investment in the surrounding area.
Commenting on practical completion of the arena, Paul Morris, Development Director at St James Securities, said: “The completion of Becketwell Live marks a transformative moment for Derby, delivering a world-class venue that will and drive significant economic growth and serve as a catalyst for the city's future regeneration. “This project has been more than five years in the making, and we are immensely proud to have developed a venue that will attract top-tier events and enhance the city’s cultural vibrancy, enriching the lives of its residents.”
Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Culture said: “This is a huge leap forward in the Becketwell journey, bringing us much closer to realising our vision of transforming Derby into vibrant city centre that prioritises and celebrates culture.
“A huge thanks to all of our partners and everyone involved for their incredible work on this project. This has been a long time in the making and I’m very proud that we’ve been able to support our partners to reach practical completion on time and on budget.
“Becketwell Live will provide a significant boost to our city’s cultural sector and economy and we can’t wait to open the doors to the public this Spring.”
Marcus Sheehan, General Manager of Becketwell Live said: “This is yet another exciting milestone as we move closer to opening the doors of Becketwell Live. Thanks to the brilliant teams who have done an incredible job in bringing this venue to life, ready to bring the very best in live entertainment to the heart of Derby.”
Gus Kedzior, Bowmer + Kirkland’s Regional Director for North Midlands & Yorkshire said: “We are incredibly proud to have been appointed to build this amazing landmark venue in Derby. Our site team has done a great job in ensuring this project has been handed over on time, within budget, and we are thrilled with the final outcome.
“It really has been a team effort throughout, and a pleasure to work collaboratively with St James Securities, Legends and ASM Global, and Derby City Council. Becketwell Live will now become the third scheme we have completed for DCC, joining Moorways Sports Village and Derby Arena.”