The Grammar wins top honours at Derbyshire Historic Buildings Trust Architecture Awards
Amber Valley Borough Council’s transformation of the former Heanor Grammar School has won The Deborah Devonshire Award, the Trust’s top honour, and the Historic Building in an Urban Setting award at the 2025 Derbyshire Historic Buildings Trust (DHBT) Architecture Awards. The project also received a commendation in the Reuse of a Historic Building category.
Now in their fifth year, the DHBT Architecture Awards celebrate exceptional achievements in preserving and re-imagining Derbyshire’s historic buildings. The Deborah Devonshire Award is presented to the scheme judged to show special merit among all entries, making it the Trust’s highest honour.
Built in the early 20th century, The Grammar educated generations of local residents before falling into decline. Under private ownership, the building stood vacant and in disrepair for almost a decade before being purchased by Amber Valley Borough Council in 2022 through the Government’s Future High Streets Fund.
The council led the ambitious restoration project, which began in 2023 and completed in August 2025, commissioning GSSArchitecture as lead architect and principal designer, and A&S Enterprises Ltd as main contractor. Together, the team delivered an extensive redevelopment of the Grade II listed building that respectfully restored its heritage while combining traditional craftsmanship with modern sustainability.
Highlights included the restoration of the skyline cupola, recreation of the ornate plaster-moulded ceiling, restoration of the original parquet flooring, and refurbishment of more than 100 original George Widdows windows, resulting in a fully electric, EPC A-rated building that blends historic character with contemporary performance.
Speaking about the project, Tom Jagger, Project Partner at GSSArchitecture said: “Over the past few months, it has been a real pleasure to hear such positive feedback from everyone enjoying The Grammar and the renewed presence it brings to Heanor. Recognition at the Derbyshire Historic Buildings Trust Awards across the three categories stands as a testament to the dedication and commitment of the entire project team in revitalising and restoring this much-loved building.”
The project has secured its long-term future as a valued part of the town’s heritage, ensuring it remains part of Heanor’s story for generations to come.
Councillor Emma Monkman, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Planning, Regeneration and Estates at Amber Valley Borough Council, said: “We’re incredibly proud that The Grammar has been recognised with these awards.
“Bringing The Grammar back was no easy task; the building was at its lowest point when restoration began. Thanks to the hard work and determination of everyone involved – from our own officers who developed the funding bid and guided the project, to the design and construction teams who restored its character and purpose – the building now has a strong future, while preserving the memories and stories that once filled its classrooms.
“This project represents so much more than the restoration of a historic building. It’s a major investment in Heanor’s future that celebrates its past, showing what can be achieved when expertise, funding and ambition come together to protect our heritage and create something lasting for generations to come.
“These awards belong to everyone who helped bring The Grammar back to life.”
Reflecting on the success, Simon Kerry, Commercial Director at A&S Enterprises Ltd, praised the collaborative effort behind the restoration: “We are incredibly proud to have served as the principal contractor on the Grammar redevelopment project, and honoured that the scheme has received such prestigious recognition.
“Winning both the Historic Building in an Urban Setting and The Deborah Devonshire Award, alongside a commendation for Reuse of a Historic Building, is a testament to the collaborative spirit, craftsmanship, and sensitivity that defined this project from inception to completion.
“At A&S Enterprises Ltd, we are committed to delivering projects that respect heritage while embracing innovation. This development exemplifies how thoughtful construction, and strong partnerships can breathe new life into historic spaces, creating environments that serve communities for generations to come.
“We extend our congratulations to all involved and thank our partners for the opportunity to contribute to a project of such architectural and cultural significance.”
The awards were presented at Tissington Hall on Friday 31 October, where the borough also received further recognition, with Swanwick Old Hall celebrated for its impressive restoration of a Grade II listed private cultural site within Amber Valley.
The Derbyshire Historic Buildings Trust supports projects that restore and reuse historic places for future generations. Its annual Architecture Awards honour the architects, craftspeople and organisations leading that work across the county.
The Grammar’s success shows how historic buildings can be sensitively adapted for modern use, preserving their character and significance for years to come.
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