Next steps unveiled for Heanor's former Science Block as feasibility study begins
Amber Valley Borough Council is launching the next stage in shaping the future of the former Science Block in Heanor.
The building, which once formed part of the former Heanor Grammar School site, has been vacant for many years and is now being reviewed to understand what may be possible for its future.
A feasibility study, funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), is entering its first phase, which includes public engagement and early options development.
GSS Architecture, who recently led the restoration of The Grammar in Heanor, will lead the feasibility study, supported by consultancy MGAC, to assess a range of viable options for the site in the centre of the town.
The study will build on the strong local interest in the future of the site, exploring a range of realistic options and testing what could be achievable and capable of securing the investment needed to revitalise the site.
Public involvement will play a central role. A drop-in engagement session will take place on Thursday 18 December between 3pm and 6pm at St Lawrence Church in Heanor, where residents and local businesses can view information and share their ideas.
For those unable to attend, an online consultation form will be available on the Council’s website until Monday 5 January.
A range of key stakeholders, including community organisations and elected representatives, have also been invited to a dedicated engagement session on 16 December.
Insight and feedback from these sessions, and from the online consultation form, will help shape the early options that GSS Architecture and MGAC will prepare for consideration in the new year. These options will be assessed using the Government’s Five Case Business Model, which considers strategic fit, economic benefit, commercial viability, financial sustainability and deliverability. Up to five feasible options will be identified to support future funding bids.
This study represents an important and positive step forward for the site, building on the recent improvements at The Grammar and the wider regeneration taking place in Heanor. It will help shape a sustainable future for this part of the town.
Councillor Emma Monkman, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Planning, Regeneration and Estates for Amber Valley Borough Council said: “We know how important the future of the Science Block is to local people. This study is about moving from hopes and ideas to practical and deliverable options.
“We welcome the community’s feedback at this stage and will take it on board as we work with GSS Architecture and MGAC to explore the options for the site and understand what could be achievable in the years ahead.
“While we were not able to proceed with earlier plans for this site due to reduced Government funding, it did however allow us to complete the restoration of The Grammar.
“This next stage is about building on that success, supporting the wider vision for the area, and putting ourselves in the strongest possible position to secure investment when opportunities arise.
“We are committed to ensuring this site becomes an asset for the whole town, and this feasibility study marks a significant step towards making that happen.”
Have your say by completing the online consultation form by Monday 5 January. The form will be available on the Council’s website at www.ambervalley.gov.uk/scienceblock.
Residents and local businesses are also encouraged to attend the public engagement session on Thursday 18 December between 3pm and 6pm at St Lawrence Church in Heanor to share their views in person.
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