Derbyshire Live readers are happy to hear that Brigdens, a beloved fashion retailer in Derby with a history spanning over a century, has reported record sales following a significant transformation. However, the company is now urging the city centre to follow suit.
The firm consolidated its various outlets into one Iron Gate shop and bolstered its online presence, leading to its highest ever sales in 2024. Despite this success, managing director Nigel Sutherland is calling for a dialogue between key businesses and the city council to optimise the city centre and boost footfall. He stated: “We’ve adapted. Now Derby city centre needs to adapt.”
He expressed regret over leaving a gap in the retail landscape by relocating from their original shops, but felt they had no other choice after their concerns about retail challenges were repeatedly ignored by the council.
He expressed: “One of the main challenges was a lack of access. Our members of staff were constantly getting parking fines when we needed them to park for a few minutes near the shop – but we have no access whatsoever. How are traders supposed to restock supplies with no access to the rear of the buildings?
“We all have a huge passion for Derby city centre and we want nothing more than for it to become the busy and loved city it once was. That isn’t always possible overnight, but I think we are only a few steps away from great progress – we just need to communicate.
Councillor Nadine Peatfield, leader of Derby City Council and cabinet member for city centre, regeneration, strategy and policy, stated that working with businesses was “key” to the city’s regeneration and that she welcomes discussion with local businesses.
Commenter Boyfrombrazil says: “I wish them well Bridgens is a real Derby Shop, but what we need is something to bring the shoppers into that part of the city as everyone seems to go to Derbion? Yes we have the new entertainment centre on Becketwell/Duckworth square opening soon, but I am talking about maybe a new supermarket with flats above it? Turn the market place into a market every Thursday, Friday and Saturday on a regular basis. Make sure all the market stalls that used to be in the old Eagle Centre Market get moved to the Guildhall Market when it opens and have a few pubs on the upper deck of the guildhall and finally demolish that horrible fountain as it cuts off the natural flow of the thoroughfare.”
Bobsams notes: “The suburbs’ shopping areas are growing like Littleover, Mickleover, Sinfin etc. There is no need to go to the city quarters for a coffee or lunch now. All that Derby is good for is the Derbion, and even that has a few closed shops. Outside of the Derbion, it’s dire. I don’t feel safe walking around. The focal point seems to be the massive queue of Deliveroo/Uber bikes outside McDonalds. Poor show for anyone visiting our ‘City’. Oh and be careful you don’t get knocked over. I rarely go ‘into town’ now. I get my other groceries and purchase either online or at retail parks. There’s no incentive for a business to set up in any of the city ‘Quarters’ regardless how modern they make their outlet.”
Wewantourcityback agrees: “The council have no idea and are clearly not listening to retailers. I have given up coming into the city centre like many others. Free parking at Kingsway and Wyvern retail parks and a variety of great shops.”
Packetofthree adds: “Derby City Council are not fit for purpose. Derby’s heritage and history deserves much more. As a once proud Derbyian I go to Notts now. We have set the bar so very very low.”
Karmicshrew thinks: “Very happy for their success. And hopefully the council is taking note. These are the types of business that need encouragement, not the vape and gambling establishments.”
Nitanitro points out: “A lot of the vape shops and barber shops etc are nothing to do with the council. Most are in buildings owned by private landlords who will let anything move in because they just want the cash.”
Missilson suggests: “Let’s get rid of all traffic wardens they are killing off our cities and towns in the U.K.”
AndyTopliff agrees: “Well said, they have instigated a death blow to the traders with the policy of closing down car parks.”
How do you feel about Derby City Centre? What steps can you suggest to make ‘great progress’? Have your say in our comments section.