The Clash and Take That once played there, now the planned demolition of the empty 1970s Assembly Rooms is dividing the city
When Derby launched a competition for the redevelopment of its marketplace in 1970, the winning design was said to be “architecturally effective whatever the function” and praised for its “excellence of conception”.
Created by the famous architectural duo Hugh Casson and Neville Conder, the Derby Assembly Rooms was at the centre of city life for decades, hosting acts such as Van Morrison, Elton John, the Clash and Take That from the 70s into the 90s, as well as countless graduation ceremonies, beer festivals and pantomimes over the years.