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Plans have been submitted for a new café and bar at Darley Abbey Mills. The owners of The Lamp House have expressed their intentions to replace its existing photography studio at the historic Derby setting with a new food and drink venue.
The site has been used as photographic space since 2016 but the owners of the company say that due to an “economic downturn” it is time for a big change to their business. It is hoped the venue will be able to run as a café during daytime hours and a licensed bar in the evening. The applicant says the new model will help increase footfall in the area, create more job opportunities and enhance the visitor experience at the mills.
No exterior building work is planned but necessary interior changes will need to be made should the plans get the go-ahead. There are a small number of car parking spaces outside the building.
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A planning statement to Derby City Council said: “The current use of the property is a photographic studio and the production of props for our photoshoots. However, due to an economic downturn and the changing needs of the area, we propose converting the space into a café during the day and a licensed bar in the evening.
“The economic downturn has significantly impacted our photographic business, prompting us to downsize. To sustain our operations and contribute to the local economy, we have identified an opportunity to adapt our business model.
“Darley Abbey Mills is a vibrant area with several popular establishments, including a busy wine bar, a Spanish tapas bar, and a wedding venue. Despite these offerings, there is a clear demand for a coffee shop that operates during the day to cater to the needs of visitors and local patrons.”
A final decision on the plans could be made as soon as next month. However, dates on planning items can be subject to change.
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