Hundreds share their ‘dreams’ for city at Derby City Lab

More green spaces, a better mix of shops, more murals and even trams – these are just some of the ‘dreams’ for Derby that have been shared so far by the public at the Derby City Lab.

While the purpose of the lab is to engage and inform people about its regeneration future, ever since it opened its doors just over two years ago, it has also been encouraging those who visit to give their thoughts on how Derby could be made better.

An essential part of the lab, which is located on Level 2 of the Derbion, is its ‘Engagement Corner’, which allows visitors the opportunity to share their views and opinions to help shape their place.

Here, people can leave their feedback in a number of ways, for example, via the My Dream for Derby message board, the ‘Tree of Truth’ or in the visitor comments book.

They can also take part in a poll, which asks: ‘What would make you visit Derby more frequently?’.

Their answers fall into four specific areas that could be improved: the built environment, activities, infrastructure/services and experience.

More than 500 opinions have now been shared at the lab to date.

Now, for the first time ever, those views have been collated together and analysed to see which areas the public feels should be given priority.

In terms of the My Dream for Derby responses, high on the agenda is more green spaces.

And in terms of the poll, so far, the thing that would make more people visit the city more frequently is improved leisure and culture, followed by a greener/bluer and safer city.

Some would prefer to see more independent retailers, while others better access and parking.

Adam Rodgers, inward investment executive at Marketing Derby and Derby City Lab lead, said: “As we approach receiving 10,000 visitors, it’s fantastic that many of them are also keen to have their say via the various engagement tools available.

“As well as showcasing how Derby is regenerating, the lab is also engaging and obtaining real insights into public desires for the city from a wide demographic.

“It’s encouraging that people are keen to add their thoughts and ideas as to what they would like to see and help shape the future of Derby.”

Currently, Derby City Lab is specifically seeking views on the city’s arts and culture scene on behalf of Derby City Council and the University of Derby, which will be fed into a new cultural strategy.

To plan your visit to the Derby City Lab, visit www.derbycitylab.com/plan-your-visit/.

To find out more about how you can share your ideas on how to improve Derby, visit www.derbycitylab.com/whats-on/#engagement.