Erewash MP '˜Co-operates' with Derbyshire regeneration project

New businesses are moving into the former Co-op building on South Street, Ilkeston. Pictured is MP Maggie Throup in her new office with left owner Arran Bailey and Paul Giles of Savills

Nottingham based ALB Investments has completed the first phase of renovation at the former Co-op in South Street. Five of the seven commercial units have already been leased with interest building on unit six.

The regeneration of the iconic building, which was originally closed in 2013, is awaiting planning permission in order to transform the development into 60 plush apartments, which will have a positive effect on the local economy with increased footfall.

The conservative MP has secured a new lease on Unit 2 in the iconic building and shall be using the 1050sq ft space as her community office with her three members of staff and caseworkers.

Maggie shall be running some of her surgeries from the new unit and shall uphold an open door office policy so that people can visit her during working hours every day.

She said: “It is important that we put the Ilkeston Co-op back on the map and I am delighted to have the first unit that is opening.

“It is in a fantastic location, right in the heart of town and it boasts great transport links, which is fantastic for my constituents.

“Housing is an important issue across Erewash, and so it is great news that this iconic building will provide new homes not only for existing Ilkeston residents, but hopefully for new people attracted to the town by this development.”

Arran Bailey, managing director of ALB Investments said: “The aim for this regeneration has always been to boost to the area’s economy and help the town’s current shops, bars and restaurants reap the benefits from the extra footfall and help turn Ilkeston into a thriving town.

“We are delighted.”