High Sheriff of Derbyshire Commends Millitec’s MD for Plans to Transform Former Ilkeston M&S into a New Cultural Venue

An ambitious cultural regeneration project supported by Millitec’s Managing Director, Richard Ledger, received high-profile recognition this week as Sir Richard FitzHerbert Bt, High Sheriff of Derbyshire for 2025–2026, visited the former Marks & Spencer building on Bath Street. The building is currently being restored with the aim of becoming a multi‑purpose cultural space and makerspace for Ilkeston.

The visit began at the former Ilkeston Police Station, now home to the Erewash Partnership, which plays a key role in supporting small businesses, enterprise development and community‑led activity across the borough. During the visit, Chief Executive Ian Viles and Partnership Board Chair Richard Ledger, who is also the Managing Director of Millitec, a leading automation manufacturer, outlined the project’s goals. They highlighted the pressing need for sustainable facilities for young people, creatives and community organisations, particularly as Cotmanhay and surrounding areas continue to experience the loss of essential cultural and social spaces.

Before departing for Bath Street, Sir Richard was presented with a commemorative mug and a model Barton bus to mark the occasion. Guests then boarded a preserved Barton bus to travel to the Bath Street site. Once a familiar sight on Ilkeston’s streets, the vintage bus carried the High Sheriff and attendees to the site, connecting Ilkeston’s heritage with its ambitions for future regeneration.

A Crucial Project for a Town in Need of Cultural Space

Ilkeston has faced sustained challenges relating to the availability of cultural and community facilities. The Cotmanhay Community Network Centre required significant emergency funding simply to remain open, and the closure of youth clubs, arts venues and multi‑use spaces has further highlighted the need for renewed investment.

The proposed cultural space at Bath Street aims to address these needs by providing accessible facilities for makerspaces, performing arts, youth activity, cultural participation, community learning and creative start‑ups and small organisations.

Restoration Progress and Plans for the Future

Substantial restoration work is already underway. Progress to date includes exterior wall rendering and structural repairs with the installation of new windows is currently in progress. Preparations for the essential roof replacement, the next major phase of the project. Once fully restored, the multi‑storey venue is planned to include a ground-floor theatre and performance space complete with a stage suitable for theatre, dance, spoken-word and community events.

Upper‑floors will accommodate creative makerspaces, offering facilities for a range of creative and performance uses, a dedicated dance studio and a flexible space for charities, social enterprises and small businesses. These creative floors take inspiration from successful regional models such as Harlem Studios in Wirksworth and Banks Mill Studios in Derby.

High Sheriff Shows Support for the Project

Sir Richard FitzHerbert expressed strong support for the vision behind the transformation, calling it a valuable and much‑needed contribution to Ilkeston and the wider community. He also demonstrated a genuine interest in the town’s cultural and social heritage, as well as the challenges faced by local residents, especially young people in areas such as Cotmanhay, where access to creative and social opportunities has diminished.

Funding and Community Engagement Needed

Despite significant progress, further investment is urgently required, particularly as current funding is due to expire at the end of April. New financial backing is now essential for continuing with the next phase of the project which consists of replacing the roof, which must be completed before the upper floors can be safely fitted out.

The Erewash Partnership, is inviting businesses, funders, sponsors, donors, skilled tradespeople and community partners to support the next phase of development.

Creative groups, arts organisations, youth projects, charities and small enterprises are also encouraged to express interest in using the space once complete.

A Naming Competition Planned with Erewash Sound

To involve the wider community, a public naming competition will soon be launched in partnership with Erewash Sound, giving residents the chance to help choose the official name of the new cultural centre. Details will be announced as the opening date approaches.