Historic Cromford Court Could See New Life as a Community Asset

Pictures of the historic Cromford Court Property in Derbyshire

Matlock Bath, Derbyshire - In a promising development for the local community, Castle Homes Group, a prominent property and care home developer, has proposed a partnership with Derbyshire County Council to regenerate Cromford Court on Derby Road, Matlock Bath . This historic estate, long recognized as a landmark in the area, may soon be transformed into a valuable community asset.

An Iconic Property at Risk

Cromford Court, a distinguished Grade II listed mansion, holds a rich heritage and architectural significance. Set within approximately 34 acres of gardens and woodland, the estate features a three-storey annexe known as the West Wing and extensive parking facilities. Despite its grandeur, the property has remained underutilized for years, with previous plans to convert it into a hotel lapsing without fruition.

 The estate’s future seemed uncertain until Castle Homes Group came forward with a bold regeneration proposal.

Castle Homes Group’s Regeneration Proposal

Castle Homes Group has reached out to Derbyshire County Council with an offer to work in partnership with Derby County Council or faciliate funding for the transformation of Cromford Court into a community-centric facility. The proposed project would not only preserve the historic integrity of the mansion but also repurpose the space to provide practical, modern uses that benefit local residents.

Proposed Uses for Cromford Court:

• Care Home Facility: Addressing the local demand for quality care services, especially for the elderly and vulnerable.

• Apartments for Key Workers: Offering affordable housing to support those employed in essential sectors, including healthcare and social care.

• Accommodation for Care Sector Workers: Creating dedicated living spaces for those working in or training for the care sector, boosting local employment and support services.

• Community Event Spaces: Hosting gatherings, workshops, and social activities to foster community engagement.

• Heritage Preservation Initiatives: Maintaining the estate’s architectural charm while ensuring it remains accessible and functional.

This proposal aligns with Derbyshire County Council’s broader strategy of repurposing surplus care home properties while preserving their value to the community.

Council’s Response and Next Steps

Castle Homes Group has formally reached out to Derbyshire County Council and is currently awaiting feedback on the proposed partnership. In the meantime, Castle Homes is actively seeking community input to ensure the project aligns with local needs.

Residents are encouraged to share their ideas and suggestions on how Cromford Court could best serve the community by emailing admin@castlehomesgroup.co.uk.

A spokesperson for Castle Homes Group commented:

"Cromford Court has incredible potential not just as a historical site but as a community hub. Whether as a care home, affordable housing for key workers, or a mixed-use space, we aim to preserve its heritage while making it beneficial for the people of Matlock Bath. We welcome community input to make this vision a reality."

Community Impact and Reception

Local residents have expressed both excitement and curiosity. The idea of transforming Cromford Court into a care home or key worker accommodation has been particularly well-received, given the pressing need for such facilities.

Resident Jane Walker shared her thoughts:

"Turning it into housing for care workers or a community care facility makes so much sense. It’s a beautiful building, and it would be wonderful to see it used for something that truly benefits local people."

Why Transform Cromford Court?

Revitalizing Cromford Court as a care home or key worker accommodation would:

• Support the Local Workforce: Affordable housing could attract essential workers to the area.

• Preserve Heritage While Providing Practical Benefits: Restoring the building to modern standards while retaining its historical significance.

• Enhance Community Cohesion: Offering spaces where residents can come together for events or social support.

• Boost the Local Economy: Providing jobs during the redevelopment phase and beyond.

What Happens Next?

The project is still in its early stages, and Castle Homes Group and Derbyshire County Council are expected to consult local stakeholders and hold public discussions to gauge community support.

Residents are strongly encouraged to participate actively by sharing their ideas, ensuring the redevelopment truly reflects the community’s interests.

Should the project gain approval, it could mark a significant milestone in the revitalization of Matlock Bath, transforming Cromford Court from a neglected mansion into a dynamic community asset that serves both current and future generations.

For ongoing updates, stay tuned to local news and announcements from Derbyshire County Council.