Work starts on Derbyshire CCC’s new media centre

It signals the start of the second phase of ground development, following the £1 million facelift for the 3aaa Pavilion and the elite performance centre, carried out last winter.

The work comprises the construction of a four-storey media centre, located at the Racecourse End of the ground, between the Falcons Stand and the Greene King IPA Marquee.

Planning permission has been granted and the club are now working on the final details with Derby City Council. 

The club’s chief executive, Simon Storey, said: “We want to attract more media coverage, as well as high-profile players and bigger crowds to The 3aaa County Ground.

“The new media centre will be a fantastic addition to the ground and provide us with the opportunity to support bigger matches, community events and our Women’s Cricket World Cup 2017 bid.

“The centre also includes two floors dedicated to office space, some of which will be available for commercial rent. Revenue from the office space rental will enable us, in the medium term, to invest further in the playing and coaching budget.”

Derby City Council leader, Councillor Ranjit Banwait, said: “We’re delighted that cricket can make a positive impact in the community, boosting the local economy and creating job opportunities for local people.

“With the construction of a new media facility, the club hope to attract top-class international cricket to the city, offering sporting excellence we can all share, starting with the club’s bid for Derby to be a host city at the 2017 Women’s Cricket World Cup.”

The new media centre is due to be complete in August 2016.