Arts centre gets final go-ahead

The Quad building will be a centre for arts in Derby

Final approval for the construction of a new multi-million pound arts centre has been given by planners in Derby.

The planning permission was the last hurdle in the way of the £9.8m Quad, which will now be built opposite the Council House on Corporation Street.

The developers say investigation surveys will be carried out over the coming weeks with a view to beginning work next summer.

The opening of the building has been scheduled for early 2008.

'Too expensive'

The project has been beset by problems from the outset.

Earlier plans would have seen it built on top of a war memorial, which sparked protests from veterans.

Conservatives on Derby City Council also withdrew their support for Quad - saying it was far too expensive.

The Quad will contain a two screen cinema, along with workshop and business units.