Lottery cash for college project

The roundhouse housed up to 32 engines and 18 rail tracks

One of Derby's oldest buildings is being transformed into a university vistor centre using lottery cash.

The £4.38m from the Heritage Lottery Fund is the final portion of the £29m project to be raised.

The work will see the Roundhouse, built in 1839 next to Derby railway station, restored and turned into a part of Derby College.

The Roundhouse will be a visitor centre where people can learn more about the city's history.

Originally planned as housing, it was used as a workshop for repairing steam engines.

It could house up to 32 engines and accommodated 18 rail tracks. A central turntable was used to move the engines around.

Plans for the building also include a travel shop and hair and beauty salon.

Lottery spokeswoman Emma Sale said: "These buildings represent an important and vibrant time during Derby's industrial revolution and it is only fitting that they will return as a social hub for the city."

No date has been announced for completion of the project.