City could get new 200ft needle

The spike would be no bigger than Derby Cathedral

A new landmark is being proposed for Derby which could dramatically change the city's skyline.

Cityscape, the group behind a regeneration plan for the city, is discussing proposals for a 200ft spire.

The needle, or spike, would be similar to the Millennium Spire in Dublin and could be used as a periscope to give people panoramic views of Derby.

The group said the idea needs to be discussed by residents and city planners before it can go ahead.

Nick Corbett, from Cityscape, said the landmark proposed for The Spot area would respect the old city and could symbolise the future.

"If people like the spike, it could potentially become a symbol of the urban renaissance that is happening in Derby," he said.

The idea is part of regeneration proposals from the group which includes new homes, a water feature and an amphitheatre close to the River Derwent.

Cityscape was formed by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister along with Derby City Council and East Midlands Development Agency to promote development in the city during the next 20 years.