One of the winners successfully balances ‘functionality’ and ‘sustainability’
The frontage of the £75m Cavendish Building which sits on the inner ring road(Image: University of Derby)
Three Derby buildings have been labelled the best the city has to offer in an awards ceremony.
The Derby Civic Society annual ABCD Awards (A Brighter City of Derby) has seen the three buildings – which are a mix of new and restored – declared winners by the Civic Society.
The awards were presented by Mayor of Derby Councillor Ajit Atwal, who handed out certificates to the winning architects and building owners.
A new award was also presented this time out too, set up in memory of former Derby Civic Society member David Ling. The David Ling Award was given to the winning school in recognition of a project aimed at bettering or improving their school’s setting or environment.
The inaugural winner was Carlyle Infant and Nursery Academy in Littleover, which came up with plans to develop the sensory garden, which is connected to the main playground. There is currently some equipment there but pupils believe that the area can be greatly improved and the judges agreed.
The 2026 ABCD Awards went to the following:
New Build Awards 2026
Full Award
Cavendish Building, Agard Street
Architects: Stride Treglown, CPMG Architects
Contractor: Kier Construction
Owner: University of Derby
Inside the Cavendish Building at the University of Derby(Image: Derby Telegraph)
The Cavendish Building, home of the Derby Business School at the University of Derby, is recognised “for its outstanding contribution to contemporary educational architecture and its transformative impact on the city’s urban fabric”.
The citation said: “The design successfully balances functionality, sustainability and civic presence.
“High quality finishes, integrated technology and attention to environmental performance demonstrate rigorous design thinking and technical excellence.
“For its architectural ambition, contextual sensitivity and contribution to the future of business education, the Cavendish building is deserving of this award.”
The building was officially opened last September.
Highly Commended
Vaillant Live, Colyear Street
Architect: Corstorphine and Wright
Contractor: Bowmer and Kirkland
Owner: Derby City Council
Developer: St James Securities
Derby’s new performance venue Vaillant Live(Image: Derby Civic Society)
Vaillant Live is a “bold, flexible and highly functional performance and events venue that redefines the cultural heart of the city”, according to the judges.
The citation said: “The 3,500 capacity building exemplifies architectural ambition aligned with community, cultural and economic vitality.
“It is a defining example of how visionary design can shape the future of urban life and the Vaillant Live building is deserving of this award.”
The building was officially opened last May
Conservation Award 2026
Full Award
Derby Market Hall
Architect: Lathams
Contractor: Wates Group
Owner: Derby City Council
Some of the new glazing referred to by the judges(Image: Derby Telegraph)
Derby Market Hall has undergone a £35.1 million restoration and refurbishment. The citation said: “It strikes an exemplary balance between historical authenticity and contemporary design clarity, preserving the cast-iron, copper and glass barrel-vaulted roof while introducing new glazed openings that enhance natural light and urban engagement
“For its distinguished design approach, respectful heritage stewardship and lasting contribution to the urban fabric of Derby, it is deserving of this award.”
David Ling Award
All of the winners in the David Ling Award category(Image: Derby Civic Society)
Nominations were sought from Derby schools, of a pupil or small group of pupils, in recognition of a project aimed at bettering or improving their school’s setting or environment, or alternately, making a contribution in any way to a charitable cause within the local area.
Winner
Carlyle Infant and Nursery Academy Students, Littleover
In recognition of outstanding originality and thought undertaken for their school project, concerning the enhancement of the school’s environment Project Sensory Garden
Highly Commended
Breadsall C of E Primary School Playteam
In recognition of outstanding originality and thought undertaken for their school project, concerning the enhancement of the school’s environment & helping with the school’s outdoor play sessions in which they are responsible for getting out and putting away equipment each day.
Cherry Tree Hill Primary School, Chaddesden
Matilda Bull
In recognition of her outstanding work ethic undertaken on behalf of their school and individually, concerning the enhancement of the school’s environment. She keeps her school litter-free in her own time. She was nominated by her head teacher.
