Milford Mills moves closer to completion

A historic Derbyshire mill site is being transformed into a new residential community as construction work continues on a multi-million-pound heritage housing regeneration scheme.

Wavensmere Homes has completed the first roofs at its £22 million Milford Mills redevelopment in north Derbyshire, with the first residents expected to move in from October 2026.

Located between Belper and Duffield within the Derwent Valley Mills UNESCO World Heritage Site, the development will deliver 69 homes across a mix of houses and apartments overlooking the River Derwent.

The scheme includes the restoration of historic features linked to the former cotton mill, including the Mill Lade and original stone boundary walls, alongside the construction of new homes using locally quarried stone and natural slate.

Many of the homes have already been matched with buyers off-plan, with prices ranging from £265,000 to £440,000.

The development also includes public open space and the restoration of the Grade II-listed Dye House into commercial space.

Artist’s impression of how Milford Mills will look upon completion

Donna Smith, sales director at Wavensmere Homes, said: “We’ve been thrilled with the local support and strong interest from homeowners as we continue to make progress with this unique £22 million redevelopment project.  

“Occupying a prime site in the centre of one of North Derbyshire’s most well-regarded villages, people have been waiting for many years to see significant investment and new life injected into Milford Mills. 

“The beautiful rural setting, community spirit, and easy access to Derby and the Peak District, makes these homes really desirable, especially amongst the traditional housing stock available in Milford.

“These 69 energy-efficient houses and apartments are designed for first time buyers, families and downsizers. 

“We are proud that skilled local craftsmanship and our fine attention to detail is creating a highly sustainable development to add to the village’s vibrancy and appeal. 

“With these natural stone homes becoming ready to move into within a few months, vying purchasers need to get in touch with us to avoid missing out on their preferred plot.”

The project forms part of Birmingham-headquartered Wavensmere’s wider regeneration activity across Derbyshire and the Midlands, following schemes including Derby’s Nightingale Quarter and the ongoing redevelopment of Friar Gate Goods Yard.

The full Milford Mills project is scheduled for completion by mid-2027.

Want your business, product or service to be seen regionally and nationally? Bdaily helps you get your story in front of the right audience, every day. Find out how Bdaily can help →

Join more than 55,000 subscribers by signing up to our daily bulletin each morning here.