A prominent empty building on the edge of Derby city centre is set to be transformed to house three businesses.

The Planning and Design Practice, based in Woburn House, Vernon Gate, Derby, drew up proposals and helped secure planning permission for the site on City Road, close to historic St Mary's Bridge.

The premises involved are a single-storey former exhaust and tyre depot. Built in 1961, it replaced the former City Mill silk mill which burned down in 1955, but had been empty for five years.

The building was bought by City Hall Developments of Spondon who wanted to build offices there with excellent views across the River Derwent.

Planning and Design Practice came up with an idea for a seven-storey office block, but this had to be withdrawn in the face of an objection by the Environment Agency because of constraints to new development close to the river.

So it was back to the drawing board and with the help of local estate agents and valuers new uses were considered and discussed with the city council which granted planning permission.

The building, on a prominent site that many people will know as they drive past to and from the city centre is next to a newsagents and general store and opposite offices, houses and newly-built apartments.

Work has started to convert the building which will be changed into a restaurant/café, a hot food takeaway, and a shop. The restaurant will have seating outside with views over the river, and there will also be parking for the three businesses.

Work is expected to be completed by the Spring. The takeaway unit has been pre-let and there is strong interest in the others.

Jonathan Jenkin, director of The Planning and Design Practice, said: "The site has been an eyesore and it detracts from the appearance and character of Mansfield Road, particularly with the new developments such as apartments there.

"This redevelopment will provide services to and meet the needs of local people."