A thriving heritage motoring venue which opened its doors less than two years ago is going from strength to strength, showing the power of public and private sector partnership.

Great Northern Classics (GNC), based at the regenerated former Victoria Ironworks in Osmaston, has repaid a £1.5 million loan it received through the Council’s Derby Economic Growth Fund (DEGF), including with interest. The repayment has now allowed for the funding to be reinvested to support further economic growth projects across the city.

The Victoria Ironworks site, which has more than 170 years of industrial history, was purchased and founded in 2020 by a group of motoring investors with the ambition of protecting Derby’s engineering heritage, creating jobs, safeguard engineering skills and bringing a landmark site back into use. The site has previously played a significant role in the city’s industrial past, including steel forging, transport use and contributions during both World Wars. 

With support from Derby City Council, GNC opened its doors in March 2024. Since then, the venue has developed secure vehicle storage, a vibrant workspace café, and flexible conference and events facilities. Every week, hundreds of motoring enthusiasts gather at the site, which has already created 100 full-time jobs while preserving the character of the historic buildings. 

In a recent site visit to mark the loan being repaid, Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council, met with Director and Co-Founder Shaun Matthews and the Great Northern Classics team to see the progress firsthand and meet GNC’s newly appointed Managing Director, Amanda Fletcher. Amanda will build on the strong foundations laid and guide the business into its next exciting phase of growth.

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council and Cabinet Member for City Centre, Strategy, Regeneration and Policy said:

Great Northern Classics is a strong example of how the Council can work with private partners to deliver real benefits for Derby. The project has protected an important heritage site, created jobs and established a new destination in the city. It’s great to see the success of the business and that the Council’s loan has been repaid in full, allowing us to reinvest in business growth across the city.

Shaun Matthews, Co-Founder and Director of Great Northern Classics, said:

This project shows how public and private partnership can deliver lasting impact. What started as a bold idea has grown into a thriving hub of heritage and innovation. Repaying the loan is a proud moment for us.

Today, GNC is home to 20 tenant businesses, including trimmers, detailers, mechanics, motorcycle specialists, car clubs, rally car hire, air conditioning and tire experts, dry ice cleaning, and training schools.

Open seven days a week, the venue combines heritage with hospitality, featuring a fully licensed 80-seat café that has quickly become a favourite among visitors.