Plans submitted to transform "historic" Leah's Yard into new Sheffield creative hub

Plans to transform a “historic” Sheffield site into a new creative hub have been submitted today.

The plans, submitted by Queensberry, will see Leah’s Yard on Cambridge Street transformed into a new creative hub for independent businesses, with a slew of independent stores set to surround a public courtyard.

The venue will be operated by Tom Wolfenden, CEO of SSPCo, and James O’Hara of the Rockingham Group, who were appointed to the project by Sheffield City Council.

If approved, Leah’s Yard will be refurbished true to its current form, with a courtyard surrounded by small boutique shops, with the first and second floors hosting approximately 20 independent working studios.

Tom Wolfenden, CEO of SSPCo, said: “Sheffield is full of extremely talented people who develop incredible products. Leah’s Yard will aim to bring these people and small businesses together and provide them with a route into the city centre.

“We are also aiming to create a truly memorable visitor experience, both in terms of the products you can buy and the atmosphere of the venue.

“With the plans now submitted, we are really keen to hear from the public and local businesses about what blend of retailers and ‘makers’ they would like to see at Leah’s Yard and what type of events we can host there.”

George Wilson, associate at FCBStudios, said: “By celebrating and working with the existing fabric of the Listed building, we plan to create a place that is distinctly ‘of Sheffield’ and truly unique in its character and setting. It will also reflect the city’s bold ambitions and responds to the future of city centres as experience-led destinations.”

Councillor Terry Fox, leader of Sheffield City Council, said: “We are delighted to see the planning application for Leah’s Yard submitted. Complementing the neighbouring Cambridge Street Collective development, we are delivering something truly transformational in this area of the city centre.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →