Transformation of historic Sheffield city centre area begins, marking regeneration ‘milestone’

The first phase of the transformation in Castlegate, one of the most historic areas of Sheffield, has begun. Workers from contractors Keltbray have moved onto the former home of Castle Market to set up a site compound and start clearing the area. 

This marks the start of the regeneration project which will oversee the transformation into a ‘fantastic’ public open space. Once planning conditions are agreed, this phase is expected to continue until July and will include the demolition of concrete structures (remnants of the Castle Market) as well as various cut & fill earthworks. 

The archaeological excavation of the Castle’s Gatehouse and Moat as well as 19th century Steel Works will also start with opportunities for tours and public engagement to happen, and this will be advertised nearer the time.

The first phase is important to develop and inform the future work on the site that will then mean visitors will be able to see the remains of Sheffield Castle including the Gatehouse. Apart from the excavations of the 1950’s, this will be the first time the gatehouse will be opened up for everyone to see since the Castle was demolished in the late 1600s.

As part of Phase 2 of works, further nods to the city’s history will be created with the development of a 500 people capacity events space, reminiscent of the ‘bowling green’ believed to have occupied the area in the 17th century and heritage interpretation boards and public art throughout the site.

The site is also the place where the river Sheaf, which gave the city its name, and the river Don meet. Phase 2 will include opening up the Sheaf, making it visible in the City Centre for the first time since the Victorian age and creating the Sheaf Fields area of the park.

Cllr Ben Miskell, Chair of the Transport, Regeneration and Climate Committee, commented: “The Castlegate site is one of fantastic historical significance to the city of Sheffield and today marks yet another chapter in its history.

“Seeing Keltbray beginning the transformation is incredibly exciting and signals yet another milestone in our regeneration of the City Centre. With work now underway people will be able to see the project progressing on a daily basis and the vision for the area become a reality. It’s yet another sign that Sheffield is on the up.”

Managing Director at Keltbray, Louise Pavitt said: “We are thrilled to work with Sheffield City Council on a project with such a rich cultural history. Our site teams have extensive experience of working with Sheffield City Council and are delighted to start works on the Castlegate scheme, providing an exciting open space for the public.”

The plans for the transformation of the site were approved by the City Council in May 2023 with completion expected by the summer of 2025.

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