In a recent Sheffield City Council meeting, transformation plans for a new landmark building in Stocksbridge were given the green light.
The regeneration project will cost £24.1m and will become a staple attraction in the town. Designed by CODA architecture, the building will require the demolition of existing buildings on Manchester Road – Stocksbridge Library, The Bridge Community shop, St. Luke’s Charity Shop and Best solicitors.
In their place will be a three-storey building, holding a public library, community space, classrooms, a cafe and office space.
As part of the regeneration project, plans are also drawn up for a new Town Square and car parking, as well as stark improvements to shopfronts and paving.
It was previously believed work could begin in the summer of 2024, however the plans have been met with questions and criticism.
In January, the Local Democracy Reporting service reported that Cllr Marieanne Elliot was disappointed to learn that work to renovate the Upper Don Trail for walkers and cyclists has been shelved from plans.
“This group are upset they aren’t received funding and that is understandable.”
She also took time to question the decisions made by the Stocksbridge Town Deal Board, which is leading the projects.
As part of the funding agreement central government insisted the Town Deal Board be set up to define the strategy and visions for the town.
February saw a petition launched to protest “the actions of the board”, urging Sheffield City Council “to insist on the full publication of all business cases and reports for all active and paused projects.”
Signed by 331 people to date, the petition demanded “a complete review of representation, governance and transparency of the board to ensure compliance with government guidance and city council policy.”
But now Sheffield councillors have decided the scheme should go ahead.
CODA architecture director Mike Bowker said: “From the very start we knew that we wanted to create a building for the community that people would love and cherish for many years to come.”
