Sheffield shopping scheme one step closer

Sheffield City Council’s ambitious Sheffield Retail Quarter, which will transform the area around Barkers Pool, Pinstone Street and Moorhead with new shops, offices, restaurants and flats, is one step closer after the council submitted an outline planning application.

The council has submitted an outline planning application, which allows flexibility as it works in partnership with potential occupants, retailers and development partners, following a successful public consultation on the proposed development where more than 3,000 people visited and nearly 600 comments were sent in.

Councillor Leigh Bramall, the Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for business, skills and development said: “The overriding message from the public consultation was to simply get on with it. Sheffield is crying out for a new city centre with new shops. We understand that there is scepticism after the previous Sevenstone scheme and this application shows that we are determined to make this happen, and happen fast.

“The purchase of the land is well underway and we will shortly be shortlisting the last three potential development partners. We’re right on track to start work on site next year, with the majority of shops opening in 2019.”

The application shows the ‘Sheffield Retail Quarter’ with a mix of aspirational brands, high street shops and the independent stores, to transform the area around Barkers Pool, Pinstone Street and Moorhead. Historical buildings such as Leah’s Yard and The Citadel will be preserved, as well as facades along Pinstone Street and of the old Sunday School.

A decision is expected on the application by the end of the year, and if it receives consent a more detailed application can then be submitted.