Sheffield's Cole Brothers Store Gains Planning Approval for Major Redevelopment
Planning approval has been granted for the redevelopment of the former Cole Brothers department store in Sheffield city centre, marking a significant step forward in the regeneration of this iconic 1960s building. Sheffield City Council has waved through the proposals, which aim to breathe new life into the Grade II listed property that closed its doors in 2022.
Urban Splash Leads the Transformation
Regeneration specialist Urban Splash, appointed by Sheffield City Council, will oversee the transformation of the landmark site at Barker’s Pool. Designs from AHMM outline a comprehensive scheme to convert the lower and ground floors into a vibrant mix of leisure, entertainment, food, drink, and retail spaces. The upper floors will be repurposed into flexible workspace, catering to Sheffield’s growing business community.
A key feature of the redevelopment includes a rooftop terrace, accessible from the ground floor via the main lift, which will accompany a restaurant and bar. This will be achieved by repurposing the building's plant room. Urban Splash plans to open up the property's Barker's Pool and Cambridge Street frontages to create outdoor dining areas, drawing inspiration from the popular street seating on Division Street.
Commitment to Sheffield's Heritage
Sian Stanhope, development manager at Urban Splash, expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, "We are thrilled with this decision, which paves the way for bringing this much-loved building back into use for the people of Sheffield. We understand the significance of Cole Brothers, and at the heart of our proposal is a commitment to re-establishing it as a place for the city."
She highlighted that over the past year, the site has already hosted successful temporary uses, including events like BBC Sounds, the Crossed Wires Festival, Jarvis Cocker performances, and the FORM careers fair. "Planning approval allows us to evolve that momentum into something permanent – creating new places to eat, shop, and work, with lively ground floor uses and flexible workspace above," Stanhope added.
Engaging with Future Occupiers
Urban Splash is now actively engaging with businesses interested in occupying space within the redeveloped building. Richard Lace, the company’s head of commercial lettings, noted, "Planning approval means we can move forward with discussions with occupiers, engaging with likeminded organisations who want to be a part of bringing Cole Brothers back to life."
Council Support for Regeneration
Coun Ben Miskell, chair of the Transport, Regeneration and Climate Policy Committee at Sheffield City Council, welcomed the approval as an important milestone. "This is an important milestone in the ongoing regeneration of Sheffield city centre. The former Cole Brothers building holds a special place in the hearts of many residents, and we welcome plans that will sensitively restore and reinvigorate it for a new generation," he said.
The redevelopment aims to enhance Sheffield's urban landscape, combining historical preservation with modern amenities to support local commerce and community engagement.
