Plans submitted for Block B of landmark regeneration project
Plans for Block B of Sheffield’s Heart of the City II development, featuring a redevelopment of Laycock House, have been submitted to the Local Planning Authority for approval.
The announcement creates further momentum for this landmark regeneration project following the validation of a recent planning application for Block C, known locally as the Pepper Pot building.
Fronting onto Pinstone Street, Block B will occupy a prominent city centre location, situated between Pinstone Street, Cross Burgess Street and Charles Street, behind the John Lewis store.
The plans for Block B include Laycock House, a late Victorian building which has survived the 20th and 21st centuries more or less completely in its original form. Should approval be granted, the plans for Block B include the sensitive renovation of the residences and smaller retail units within Laycock House. The current existing courtyard behind the building will be opened up and reimagined as a welcoming city garden, with a proposed for the ground floor unit complete with tables spilling out into the courtyard, giving a modern city-living space.
There will also be four new retail units at ground floor level and 52 apartments across the seven floors above, delivering a high-quality residential offer in a superb location.
Councillor Mazher Iqbal, Cabinet Member for Business and Investment at Sheffield City Council, said: “Submitting another planning application is a sign that the Heart of the City II project is taking big leaps forward. We are grateful to members of the public and stakeholders for their feedback over the last few months as we have worked towards submission. We are confident that these plans represent the best balance possible in terms of giving a new use to the much-loved Laycock House whilst also providing added economic opportunity and vibrancy to 21st century Sheffield, and reflect the very best of our city.”
Jon Munce, Development Director at Queensberry, said: “As the council’s Strategic Development Partner, we have been working hard with the development team for this project to build real momentum moving forward. Alongside the council, we are helping to shape the Sheffield of the future. In submitting the planning applications for blocks B and C, we are signalling our ability as a team to deliver for the city and its people. It’s an exciting time.”
“We are about to seek contractors for necessary demolitions and construction for this latest phase of Heart of the City II, ensuring we continue to drive the scheme forward at pace. Subject to planning, construction on the Block B and C could commence in spring 2019, with completion expected by the end of 2020.”
A period of consultation on the plans as part of the planning submission is now live.
