Landmark building’s transformation into digital hub moves forward

Work is set to begin to transform a landmark Sheffield building into an innovation hub for the city region’s fast-growing creative and digital sector.

A £3m funding deal between Sheffield City Council and regeneration company U+I has been completed, paving the way for the creation of a digital incubator to be opened at Castle House, the Grade II-listed 1960s former Co-op department store at Castlegate.

It is expected that the refurbishment of the building and the fit-out of the new facility will be complete and ready for occupation in early 2019.

U+I, which owns the building, has appointed Sheffield-based Kollider Projects as the delivery partner.

Richard Upton, deputy CEO of U+I said: “We are delighted to have completed this deal and look forward to working with our partners to creating an vibrant, collaborative and economically important destination at Castle House.

“Partnerships with local councils when properly constructed can deliver real benefit and value to local communities and the business which work in them. I am convinced the refurbishment of Castle House will be a catalyst for the wider regeneration of Castlegate.”

Nick Morgan of Kollider Projects added: “Our focus is on delivering a home for an already dynamic community, encouraging innovation and stimulating business growth in the city region. We are passionate about building a true destination for Sheffield at Castle House, an engaging space and a community beacon where bright ideas are brought to life and business thrives.”

Cllr Mazher Iqbal, Sheffield City Council’s Cabinet Member for Business and Investment added: “We’re delighted to announce U+I and Kollider as the developer and operator of this exciting digital and tech facility. We Sheffielders know that the city is equipped for digital and creative industries and this funding will help it to unlock those skills and develop them for the future.

“It is pleasing that this development will take part in the historic Old Town of the city, redefining it for the future and helping this world-leading and innovate sector to expand and grow. Big changes are happening at Castlegate and it is now home to hotels, offices, artists studios and now a digital hub. I’d like to welcome U+I and Kollider and wish them every success.”

Sheffield City Council was granted more than £3m funding by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) in 2015 to establish a new facility providing work space, business incubation and other services for entrepreneurs and small and medium sized businesses (SMEs) who rely on digital technologies and their applications.

Following a competitive process the bulk of this funding has been awarded to the Castle House project.