Former timber depot to become Yard Ball venue if plans win consent

An “immersive” football experience could be coming to Sheffield.

Plans have been submitted to transform the former Arnold Laver timber depot, on Little London Road, into the country’s first Yard Ball venue and create 50 jobs.

The Yard Ball concept aims to reintroduce people to football in a fun, positive and inclusive environment.

If planning permission is granted, the 50,000 sq ft property will undergo a £1m transformation to help people of all ages discover the joys of street football.

A Yard Ball spokesman said: “While football is a multi-billion-pound industry, for us it’s simply just a sport. And sport is first and foremost about enjoyment.

“Early memories of football are what shape our future relationships with it. Those fortunate enough to grow up in a period where we created memories on our own doorstep know football is about expression, not pressure.

“By stripping back football to what it should be – fun with a ball with your mates or family – Yard Ball will provide a much-needed escape from the pressures of modern-day football and provide new and exciting opportunities to create memories that will last a lifetime.

“We’re thankful to the amazing Laver family for trusting us with our vision and desire to transform their old building into something which cements Sheffield’s place as the home of the beautiful game.”

If given the green light, redevelopment work will start this autumn and it is envisaged Yard Ball will open to the public in early 2024.