Keltbray kicks off Castlegate works
Phase one of the transformation of the former home of Sheffield’s Castle Market has started, with a compound established and clearance beginning.
Once planning conditions are agreed, this phase is expected to continue until July and will include the demolition of concrete structures, legacies of the market period, as well as various cut and fill earthworks.
The archaeological excavation of the Castle’s gatehouse and moat as well as 19th century steelworks will also start with opportunities for tours and public engagement opening up.
Phase one will set the tone and inform future work on the site as plans come together for the opening up of the gatehouse for the first time since the Castle, the birthplace of Sheffield in the 1200s, was demolished in the late 1600s.
As part of the second phase, further nods to the city’s history will be created with the development of a 500-capacity events space, reminiscent of the ‘bowling green’ believed to have occupied the area in the 17th century and heritage interpretation boards and public art throughout the site.
Phase two will also include opening up the River Sheaf in the city centre for the first time since Victorian days, with a city park created.
A stretch of the Sheaf will be revealed. Credit: SCC
Cllr Ben Miskell, Sheffield City Council’s chair of transport, regeneration and climate committee, said: “The Castlegate site is one of fantastic historical significance to the city of Sheffield and today marks yet another chapter in its history.
“Seeing Keltbray beginning the transformation is incredibly exciting and signals yet another milestone in our regeneration of the City Centre. With work now underway people will be able to see the project progressing on a daily basis and the vision for the area become a reality. It’s yet another sign that Sheffield is on the up.”
Managing director at Keltbray, Louise Pavitt said: “We are thrilled to work with Sheffield City Council on a project with such a rich cultural history. Our site teams have extensive experience of working with Sheffield City Council and are delighted to start works on the Castlegate scheme, providing an exciting open space for the public.”
The plans for the transformation of the site were approved by SCC in May 2023 with completion expected by the summer of 2025. Keltbray was selected in November.
