Despite Objections, Refurbishment of Sheffield Park Hill Flats Gets Approval

The recent approval of the latest redevelopment phase of Sheffield's iconic brutalist Park Hill flats has stirred mixed reactions among residents. The 1960s building, renowned for its concrete "streets in the sky," is set for a transformative refurbishment that will yield 125 flats and townhouses along with two commercial units.

 

Despite the ambitious plans, the project faced resistance with 144 objections, citing concerns such as the use of green spaces for parking. Originally constructed in 1961 as a replacement for slum clearance homes, the Park Hill flats fell into disrepair by the 1980s, earning a reputation for criminal activity and decay. Renovation efforts commenced in 2008, earning recognition with a shortlisting for the RIBA Sterling Prize in 2013.

 

The latest scheme, approved by Sheffield City Council planners, involves the refurbishment of the Grade II*-listed site near Duke Street by developer Urban Splash. The revised proposals aim to increase overall green space, repurposing only one of two designated areas for parking, and converting a fenced-off region near a garage into grassland.

 

However, some residents expressed dissatisfaction with the decision, asserting a perceived lack of consultation. Dave Watkins, former chair of the Park Hill residents' association, criticized what he considered a compromise arrangement, expressing discontent with the perceived collaboration between planning authorities and Urban Splash.

 

Green councillor Bernard Little raised concerns about insufficient promotion of active travel and the unaffordability of Park Hill's homes for "gig economy" workers. Labour ward councillor Laura Moynahan lamented the loss of green spaces, while Urban Splash development manager Steve Thomas defended the project, highlighting its commitment to a 20-year vision for the Park Hill flats. Thomas emphasized features such as cycle storage, electric vehicle charging, a car club for short-term rentals, and a new bus stop on Duke Street as integral components of the new design solution for the site.