Coach House redevelopment set to start

Age UK Sheffield are thrilled to announce that they have received formal permission from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to start the redevelopment of the Old Coach House in Hillsborough Park, after signing the lease with Sheffield City Council.

This is a big step forward for the project which will see the local charity convert the grade II listed building into a cafe and community hub that will provide activities and events for the community.

The lease that was officially signed on March 1st includes a long term lease for both the Old Coach House building and the Potting Shed that sits to the side of the Walled Garden.

Once converted, the Potting Shed will be used to provide dementia friendly activities from crafting and woodwork to gardening and sewing.

Age UK Sheffield are hoping that the restoration and building work will begin in April.

Steve Chu, Age UK Sheffield CEO, said: “I’m absolutely delighted that the lease has been signed and we have been given the go ahead from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to begin turning this plan into a reality. The project is going to have such a positive impact on the community and provide some amazing opportunities for older people across Sheffield to engage in inclusive and exciting activities and events, which will have a real positive impact on reducing the loneliness and isolation faced by so many.”

Visit ageuk.org.uk/sheffield to keep up to date with this project

Councillor Mary Lea, Cabinet Member for Culture, Parks and Leisure at Sheffield City Council said: “Hillsborough Park is already one of Sheffield’s most popular parks, but this development will really take it to the next level. As well as the important benefits the scheme will bring to those living with dementia, it will also provide brand new café and toilet facilities to all visitors, and will preserve the wonderful heritage of the Old Coach House building. With developments also progressing for our All Wheeled Bike track, Hillsborough Park is set to be a real leisure destination, serving many communities and improving the lives of local people. I can’t wait to see it take shape later this year.”