Wreckers move in as bell tolls for once loved Sheffield pub, despite concern over 'lack of social facilities'
Demolition work moves forwards as bulldozers appear at famous ex-boozer, as council officers warn the move leaves lack of social facilities.
Bulldozers have moved onto the site of a famous old Sheffield pub, as work to demolish it and redevelop the site gets underway.
Pictures show work well underway and some of the former Shiregreen Arms already razed to the ground.
It marks the end for the once popular venue, which once went by the name of The Penguin, and many people have shared their memories of the pub with The Star.
The building had not been used as a pub for years, and had recently been targeted by vandals - but Sheffield Council has acknowledged that the loss of the pub leaves the area lacking in social facilities for residents in that part of the city.
Beech Grove Homes, part of Sanctuary Housing Association, now wants to build affordable housing on the site and says estate pubs have declined in popularity, and in the case of the Shiregreen Arms, there have been unsuccessful attempts by the current owner to market the site for continued use as a pub or for other community-based purposes.
They said: “Despite these efforts, no viable operator has come forward. The building has remained vacant and has become increasingly derelict and is now beyond repair.”
When they approved the demolition, Sheffield Council said they believed the site had not been used as a pub since around 2018.
But officers who assessed the plans to demolish it also raised concerns over the lack of facilities in the area where is located.
They stated at the time: “The building has remained vacant and has become increasingly derelict and is now stated to be beyond repair. In 2024, it was targeted by arsonists, significantly worsening its condition, and has since been subject to fly-tipping, vandalism and anti-social behaviour.
They added: “It is regrettable that the pub has fallen into a state of disrepair for such a prolonged period. There are no other public houses within a 10-minute walk. The nearest comparable facilities are the Hartley House Social Club & Institute (21 minutes’ walk), Sheffield Lane Working Mens Club (27 minutes’ walk) and Ecco Tap Bar (30 minutes’ walk).
“It is apparent that the closure of the Shiregreen Arms has left the local community lacking in social facilities.”
Many have fond memories of the pub when it was going through better days, and some shared them with The Star on our social media pages.
James Beeston said: “I grew up near there. Can't believe how many pubs have been lost in that area.
“The Pheasant, Sicey, Horseshoe, Huntsman, Magnet, Penguin, Parson Cross Hotel, High Greave...I'm sure there are others. But why?”
Diane Lilleyman recalled: “My hubby used to play The Penguin every week back in the mid 80's in the band Dizzy Spells. Great pub, great landlady/ landlord. Think their surname was Turton, and after the gig she would make us THE BEST. liver and onion sarnies.”
Paula Jane Hill added: “Had some brilliant times in The Penguin in the late 80. Used to go watch the football team on Sunday morning then straight back there. Made some great friends.
“Can remember the guy who used to do the music acts like UB40. I met my daughters dad in there. Really good memories.”
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Pete Robinson said: “Happy memories of going out around Shiregreen. Start off in The Penguin then catch bus up to The Horseshoe then walk along to Sicey before calling to chippy across road and stumble home to bed.”
Beckie Poulton Keatley said: “Sad to see.
“Grew up with good memories of The Penguin. Knew the owners and remember charity events such a bungee jumping. It’s just an eyesore now! Needs bringing back to life.”