The second phase of the huge regeneration scheme which began with the Park Hill flats, they were opened amid great excitement and acclaim by the Queen Mother on June 23, 1966 – the same day as another city landmark, the University of Sheffield’s Arts Tower. But unlike Park Hill, which has undergone a remarkable revival to become one of the city’s most sought-after addresses, history has been less kind to the Hyde Park flats.
They were initially feted but living conditions rapidly deteriorated and the blocks were cleared of residents in the late 80s before being briefly converted to house competitors in the World Student Games in 1991. By 1993, most of the flats had been demolished – with the rubble reputedly used to fill in Sheffield’s Hole in the Road underpass. Today, two blocks remain, renamed as Harold Lambert Court and Castle Court.
This photo gallery of images from The Star’s archives gives a glimpse of what life was once like on the huge estate.
9. Royal tour
The Queen Mother at the official opening of the Hyde Park flats in Sheffield in 1966. After signing the visitors’ book and taking a tea, the Queen Mother went by lift to the top storey to catch a general view of the city, and then visited the roof garden penthouse of Mr and Mrs Stuchberry. Photo: National World
10. Large crowds
More people gathered to greet the Queen Mother when she came to open Sheffield's Hyde Park flats on June 23, 1966 Photo: Peter Tuffrey
11. Aerial view
An aerial view of Sheffield's Hyde Park flats in March 1990, not long before the majority of the homes would be demolished Photo: JP
12. Big day
A child waves a flag during the visit of the Queen Mother to Sheffield's Hyde Park Flats on June 23, 1966. Photo: Peter Tuffrey