Clubs and co-operation among residents show iconic Park Hill flats in Sheffield are loved again
Park Hill flats have come full circle as a new generation of residents falls for its charms
The first tenants arriving from slums were thrilled with the modern facilities, it is said, while the relocation process saw them maintain contact with former neighbours. It gave the thoughtfully-designed flats an instant community.
Fast forward to the 2000s and a new generation has been inspired to build a community of their own.
Kimberley Mogg lived at Park Hill for five years and has kept in touch with friends since moving out seven years ago.
She said: "People that live there love living there. Every resident I have ever known loved it. The flats are great, with panoramic views over the city but the big difference is that people care.”
A book club set up 10 years ago is still going strong. Picnics on the quiet green space to the rear are a feature of summer. Park Hill also has a litter picking group, a gardening club and occasional outdoor cinema nights, Kim says.
A porter’s trolley is available for those who have to move big items and it is common for people to photograph stuff they want to get rid of, post it on the local Facebook group and leave it outside their door.
There’s even a Whatsapp group where solo travellers arriving at the station can ask for someone to come down from the flats to accompany them on their walk home.
A residents’ association works with Places for People, the housing association which manages the complex.
The first new shop, Park Hill Provisions, opened in 2021. It has been joined by South Street Kitchen cafe, The Pearl restaurant, Grace Owen Nursery and several businesses.
Yes, there are grumbles over parking and security is tighter than it used to be. Kim says a Phase 1 fob will not get you into Phase 2.
Noise can also be an issue, especially at the back where it echoes round the building. And the walkways still run over bedrooms in the flats below, although they were soundproofed as part of the refurbishment process.
Despite this, the lack of flats for sale on Rightmove and elsewhere tells its own story - Park Hill is highly desirable again.