Former Sheffield cutlery works could be transformed into giant food hall

A former Sheffield cutlery works could be transformed into the largest independent food hall in northern England as part of plans submitted to council bosses.
The former Rutland Cutlery Works, Neepsend Lane. Picture: Chris Etchells.The former Rutland Cutlery Works, Neepsend Lane. Picture: Chris Etchells.
The former Rutland Cutlery Works, Neepsend Lane. Picture: Chris Etchells.

The Milestone Group has secured the Rutland Cutlery Works building in Kelham Island and hopes to turn it into a hive of food and drink operators.

Plans submitted to Sheffield City Council said the 14,000 sq ft property would house 13 separate kitchens, two bars, a cocktail bar and a restaurant.

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The hall would be open from 11am until 11pm on Wednesday and Thursday, 11am until 2am on Friday, 9am until 2am on Saturday and Sunday 9am until 9pm.

It will be known as Cutlery Works, in recognition of its heritage and has been inspired by the hawker markets of South East Asia, with influences from Lisbon, New York and Barcelona.

Alastair Reid, of commercial property solicitors Taylor and Emmet, who helped the group secure the property, said: "As we all know, Kelham Island has undergone a complete renaissance, due in no small part to the work of the Milestone Group.

"This latest venture will be an exciting addition to its portfolio, bringing a unique dining experience to the people who live, work and enjoy visiting the area."

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A planning statement submitted with the application said the food hall would consist of nine temporary food stall units, four fixed units, two bars, a cocktail bar and a restaurant.

It added: "This would encourage further economic and social development in the area, especially because the area surrounding the site is currently largely vacant. The proposals would provide an extension of the lively business and retail activity of the Kelham Island area into the Neepsend area.

"It would be a continuation of the vibrancy and vitality on show that began initially with Kelham Square moving through the Ball Street area on to Peddler Night Market and Drop Dead Clothing and thus encourages development through the whole area rather than just focused on Kelham Island proper.

"Regeneration of another building in the area will continue to grow the economic activity in the area. Given the natural progression of development further west of central Kelham Island, it is inevitable that the site will come into use at some point.

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"The proposals offer the best possible regeneration for the area considering the significant amount of residential development that has already been proposed and developed towards Kelham Island."

Rutland Cutlery Works ceased operations at the site in 2009 and 'significant refurbishment work' was carried out in October 2017, to make the building fit for use and, subject to planning permission, the food hall could open as soon as September.