“This delay is hugely disappointing for both the council and people and organisations looking forward to using Event Central.”

The launch of a major cultural hub in Sheffield city centre has been delayed due to an unexplained loss of power supply.

Sheffield City Council says Event Central on Fargate will not now open until 2027.

Event Central on Fargate was due to open in the second half of 2026. | im

placeholder image — Event Central on Fargate was due to open in the second half of 2026. | im

It had an ‘accepted connection’ when a construction contract was awarded to builders Willmott Dixon in February 2024, the authority says.

The firm started on site in August 2025 and had hoped to be finished this year.

But following changes to a ‘previously agreed solution’, a new permanent power connection is needed, delaying completion.

Last week, spray painted lines and symbols were seen on Fargate. Now, the council says trial holes are set to be dug this month. | IM

Last week, spray painted lines and symbols were seen on Fargate. The council says trial holes are set to be dug this month.

The six-storey former shop at 20-26 Fargate, opposite Marks and Spencer, is being converted into an £8m event space and café/bar, offices and meeting rooms.

The the six-storey former shop at 20-26 Fargate, opposite Marks and Spencer, is being converted into an £8m event space and café/bar, offices and meeting rooms. | scc

Coun Alexi Dimond, chair of the transport, regeneration and climate committee, said it was “hugely disappointing” but did not say why a new connection was needed.

He added: “This delay is hugely disappointing for both the council and people and organisations looking forward to using Event Central.

The project had an accepted electricity connection when the construction contract was awarded.

“Since that position changed, our teams have been working with Northern Powergrid and specialist contractors to find the safest and most practical alternative.

“Our priority is to secure the permanent power the building needs while limiting any impact to Fargate and protecting the investment already made in the area.

“We will provide a further update once the technical plans, costs and timetable are clearer.”

The launch is now expected in 2027, he added.

Event Central is funded in part by the Government’s Future High Streets Fund.

The council secured £15.8m in December 2020.

It spent £1.68m buying the building. The fit-out tender was for £7m.

Northern Powergrid was approached for comment.