Major development of former Sheffield steelworks to create 1,500 jobs near Ikea and Meadowhall

It is expected to create more 1,500 jobs when open and around 360 jobs during construction.

This latest planning application details phase two of the site’s redevelopment, covering a 15.8 hectares plot, including a storage and distribution warehouse with offices; a multi-storey car park; ancillary facilities; motorcycle, cycle and lorry parking; a service yard; and associated landscaping works.

In a statement provided with the application, Michael Sparks Associates, on behalf of Peel Logistics Property (PLP), said the aim was to begin work as soon as possible and have it operational in 2024.

It said: “The site’s strategic location allows immediate access to the M1 motorway.

“The proposals will allow Sheffield City Council to gain from the continuing growth in the logistics sector, and associated job creation, in strategically planned parkland setting at a key gateway to the city.”

It added: “The site represents an opportunity to create a high quality development to suit the needs of businesses who want to be part of a well maintained business environment within Sheffield…

“The demand for new logistics facilities continues to be one of the strongest growth sectors in UK commercial property. This is the result of changing consumer patterns, such as the growth of internet retail and the more traditional demands from manufacturers and retailers.

“The proposal responds to demand from a logistics operator for a regional facility in the Sheffield area. The development will provide a well designed, contemporary development which will blend in with and enhance the already impressive appearance of Bessemer Park.”

Outokumpu, the largest producer of stainless steel in Europe, owned the site which was majorly developed in the 1950s by the British Steel Corporation for the cold rolling and cutting of stainless steel into sheets of metal. Outokumpu closed the site in 2005 and cleared in 2011.

The first phase of the two stage development – known as Bessemer Park on Shepcote Lane, Darnall – covering 4.1 hectares was delivered by PLP in 2019.

The two units from phase one are now occupied by Arthrex, a global medical device company, and ITM Power, which manufactures hydrogen energy solutions.

In phase two, the four storey car park, for use by warehouse staff, would provide 893 car parking spaces, including 78 electric vehicle charging spaces and 47 disabled spaces.

There would also be 63 heavy goods vehicle docks and 218 heavy goods vehicle parking spaces.

Sustainability and environmental considerations

Climate change and sustainability are considered in each technical chapter throughout the plans.

Measures taken to improve sustainability and reduce impact on the environment include: maximising the use of natural light, reducing water use, low energy fittings and electric vehicle charging points.

The development will be built to last for a minimum of 25 years and constructed using steel and aluminium that can be reused or recycled after demolition.

There will be a net gain in biodiversity with an increase of 29 percent within the site.

A four part environmental statement was included with the plans due to the size of the scheme.

To read the plans in full or comment, visit: https://planningapps.sheffield.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=summary&keyVal=R8SAKTNY0NH00