Sheffield's Moorfoot building 'comes to market' as residential project - ending demolition hopes
A high-quality neighbourhood is planned
Sheffield’s giant Moorfoot building has “come to market” - dashing hopes it could be demolished.
The huge office block is being touted as a residential conversion project by Sheffield City Council.
Kate Josephs, chief executive of Sheffield City Council, said she was “delighted” to bring the Moorfoot site to market saying it would create a high-quality neighbourhood.
The announcement appears to end debate about whether the controversial structure should be flattened.
She said: "We're delighted to bring the Moorfoot site to market.
“This is a truly unique and exciting development opportunity that will act as a catalyst not only for this site, but for surrounding brownfield land and future phases of regeneration.
"Moorfoot represents a new gateway to the city centre, reconnecting key routes and removing barriers, while creating a high-quality, sustainable neighbourhood.
“The Moorfoot Building itself is a distinctive piece of architecture that always sparks conversation, and its transformation will form one of the largest commercial retrofit projects in the UK. It will be a true case study for the sector.
"We're looking forward to working with ambitious partners who share our vision to unlock the full potential of this important site."
Sheffield City Council and government body Homes England have announced preliminary market engagement for the Moorfoot Catalyst Site.
The scheme forms part of wider ambitions to repopulate the city centre with new homes, while strengthening connections from London Road and Ecclesall Road into the heart of the city.
Phase One will focus on the former Wickes site and the landmark Moorfoot Building, alongside new public realm and adjacent retail.
The city council says it has the potential for about 725 homes, including 320 in the Moorfoot Building, as well as commercial, retail and food and beverage space, a new public square and a mobility hub.
At least 10 per cent of homes are expected to be affordable.
A formal tender is expected later in 2026.
The authority says keeping the building will retain an estimated 14,400 tonnes of embodied carbon.