Developer Proposes £47 Million Plan for 192 New Flats in Sheffield

Capital&Centric has submitted a planning application to Sheffield City Council for a significant development project that aims to create 192 rental flats on Fitzwilliam Street. The proposed development, valued at £47 million, will consist of two blocks of five and six storeys, offering a range of apartment types from studio units to three-bedroom homes.

Focus on Space Standards and Community Needs

This initiative comes in response to growing concerns among local councillors regarding the size of new residential units in the city. The company assures that all apartments will comply with national space standards, addressing previous criticisms about cramped living conditions. In October 2022, Sheffield City Council agreed to sell the parcel of land to Capital&Centric, which is bordered by Fitzwilliam, Egerton, Milton, and Thomas streets.

City centre ward councillor Martin Phipps highlighted the issue of high turnover rates in the city centre, attributing it to the inadequacy of living spaces and a lack of accessible green areas. He emphasized the need for developments that not only meet housing demands but also contribute positively to the community’s landscape.

Plans for Green Spaces and Community Engagement

The development site is partially occupied by FW Wallace Ltd, which operates a car repair workshop under a long-term lease. Capital&Centric has indicated that they successfully negotiated the acquisition of this lease, allowing for the comprehensive redevelopment of the site. In a statement from September, a spokesperson for FW Wallace confirmed their plans to relocate.

Tom Wilmot, joint managing director at Capital&Centric, expressed the company’s vision of creating a vibrant community space. He stated, “We want to create a community where people want to spend time, with proper greenery to unwind in.” The proposed improvements for the surrounding streets include the addition of trees, benches, local artwork, enhanced lighting, and community gathering spots.

This project is part of a broader commitment by Capital&Centric to enhance urban living in Sheffield. The developer has previously revitalized sites such as the former Eye Witness Works and Ceylon Works on Milton Street, where they constructed 97 apartments, duplexes, and townhouses.

The planning application is now under consideration by the city council and, if approved, could significantly impact housing availability and community development in Sheffield’s city centre.