Stocksbridge community hub underway
Six years after it secured funding from the former government’s Levelling Up programme, the £16.3m project has got off the ground.
The scheme includes the demolition of the former library and construction of the three-storey, 25,000 sq ft Stocksbridge 519, which will house a new library, community space, classrooms for adult education, offices for new businesses, and a café.
R G Carter has been contracted for the demolition work, with the rest of the project team comprising architect CODA, Arup, and Rider Levett Bucknall.
Stocksbridge Towns Fund had previously said work would be complete by summer of 2026, however this has been pushed back until 2027.
Located on Manchester Road in the town centre, Sheffield City Council have reduced the original scope of the design to accommodate rising costs.
Originally, the budget for the project was set at £11.7m, however inflation, increased design costs, and a £525,000 compensation ‘right to light’ payment to neighbours have contributed to today’s almost 50% increased amount.
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Ian Sanderson board member of the STF said: “We are delighted to get to this stage of the project now where residents, business owners, and visitors will see visible change in the development of this community hub and public space.
“The Stocksbridge Hub 519 will be a breath of fresh air for the town centre.
“It will provide a space where people can come together to access vital services, take part in community projects and socialise with their neighbours and friends.
“We look forward to this work progressing and being able to share updates for the community on major milestones being hit and who will be moving in to occupy space at the hub.”
Darren Chiumento, project manager at R G Carter, said: “We are delighted to be able to commence works on the construction of this new community hub and library, collaborating with Sheffield County Council and Stocksbridge Towns Fund Board to deliver their future vision.
“Our team are thankful to everyone that has helped get his project to this initial stage and to the local residents and stakeholders for their positive welcome to the town.
“We are now eager to start this fantastic facility, and we look forward to delivering the many benefits it will bring to the local community, and it’s part in the Manchester Road transformation.”
