Further funding announced to transform empty units in the Fargate area

Grants of up to £35,000 are available as part of the second round of funding to support local businesses and organisations in reviving empty shops and adding to the ongoing transformation work that is now well underway.

The transformation and regeneration of the Fargate area is at the centre of Sheffield City Council’s plans to reimagine the city centre into a cleaner, greener, and more vibrant area for people to live, work and relax.

Cllr Ben Miskell, chair of the Transport, Regeneration and Climate Policy Committee, said: “Fargate has long been known as a vibrant and social part of the city centre and we’re looking to continue that with the fantastic regeneration work we have currently taking place there. The ReNew project is one of the many ways we hope to achieve this.

“With so many exciting businesses in the city, some just starting out and others keen to expand, it is critical we work with them to inject new life into the area. We are looking for businesses to be creative in their ideas and use this opportunity to try something new, expand, or move to a central location.”

During the first round of ReNew funding, businesses just like Juno Books were able to launch, opening up their brand-new shop in Chapel Walk.

Sarah and Rosie, from Juno Books, said: “The support from the ReNew team to make our ambition of opening our first retail space was really appreciated, helping us fit out the shop to a high standard to provide a warm and welcoming space for all.”

Game Show All-stars was another business that benefited from ReNew funding. Based in Orchard Square, Director Hannah said: “The ReNew grant was instrumental in bringing Gameshow All-Stars to life. We used the grant to renovate our venue and to create a vibrant and engaging atmosphere. The financial support allowed us to focus on providing a high-quality experience for our guests from day one. The difference it made was significant, it transformed our vision into a reality and enabled us to create a space that is both entertaining and welcoming.”

The improvements and ReNew grants are funded as part of the £15.8m Future High Streets Fund which the Council successfully bid for in 2021.

Cllr Miskell added: “We are looking for projects that will have a long-lasting positive impact on the city centre and will benefit from the regeneration work taking place.”

Those interested in applying must complete an expression of interest form. These must be sent to renewsheffield@sheffield.gov.uk  by midnight on 14 August 2024. Anything received after this date will not be accepted.

Expressions of interest will be evaluated to determine which have the greatest potential to contribute to the future vision for Fargate and the surrounding area. These projects will then be asked to complete and submit a full application.