Two significant brownfield sites in Sheffield, once central to the city’s industrial heritage, are set to be transformed into vibrant new neighbourhoods with up to 1,300 new homes. The developments at Furnace Hill and Neepsend will bring a mix of affordable, market, and later living housing options, supported by substantial government funding and partnerships between public and private sectors.

Regeneration of Sheffield’s Industrial Sites

Sheffield City Council and Homes England have appointed developers to regenerate the former industrial areas of Furnace Hill and Neepsend. These projects aim to create thriving urban communities and establish new gateways to the city, revitalising five hectares of brownfield land—the equivalent of around seven football pitches.

At Furnace Hill, a joint venture between Capital&Centric and Great Places Housing Group will deliver approximately 750 new homes. The housing mix is planned to be balanced, with one third designated as affordable housing, one third for home ownership, and one third for build-to-rent schemes. Meanwhile, igloo Regeneration will lead the development at Neepsend, providing around 430 new homes, including about 20% affordable housing and 10% designed for later living.

Heritage and Community Focus

Both neighbourhoods will integrate green spaces and improved transport links, while celebrating Sheffield’s rich industrial heritage. Notable historic features such as the Doncaster Street Cementation Furnace, a Grade II listed building, along with the Cornish Works and Don Cutlery Works, will be preserved and incorporated into the developments. The proximity to the River Don will also be a key element, enhancing connections to nature within the urban environment.

The regeneration is supported by nearly £70 million of government funding announced in February 2024, aimed at facilitating land assembly and infrastructure improvements necessary for these large-scale projects.

Statements from Key Stakeholders

Kate Josephs, Chief Executive of Sheffield City Council, emphasised the importance of collaboration: “These developments show what is possible when strong local and national partnerships come together with a shared ambition for our city. Densifying and revitalising our central neighbourhoods is a core part of Sheffield’s plan for growth and will enable us to play a key role in the Northern Growth Corridor.”

Amy Rees CB, Chief Executive of Homes England, highlighted the role of partnership working: “Together we can boost communities with new homes and thriving places that people want and need. Homes England will continue to use our expertise and resources in this way, working tirelessly alongside mayors, local leaders and partners.”

John Moffat, Joint Managing Director at Capital&Centric, noted the long-term commitment to Sheffield: “It’s our fourth major project in the city. By aligning public and private investment, we can unlock complex brownfield sites and create the neighbourhoods cities need.”

Helen Spencer, Executive Director of Growth at Great Places, described the project as a “transformative regeneration opportunity” that will provide “quality, sustainable homes that meet the needs of local people for generations to come.”

Joe Broadley, Development Director at igloo, commented on the Neepsend scheme as “an important milestone for Sheffield,” focusing on “high-quality, people-centred homes and public spaces that celebrate local heritage and create long-term social value.”

Sheffield City Council Leader Councillor Tom Hunt underlined the scale and ambition of the developments: “With nearly 1200 homes, and 330 new affordable homes, the new neighbourhoods at Furnace Hill and Neepsend will be significant developments and a sign of our ambition to deliver good quality homes for our residents.”

What this means for landlords

The regeneration of Furnace Hill and Neepsend offers new opportunities for landlords and agents in Sheffield’s expanding housing market. The inclusion of a substantial proportion of affordable and build-to-rent homes reflects a diverse housing offer that can attract a broad tenant base. Additionally, the focus on sustainable, well-connected neighbourhoods with preserved heritage and green spaces enhances the appeal of these areas for prospective tenants seeking quality living environments.

For landlords, this development signals a positive shift towards modern, mixed-tenure communities that balance investment potential with social value. The involvement of experienced developers and significant government backing provides confidence in the long-term viability and growth of these neighbourhoods.

Source: Based on reporting from Homes England

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