Following the closure of Kommune, one of Castlegate’s most recognisable buildings is set for a major transformation. Rising from the ashes of the former food hall comes Department – a new multi-use social space built around collaboration, culture and creativity.
Led by Jon Perry, one of the original minds behind Kommune, Department is not a rebrand but a completely fresh venture with a new company, new partners and a clear sense of purpose. “We’ve gone back to the drawing board and asked, ‘What does the city need now?’” he says.
Gone is the pure food-hall model. In its place: a curated mix of independent food and drink, grassroots cultural programming, and flexible creative space. “It’s more about nurturing talent, offering up space to creatives and makers, and getting back to that original idea of cultural programming,” Jon adds.
Live events are central to the vision, with plans for gigs, workshops, screenings and more. “We’re working with local promoters and curating the experience – we don’t just want to open the doors and hope people turn up.”
From a business perspective, Department is scaling back the number of food vendors to focus on fewer, more invested partners, supported by a renewed bar offer and considered interior redesign. “It’s about atmosphere and flexibility – somewhere people want to spend time, even if they’re not eating.”
Set to open this spring, Department is shaping up to be a bold and timely addition to Sheffield’s city centre revival. “We’ve listened, we’ve learned – and we’re building something that reflects where the city’s at today.”
