Sheffield’s city centre is set to welcome a brand-new creative hub as Event Central moves a step closer to opening its doors – and it’s now got a familiar Sheffield name at the helm.
The ambitious project will see a building in the middle of Fargate transformed into a multi-purpose event space, designed to showcase the very best of Sheffield’s diverse creative talent.
Backed by Sheffield City Council and Government funding, the venue will play host to gigs, exhibitions, community workshops and more, adding a fresh cultural focal point to the city’s high street.
In a major milestone for the project, Sheffield City Council has revealed Creative Arts Development Space (CADS) as the preferred operator to run Event Central when it opens in 2026.
Councillor Ben Miskell, Chair of the Transport, Regeneration and Climate Policy Committee, said the venue would play a key role in supporting Sheffield’s creative community.
“We know that Sheffield is packed with talent, and we have some fantastic venues. Event Central will be an ideal location, right in the heart of our city, for all the various types of talent to be showcased under one roof,” he said. “The transformation of the building will be a crucial part of our vision for Fargate, attracting more visitors to this well-loved area of the city centre.”
CADS, the non-profit organisation known for supporting creative industries and repurposing unique spaces across Sheffield, will bring their expertise to the project. Dan Butlin, Head of Operations at CADS, said the team was looking forward to delivering a diverse programme of events once the venue was ready.
“We’re delighted to have been selected as the operator for Event Central. Once renovations are completed, we look forward to delivering a diverse programme of events and making the most of the space for years to come,” he said. “With over 15 years of experience in managing cultural spaces and supporting creative industries in Sheffield, we’re committed to ensuring Event Central becomes a vibrant hub that serves the people of Sheffield in the best way possible.”
Updated plans for the venue include a 250-capacity live event space on the ground floor, alongside a café/bar area and the main entrance. The three upper floors will be used for co-working spaces and meeting rooms, offering a creative hub for freelancers, businesses and artists alike.
