Work is officially underway on Event Central, a landmark cultural venue on Sheffield’s Fargate that aims to provide a flexible new home for the city’s creative talent.
The £14.4 million project – led by Sheffield City Council in partnership with Creative Arts Development Space (CADS) – will transform the former retail unit into a multi-storey venue specialising in exhibitions, live performances, co-working and community activity. Construction has now begun, with completion currently slated for the second half of 2026.
A newly released CGI shows the scale and ambition of the six-storey development, with each floor dedicated to a different use. The ground floor will feature a café-bar and 200-capacity live events space, while the upper floors will be fitted out with co-working areas, meeting rooms and flexible creative spaces.
Cllr Ben Miskell, Chair of the Transport, Regeneration and Climate Policy Committee, said the venue will “breathe life back into the building” and offer a platform for local talent.
“Sheffield is home to some legendary venues and we want Event Central to be added to that list – a place where the next great bands and artists begin their journeys, and where ideas are shared that help shape the future of the city.”
Construction will be delivered by Willmott Dixon, with part of Fargate sectioned off for site use during the build. Once works are complete, the area will be re-paved in line with recent public realm improvements.
Chris Yates, Yorkshire Director at Willmott Dixon, emphasised the company’s commitment to community impact.
“We’re delivering 300 hours of employment support for local residents, two new roles for people not in education or work, and over 75 weeks of apprenticeship training. Our team is also volunteering over 150 hours with local organisations.”
Community partners already engaged include FoodCycle Sheffield, Opportunity Sheffield and local schools including Notre Dame and Sheffield Springs Academy.
To date, £7.8 million of funding has been confirmed for the scheme, with the Council seeking the final allocation to unlock full delivery.
