The transformation of Park Hill has taken another significant step forward, as student accommodation developer Alumno commences work on Phase 3 of the redevelopment programme
Alumno’s Park Hill proposals comprise 74 unique townhouse style units to accommodate 356 new student residents, alongside further new commercial space for use by residents and the local community.
The proposals were developed in collaboration with local practice Whittam Cox Architects, and offer a range of living space in a format new to the student accommodation sector, that offers a wide range of choice and options. Alumno has engaged respected interior designer Ben Kelly Design (BKD) along with Brinkworth Design to deliver the shared community space for students.
The proposals were developed through extensive consultation with local stakeholders, Heritage England and students from Sheffield Hallam University (SHU).
Alumno is undertaking a thorough and sensitive refurbishment approach to ensure the historic character of the building is respected, including restoring the numerous bespoke mosaic panels across the block. The proposals will add a distinct yet complementary new neighbourhood to Sheffield and will build on the work Urban Splash has already achieved in reinvigorating Park Hill and making it a benchmark in regeneration and urban renewal.
Park Hill, set in an extensive landscaped setting, benefits from a fantastic location close to Sheffield City Centre and station. Students studying at SHU’s City Centre Campus will be the closest – just 5 minutes’ walk – whilst students from University of Sheffield (UoS) will enjoy direct tram services from Sheffield Hallam Station stop to the UoS main campus.
Sheffield’s iconic Brutalist development is the largest listed structure in Europe and a landmark on the Sheffield skyline. David Campbell, managing director of Alumno, said “This is a one-off and a blueprint project, and students interested in architecture and design are particularly excited about the prospect of living in a world-renowned architectural icon.”
Construction Partner Alumno has appointed Kier to deliver its brand-new £20m student accommodation at the iconic Park Hill flats in Sheffield. Alumno has successfully delivered projects with Kier in Durham, Aberdeen and Glasgow. The project is due to complete in Autumn 2020.
John O’Callaghan, managing director for Kier Northern, commented: “We’re thrilled to be working on the refurbishment of this iconic building in Sheffield and delivering high-quality homes for its students. To benefit the local community we have committed to creating four employment opportunities and have two on-site apprentices.”
Campbell said: “This is an iconic site with international significance – forming a crucial part of Sheffield’s past, present and future – and will be one of our most important projects to date. We’re pleased to be working with Kier again given our longstanding and successful relationship, where we have delivered several schemes over the years.
Building on a sense of community
Campbell added: “During a recent interview for BBC Look North, current Park Hill resident Sue Payne said she was pleased students would be moving into the area in 2020, as they would add to the vibrancy of the area. We always place great emphasis on placemaking and inclusion of the local community in our schemes, so this open-minded attitude is fantastic to hear.
“Our scheme will be managed by an experienced facilities management company which is very used to event organisation for the students, and there is no reason why this cannot include the whole community.”
