Construction begins on landmark park in Sheffield City Centre

Sheffield City Council has appointed local firm Henry Boot Construction to undertake the work, which is expected to take around one year to complete.  

Named after Sheffield’s first Chief Fire Officer, Superintendent John Charles Pound, the park will be located on the former fire station site between Rockingham Street, Wellington Street and Carver Street. The car park that was located on the site is now permanently closed to enable the works.

Seen as a key piece of the Council’s Heart of the City programme, Pound’s Park is being funded by the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority.

It will provide an expansive, safe and accessible space that adds distinctive character and an element of escapism to the city’s busy urban environment. By prioritising walking and cycling, active play and relaxation, all within a visually attractive green setting, the park aims to bring The Outdoor City ethos right into the heart of the city centre.

It also provides another quality space to host outdoor events in the city centre.

Cllr Mazher Iqbal, Executive Member for City Futures: Development, Culture and Regeneration, at Sheffield City Council, said:

"We’re delighted to see Pound’s Park getting underway. It’s beautifully designed and provides another world-class public space to further complement the Peace Gardens, Charter Square and improvements taking place in Castlegate to introduce new vibrancy and greenery to that historic area.

"Pound’s Park will provide a new focal point for families and will help improve both the physical and mental wellbeing of city centre visitors, workers and residents. By prioritising walking and cycling, the park also demonstrates the Council’s commitment to encouraging active lifestyles and sustainable travel."

Tony Shaw, Managing Director for Henry Boot Construction, said:

"We are delighted to be appointed on Pound’s Park and add it to our growing portfolio within the city. Working on a game-changing green space in The Outdoor City feels particularly special to us.   

"The concept of city centres, and how we use them today, continues to change rapidly. With more people choosing to live and work in the city centre, we understand the pivotal role that public spaces and green landscaping play in enhancing wellbeing and sustainability."