Source: 6.8.09 The Sheffield Telegraph
The recent announcement of the planned move by the Department of Children, Schools and Families to new premises in the city centre is great news for Sheffield.
In March I wrote about the importance of dealing with the short-term while still planning and preparing for the medium to long-term and the relocation demonstrates this principle admirably.
The overall deal, facilitated by Sheffield City Council and Creativesheffield, ensures the department's future and 800 jobs here in Sheffield and the use of all of St Paul's Number 2, by a prestigious occupier. This helps to maintain the momentum of the Heart of the City project, where construction on the residential element of the scheme is progressing well.
A key part of the relocation package also includes the purchase of the Government buildings at Moorfoot by Sheffield City Council. This is a crucial first step in the long-term plans to create a New Business District as set out in the Sheffield Economic Masterplan and the City Centre Masterplan 2008; the strategic plans for the development of the city.
The DCSF's relocation secures short-term benefits while laying foundations for the future and is all the more notable as it has occurred against a backdrop of difficult economic times.
Although the physical regeneration of the city centre is an important part of Sheffield's investment offer, so are the softer, more intangible aspects – 'the feel' of the place. There is good news in this respect, too, as the city continues to improve its programme of events in order to animate the city centre.
For example Creativesheffield recently created Memo Market, which is a celebration of Sheffield 'must-haves'. The market featured 42 of Sheffield's best brands all in one place for the first time ever. The market promoted Sheffield's independent nature which differentiates our city from others in the UK as well as supporting local businesses.
Following this year's success, it is hoped that the Memo Market will become a more regular fixture.
Wednesday Night Live, which was launched last year, aims to boost the early evening economy and animate the city centre by encouraging late-night shopping, offers in bars and restaurants, city centre events and much more. In 2008 the project saw 73 per cent more people compared with 2007 and businesses deemed it a major success. We hope 2009 will see a similar positive response and that our businesses will benefit directly.
Sheffield Showcase, The Sheffield Wheel and Sheffield Music City are examples of other projects which have been successful so far this year with special thanks to Sheffield City Council. Grin Up North hopes to continue this success into the autumn.
Increased spend in city centre shops, cafés, bars and restaurants will ensure these businesses thrive and a vibrant city centre is created to attract residents, visitors and investors.
So, whether you're reading this before you leave for a summer break or are returning, please take the opportunity to enjoy Sheffield's attractions and events.
Have fun and contribute to the city's regeneration efforts at the same time…