Henry Boot Construction (HBC) has been appointed to deliver Pound’s Park – the landmark new public space in Sheffield City Centre, with work set to get underway this month.
Seen as a key piece of Sheffield City Council’s Heart of the City programme, Pound’s Park becomes HBC's third project within the wider scheme, following work already being in progress at major residential development Kangaroo Works, and at a second site that features the Elshaw House office development and Cambridge Street Collective – a major food hall and restaurant destination.
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. It will help integrate a network of open spaces that run from Devonshire Green through to the Peace Gardens.
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 world-class space to host outdoor events in the city centre.
The Pound’s Park contract was procured through the dedicated contractor framework Pagabo. As part of HBC's commitment to Sheffield, social value outputs will be delivered by utilising a local supply chain wherever possible, site-specific employment and various training initiatives.
In addition to Sheffield, HBC are currently working on several other high-profile projects across Yorkshire, including the Cocoa Works in York.
"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. As an organisation, we are extremely well placed to help our clients deliver outstanding public realm. Last year we completed the new public square in The Glass Works at Barnsley, which has transformed how residents, workers and visitors use and enjoy the town centre."
Tony Shaw, Managing Director of HBC"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."
Cllr Mazher Iqbal, Executive Member for City Futures: Development, Culture and Regeneration, Sheffield City Council
