Former bank to become new cultural venue after securing grant

A former bank in Sheffield city centre is set to be transformed into a new cultural venue after securing £1 million in funding from the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA).

The Grade II-listed building in Fitzalan Square will become the new home for the Sheffield-based visual arts organisation, S1 Artspace, which until October 2023 was based in Park Hill.

The former Yorkshire Bank Chambers has stood empty for more than a decade.

S1 was previously awarded a grant of £50,000 in 2024 to develop the business case for the scheme.

A £10,000 grant from the Architectural Heritage Fund was also awarded to S1 to ensure that architectural and historical features are preserved.

The renovated building will include two floors of public galleries, artists’ studios, research facilities, and a shop selling the work of local artists and makers.

Plans also include an independent bar and a community and events space.

Louise Hutchinson, strategic director of S1 Artspace, said: “This additional funding is an important step towards realising our vision for S1 Artspace’s new home.

“The support from SYMCA and the Architectural Heritage Fund demonstrates the confidence in our plans and the importance of cultural investment in the region.”

She added that the renovation of the former bank will transform “this remarkable building into a dynamic and accessible cultural venue for Sheffield and beyond”.

The redevelopment forms part of a wider city strategy to revitalise the Castlegate area of Sheffield, which includes the £3.5 million Harmony Works venue.