Plans submitted for new pocket park in the heart of Sheffield

Following public consultation earlier this year, a planning application for Pound’s Park – the proposed new public space within the Council’s Heart of the City scheme – has now been submitted.

If approved, Pound’s Park will provide a safe and accessible green park flanked by the arising Heart of the City development, offering space for active play and relaxation within a well planted and visually attractive setting.

Located on the former fire station site between Rockingham Street, Wellington Street and Carver Street, the park would add character to Sheffield’s busy city centre environment.

Pound’s Park would reinvent traditional expectations of a city centre park; providing inclusive spaces for imaginative play, alongside more tranquil areas for socialising and relaxation.

A mix of water play and climbing features will be provided, suitable for all age groups and abilities, including a sizeable climbing boulder positioned at its centre, which will bring the Outdoor City ethos right into the heart of the city centre.

As well as being environmentally beneficial, with trees and planting used to enhance biodiversity, sustainable urban drainage and urban cooling, the green space would also promote physical and mental wellbeing and would be located next to a new cycle hub proposed on Wellington Street.

A new kiosk to serve coffee, ice creams and snacks will be built to screen the large substation on the edge of the park, which will also incorporate new accessible public toilets.

Councillor Terry Fox, Leader of Sheffield City Council, said:

“We are thrilled to see the plans for Pound’s Park submitted. We received extremely positive feedback during the public consultation and would like to thank all those who took the time to comment.

“If approved, the park will raise the bar for public realms in city centres. It would provide Sheffield city centre with another world class, attractive green space to further complement the Peace Gardens, Charter Square and the continuing Grey-to-Green scheme.

“The proposals replace previous plans for a multi-storey car park on the site and demonstrate the Council’s commitment to helping to combat the climate emergency.”

The planning application for Pound’s Park can be viewed at www.planningapps.sheffield.gov.uk using the reference number 21/02761/RG3, where comments on the scheme can also be submitted.