Redevelopment of former Henderson’s factory approved

The proposed redevelopment of the former Henderson’s Relish factory in Sheffield into a café, restaurant or social space has been given the green light.The University of Sheffield, supported by DLP Planning and Rance Booth Smith Architects, submitted a full planning application to Sheffield City Council earlier this year for the property on Leavygreave Road.Henderson’s Relish relocated to a site off Sheffield Parkway in 2013.The plans cover the redevelopment of the building for use as a café, restaurant, or social/leisure space, to be operated by the university. Three of the original facades will be retained.The scheme represents Phase 1 of the university’s proposed redevelopment of the property.Planned future developments include expansion to the rear of the building on land presently being cleared of a workshop. This would form Phase 2 of the redevelopment and be subject to a future planning application and designs.Planning permission has now been granted by the council, subject to conditions, under delegated powers.A planning officer’s report accompanying the decision said the development will “complement the existing uses in the area and complies with relevant policies”.It added: “Although the proposals demonstrate a high level of intervention in the building, externally its historic character will be largely preserved.”Overall, it is considered that the proposal is acceptable in relation to design and heritage implications.”The former Henderson’s Relish factory dates from the late 19th century/early 20th century but has been vacant since 2013. It is located close to a number of university buildings, including the Information Commons Library, as well as the Army Reserve Centre, which operates within the grade II-listed Somme Barracks.The building itself is not listed but the council considers it to be a non-designed heritage asset due to the importance of the Henderson’s brand to Sheffield.