True North aims to restore the Grade II listed building as a premier entertainment venue that will host live music, comedy, art and other events.
The picture house opened in December 1920, but due to difficulties in renovation and changing markets, led to its closure in February 2024.
Kane Yeardley, owner of True North, said: “Our vision is to make it a vibrant entertainment destination for all demographics across Sheffield and beyond.
“Sheffield deserves an authentic local brand that understands the significance of this building and ensures its future remains rooted in the city.
“We’re here to ensure this space remains a proud part of Sheffield, by Sheffield, for Sheffield.”
Previous projects True North have worked on include The Punch Bowl, The Old Grindstone, Common Room and Forum, all venues that offer their pledge student cards to enjoy a 20% discount.
They are collaborating with previous occupants CADS (Creative Arts Development Space) and Professor Vanessa Toulmin from the University of Sheffield, who will advise on its importance as a historic cinema and theatre.
Vanessa Toulmin, Director of City and Culture at the University of Sheffield, said: “The consultancy gives me an opportunity to combine my research expertise and my love of the building,
“So a part of the work I’m doing is kind of navigating them through that public perception and also what they have to deliver.”
Toulmin emphasised that the Abbeydale building is a ‘legacy’, she said: “It isn’t just a building, it’s an investment for Sheffield.”
The kind of advice she will be giving True North involves the correct ways of cleaning such a heritage building and that the most important thing is that it is ‘habitable, usable, safe, and a place where people can come’.
Toulmin added: “It’s a building for the next generation. It’s a building for other people to love and to make new memories.”
The transformation of the Abbeydale will be phased over the next two years and is expected to improve the local economy.
Image credit – Jane Smith: True North Brew Co.
