The University of Sheffield has received permission from Sheffield City Council to bring the old Henderson’s Relish building back into use.
After acquiring the building in 2015, the University planned to convert the building into a cafe, restaurant and social space, but never proceeded with the development, and has since focused on preserving the building instead.
The building itself dates back to the 19th century, and was used as a factory to produce the condiment sauce from 1959, until the company relocated to Sheffield Parkway in 2013.
The plans for the building include opening out the ground floor to become a flexible space for events, engagement activity and changing heritage displays. The first floor will provide office accommodation, including desks and collaborative meeting spaces.
Planners on behalf of the University said the proposed development had been “sensitively designed” to protect the historic significance of the building.
The University also plans to carry out external work around the building, including the removal of the orange fencing which currently surrounds the site, opening up a new route from the University tram stop.
This new space will allow pedestrians to move around it more easily, and will create new areas for seating and planting, as part of the University’s aims to make campus greener and more biodiverse.
Work on the site is currently due to open in autumn 2026, subject to progress of the work.
