Additional funding has been announced to transform empty units in the Fargate area

Grants of up to £35,000 are available as part of the second round of funding to support local businesses and organizations to relaunch empty shops and contribute to the ongoing transformation work which is now underway.

The transformation and regeneration of the Fargate area is at the heart of Sheffield City Council’s plans to reimagine the city center into a cleaner, greener and more vibrant area for people to live, work and relax.

Cllr Ben Miskell, Chair of the Transport, Regeneration and Climate Policy Committee, said: “Fargate has long been known as a vibrant and social part of the city center and we are looking to continue that with the fantastic regeneration work we currently have there. The ReNew project is one of the many ways we hope to achieve this.

“With so many exciting businesses in the town, some just starting out and others keen to expand, it is essential that we work with them to inject new life into the area. We are looking for companies that are creative in their ideas and use this opportunity to try something new, expand or move to a central location.”

During the first round of ReNew funding, businesses such as Juno Books were able to launch, opening their new store in Chapel Walk.

Sarah and Rosie from Juno Books said: “The support from the ReNew team in realizing our ambition to open our first retail space has been really appreciated, helping us fit out the store to a high standard to provide a warm and welcoming space for all.”

Game Show All-stars was another business that benefited from ReNew funding. Based in Orchard Square, director Hannah said: “The ReNew grant was instrumental in bringing Gameshow All-Stars to life. We used the grant to renovate our venue and create a vibrant and engaging atmosphere. The financial support has allowed us to focus on providing a high quality experience for our guests from day one. The difference it made was significant, turning our vision into reality and allowing us to create a space that is both fun and welcoming.”

The improvements and ReNew grants are being funded as part of the £15.8m Future High Streets fund which the Council successfully bid for in 2021.

Cllr Miskell added: “We are looking for projects that will have a long-lasting positive impact on the town center and benefit from the regeneration work that is taking place.”

Those interested in applying must complete an expression of interest form. These should be sent to [email protected] by midnight on August 14, 2024. Anything received after this date will not be accepted.

Expressions of interest will be evaluated to determine which have the greatest potential to contribute to the future vision for Fargate and the surrounding area. These projects will then be required to complete and submit a full application.