Agents appointed to market Sheffield’s former Cole Brothers building
Regeneration company Urban Splash has appointed agents to support the marketing of the former Cole Brothers building in Sheffield.
Smith Young and Stärka have been appointed to handle the retail and leisure briefs respectively, with both firms working alongside Sheffield-based commercial advisor Colloco.
Urban Splash is currently working on proposals to transform the former department store into a mixed-use space. The proposals envision the creation of flexible workspaces, cafes, retail, leisure, cultural uses, and event spaces – all designed to complement a wider ‘Heart of the City’ project.
The former Cole Brothers store opened on Barker’s Pool in 1963, before later becoming a John Lewis. It then closed in 2021.
Urban Splash secured the lease for the former department store from Sheffield City Council in March.
Nathan Cornish, director at Urban Splash said: “We are honoured to be tasked with the redevelopment of another famous Sheffield building.
“As we work through our early design plans, we’re keen to find occupiers who share our values and vision for the building. With these carefully selected agents, we hope to curate a vibrant mix of occupiers who will breathe new life into the building. We are seeking out great brands, independents, and businesses committed to the city, so that together we can create something truly special and unique to Sheffield.
“While we are still in the early stages, we look forward to progressing through the development process and collaborating with agents, potential occupiers, and partners along the way.”
Urban Splash has previously repurposed listed and challenging buildings such as Sheffield’s own Park Hill. They own over one million sq ft of commercial space nationwide that they have developed and now manage.
James Fox, director at Smith Young, said: “We are delighted to be involved in the leasing of this iconic building which has a rich history. Cole Brothers has been central to Sheffield’s retail landscape for over 150 years and now has an important role to play in the continued transformation of the city centre.”
Tim Bottrill, founder of Colloco, added: “The redevelopment of Cole Brothers presents a unique opportunity to bring together a mix of uses that will breathe new life into the heart of Sheffield. With its prime location and iconic status, it’s perfectly placed to attract innovative and dynamic tenants.”
Reflecting on the leisure spaces available, David Bell, co-founder of Stärka, said: “Coles is an iconic building with large open plan floorplates which will suit a variety of different occupiers. Sheffield is currently undergoing a renaissance, and we believe there will be strong demand from local, regional and national leisure operators.”