Sheffield’s ‘Heart of the City’ is set to be transformed even further following news that developers Urban Splash have been given the go-ahead ahead to redevelop the listed former Cole Brothers building in Barkers Pool.

Their vision is simple: to restore Cole Brothers to its rightful place as a centrepiece and focal point of city life. This translates to a groundscape filled with lively retail, food and drink; flexible workspace for Sheffield’s best businesses above; and a few surprises dotted around in the basement and the roof.

“We’ve done it before, boldly reinventing department stores and bringing new life to grand old listed structures – back in Manchester’s Northern Quarter with our Smithfield Buildings, remaking the colossal Fort Dunlop in Birmingham and reinvigorating Sheffield’s very own icon of icons, Park Hill,” said a spokesperson for Urban Splash.

The developers aim to retain and reuse as much of the building fabric as possible – from the superstructure to the envelope and many internal partitions. Where elements have reached the end of their life, or limit future flexibility, they will be carefully removed. Everything else stays, celebrated and put back to work.

A new atrium – cut through the upper floors – will become the central spine, linking levels physically and visually. It brings light, air and nature deep into the building, reducing reliance on artificial systems and creating healthier, more uplifting spaces.

Large, singular retail spaces will be divided into smaller, more flexible units, while previously hidden areas – the basement and loading bay – are opened up to create new public-facing spaces. The result is a more engaging, connected streetscape that brings the building and the city closer together.

Levels 1 to 3 will offer flexible, high-quality office spaces that can evolve over time. Open-plan floorplates accommodate a range of occupancy models, while generous floor-to-ceiling heights and abundant light create inspiring, productive environments.

Finally, the roof will be transformed into accessible public space, with a restaurant or bar and external terrace reached via the main lift core. Future uses will build on this, enhancing rooftop activity, biodiversity, and public benefit.

“This is not a building with a single script,” further added the spokesperson. “Instead, it’s a flexible framework ready to be shaped in collaboration with the people and businesses of Sheffield. This is a building adaptable enough to evolve, and inclusive enough to welcome all ideas, from practical to ambitious and everything in between.”