Harmony Works Trust has secured a £4,677,306 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, contributing significantly to the proposed restoration of Canada House in Sheffield city centre.
Harmony Works Trust, awarded official charitable status in August 2023, purchased the Grade II* Listed Canada House from Panache retail brand for £1.6 million last year and plans to transform the building into a music hub for the region.
The grant, made possible thanks to National Lottery players, adds to the project’s growing support base, which also includes funding from the Architectural Heritage Fund, Sheffield City Council, South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, the UK Government’s Levelling Up Funding, and multiple local trusts and foundations.
Originally built in 1875 as offices for the Sheffield United Gas Light Company, the iconic Canada House will be transformed into a central new home for music education, offering an all-in-one practice, rehearsal and performance destination. Located in the heart of Sheffield city centre, the inclusive hub can be easily reached via bus, tram and train from across the region.
Once fully refurbished, it will become home to many organisations including the Sheffield Music Academy, Sheffield Music Hub, Brass Bands England, Music in the Round, Choir with No Name, Orchestras for All, and Concerteenies, while also working closely with The University of Sheffield, Sheffield Hallam University and The Sheffield College.
Emily Pieters, Project Director at Harmony Works, said: “We are incredibly grateful to The National Lottery Heritage Fund for supporting our ambitious project. While we are not quite over the line yet, this funding commitment is a major step in preserving the historic Canada House, and realising our long-term vision of creating a vibrant new music hub that will inspire and nurture the creative potential of young people and their communities.”
Reflecting on the building’s history, Pieters continued: “In the 1980s, Canada House was known as TurnUps nightclub, a popular spot for young music lovers. It’s amazing to think that in just three years time, these walls will again be filled with music – this time, created by young people for others to enjoy.”
Helen Featherstone, Director for England, North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “It is fantastic news that we’re supporting the restoration of Canada House in Sheffield, a truly fantastic building.
“Saving heritage is a priority for the Heritage Fund and thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, this project will safeguard the historic building by bringing it back into use as a music hub and providing exciting opportunities for young people and communities across South Yorkshire.”
Cllr Martin Smith, Chair of Economic Development and Skills Committee at Sheffield City Council, added: “Culture runs through every community in Sheffield, and we are committed to putting it at the heart of everything we do. Harmony Works will be a home for inspirational music education and opportunity in our city.
“Not only will this benefit young people across South Yorkshire, but this further funding will also allow us to protect an important heritage asset.”
