The transformation of a building on Fargate in Sheffield City Centre has moved a step closer to becoming reality with the Council announcing the preferred operator.
Event Central is a regeneration project commissioned by Sheffield City Council and funded through support from Government, which will see the building in the middle of Fargate transformed into an events space – showcasing Sheffield’s diverse talent. The venue is also expected to host several community events, showcases, exhibitions, workshops and talks.
In a major milestone for the project, Sheffield City Council has revealed Creative Arts Development Space (CADS) as the preferred bidder to be the operator for Event Central when the building opens in 2026.
Cllr Ben Miskell, Chair of the Transport, Regeneration and Climate Policy Committee at Sheffield City Council, said: “We know that Sheffield is packed with talent, and we have some fantastic venues, and Event Central will be an ideal location, right in the heart of our city, for all the various types of talent to be showcased under one roof.
“The transformation of the building will be a crucial part of our vision for Fargate, attracting more visitors to this well-loved area of the city centre.”
Dan Butlin, Head of Operations at Creative Arts Development Space, said: “We’re delighted to have been selected as the operator for Events Central. Once renovations are completed, we look forward to delivering a diverse programme of events and making the most of the space for years to come.
“With over 15 years of experience in managing cultural spaces and supporting creative industries in Sheffield, we’re committed to ensuring Event Central becomes a vibrant hub that serves the people of Sheffield in the best way possible.”
Updated plans for Event Central show the 250-person live event space on the ground floor alongside the main entrance and café/bar area. The other three floors will contain co-working space along with meeting rooms.
Cllr Miskell added: “I’m delighted to be able to announce Creative Arts Development Space as the preferred bidder to become the operator of Event Central, this is an exciting stage in the project and brings us ever closer to being able to unveil this incredibly exciting project.”
