Gleadless Valley Regeneration

Stories

• Community Spotlight by Alice Henry

  2 months ago

  Alice (Heeley Trust) recently interviewed Aurela, a resident and local volunteer, to gather her insights and views on life and work in the Valley. Here's what Aurela had to say:

  How long have you lived or worked in Gleadless Valley?

  "I have lived in Gleadless Valley for around almost 2 years. During this time, I’ve had the opportunity to get to know the area better and build connections within the local community."

  What do you like about it?

  "The area has nice parks, local shops, good access to public transport with nearby bus stops, and schools close by. I think

  ... Continue reading

  Alice (Heeley Trust) recently interviewed Aurela, a resident and local volunteer, to gather her insights and views on life and work in the Valley. Here's what Aurela had to say:

  How long have you lived or worked in Gleadless Valley?

  "I have lived in Gleadless Valley for around almost 2 years. During this time, I’ve had the opportunity to get to know the area better and build connections within the local community."

  What do you like about it?

  "The area has nice parks, local shops, good access to public transport with nearby bus stops, and schools close by. I think it’s a good place for families and people looking for a calm environment to live in."

  What do you think needs to change?

  "I think it needs more facilities for both children and adults. Having a supermarket, like Lidl or Asda, as well as more cafes, coffee shops, and takeaways, would be a very positive change. It would make the area more lively and convenient for residents."

  Did you have any preconception of what it was like?

  "Before moving here, I thought Gleadless Valley was a dangerous area with high levels of crime. However, after living here, I realised that the reality is very different from the perception, and the community is much calmer and more positive than I expected."

  What do you do here to support the community?

  "I volunteer with Heeley Trust at a group called Migrant Minds, where we provide wellbeing support and assistance to anyone in need. This work allows me to give something back to the community and help people feel more included and supported."

  Are you looking to set anything up, or for support?

  "I have several ideas that I would like to discuss in more detail. I believe that with support from the council, such as guidance, resources, and initial funding, I would be highly motivated to set up a business that could benefit the local community."

  
  

  Please do get in touch if you want to be featured by emailing enquiregleadlessvalley@sheffield.gov.uk or calling 0114 273 6369

  To share your views on Gleadless Valley anonymously fill in the online survey - https://haveyoursay.sheffield.gov.uk/gleadless-valley/surveys/big-chat
  

• Spotswood Green Space

  2 months ago
  

  Here's all you need to know about the ongoing works at Spotswood and the creation of the new naturalistic play and green space:
  
  

  What’s happening on site

  The works began with site setup, safety fencing and tree protection, followed by groundworks to form new grass mounds and prepare wildflower areas. Large stone boulders will be placed at the start of each path to help shape the space.

  These photos show early progress on site, from the fencing first going up to the mounds being created.

  
  Later stages will include tree planting, turfing, stone paving, seating and bollards, followed by dry

  ... Continue reading

  Here's all you need to know about the ongoing works at Spotswood and the creation of the new naturalistic play and green space:
  
  

  What’s happening on site

  The works began with site setup, safety fencing and tree protection, followed by groundworks to form new grass mounds and prepare wildflower areas. Large stone boulders will be placed at the start of each path to help shape the space.

  These photos show early progress on site, from the fencing first going up to the mounds being created.

  
  Later stages will include tree planting, turfing, stone paving, seating and bollards, followed by dry stone walling, play features and anti-graffiti treatments. The final phase will focus on wildflower planting and other soft landscaping, reinstating paths and surfaces, and clearing the site to leave it safe, tidy and ready for use.

  Completion is expected around the end of April 2026, with a grand opening planned for the summer.

  These photos show examples of similar wildflower planting at Ecclesfield Park.

  
  History of the Valley

  The stone paths follow the lines of old streams shown on historic maps of Gleadless Valley. These streams once flowed into the Meers Brook but were buried when homes were built after the war. Long ago, the brook also marked an ancient border between the kingdoms of Mercia and Northumbria. We hope these features celebrate the valley’s history and help build pride in the area.

  
  

  Design and Materials

  The new grass mounds and paths, along with tree planting, will make the hillside more fun and interesting, instead of just open grass. The features are meant for exploring and play. The central space will be bordered by steel knee rails, with larger boulders sited along the trail to add interest. Both of which will deter unwanted bike and motorcycle usage. The materials have been carefully chosen to fit in with the geography of the Valley and will be robust, so require less upkeep over time.

  
  

  Art on site - a message from the artists

  “We are three Sheffield artists, Alastair Flindall, Steve Roche and Lily Marsh. We have been selected to create public art for the new pocket park at Spotswood.

  We've worked with local groups, including Nature Natters, students from Springs Academy, and families during open days, to design vibrant sculptures for Spotswood pocket park. The community's ideas have shaped the vision for a bright and welcoming space.

  With the help of local children, Sheffield poet Sile Sibanda has written a poem for Gleadless Valley, inspired by local heritage and nature. This poem will be carved into the sculptures.

  Once the park has been landscaped, our sculptures will be added. We're excited for you to come and see them!”