Returning to drive regeneration

Twenty years after coming to Sheffield as a student Tom Fenton has returned to the city to head up an exciting, multi-million pound, housing led regeneration programme.

The former urban land economics graduate of Sheffield Hallam University is now Project Director with Sheffield Housing Company – a private/public joint venture which will create up to 2,300 new homes over the next 15 years.

“I had a great time here all those years ago and it's fantastic to be back and see how much positive change there has been in the city whilst I've been away,” he says. “I never dreamed I would get the chance to return in such a role which will have so much positive change and help add to these improvements – it was just too good an opportunity to miss.”

Tom, 38, has been working with Urban Splash for the past 14 years- the organisation behind the restoration of some of the most iconic buildings and spaces in the UK's major cities. He was involved in Manchester projects at Albert Mill, Waulk Mill, Budenberg HAUS Projekte and Chimney Pot Park.

In his new role he will co-ordinate the activities of Sheffield Housing Company and its partners, the City Council, Great Places Housing Association and regeneration specialist Keepmoat, to create high quality, good value, sustainable homes for sale and for rent.

First phase developments are already underway at Cutler's View in Norfolk Park, where 116 properties are being constructed; at Brearley Forge in Parson Cross where 142 homes are being built and at Shirecliffe where work has just started on a further 47 homes.

Tom added: “This is a really exciting stage as we begin to see the delivery of homes first conceived two years ago.  Our aim is to produce houses to more exacting standards than any other developer in the city.

“They are designed to offer the best possible value. They are spacious and first and foremost they are inclusive as we want to create diverse and sustainable communities. They are built for first time buyers, for families and for those who have disabilities. In fact 10% will be fully wheelchair accessible; they are lifetime homes, which means they can easily be adapted to meet people's needs as they get older; they are energy efficient and they are attractive to look at.

“However, we know that regeneration is not just about bricks and mortar; it's also about people and so we want to help kick start the local economy by creating up to 400 jobs and 200 training places. We are committed to including local firms in our supply chain and, where we can, support local community initiatives and local labour.”

To find out more about the initiative, the homes and availability visit www.sheffieldhousingcompany.co.uk.