Plan to convert ex-NUM HQ into casino complex as part of city revival

Barnsley-based Brook Leisure is aiming to transform the building in Barker’s Pool, facing Sheffield City Hall, into an entertainment complex which could create 130 jobs.

Brook Group chief executive Jason Brook said: “The NUM building is one of Sheffield’s most prominent buildings, but has been left behind throughout the city’s recent regeneration activity and it’s hard to believe that the UK’s fourth largest city does not have a city centre casino.

“We are incredibly excited at the prospect of bringing the building back to life as a unique and new entertainment destination, which will in turn create new employment opportunities.

“We have committed to a lease on the building and are hopeful that the council will continue to support us in our efforts to create further opportunities and see this building finally brought into use.

“The next stage in realising the building’s full potential will be to obtain planning consent and commence the necessary refurbishment works.”

The NUM offices were built in the 1980s when union president Arthur Scargill moved the headquarters from London. At one time, there were plans to clear the site to make way for offices.

The Brook Group already operates both the Embrace nightclub on the other side of Barkers Pool and the Crystal bar in Carver Street. Embrace already has a casino licence, which would be transferred to the new business.

Details of the scheme, designed by Sheffield-based Axis Architecture, are now in the hands of Sheffield Council.

Coun Helen Mirfin-Boukouris, cabinet member for business, said: “The development of this building plays a pivotal role in the regeneration of the whole City Hall area.

“I hope the developers can do the same with the former NUM site to add to our city’s regeneration as well as creating much-needed jobs for the people of Sheffield.

“The detailed proposals will be considered by the planning committee which will wish to ensure that the scheme is of a high quality suitable to the important position in the city centre.”