Student returns to lead regeneration project

Tom Fenton, 38, who studied urban land economics at Sheffield Hallam University, is now project director at Sheffield Housing Company, a joint public and private sector venture which aims to build more than 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,” Mr Fenton said.

“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.”

Mr Fenton has worked with Urban Splash for the past 14 years, the organisation behind the restoration of some of the UK’s most iconic buildings and spaces.

He was involved on schemes in Manchester at Albert Mill, Waulk Mill, Budenberg Haus Projekte and Chimney Pot Park.

Initial developments already under way are at: Cutler’s View in Norfolk Park, where 116 properties are being constructed; Brearley Forge in the Parson’s Cross area of the city, where 142 homes are being built; and Shirecliffe where work has just started on a further 47 homes.

Mr Fenton added: “This is a really exciting stage as we begin to see the delivery of homes first conceived two years ago.”