Switch-on day for iconic city building

AS the clocks go back this weekend and the nights grow darker, Sheffield City Council and National Grid are teaming up to throw light on the city.

Tomorrow the National Grid building in Moore Street, near Ecclesall Road roundabout, will be illuminated. The switch-on marks the end of Sheffield Urban Design Week.

The architect of the award-winning 1960s building, Bryan Jefferson, will be returning to Sheffield in his retirement to join council leader Paul Scriven and Les Adams of National Grid for the official switch-on. It will take place shortly after 6:45pm and spectators are being asked to convene at the Moore Street roundabout underpass, at the end of Ecclesall Road.

Coun Scriven said: “This dramatic scheme has been brought forward at absolutely no cost to the council taxpayer.

“The building will be a shining beacon for the city and a landmark on the inner relief road.

“Throwing light on this concrete structure adds to a growing set of illuminated landmarks around the relief road including the Wicker Arches, the Station, St Mary’s Church and the University of Sheffield which make it easier to direct people new to the city and create memorable first impressions.”

Lighting the building will create a dramatic and highly visible feature on the city’s Inner Relief Road and transform the after- dark appearance of an important gateway into the city centre.

Mr Adams, National Grid’s maintenance delivery electricity manager said: “We are very pleased to be involved in celebrating this iconic building which has been important in keeping the lights on in Sheffield since the 1960s.

“This building has stood the test of time and it still remains fit for purpose. I hope the floodlighting makes it an attractive landmark for the city.”