Work to restart on unfinished ‘eyesore’ housing development

This week. Sheffield Council is expected to approve plans to negotiate a new lease for the Stone Edge site in Fox Hill, which will allow around 160 new homes to be built.

The authority said it is looking at a new developer to take on the site, which has previously been branded an “eyesore” by neighbours.

The Stone Edge development of distinctive, flat-rooved houses was initially proposed as a £27m scheme designed by Dutch architecture firm, Meccanoo.

The site was previously leased to Artisan H Ltd but the developer went into administration in 2011 after building just six out of 179 proposed houses.

Administrators KPMG were 
then appointed by the Bank of Ireland.

A spokesman for Sheffield Council said: “The bank now wants to dispose of the site and the lease and have identified a developer to take over.

“The council’s cabinet will hear a report on the site at a meeting on Wednesday, September 18 where they are expected to give authority for the council as a freeholder to negotiate a new lease and allow new homes to be built.”

Coun Harry Harpham, cabinet member for homes and neighbourhoods, commended the news.

He said: “It is great news to see that a private developer has been found for this site which I am sure residents in the area will very much welcome.

“It is vital to ensure that a new developer is secured who can deliver high quality housing for Fox Hill.

“This is a private development and one which a private developer will be taking over.

“This will give our local construction industry a boost, and help meet the housing needs of people in Sheffield and develop high-quality properties in this area.”