Developers appeal after plan for historic city building is turned down

DEVELOPERS HAVE launched an appeal after plans to re-develop the site of a historic building in a Yorkshire city were refused by councillors.

An ongoing planning battle over the Old Coroner’s Court in Sheffield came to a head when the planning board refused plans last October to develop the site.

Developers Firestone wanted to build 77 apartments on the site in Nursery Street but councillors rejected the design. They claimed the proposed development was “plain” and “unattractive” and would not fit in with the heritage of the River Don and Wicker, a historic street in the city.

But the developers do have permission to demolish the building as it is not listed, and they have now taken their appeal to the Planning Inspector, who will make a final decision.

Coun Douglas Johnson, a Green member for the City ward, had fought to save the building.

He said: “The Old Coroner’s Court is a historic building in a riverside setting. The developer’s proposal was an ugly brick block so it is quite right that the plans were rejected.

“Heritage buildings are an important part of proper, long-term economic recovery of a run-down part of the city centre. Sheffield’s 20th century history of buildings should teach us that tearing everything down to start afresh is not the way to a sustainable living environment.”

When the planners rejected the scheme, Firestone warned then that it would appeal.

At the time, William Marshall, on behalf of Firestone, said that the building “could be demolished tomorrow with no consequences”, and stressed “all avenues” had been assessed and the only solution was the housing scheme.

The Old Coroner’s Court dates back to 1913. The building was designed by city architect FEP Edwards as a coroner’s court with a mortuary, post mortem rooms, a chapel and a waiting room.