Urban Splash’s vision for the regeneration of Sheffield’s Park Hill into a vibrant and sustainable community for 21^st century has now entered phase 3 and we continue to work as civil and structural engineers on the project.  Continuing the regeneration of the Grade II listed estate, the student accommodation adds to the Park Hill community which already has a mix of commercial and residential developments. 

Phase 3 sees property developer Alumno Developments creating bespoke student accommodation consisting of 70 units for 365 students.  The accommodation designed by Whittam Cox Architects will be made up of 4, 8 bedroom 3 storey townhouses with shared living space.  The accommodation will also have a common room, study centre and shops. Students will also have access to an on-site laundry room, cinema, gym and garden.

Students have traditionally lived in the west part of Sheffield so the development is intended to increase the student housing provision in the east side of the city and integrate students into the Park Hill community.

Phase 3 is due for completion in September 2021 and work began on site in October 2018; construction is now 50% complete.  Kier construction are progressing well and way ahead of where phase 2 was at the same point in time. 

Civic Engineers’ concrete repair works expertise and knowledge are key to phase 3 of the project and this proficiency is being used to ensure the historic character is conserved during the engineering repair and adaptation of post war buildings.  The experience gained during phase 1 and phase 2 of the Park Hill development is proving invaluable in phase 3.

We are implementing innovative Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) solutions  by including three bio-retention areas which act as storm water attenuation features but also add amenity, habitat and biodiversity benefits.  The existing site topography contains a number of step changes which could present construction difficulties (such as overly deep manholes) when installing the drainage network.  Our innovative solution was to design an external backdrop which protrudes through the retaining wall removing the necessity for deep excavation. 

Another of the key ambitions of the Park Hill regeneration scheme is to improve the somewhat bleak aspect of the existing estate; the landscaping strategy will transform the built environment through planting and the provision of green spaces which will instantly improve the quality of life.  The laying of permeable paving also improves the appearance.  It is likely that the transformation of Park Hill will provide a model for other community regeneration projects for 21^st century living.