Dear Mr Wells

Thank you for your enquiry and concern about the Sheffield Castle site.  The site is of significant importance to Sheffield for many reasons, including the history of the site and other features such as the River Sheaf, which means we are engaging with a large number of stakeholder groups.  As you note the scheme has been developed over a number of years but we submitted a planning application for the site in February 2023, which was approved on 24th May 2023.  Details of the planning permission can be found on the Council’s Planning Portal - https://planningapps.sheffield.gov.uk reference 23/00493/OUT.

The aims of the scheme are to investigate, document and preserve the archaeology of the site, de-culvert the River Sheaf, create an urban park, and develop the area surrounding the site to support regeneration of the local area.  In creating the park we are responding to the findings of the archaeological investigation in real time and updating the design in response.  As with all parks, it is intended that it will be used for appropriate and approved events.

The castle site archaeological investigations are being undertaken in accordance with an approved Written Scheme of Investigation and Conservation Mitigation Strategy, which form part of the planning permission noted above.  These investigations have revealed some really interesting parts of the castle that haven’t been seen before and I have been assured that many of these will absolutely be incorporated into the park.  The value and interest associated with the castle and the history of Sheffield in this location is of critical importance to the park and is a key consideration in its design.  I am aware however that because there are extensive excavations that cover a large area of the park, some of these will necessarily be reburied to create the park.  However, it’s important to note that this is not unusual practice and is often vital for preservation.  Ultimately what is displayed or not will be dependent on archaeological value, and the most appropriate means of protecting the remains.

I want to reassure you that Sheffield City Council is committed to preserving the history of the Castlegate site and is working closely with a group of professional archaeologists, including highly respected staff from the Sheffield University Department of Archaeology.  Wessex Archaeology is undertaking the archaeological excavation and details, including any significant discoveries, are published on their website, which you can find at https://www.wessexarch.co.uk/our-work/sheffield-castle  The original timescales for the excavation were planned to be 10 weeks based on expert assessments, but as the excavation continues we have agreed extensions as appropriate.

I hope this goes some way to allay your legitimate fears for the site.

Yours sincerely,

Catherine 

Catherine Mills (she/her)

Interim Head of Chief Executive’s Office