New university development planned for former Sheffield City airport runway

Plans have been announced for a new University of Sheffield development on the site of the former Sheffield City Airport runway.

The 100-acre site will introduce new large and small scale research facilities to the university’s Innovation District in Tinsley.

Boeing and the AMRC Factory 2050 – the UK’s first reconfigurable digital factory – are already situated within the development, and it is hoped the plans will bring further jobs and investment to the region.

University of Sheffield vice-chancellor, Professor Koen Lamberts, said: “We have seen the impact of innovation-led growth, with the University’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre transforming the Sheffield-Rotherham border into a global hub for advanced manufacturing over the last 20 years.

“As part of the UK’s first government-backed Investment Zone in South Yorkshire, our vision for Runway Park will build on this considerable momentum.

“We look forward to working with partners to deliver bespoke solutions to industry, catalyse growth opportunities and attract the investment the region needs to continue on a path to prosperity.”

The plans were unveiled at the annual UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum this week.

Artist interpretations show blueprints for large scale research and development units, industrial units, and a conference centre.

It also promises to have leisure facilities such as sports pitches, a health and fitness suite, and a glass dome waterfront cafe.

Sustainable energy infrastructure – including a wind turbine – will help to power the site.

Linda Goodacre, Director of Estates and Facilities at the University of Sheffield, said: “Runway Park reflects our long-term commitment to creating places that are not only fit for the future, but actively help shape it.

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“Designed with flexibility, resilience and sustainability at its core, the site brings together high-performance buildings and green infrastructure to offer exceptional working and collaboration environments for tenants of all sizes.”

“From our energy-efficient facilities and on-site renewable energy to acres of biodiverse parkland and walkable green space, Runway Park gives businesses the room – and the responsibility – to grow sustainably.”

Featured image from University of Sheffield