University to develop former Henderson's factory into pub

— 02.12.15

by Simon Spode

The University of Sheffield is working closely with the Henderson’s team to develop plans to convert the much-loved former home of the city's favourite spicy relish into a new pub at the heart of the University campus.

The University completed the purchase of the site in the summer and has been in discussion with Henderson’s ever since to ensure that the original building, with its iconic signage, can be transformed into a great place to meet and socialise for local people.

Some initial concepts for how the pub might look have already been developed – and the University now plans to hold a design competition for Sheffield architects to see who can come up with the best ideas for creating a contemporary development which maximises the use and potential of the space whilst retaining the original house at its centre.

“We know how much the old Henderson’s building means to the people of Sheffield,” said Keith Lilley, Director of Estates and Facilities Management at the University. “We’re delighted to have the chance to develop the building into something which our staff, students and the local community can really enjoy.

“We’re thrilled to be working with the University to keep the spirit of Henderson’s alive... This is a wonderful tribute to the importance of the Henderson’s brand to the city.”

Pamela Freeman, MD, Henderson’s Relish

“An important part of our campus masterplan is to open up the University spaces for everyone – not just for our own students and staff - and improvements to the public realm in this area, with a new pub open to all, will help to bring the University to the city.

“A great design which incorporates the important history of the Henderson’s building into a fantastic place for people to meet, eat and drink is what we’re looking for and we hope that local architects who really understand the place Henderson’s holds in the city’s heart will be keen to get involved in the challenge.”

Pamela Freeman, Managing Director of Henderson’s, said she was really excited about the plans. “We’re thrilled to be working with the University to keep the spirit of Henderson’s alive and are looking forward to displaying some of the company’s history within the new pub,” she said.

“This is a wonderful tribute to the importance of the Henderson’s brand to the city and we can’t wait to see the results of the design competition.”