Work on a £1 million dementia-friendly centre for Age UK in Hillsborough Park is due to go ahead in April, it has been announced.

The plan is to redevelop the old Coach House building into a cafe and community hub that will provide activities and events for the community. The charity has just received full permission from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, which donated more than £600,000 to the project.

Steve Chu, Age UK Sheffield CEO, said: “I’m absolutely delighted that the lease has been signed and we have been given the go ahead from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to begin turning this plan into a reality.

“The project is going to have such a positive impact on the community and provide some amazing opportunities for older people across Sheffield to engage in inclusive and exciting activities and events, which will have a real positive impact on reducing the loneliness and isolation faced by so many.”

The lease with Sheffield City Council was officially signed on March 1st. Both the Old Coach House building and the Potting Shed that sits to the side of the Walled Garden will be redeveloped.

The Potting Shed will be used for activities such as crafting, woodwork, gardening and sewing. The Hillsborough Park Bowling Pavilion will also be operated by Age UK Sheffield.

The Coach House building has previously been used as a storage facility for Sheffield City Council. It is currently a run-down grade II building.

Councillor Mary Lea, Cabinet Member for Culture, Parks and Leisure at Sheffield City Council said: “As well as the important benefits the scheme will bring to those living with dementia, it will also provide brand new café and toilet facilities to all visitors, and will preserve the wonderful heritage of the Old Coach House building.

“With developments also progressing for our All Wheeled Bike track, Hillsborough Park is set to be a real leisure destination, serving many communities and improving the lives of local people. I can’t wait to see it take shape later this year.”

For updates on this project, you can visit ageuk.org.uk/sheffield