Judges Back Council On New Engineering Faculty

9th July 2013

The Appeal Court yesterday gave the go-ahead for the development of an exciting world class engineering faculty in Sheffield.

The approval for the New Engineering Building at the University of Sheffield has been welcomed by city leaders for the many economic benefits the faculty will bring. Sheffield City Council Leader, Cllr Julie Dore said: "We welcome the news that the Council's planners have been backed by top judges. The new engineering faculty is a huge opportunity for jobs and growth in Sheffield. -It was a difficult planning decision and not everyone agrees with it, but we have had huge backing from many quarters including business. The decision of the Court of Appeal now clears the way for this £80 million development to go ahead, led by the University of Sheffield." The decision will allow the University to move ahead with the new development. Keith Lilley, Director of Estates and Facilities Management at the University of Sheffield said: "We are pleased that the appeal was heard so quickly and that the future of the New Engineering Building is now assured. "This decision means we can complete the NEB in time for the start of the 2015/16 academic year, allowing us to welcome 1300 additional engineering students to the University, along with all the associated economic benefits the development will bring to the city and the wider region, both during the construction phase and on an on-going basis once it is fully operational." Sheffield's business community have also given their full support to the new development. Richard Wright, Executive Director of Sheffield Chamber added: "The new engineering facility demonstrates the increasing ambition of the city. This investment puts us up there amongst the best!  "It's hard to stress how important this is to the long-term success of Sheffield and the region. Recognition of being the best brings investors and growth which in turn generates wealth and employment.  "This investment, in combination with the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre, the arrival of Rolls-Royce and the creation of the University Technical College, will increase confidence that in turn will encourage investments within our business community.  -It sends the statement that we are here to stay and we are prepared to invest to become the best in class. Bring on the future - we are ready for it!" The new faculty will be built on the site of the Edwardian wing of the former Jessop Hospital off Broad Lane.  The Grade 2 listed building will be demolished for this important development.  A judicial review last week rejected the bid by opponents to stop the development.