Plans to create a dementia-friendly cafe in Hillsborough Park‘s Old Coach House have stepped forward after receiving lottery funding.
The Old Coach House Cafe
The Age UK charity announced plans to convert The Old Coach House to a community cafe in 2018.
The run-down Grade II listed building has sat in a state of disrepair for many years. Previously used by Sheffield City Council for storage, the old Hillsborough Library annex has been largely unused in recent times.
However, around £1million funding is needed to bring the Old Coach House back into use and convert to a cafe.
Old Coach House National Lottery Funding
Today it has been announced that the National Lottery Heritage Fund have awarded Age UK £581,500 to restore the building. This follows an initial £49,700 of funding previously awarded for development of the plans in 2018.
“This is absolutely amazing news. I am so grateful to The National Lottery Heritage Fund and everyone who buys Lottery tickets. This project could not have developed without National Lottery funding.”Steve Chu, Age UK Sheffield Chief Executive
Additionally, Age UK have contributed £100,000 to the project and £200,000 has been secured from partner funding.
However, further local fundraising will be needed to hit the £1million target. Anyone wishing to help should contact Age UK by emailing [email protected] or phoning (0114) 250 2850.
Innovative Dementia-Friendly Cafe
The project aims to support dementia-friendly activities on the site. A new hub will allow for educational activities, classroom-based learning and pursuits such as singing and dancing.
“This will enable people with dementia, their families, friends and carers, to be more active, more creative and more integrated.”Councillor Mary Lea, Cabinet Member for Culture, Parks and Leisure
The cafe will of course be open to all, allowing visitors to Hillsborough Park to meet, relax and eat. The Old Coach House will link with the community Walled Garden, Hillsborough Library and other park facilities. Age UK will also mange the facilities at the nearby bowling pavillion.
Additionally, the nearby old Potting Shed will be renovated to become a creative ‘makers space’.
“Our funding will not only go towards saving these historic buildings from dilapidation, but will ensure that they will become valuable community assets providing a space for services for older people and dementia-friendly activities.”David Renwick, Director (England, North) at The National Lottery Heritage Fund
The charity hope to commence construction work in the autumn and open the cafe in the Summer of 2021, however concerns around the pandemic may delay work starting.
UPDATE: Age UK Sheffield have confirmed work will start on the renovations at the end of March 2021!
Read our comprehensive history of Hillsborough Park and Library.
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