Iconic Sheffield stainless steel factory gets £100,000 boost

The funding will support a project of extensive restorative roofing work which will ensure future generations are able to engage with the heritage of the building and the craftspeople working within it.

Thanks to National Lottery players, the project, led by Portland Works manager Georgina Barrett and a team of committed building work volunteers, will enable various heritage and educational activities and events to take place over the next two years.

The grade II listed building was saved in 2013 by a campaign led by tenant makers and members of the public. Over the past three years a team of volunteers have worked tirelessly to renovate the dilapidated building - creating a developing hub for traditional and contemporary craftspeople.

“Moving forward we’re keen to engage people with our heritage and support the continuation of artisan and small scale manufacturing in Sheffield,’ said Georgina Barrett, manager of Portland Works.​

“Ensuring future generations are aware of, and enabled, to take up their desired practice is a reality we are passionate about. This grant will allow us to open Portland Works to a cross-section of the community in a variety of interesting and immersive ways. We’re very excited about the future.”

Explaining the importance of the HLF support, Fiona Spiers, head of HLF Yorkshire and the Humber said:​ “Portland Works is a fantastic building that deserves to be restored and enjoyed by everyone. From a metal trades factory in the late 19th century to a haven for local crafts and trades, this historic building and its fascinating history will be given a new lease of life.”