Parson Cross sites sold by SMC on behalf of The Sheffield College
The Sheffield College has agreed the sale of the former Monteney and Colley sites at Parson Cross, Sheffield to Gleeson Homes and Regeneration. The two sites, which total nearly 32 acres, were previously used as further education colleges but became surplus when Sheffield College opened new facilities at Hillsborough College. The land had previously been under offer to Barratt Homes, but planning delays and the economic downturn prevented that sale proceeding. This led to the sites being re-marketed by SMC Chartered Surveyors on behalf of Sheffield College. Gleesons came in with a strong bid in competition with another party. Despite there being no actual residential planning consent in place, Gleesons made a bid that was not subject to planning. Steve Gamble Gleeson's Land and Planning Director said, 'This purchase reflects our desire to re-establish a strong presence in the Sheffield residential market and reflects our view that Sheffield is well worth investing in'. Gleesons have now lodged a fresh planning application for 387 houses as well as significant improvements to open space, two playing fields and other facilities. The application is expected to go to committee in the early autumn. SMC worked in conjunction with Hill Dickinson solicitors, who advised on and agreed the sale contract within very tight time constraints. Mike Hull, Managing Director of SMC, said, ' We are delighted with the sale, which is advantageous to the Sheffield College because it brings in the whole sale proceeds within the college's current financial year. These can then be re-invested into further education in Sheffield at a time when the public sector is under pressure, so it is really good news. In the present financial climate, it is also quite unusual to be able to do a deal with so few strings attached.'