Don Cutlery Works, Doncaster Street, Sheffield: Statement of Heritage Significance

TJC Heritage Ltd. was commissioned to produce a statement of heritage significance and for Don Cutlery Works, Sheffield, to inform development proposals for the site. Subsequently a heritage impact assessment was produced to assess the impact of proposals for the residential conversion of the building. The assessment included desk-based and archival research, a buildings appraisal and statement of significance. The assessment has established the origins and historic development of the buildings at the site, revealed to be a multi-phase cutlery workshop. The buildings at Don Cutlery Works were constructed from c.1838-1851 onwards, with significant expansion in the late-19th century. It is likely that they were built as prospective development to satisfy demand for the expanding metal trades industry in Sheffield in the 19th century, a common occurrence. The buildings themselves have remained relatively unaltered, with the exception of installation of electrical power and general isolated collapse. The site is considered to be of national significance, recognised by its Grade II listing, on account of its architectural and historical interest as a good example of a cutlery works complex. The arrangement of rooms and windows illustrates the usage of spaces, including hand forging in the basement of the North Range and the ground floor of the South Range. The arrangement of cutlers' windows in the workshops to the upper floors, with evidence for workbenches beneath, identifies that this part of the Don Cutlery Works was focused more on assembly than grinding. Office spaces, identified by smaller subdivided rooms, with fireplaces and elements of decorative schemes reflects the combined functions of management and manufacture within one factory complex.