From steel capital of the world ... to emerging cultural centre

Sheffield's illustrious past as a giant in the metal and steel industries exploded thanks to the innovative use of scientific research to solve manufacturing problems. Sheffield achievements such as the patenting of Henry Bessemer's converter to aid mass steel production in 1856, and Harry Brearley's invention and development of stainless steel in 1913 highlight the city's industrial pedigree.

Sheffield’s global position as a strong manufacturing city was also cemented by creative innovations such as Sheffield plate, discovered by Thomas Bolsover in 1743 by accident when over-heating a silver and copper coin he had used to wedge a vice. Sheffield cutlery also made a lasting impression with a focus on equating traditional methods with quality items, embodied in the words 'Made in Sheffield'.

As technologies and industry changed, Sheffield is ensuring its future is set to be just as glorious as its past. Within a £2billion regeneration development scheme in South Yorkshire, organisations such as Carrs of Sheffield, Swann Morton and Gripple have managed to successfully continue with Sheffield’s historic trades, whilst the globally recognised ‘Made in Sheffield’ brand is being adapted to celebrate all great things from Sheffield.

Phil Roberts, Chief Executive of Sheffield First for Investment, are instrumental in reinvigorating the Sheffield brand: “Sheffield is the only city in the world whose name means quality and innovation. When the Bessemer process was developed, it put Sheffield at the cutting edge of new technology and the equivalent of the knowledge based economy. It is the same attention to innovation and quality which will ensure the City’s continued success.”

Sheffield’s 21st Century technology, computing, sports development and creative industries are playing a greater role on the international stage and are increasingly important sources of employment and wealth creation in the city, alongside the traditional manufacturing industries which first gave Sheffield its international reputation.

Sheffield and cities of a similar industrial make-up, such as Anshan in China, are finding that creativity and culture can be successfully harnessed to redevelop the city and lead to greater economic wealth. Sheffield’s Cultural Industries Quarter Agency (CIQA) is charged with this direction, and Sheffield Hallam is delighted to play a role in its growth and encourage businesses that thrive on innovation, design and creativity. Sheffield City Council’s commitment to the growth of these skills and talents is demonstrated through the new Cultural Strategy.

Dr Ann Gosse, Director of Culture at Sheffield City Council says: "Innovation and entrepreneurial spirit underpins Sheffield's foundations. This instilled creativity and energy of independent production still lies at the heart of the city and its future economic and social regeneration.”

Martin Manning, Director of CIQA says: “Sheffield has a proud heritage but now innovators of the creative and digital world are spearheading economic growth. Creative industries stimulate personal and civic pride, and ultimately shape the City's identity. Sheffield is host to a cluster of world class talent and will continue to sustain this on its path to global recognition as a hub of innovative creative production."

Sheffield Hallam’s own history, founded in 1843 as Sheffield College of Art and Design, then absorbing the College of Technology in 1969 and the city’s two teacher-training colleges in 1976 to create a formidable force in the teaching of innovation and creativity, reflects all of these ambitions and more. We have become a leader in making higher education more relevant to the world of work and more accessible to everyone who sets their sights on achieving their potential. Our and the city’s dedication means new engineers, designers, sports scientists, environmentalists and business people all thinking innovatively in their day to day lives.

Sir Robert Kerslake, Chief Executive of Sheffield City Council says: “The tradition of innovation and creativity should not become something of the past. Sheffield should build upon its historical legacy to cement its place in the 21st century. The aim is to become one of the world's leading creative-producer cities, on a par with Milan or Stuttgart, and to re-establish the words 'Made in Sheffield' as a by-line for quality globally. Sheffield City Council is helping achieve this goal by setting up Creative Sheffield, a unique new city development company, which will lead on the economic transformation of the city."