Pete McKee announces new gallery at Leah’s Yard

The beloved Sheffield artist is the first tenant announced for Sheffield’s Grade II Listed Heart of The City development.

Leah’s Yard, which is currently undergoing the final stages of its renovation, breathing life back into its patchwork of buildings, is gearing up for opening in summer 2024.

And Pete McKee will be moving his gallery from its current Sharrow Vale Road location to the city’s newest destination for independent retail and a showcase for the finest makers and creators.

Speaking above the move, Pete McKee said: "The development team has taken great pains to retain as much of the heritage of the building as possible and it looks stunning. I’m incredibly proud of the Sheffield heritage my family, and many others over the generations, have been a part of. So, to be able to place my gallery where once the Artisans of Sheffield produced their wares was an opportunity I couldn’t resist.

“I believe in Sheffield and its ability to adapt and thrive and the town centre is currently going through a metamorphosis. Soon, it will be free of the cocoon of scaffolding and building sites and will be able to open its wings once more. But it won’t shine like our famous steel if we don’t support it. That’s why I wanted to move to the city centre to help be a part of our beautiful city’s new beginning – where we forge our own future and don’t look to be a poor copy of our neighbours up the M1 and over the Snake."

Tom Wolfenden of Leah’s Yard said: “It’d be tough to think of a more perfect partner in this next stage of Leah’s Yard than Pete McKee. A true son of Sheffield, Pete’s artistic journey is a great example of the creativity that is in the bones of this city and to be able to host the next stage of The McKee Gallery is something we’re extremely proud of.”

James O’Hara added: “Back in 2009, in my very first bar in Sheffield, we hosted a McKee exhibition and through that I became firm pals with Pete and his brilliant family and team, for Pete to choose Leah’s Yard as his next home feels like the perfect fit in so many ways.”

Cllr Ben Miskell, Chair of the Transport, Regeneration and Climate Policy Committee at Sheffield City Council, said: “We are delighted that Pete McKee has signed up to Leah’s Yard. Sheffield city centre is on the up and it’s great that we’ve been able to put Pete at the heart of it. Over the years he’s played a key role in Sheffield’s identity and culture, so having him at the very heart of our regeneration is extremely exciting. Our investment in redeveloping Leah’s Yard ensures that this important heritage building will remain a key focal point in the city centre for decades to come – one that perfectly encapsulates what Sheffield is all about.”

Andrew Davison, project director at Queensberry, added: “Leah’s Yard, along with Bethel Chapel and Cambridge Street Collective, will provide a new social and cultural anchor for the city centre. Heart of the City is delivering a fantastic mix of offers and quality brands, and the addition of Pete McKee will provide another huge draw for visitors.”

As Leah’s Yard begins the countdown to opening next year enquiries are still being welcomed from businesses looking for retail, studio and office space.