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A former grocer’s warehouse and coffee roastery in Sheffield’s popular Kelham Island district is set to be transformed into 40 new apartments.

Developer Ashgate is regenerating the currently disused Nichols Building, creating a mixed-use scheme with private residential units and 10,000 sq ft of commercial space.

Previously specialising in accommodation for Sheffield’s student community, this is the developer’s first private rental scheme.

The development will retain many of the building’s original features, including mosaic tiling, stone and brickwork, and incorporate new energy efficiency measures to minimise the development’s carbon footprint - including 4,000 sq ft of solar panels that will generate power to heat water.

Matthew Jacques, director of Ashgate, said: “The Nichols Building has a rich history and is an iconic location in Kelham Island, so we were determined to give it a new lease of life. Our scheme will not only bring the building back into productive use, but will provide sustainable, eco-friendly living for residents of Sheffield.”

The plans are supported by a £3.25million package from Lloyds Bank and work is set to begin this summer, with the development opening its doors in May 2022.

Mr Jacques said the funding has allowed the team to maximise the green credentials of the property without having to sacrifice any of its heritage and character”.

After structural and renovation works complete, award-winning local designer 93ft will complete the scheme with a minimalist interior fit-out, enhancing the building’s original features.

Peter Egan, relationship director at Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “Developers like Ashgate have a huge role to play in helping the º£½ÇÊÓƵ meet its ambitious net-zero carbon targets. Forward thinking schemes like this not only help to preserve and regenerate much-loved community assets, but deliver new homes that are truly fit for the future.”