Portland Works is a community benefit society of traditional and modern craftspeople located within one of the UK’s most important historical industrial buildings. Often referred to as the birthplace of stainless steel manufacturing, Portland Works was built in Sheffield in 1879 and is now one of the last remaining working examples of a purpose built metal trades factory. Following a half-century of neglect, the building was purchased in 2013 by a social enterprise comprising more than 500 community shareholders who, having saved it from residential conversion, are now undertaking an extensive renovation.
The grade 2* listed building has been reborn as a centre for small manufacturing, independent artists and craftspeople, with more than 30 small businesses located within the 2600 square metre floor space. These include knife makers and sharpeners; metal engineering firms; cabinetmakers and joiners; jewellers and silver platers; artists; rug and guitar makers; photographers and even a Yorkshire based gin distillery.
Portland Works is supported by a team of tireless volunteers and by donations from individuals, businesses and institutions such as the Heritage Lottery Fund, the European Regional Development Fund and the J Paul Getty Jr. Charitable Trust.
For further information please visit www.portlandworks.co.uk
