Stocksbridge, a town once bustling with activity, is experiencing a significant decline as residents relocate in search of better living conditions and employment opportunities. The shift has been attributed to a combination of shop closures, dwindling jobs, and a lack of investment in the area.
Historically, Stocksbridge was a thriving steelwork community, founded by Samuel Fox in 1842 with a wire works. Today, while Liberty Speciality Steel operates a mill in the area, locals express concerns that it no longer generates the commercial vitality it once did. According to a report from Yorkshire Live, the town’s population has decreased by 3.8% over the past two decades, contrasting sharply with a growth of 9% in the wider South Yorkshire region.
A resident, who chose to remain anonymous, recalled how vibrant the town once was. “When I was a child, it was absolutely buzzing,” she said. The influx of workers from nearby locations like Barnsley and Penistone made the area lively, with buses arriving thrice daily. She lamented the decline, noting, “There were bakers, green grocers, butchers. Now it’s just a lot of takeaways.”
As of the 2021 census, Stocksbridge was home to 7,263 residents, down from nearly 7,500 in 2001. The local economy has struggled, largely due to the shrinking steel industry, resulting in significant job losses. Another lifelong resident, Janet Pillkington, reminisced about the sounds of the steel works, which are now rarely heard.
While some residents find joy in the local landscape, such as Eric and Jean Yeardley, who appreciate the area’s walking routes, they acknowledge the need for rejuvenation. Jean stated, “It’s never had the investment. There’s a lot of money that needs putting into it.”
Walking through the high street, the evidence of decline is stark: shuttered storefronts, numerous takeaways, and worn signage dominate the landscape. Despite this, the Fox Valley Shopping Centre, a £50 million development that opened in 2018, reportedly remains busy, offering a glimmer of hope.
Community pride appears to be fading, as one anonymous resident noted, “Everybody had pride outside their houses. But new people are coming in and they are turning it into an area that’s not well kept.” The population influx does not correlate with local employment, as many commuters travel elsewhere for work. Janet explained, “My family came to work in the steel works… I’m not sure that’s the case anymore.”
Stocksbridge holds a deprivation score of 18.03 on the index of multiple deprivation, significantly below the national average of 21.81 and Sheffield’s rating of 27.57. This score reflects various factors, including income and health, indicating that Stocksbridge is more deprived compared to other areas in Sheffield and the country.
The uncertainty surrounding Liberty Speciality Steel adds another layer of concern. Earlier this year, the company entered government ownership, with officials actively seeking a buyer. Chris McDonald, the industry minister, expressed hope that a resolution can be achieved. Without a buyer, the closure of local facilities may become inevitable.
This economic decline and neglect have had political ramifications, leading Stocksbridge to become the first ward in Sheffield to elect a Reform councillor. John Booker won a narrow victory over the Liberal Democrats in June’s by-election, a departure from Labour’s previous dominance in the area. Upon taking office, Booker claimed his party had “galvanised public opinion” and promised to provide an “alternative voice” within the Sheffield City Council.
As Stocksbridge grapples with these challenges, the combined impact of population decline, economic uncertainty, and a lack of investment continues to shape the future of this once-thriving town.
