Sheffield’s The Leadmill Launches Public Crowdfunder To Secure New Permanent Venue

The Leadmill, one of Sheffield’s most influential cultural institutions, has today announced the launch of a public crowdfunding campaign aimed at securing a new permanent home in the city.

After 45 years at its original site, The Leadmill is working towards reopening as a new venue, continuing its long-standing role as a platform for live music, comedy, club nights, cinema and talks - all rooted in Sheffield’s independent creative scene.

The campaign, titled #TheNewLeadmill - Powered By The People, invites supporters to contribute what they can to help fund the deposit, fit-out and long-term security of a new venue space. Since opening in 1980, more than 10 million people have passed through The Leadmill’s doors, helping to establish it as a cornerstone of Sheffield’s cultural identity and a launchpad for artists, creatives and performers.

The Leadmill operates as an independent, privately run company so does not benefit from public grants or subsidised tax structures. The crowdfunder aims to raise the capital required to secure a new space that allows the venue to remain independent for decades to come.

Funds raised will be ring-fenced and used exclusively for:
Securing a new venue space
Building and fitting out performance areas, bars and technical infrastructure
Ensuring full accessibility throughout the venue
Preserving and reinstalling iconic Leadmill heritage items, including its neon sign

A spokesperson for The Leadmill said: “This isn’t about starting over - it’s about continuing something that Sheffield helped build. The address may change, but the purpose stays the same: bringing people together through culture, music and creativity.”

The crowdfunding campaign is live now and will be open to supporters locally and beyond, it can be accessed here: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/the-leadmill-relocation-fund