Sheffielders describe it as “alien-shaped” and like a “kettle” but it seems the former National Centre for Popular Music may soon be consigned to history, with the distinctive building at risk of being bulldozed.The Marmite structure – soon to be vacated by its current occupant – is one of three in the UK built around the turn of the millennium to feature on the annual at-risk list from the charity Twentieth Century Society (C20), which campaigns to save architecturally interesting modern buildings.It is the first time millennium-era projects have featured on the list, which highlights outstanding 20th and 21st-century buildings across the country at risk from demolition, dereliction or neglect.Alongside Sheffield’s former pop-themed visitor centre – which first opened in 1999 and closed 15 months later to headlines describing it as the “top of the flops” and “rock horror show” – the list contains the National Wildflower Centre in Knowsley (2000) and Archaeolink Prehistory Park in Aberdeenshire (1997), both of which are abandoned.View image in fullscreenThe Sheffield Hallam University student union building.Photograph: Gary Calton/The ObserverAlso featured is the brutalist east stand of St James’ Park stadium in Newcastle, the wooden Grand National rollercoaster in Blackpool, which was opened in 1935, and Caerphilly’s Penallta Pithead Baths, a now-derelict miners’ washhouse built in 1938.Of the 10 buildings on the list, six are in the north of England, exposing a north-south divide in how historical buildings are looked after, which is “big and getting bigger”, according to Oli Marshall, C20 campaigns director.He said a lack of funds meant councils were less able to protect heritage sites than in the past, adding: “Moreover, the money and investment in Britain always seems to flow in one direction.“We have to ask ourselves, if some of these outstanding buildings were located in London or the south-east, would they already have been restored or rehabilitated by now? The answer is almost certainly yes.“It’s a situation that’s unjust, but also risks reshaping our national history in favour of what survives, versus what is lost.”In Sheffield, locals are divided over the building. Hayley Glover, 43, who owns the cafe opposite, Kollective Coffee & Kitchen, thought the building should stay open to the public as she fondly remembers it being built 26 years ago.View image in fullscreenHayley Glover, owner of the Kollective Cafe, located near the Sheffield Hallam University student union building.Photograph: Gary Calton/The Observer“I think it’s a shame that it’s sat there empty, and whilst it’s empty the square on the opposite side of the road is getting a lot of undesirables in there.“So obviously, footfall getting in and out the building for us is a good thing. It would be a shame for it to be closed.”The building was bought in 2004 by Sheffield Hallam University and was used as its students’ union, but is now due to be vacated, with questions hanging over its future. The university is not ruling out knocking it down entirely.Cory Anson, 30, a sales worker, thought the building had some aesthetic appeal:“It’s a beautiful building. I did a course there once, it’s just a really nice building. I think it’s a staple of Sheffield as well, to be honest. Like everybody knows about the kettle building.”The four giant stainless steel drums that make up the structure surround an atrium with a glazed roof.For Molly Mallette, 26, who works supporting women in the criminal justice system, and her boyfriend, Louis Binns, 25, who works at the university, the building elicits some debate.To Mallette it is “hideous”. She added: “I think it’s a real eyesore in the area, to be honest. I don’t really know what it’s meant to be. I’ve got no other word for it, I just don’t think it’s very attractive.”View image in fullscreenSheffield Hallam University alumni Louis Binns and Molly Mallette (right) outside the student union building.Photograph: Gary Calton/The ObserverBinns disagreed, however. “It’s interesting to look at,” he said. “From working at Hallam Help, when directing students it’s incredibly easy because it obviously stands out.”Kristina Drmic, 24, a former student who now works at the students’ union, pointed to the unmissable nature of the building.“It’s very easy for students to find us because the description of it is very unique. Some people call it the alien-shaped building, some people call it the four kettles.“I think the shape of it is part of the Sheffield culture and I think it should stay and shouldn’t get demolished.”Anthea Page, 58, who works in communications for Sheffield Hallam but was speaking in a personal capacity, said the building was redundant and she would gladly welcome its closure.“It doesn’t serve its current purpose,” she said. “It’s used for the Hallam students’ union and it’s not well used, it’s not very well placed. The entrances aren’t in the right place.”This article was amended on 10 April 2025 to add clarifying text stating that Anthea Page is employed by Sheffield Hallam University, but was speaking in a personal capacity.
‘It’s unjust’: charity fights to save UK’s at-risk modern buildings
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Sheffield's National Centre for Popular Music Listed Among UK Modern Buildings at Risk of Demolition"
The Guardian
7.7
TruthLens AI Summary
The former National Centre for Popular Music in Sheffield, often described by locals as having an 'alien shape' or resembling a 'kettle', is facing the threat of demolition as it is listed among the at-risk buildings in the UK by the Twentieth Century Society (C20). This notable structure, which opened its doors in 1999 but closed just 15 months later due to poor attendance, is now one of three millennium-era buildings on the annual at-risk list. Alongside it are the National Wildflower Centre in Knowsley and the Archaeolink Prehistory Park in Aberdeenshire, both of which are currently abandoned. The C20's list aims to raise awareness about significant modern structures that are at risk due to neglect or potential demolition, highlighting a troubling trend regarding the preservation of architectural heritage in the UK, particularly in the northern regions where six of the ten listed buildings are located.
Oli Marshall, the campaigns director of C20, emphasizes the growing disparity in the preservation of historical sites between the north and south of England, suggesting that financial constraints have left councils unable to protect these important buildings. He raises concerns that if these structures were situated in London or the southeast, they might have already received restoration efforts. Local opinions on the Sheffield building are mixed; while some residents like Hayley Glover advocate for its preservation due to its unique design and cultural significance, others, like Anthea Page, argue that it no longer serves a useful purpose and should be closed. This division reflects broader sentiments about the building's architectural value and its role in the community, as many view it as a landmark while others see it as an eyesore. The future of the building remains uncertain, with Sheffield Hallam University, its current owner, contemplating its demolition as it prepares to vacate the premises.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article highlights the plight of modern buildings in the UK that are at risk of demolition, particularly focusing on structures from the turn of the millennium. It emphasizes the campaign led by the Twentieth Century Society (C20) to preserve these architecturally significant sites. The inclusion of these buildings on an at-risk list marks a significant shift, as it is the first time structures from this era have been highlighted. The report paints a picture of a broader issue concerning the preservation of cultural heritage, particularly in the northern regions of England.
Community Awareness and Sentiment
There is a clear intent to raise awareness among the public about the importance of preserving modern architectural heritage. By describing the buildings in vivid terms and discussing their historical context, the article seeks to evoke a sense of nostalgia and urgency. The references to public opinion—like the “alien-shaped” comments—suggest that while some may view these buildings unfavorably, there is a need to recognize their architectural value.
Potential Hidden Agendas
While the article primarily focuses on the preservation of modern buildings, it indirectly critiques the disparity in funding and attention given to heritage sites in different regions of the UK. This could signal a deeper discussion about socioeconomic imbalances, particularly the north-south divide. The mention of funding issues may also suggest an agenda to prompt governmental or public intervention.
Credibility and Manipulative Elements
The news appears credible, relying on factual information, quotes from relevant stakeholders, and specific examples of the buildings at risk. However, the language used could be seen as somewhat emotive, aiming to sway public opinion rather than purely inform. This could indicate a manipulative element, particularly if the intention is to galvanize action from the community or policymakers.
Comparative Context
When compared to other reports on cultural preservation, this article aligns with a growing trend of advocating for modern architecture. The narrative of neglect in the north of England could connect to other discussions about regional disparities in investment and attention, linking it to broader socio-political issues.
Impact on Society and Politics
The implications of this article could resonate deeply within the community, potentially influencing local policy regarding heritage conservation. It may also mobilize public support for the preservation of modern architecture, impacting planning decisions and funding allocations.
Target Audience
The article appears to resonate more with communities interested in architecture, history, and local heritage. It seems aimed at fostering a collective identity around the preservation of these buildings, appealing to those who value cultural and historical continuity.
Economic Implications
While primarily focused on heritage, the discussion around these buildings could indirectly affect sectors like tourism and real estate. Preservation efforts could lead to increased interest in local heritage sites, potentially boosting local economies and impacting property values.
Relevance to Global Dynamics
Although the article focuses on a local issue, it reflects broader global trends in cultural preservation and urban development. The themes of neglect and regional disparities are relevant in many contexts, highlighting the ongoing struggle between modernization and heritage conservation.
Use of Artificial Intelligence
There is no clear indication that AI was used in the writing of this article; however, if AI were involved, it might have influenced the structuring of the content or the selection of key phrases to enhance readability and emotional appeal. In conclusion, while the article conveys a compelling narrative about the importance of preserving modern architecture in the UK, it does so with a tone that could be perceived as manipulative. This is particularly evident in its emphasis on regional disparities in heritage management. The overall credibility remains intact due to the factual basis of the content, but the emotive language could influence public perception and action in ways that may not fully reflect the complexities of the issues discussed.