The history of wheatsheaf works

When it was built in 1891, Wheatsheaf Works was the largest footwear factory in the world.

Owned by the Co-operative Wholesale Society, it supplied a wealth of employment opportunities in Leicester. The area was at the centre of much commercial activity and its iconic clock tower could be seen for many a mile across south Leicester.

Unfortunately, as the face of world manufacturing changed and with the emergence of the Asian markets, production at the site became unprofitable and the factory became redundant and fell into disrepair. The impressive clock stopped ticking and its chimes could no longer be heard along the Welford Road.

Wheatsheaf Works clock tower photoWheatsheaf Works photoWheatsheaf Works CGI

In March 2010 Urban Rhythm, part of the Hazelton Group of Companies, agreed to purchase the Wheatsheaf Works; with its two Grade II listed factory buildings and clock tower, Urban Rhythm will transform the site into 172 high quality homes to meet the housing needs of the local community.

What's more, Urban Rhythm have pledged to restore the clock tower back to its former glory. Soon the iconic clock will be ringing out over South Leicester again.