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Ralph, I got that impression without looking at the RMJM site. However, it's also about another kind of steel: the stealing of the tangible [existing architectural] heritage that runs parallel as industrialism.

What industrialism isn't going to originate firsts in health, e.g. the Jessop wing for women? I drew a parallel earlier with the Southern General Hospital in Govan, but actually there’s more than that, which meets the eye. Govan too, is literally brimming with hospital histories and facts - I’m almost certain - mainly because of the shipbuilding industry.

This is incredibly strong cultural [social, architectural and urban] heritage that’s being literally stolen from future generations. There must be another way, here in Sheffield, to combine conservation and development so that they are truly in harmony.

“...whilst also creating a contextual response to the surrounding heritage and contemporary buildings. The facade concept references [sic] the repeated detailing of the listed Gothic and Victorian brick and stone facades and ...”

This all means well, but I’d urge RMJM to have a look at how Steven Holl is tackling a similar situation across from the Glasgow School of Art, where JM are incidentally involved locally. They are keeping the ‘C’ listed 1927 Assembly Building and building over and around it.

The judge agreed that “total loss” gave rise for concern. Let’s take stock and do the right thing! Let’s not give NPPF a bad name so soon.