The Neepsend Area Action Plan (AAP) was formulated as a group project during the Urban Design and Planning postgraduate program at the University of Sheffield. It is a strategic initiative aimed at revitalizing the historically industrial Neepsend area, which dates back to the 12th century. Despite its rich industrial heritage, Neepsend currently faces economic challenges and is ranked among the top 20% most deprived areas in the country.

The AAP seeks to transform Neepsend into a vibrant City Centre Quarter by leveraging its diverse mix of businesses, including microbreweries, offices, warehouses, scrap yards, and recording studios. It outlines a 20-year vision for the area's regeneration, focusing on coordinated efforts to attract investment and shape future development.

Key strengths and opportunities identified in the plan include the proximity to Kelham Island, which has become a thriving residential and visitor district, and its designation as a pivotal location for housing growth in the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority's Strategic Economic Plan (SEP).

Infrastructure improvements, such as upgrades to walking, cycling, and bus routes through the £166m Active Neighbourhood project, are also proposed to enhance connectivity within Neepsend. Additionally, the plan anticipates significant job creation and economic growth through the Integrated Rail Plan's electrification and upgrades over the next 30 years.

The Neepsend AAP complements the ongoing development of the Sheffield Local Plan and provides detailed planning policies tailored to the area's unique potential and opportunities.