Large integrated steelworks partially closed pending redevelopment as housing and other mixed uses in 2005. Integrated archaeological and buildings appraisal undertaken by consultants to SYAS brief 2004 (May and Jessop 2004). The works was initially founded by Samuel Fox to produce innovative wire umbrella frames in the 1840s on the site of two water powered mills (HSY 2606) and 'Hunshelf Mill' just to the east. At this time the valley in which the works is situated was characterised by a dispersed settlement pattern of at least medieval origins with strong industrial influences developing over the 17th and 18th century at sites such as Low Forge Wortley and Bolsterstone Glass Furnace. Stocksbridge Works provided the stimulus for the development of Stocksbridge residential area to the south. Fox's works grew rapidly over the late 19th century expanding first to the west of the initial site (by around 1870) with the introduction of cementation and crucible steel furnaces, soon superseded by the second Bessemer converters built under licence in the Sheffield area. Further expansion and reorganisation took place in the twentieth century with further updating of techniques such as the introduction of first open hearth (Siemens) furnaces and eventually Electric Arc furnaces. Currently part of the Corus group of companies the current reorganisation will involve the end of steel making at the works with future operations concentrated on milling operations. No legibility of the pre urban environment.