News: Lease agreed for new Rotherham restaurant

An operator has signed up to convert a large empty retail unit into a restaurant and wine bar at Stag Roundabout in Rotherham.

Rothbiz reported back in 2017 that plans had been served up for a change of use that would bring the 9,353 sq ft retail unit, formerly a wooden floor outlet, back into use.

Now the agents for the vacant property say that they have negotiated a new lease to a restaurant and bar operator.

Acting on behalf of The Bampton Property Group Limited, SMC Chartered Surveyors have let Unit 1, 156 Wickersley Road, Rotherham.

The premises were originally built in 1963 and offers approximately 10,000 sq ft of commercial accommodation over ground floor and basement levels.

The new deal brings the former Wooden Floors outlet back into use after a number of years on the commercial property market.

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The 2017 plans, drawn up by architects at Building Link Design, showed enough space for 18 covers in the restaurant which would have its own bar and space for outdoor seating. The proposed wine bar would have its own entrance.

Without hinting at what sort of operator has taken the unit on, Francois Neyerlin, chartered surveyor at SMC, said: "The new tenant will undertake an extensive scheme of fitting out works for a restaurant and bar use.

"We look forward to seeing the premises fully fitted and open to the public!"

SMC website

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News: Gala Tent tightens grip on industry

Rotherham-based Gala Tent has acquired an important patent which relates to the fixings used on its marquees and gazebos.

Founded in 1999, Gala Tent is one of the UK's leading producers of marquees, tents and gazebos. It has grown to sell over 15,000 tents and marquees each year, along with around 100,000 event accessories and furniture products. It grew from a table top operation in Grimethorpe to a company with a turnover of £10m having moved into new 53,000 sq ft headquarters at Fairfield Park in Manvers in 2011.

The patent relates to the manufacture and use of new type of fixing known as Spirotite. This type of fastener has all the advantages of threaded fasteners – without the disadvantages of the thread. Whereas thread can work loose under vibration and makes maintenance difficult and sometimes costly, this innovative fastener works on compression, so it is not affected by vibration, and will not work loose.

Spirotite fittings are seen as safer and more secure than traditional threaded fittings and offer a faster set up and lower maintenance of a product. It is also much more effective than a traditional nut and bolt system, which is less secure, less durable and can easily become loose. Due to the faster production process, Spirotite fasteners are also lower cost to produce, so are more affordable for the end user.

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Jason Mace, group CEO at Gala Tent (pictured, right), said: "We are really excited about this innovation, which is suitable for a wide range of applications, from automotive to tool manufacturing to engineering. As well as being an extremely effective and user-friendly product, Spirotite is produced to the highest quality standards here in the UK.

"The grant of these key patents strengthens Gala Tent's position as a consolidator of IP in this space and provides our customers with access to a wider range of opportunities and potential development of further applications."

Mark Thompson, CEO at Gala Tent (pictured, left), added: "We have developed an innovative fastener that is set to revolutionise the way fasteners are used in industry.

"The idea for Spirotite was originally developed for Gala Tent for its marquee joint and it means that all the company's structures are easier and safer to erect. The fixing can also be scaled for the larger commercial modular structures, which will also enhance the security of the marquee, and speeding up the erection time in the process."

Gala Tent website

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News: Rotherham firm signs Armed Forces Covenant

MTL Advanced has signed the Armed Forces Covenant, recognising the value that Armed Forces Personnel including, veterans, reservists and military families bring to organisations and businesses across the UK.

With a 300,000 sq ft base in Brinsworth, the firm is a project manufacturing specialist in the metal sector and supplies leading names in sectors such as defence, construction, offshore and renewable energy, recycling and rail.

The covenant is a commitment to support Armed Forces Personnel, by offering employment and support, whilst celebrating the invaluable and innovative contribution they make to the businesses.

MTL Advanced has a long standing relationship with members of the armed forces, with a number of employees having served in the past, or who are currently reservists and signing the covenant demonstrates continued support towards current and future military employees.

Michael Ellmore, Head of Sales at MTL Advanced, said: "MTL Advanced are honoured to sign the Armed Forces Covenant. As a veteran myself with long service in the armed forces, it brings me immense pride that we are committed to our Armed Forces Personnel and showing our support to the military community."

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With two main principles of the covenant, MTL Advanced commit to ensure that no member of the Armed forces community should face disadvantage in the provision of public and commercial services compared to any other citizen and ensure that any special considerations required by injured or bereaved personnel is sufficiently provided.

As an armed forces-friendly organisation, MTL Advanced are committed to taking a proactive approach in harnessing the benefits of recruiting from the Armed Forces Community and the commercial opportunities which can be brought to the organisation.

MTL Advanced has a proven history of working within the defence industry through the manufacture of armoured vehicle hulls and cabins including assembly and painting.

Elmore continued: "We will continue to show our support to the military community and we encourage other companies to support the community by signing the covenant themselves. As a growing company, we are always on the lookout for skilled engineers and talented personnel therefore we would like to encourage more veterans to come and join our team."

MTL Advanced website

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News: Rotherham Council's proposals to brighten town centre streets

Improving the layout for street markets, more parking spaces, upgrading tired surfaces, new "pop up" features, upgrading street furniture and feature lighting are all included in new proposals to improve key streets in Rotherham town centre.

A key plank of the town centre masterplan, the proposals are designed to improve the town's open spaces on Bridgegate, Howard Street and Effingham Street by improving lines of sight and giving a more bright, modern feel to the areas. More on-street parking is also proposed for College Street.

Following consultation, the designs from  PWP Design consultants are going before the Council's cabinet for approval next week.

A report to the cabinet explains that the works are set to be funded from the £17m pot that the Council set aside to support capital investments in the town centre. Central funding could also come from the Government's Future High Streets Fund and Transforming Cities Fund.

A total cost for the improvements has not been made public as the works will need to go out to tender.

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The draft states that the key design principles include:

• Reducing clutter and creating more flexible, accessible spaces.
• Improving infrastructure and functionality for the street markets.
• Simplifying the paving and introducing high quality, modern furniture and lighting.
• Introducing a wider range of seating opportunities.
• Creating opportunities for technology, such as Wifi and phone charging.
• Opening up views of the Minster.
• Adding a new layer of interest through pop up features and catenary lighting. These help with wayfinding, branding and introduce opportunities for art, performance, play and planting.

On Bridgegate, the seating area and planters outside the former Rhinoceros pub are set to be removed, "decluttering" the street, opening up views of the Minster and addressing issues of antisocial behaviour.

For Howard Street, between the bus station and the markets, the design aims to reduce clutter, highlight the Old Town Hall and improve its ability to accommodate market stalls.

Effingham Street improvements all support the space for market stalls that are used during the popular street markets.

Extending short stay parking along College Street towards All Saints Square is also proposed.

The report states that "Phase 1 Streets offer the opportunity to; create a cohesive, modern, high quality public realm that can be rolled out throughout the town centre; improve the visitor experience, access and increase activity, events and footfall to support local businesses; improve connections to key destinations such as Forge Island, Rotherham Market, Rotherham Interchange and the Minster."

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News: "Appalling" Rotherham bakery prosecuted for food hygiene offences

A bakery in Rotherham has been successfully prosecuted for food hygiene offences.

Mr Bekir Cinar, who was the food business operator at Leverton Baker and Confectioners, in Rawmarsh, pleaded guilty to offences dating back to January.

During a routine food hygiene inspection in January, Rotherham Council Environmental Health Officers uncovered filthy conditions. The building was found to be in complete disarray and extremely poor structural condition. Equipment was dirty and in a poor state of repair.

The council found serious accumulations of filth and black mould present throughout the areas where food was prepared and stored. There was a pool of stagnant foul smelling water next to stored bakery ingredients. Food and ingredients were being stored uncovered, in filthy containers, with uncooked meat stored alongside other foods causing risk of contamination.

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During a hearing in May, Sheffield Magistrates Court agreed with the actions of council officers, to immediately close the premises following the inspection, due to the health risks.

Mr Cinar appeared at Sheffield Magistrates Court last month and pleaded guilty to six offences dating from January 2019. He was fined £1,213 and ordered to pay costs of £2,868. He was also ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £121. The total amount payable is £4,202. The defendant received credit for entering his guilty pleas.

Tom Smith, Assistant Director of Community Safety & Street Scene at Rotherham Council, said: "This business was in an appalling condition. Food business operators have a legal duty to keep their premises hygienic and any failure to do so will not be tolerated."

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News: New recruits for E3R at Rotherham office

E3 Recruitment (E3R) which specialises in engineering and manufacturing recruitment, has strengthened its offering by adding three new recruits to its South Yorkshire office and is looking to recruit at least two more new employees next year.

The team has welcomed Ciara Neal and Ubaid Ali as Recruitment Consultants and Nikki Outram as a Recruitment Coordinator, all of them bringing a wealth of recruitment experience to the team.

The new recruits join Shabbir Ahmad, Adnan Sarwar, Rodger Morley, all Recruitment Consultants and Directors Andrew Pilling and Andrew Joseph at the South Yorkshire office, which is based on the Bradmarsh Business Park in Rotherham. The company's head office is in Huddersfield.

This follows in the foot-steps of the five new recruits to the Huddersfield office and compliments the agency's robust growth plans for the next few years which is expected to make a turnover of £1.6m by the end of this year.

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From its Rotherham office, the agency recruits for engineering and manufacturing roles ranging from blue collar, such as; Assembly Fitters, Welders, and CNC; to Design, Project, Quality and Managerial opportunities working across the vertical sectors E3R serves, including General Manufacturing and the heavy industries within it, Automotive and Aerospace.

Andrew Pilling, director at E3R, said: "South Yorkshire and Nottinghamshire are traditionally the steel heartlands of the UK with a strong manufacturing base. Over the past ten years it has become a hotbed for advanced manufacturing with the likes of Boeing and McLaren moving to the area.

Recommended readig: What are the best strategies for using wage data in logistics hiring?

"The industry faces a skills gap, so it's important manufacturing and engineering companies use a recruitment agency that is at the forefront with vast amounts of industry expertise and knowledge.

"Our clients are loyal and business demand continues to grow, which is why we need to recruit a minimum of two new employees in the South Yorkshire office in the first quarter of 2020 to complement the team's strong offering. We are a fast-growing company and we can offer employees a great remuneration and benefits package which includes BUPA."

E3R website

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News: Rotherham United post profit for Championship season

Rotherham United posted increased turnover and profit for the financial year that covered the team's last season in The Championship.

For the twelve months ending June 2019, holding company, ASD Lighting Holdings Ltd, was boosted by increased turnover at both the football club and the lighting manufacturing business.

The 18/19 season in the second tier of English football marked ten years since chairman Tony Stewart, founder of successful Rotherham firm, ASD Lighting saved the Millers in 2008 when he brought the then League Two club out of administration via a Creditors Voluntary Agreement.

The season ended in relegation for the team who went up against former European Cup winners, former Premier League winners, relegated clubs benefiting from parachute payments, clubs bankrolled by rich owners and clubs spending beyond their means in a bid to reach the top tier.

Accounts filed with Companies House show that turnover was £14m for 18/19, up from £10m in the previous season and higher than the £13m recorded the last time the Millers were in the Championship.

Profit before tax was £2.74m, up from a £500,000 loss the previous year and losses of over £1m in previous Championship seasons.

Unlike many clubs in the Championship, at Rotherham United, the wage bill sits well within its income, which is mainly made up of sponsorship, matchday income and central distributions via the Football League.

Last season saw extra income from late player trading and not being required to pay bonuses had the team stayed up. Season ticket sales have remained above the 6,000 mark.

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Writing in the accounts, Tony Stewart, chairman of Rotherham United, said: "With collectivism and togetherness at the AESSEAL New York Stadium and a feeling that the players could have done no more to secure their cherished Championship status we enter League One with peace of mind that every player and member of staff will strive and focus on winning games to gain back that promotion."

The team currently sits within the playoff places of League One.

Commercial income dropped from £4.8m to £3m but the club continues to secure deals such as AESSEAL's decision to extend the stadium naming rights to 2023. ASD continues to support the club with sponsorship income of close to £1m in 18/19 - £2m less than in previous years.

The accounts for the holding company show that ASD Lighting, which has been manufacturing in the UK from their 200,000 sq ft factory for almost 35 years, increased turnover by over £1m to £25m for the year ending June 2019. Profit before tax increased slightly to £3.8m.

The report notes that slaes slowed in 2018 due to economic uncertainty but 2019 saw an upward trend in sales and profitability. The main areas of growth continue to be in new product ranges in highways and rail. Whilst the majority of business is done within the UK, the year also saw significant improvement in export sales, with sales doubling in the Far East.

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ASD Lighting website

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News: The trials of the Sheffield-Rotherham tram-tram

Operators have been unable to run any of the innovative tram-trains between Rotherham and Sheffield following an issue with the vehicles.

Tram-trains stopped running on Friday evening due to a "tram engineering issue."

Stadler, the manufacturer of the vehicles, designed to run on both the city's tramlines and the rail network between Sheffield and Rotherham, issued advice on Saturday to operators, Stagecoach, who took the decision to stop running the well-used service.

Funded by the Department for Transport, the industry pilot is a partnership between South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive (SYPTE), Network Rail and Stagecoach Supertram, to test the connectivity and economic potential of the technology to see if it can be used elsewhere.

Earlier in the month, Network Rail said that it had experienced some issues on the tram-train network due to freezing temperatures causing a loss of power.

Chris Gee, head of operations for the North East route at Network Rail, said last week: "We'd like to apologise to Supertram's passengers for the poor levels of tram service delivery on cold mornings.

"We've now made some adjustments to the settings of the overhead line equipment (it was too sensitive) and we are confident that we have resolved the problem.

"We continue to work with Supertram on improving the reliability of the tram-train service."

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Stagecoach said last week that the manufacturer of the Citylink fleet was carrying out improvement modifications to the trams, including those vehicles used for the tram-train service, and was expected to be completed on Saturday December 14.

Instead, no tram-trains, have been operating over the weekend.

We are unfortunately unable to run any Tram-Train services until further notice.This follows advice by the manufacturer,Stadler,that we need to temporarily withdraw the fleet. A further update will be provided as soon as we have been updated by Stadler.

— Stagecoach Supertram (@SCSupertram) December 14, 2019

A new tram-train timetable, with changes to frequency and new later services, was due to begin this week. For example, the last tram-train back from Sheffield was previously at 22:00 but an extra service departing Cathedral at 22:44 is being introduced.

A promotional "After 8" ticket has also been intriduced. For just £2, customers can get unlimited travel from 8pm on Tram Train and Supertram services until the end of service, when boarding at Rotherham Central or Parkgate.

Additionally, the 31 space car park at Parkgate reserved for tram-train users has recently been extended to provide a total of 95 spaces, including two disabled bays and an area allocated for motorcycles.

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News: AESSEAL's Rotherham expansion set for planning approval

Rotherham Council's planning board are being advised to approve plans from a successful local manufacturer that would create a huge number of jobs and growth for the region.

Rothbiz reported first in September that AESSEAL, the world largest homogeneous mechanical seal manufacturer, had submitted plans for the next phase of expansion at its global headquarters in Rotherham.

The application, which is being recommended for approval by council planners at the planning board next week, is for a new building comprising a 50,000 sq ft single storey machine shop supporting a range of state-of-the-art computerised machines; and a two storey office accommodation [of around 12,000 sq ft].

The multi award winning Templeborough company, which designs and makes mechanical seals and support systems for a wide range of global industries including oil and gas, food, water, mining and pharmaceuticals, has grown from a small distribution business based on Attercliffe Road, Sheffield to a £180m+ turnover business employing more than 1,800 people across the world.

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The site has expanded over the years and AES currently employ over 350 in the town. If approved, phase 5 will almost double the size of AESSEAL's headquarters and create space for 100 new employees.

The plans state that the "proposed state of the art building, located at a prominent gateway point to the business park, will link to the existing AESSEAL facility and develop a large area of vacant land on a main arterial route into Rotherham.

"The proposed unit is to be the flagship global headquarters for AESSEAL."

Addressing issues regarding local wildlife habitats in the area, flooding, and updated transport access arrangements onto Sheffield Road, officers at the council conclude that the plans should be approved, with a number of conditions.

The application, drawn up by Race Cottom, explains that the new machine workshop on the ground floor will enable the production of mechanical seals through a range of state-of-the-art CNC machines. It will be joined by a large engineering design office to work in conjunction with the workshops to produce each custom seal component.

AESSEAL website

Images: AES / Race Cottom

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News: New initiative to help local businesses engage with schools

Funding has been secured for a £2.7m project that will run across the Sheffield city region (SCR) to work with and support Small and Medium Sized Businesses (SME's) to engage with schools and inspire young people to prepare them for work.

Business Education Alliance aims to develop meaningful employer encounters for young people to engage in. It is based on the idea that young people are more likely to make successful transitions into employment if they have benefitted from work experience and other interactions with businesses during their schooling.

Work experience for pupils at secondary school was removed from the curriculum in 2012. Instead, schools have legal duties to ensure that all pupils at the school are provided with independent careers guidance, supported by "Gatsby" benchmarks. By the end of 2020, schools will also be required to offer every pupil at least seven "meaningful encounters" with employers over the course of their school career.

Councils in Barnsley, Rotherham, Sheffield and Derbyshire County, along with Doncaster Chamber, have worked together to secure around £1.5m of European Social Fund (ESF) money for the new project.

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The bid for the funding explained: "Businesses in Sheffield City Region report too many young people lack essential job readiness skills and experience of the world of work and appear to have limited access to quality careers guidance reflecting local labour market intelligence.

"However, the UK Commission for Employment and Skills (2014) showed less than a third (31%) of employers in SCR offer work experience, and just 18% offer any "work inspiration" activities such as mock interviews, school based talks or attendance at careers fairs."

Rotherham has taken the lead in recent years with high profile events such as LEAF and Get Up To Speed. Rotherham schools have also embraced the Enterprise Adviser Network.

The new Business Education Alliance is set to include activity such as employer engagement, brokerage, support for businesses and support for schools.

Funding could support business and enterprise mentor programmes and sector partnerships, and a range of school/employer events. SME's will be supported to delivery Gatsby recognised opportunities, careers and Intermediate Labour Market Information events, work placements, industry days, employability support and mentoring.

Matt Gladstone, executive director for place at Barnsley Council - the lead partner on the project, said: "We hope these opportunities will support our young people and provide them with more information and confidence. We want to help them make the right decisions to get ready for work, get into work and achieve their potential."

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News: Council concerns lead to loss of licence for Rotherham taxi firm

The owner of Fast 4s taxi service has had his operating licence revoked, following a decision by Rotherham Council's Licensing Committee.

The committee made the decision to revoke Karamat Hussain's licence after investigations by the Council's licensing team found he had breached a number of licence conditions and that around 21,000 bookings were undertaken by vehicles licensed by other authorities.

Although the practice of sub-contracting is allowed the committee had concerns that the number of sub-contracted journeys, combined with his admission to other licence breaches, indicated that Mr Hussain was attempting to by-pass Rotherham Council’s stringent taxi licensing standards.

Rothbiz reported in October that, following his appearance before the Sub-Committee, Hussain pleaded guilty at Sheffield Magistrates Court to charges concerning an unlicensed silver Ford Transit being dispatched and driven by an unlicensed driver on over 600 separate occasions. A £1,300 fine was handed down after Hussain admitted that the journeys were carried out without the required licences, safeguarding checks and mechanical vehicle checks being made.

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During the Sub-Committee hearing Mr Hussain also accepted breaching a number of other conditions attached to his Private Hire Operator Licence.

Tom Smith, Assistant Director of Community Safety and Street Scene at Rotherham Council, said: "Our taxi policy sets a standard that is amongst the highest in the country and the use of vehicles licensed within another district significantly undermines the work we’ve done across the borough to improve public safety. Drivers that are licensed by another authority have not undertaken the mandatory assessments to the same standard as drivers licensed by Rotherham Council and some vehicles licensed in other areas do not have taxi cameras installed.

"Mr Hussain should be fully aware of the extra measures taken by Rotherham Council to secure the safety of people using licensed vehicles in the borough and yet he has continued to use vehicles and drivers licensed by other authorities; an action which potentially exposes the travelling public to risks to their safety."

The revocation is subject to the appeals process before the Magistrates Court.

Rotherham Council regained its taxi licensing powers in 2016 following significant reforms of the service under the guidance of commissioners. Critical reports by Baroness Alexis Jay and Dame Louise Casey found significant failings at the council including poor policies and procedures with taxi licensing contributing to child sexual exploitation in Rotherham.

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News: Fresh new Rotherham Starbucks on its way

Construction is nearing completion at a new outlet in Rotherham for American coffee company and coffeehouse chain, Starbucks.

Rothbiz reported back in 2015 that outline plans had been submitted for a 1,959 sq ft drive thru coffee shop by the owners of the Foundry Retail Park at Parkgate.

Detailed plans were submitted two years later showing that the new Starbucks unit would be situated on the existing car parking on the north western side of the established retail park.

Franchisee, Soul Coffee House, has recently submitted plans for new signage that will see the iconic Starbucks logo go up at Parkgate.

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Contractors J.P.Wild say that they are well on track to complete the construction of a new Starbucks drive-thru restaurant at Foundry Retail Park in Rotherham before Christmas but an opening date has not yet been announced.

The new development is expected to create 15 new jobs.

With over 28,000 stores worldwide Seattle-based Starbucks plan to open 1,000 franchise stores in the UK over the next five to seven years, of varying asset types, partnering with a maximum of 25 franchisees.

Starbucks' first UK franchised business partner, 23.5 Degrees operates the first major outlet in Rotherham (after the one at Woodall Services) when it opened at the Beighton Link development last year.

Starbucks website

Images: Starbucks / J.P.Wild

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News: Local businesswoman appointed as chamber president

Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber has confirmed Joada Allen of Visualised it Video Production as their newly appointed President for a two-year term.

Joada is an outgoing businesswoman and mother, born and raised in Rotherham and very proud to run a business in Barnsley. She is the Director of Visualised it Video Production and Vice Chair of the More and Better Jobs Taskforce, her work is based on improving skills and opportunities for people in both towns. A regular speaker in schools, provider of work experience and supporter of small businesses, she uses her experience as a teacher, Video Producer and entrepreneur to help develop a higher functioning inclusive economy for Barnsley and Rotherham.

Commenting on the new appointment Joada said: "I'm really looking forward to representing businesses in both our towns, I'm hoping to develop the skills agenda further and can’t wait to get started."

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Andrew Denniff, Chief Executive of the Chamber, added: "I am absolutely delighted that Joada has taken on the presidency. All our Board members have committed to give her their full support and I look forward on a personal level to working with her over the next two years to continue the positive progress that we have made at our Chamber of Commerce."

Visualised it Video Production became a member of the Chamber in 2014 and since that time Joada has been involved in the Chamber's Representation Council and became a non-executive director in November 2017.

Retiring President, Lisa Pogson was presented with her Past President’s badge of office for her three-year term, whilst Matt Travis of Enzygo will join Matthew Stephens of Quest Property as a Vice President. New appointments to the Board include Ben McFeely of MKB Solicitors LLP and Clive Watkinson of JC Snell.

The appointments were made during the 13th Annual General Meeting which took place recently at Barnsley Football Club.

BR Chamber website

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News: Jobs hope with "Project Chorus"

Efforts are well advanced in attracting another manufacturer to the Sheffield city region (SCR) - with Rotherham a leading contender for the firm's potential multimillion pound investment.

The SCR's mayoral combined authority has recently backed an £8m package of support for an unnamed company that is looking to establish a research & development, and potentially a manufacturing facility, in the city region.

The package follows on from similar initiatives that supported McLaren Automotive's £50m investment in Rotherham and Boeing's £20m investment in Sheffield.

Dubbed "Project Chorus" by staff working to land the latest inward investor, the first phase has a total value of £18m.

Documents show that the company "are initially seeking to establish a research and development facility to develop the next generation of antennae for satellite control systems. This will create c358 mostly high value jobs.

"The second phase will establish a manufacturing facility in the city region, creating a wide range of additional jobs.

"The project significantly complements the expertise at the AMRC and is a globally significant development which will deliver opportunities in the supply chain for local businesses."

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The presence of the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) and its own multimillion pound facilities on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham and the Sheffield Business Park over the Parkway, was key to securing the investments from McLaren and Boeing.

Rothbiz reported in June that a city region grant was being prepared for Ricardo plc, a global strategic engineering and environmental consultancy that specialises in the transport, energy and scarce resources sectors, to support plans to open a facility in Rotherham.

For "Project Chorus" the activity of local authority leaders hints at where the investment could be made if everything goes to plan. Doncaster's Mayor Ros Jones abstained from voting having previously voiced concerns over accepting the scheme to the city region's Local Growth Fund programme given that it was "over-programmed" - ie. the total cost of supporting all of the projects is greater than the total amount available.

At the meeting of the combined authority where the Project Chorus scheme was accepted into the LGF programme, Cllr. Chris Read declared a non-Pecuniary interest in the matter by virtue of being Leader of the sponsoring authority, Rotherham Council.

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News: Northern's new trains on the way to South Yorkshire

Franchise operator, Northern Rail, has announced that new trains will be introduced into South Yorkshire later this month.

From Sunday December 15 more than 50 new Northern trains will be carrying customers across the network – with a further 49 to be introduced in 2020.

Delays have meant that Pacers will still be used in South Yorkshire in 2020. The delay has been caused by technical problems with the new trains, bought and owned by one of the three rolling stock companies, Eversholt.

The new trains feature free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, at-seat power and customer information/media screens with real-time information. They are also more spacious for customers and are fully accessible with spaces for wheel chairs and cycles.

Steve Hopkinson, regional director at Northern, said: "The Northern network is busier than it has been for a generation – more than 100 million customer journeys will be made on Northern services in 2019 – and the introduction of new trains is at the heart of delivering improvements for our customers.

"We are delighted, therefore, that customers travelling through South Yorkshire, Lincolnshire and the East Midlands will now be served by brand new trains.

"These fantastic trains are a true step-change in travelling experience and we are extremely proud to be delivering a £500m investment for our customers."

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Andrew Denniff, Chief Executive of Barnsley and Rotherham Chamber of Commerce, added: "We are looking to grow our economy in a way where everyone gets a full opportunity to succeed – and also in a sustainable way.  Trains are a very energy efficient and carbon friendly way to transport passengers around our Region and beyond.

"We are now seeing the promised investment and so today is a day for celebration. It is the start of a new era of rail travel in South Yorkshire and I warmly welcome it on behalf of all businesses."

Northern, which operates the majority of services in Rotherham, is also currently fully refurbishing its existing fleet of 268 trains.

Despite Northern previously saying that Pacers would be removed by the end of 2019, up to 34 (11 Class 142 and 23 Class 144) Pacers will remain in the fleet for a short time into 2020 to cover the delay in delivery of new trains into the franchise. Northern’s current plan is to remove all 142s by February 17, 2020 and to remove 144s by May 17, 2020.

The Pacers will operate mainly in South Yorkshire including Sheffield to Gainsborough Central (through Kiveton), Huddersfield and Doncaster as well as areas of West Yorkshire and Manchester.

Dan Jarvis, Mayor of the Sheffield City Region, said in October: “Yet again, rail passengers in the Sheffield City Region are being treated like second-class citizens.

"While commuters in London have Crossrail coming; here in the North people face travelling on what are essentially old buses on rails, at speeds that average 35mph."

It is likely that a number of old Pacer trains will be heading to CF Booth in Rotherham for scrapping. The historic firm has recently progressed plans to enable railcars to be stored at its Millmoor site.

Images: Northern / RMT

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News: Rotherham to host four games at Women's Euros

Rotherham's AESSEAL New York Stadium will host four high profile international games at the Women's EURO 2021, tournament organisers have confirmed.

Rothbiz reported at the end of 2018 that the prestigious continental championship will be played at venues across the country before concluding with a showpiece final at Wembley Stadium. Stadia hosting games include Rotherham United's home since 2012 and Bramall Lane, home to Sheffield United.

England, who reached the semi finals of the Women's World Cup last year, will be joined by 15 other nations, with qualifying running until October 2020.

The provisional schedule for the tournament has now been announced, with the hosts kicking off the finals on July 7 and the final at Wembley on August 1.

Rotherham won't host any England games, which instead will be played in the South, but will host three group games from Group D in addition to a prestigious quarter final on July 24.

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Baroness Sue Campbell, the FA's director of women's football, said: "The performance of the Lionesses this summer engaged the nation and helped to generate significant momentum in the women's game. Looking ahead, hosting a home EURO in 2021 offers a huge opportunity for us to continue to push the profile of women's football and to inspire more women and girls to get involved.

"The confirmation of these nine venues is an important milestone for us as a host nation on our journey towards the final tournament in July 2021. I am confident the selected cities and stadia will allow hundreds of thousands of fans across the country to attend matches and will also help to deliver an atmosphere befitting a home European Championship to the nation."

UEFA Women's EURO 2021 promises to be a record-breaking tournament for UEFA, with approximately 700,000 tickets due to be available for fans around the country and extensive coverage of every game of the tournament on free-to-air television, radio and online.

Registration for ticket information is open now, as is the chance to apply for information to be a volunteer at the tournament.

Having previously hosted a number of youth internationals, last year, the AESSEAL New York Stadium hosted five games at the 2018 UEFA European Under 17 Championships, including a semi-final and the final.

In 2013, England's women beat Canada 1-0 in a friendly at Rotherham, and in 2016 a crowd of 10,550 witnessed the Lionesses draw 1-1 with Belgium in a UEFA Women's Euro 2017 qualifier. Last year, the £20m stadium also hosted the team in a friendly fixture against Sweden as they stepped up their preparations for the FIFA Women's World Cup.

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News: You can book now to stay at Gulliver's Valley in 2020

Fun-loving families can now book to stay at Gulliver's Valley - the new £37m theme park currently being constructed in Rotherham.

Work started last year at the Pithouse West former colliery site on the first of Gulliver's sites in the UK to encompass all their major family entertainment elements in one location, with new attractions exclusive to Rotherham.

And now the first dates have been released for 2020 summer short breaks - stay and play packages that include two days of theme park entry.

On land adjacent to Rother Valley Country Park, Gulliver's Valley is to be a year round destination aimed at 2 - 13 year olds and include a theme park hub, woodland adventure centre, ecology and education centre, lodges, hotels and a holiday village.

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Families are being invited to be one of the first to experience a Gulliver's Valley adventure. Phase 1 includes the large main building featuring the splash zone and other indoor entertainment, a Wild West area, the Lost World with free roaming dinosaurs, mini-JCBs, and many other rides.

Accommodation comes in the form of Princess and Unicorn Suites in the onsite hotel or the themed Western cabins and Lost World lodges.

Available visit dates are July  1 2020 until August 31 2020. Introductory rates have short breaks from only £199 for a family of five. More dates for 2020 will be added in the months ahead.

The Gulliver's website reads: "The evolution of our three existing UK resorts has reflected the continued rise in demand for "staycation" packages. Gulliver's Warrington, Milton Keynes and Matlock Bath now provide a diverse set of accommodation possibilities for families.

"You can now book a summer 2020 short break as part of our exclusive early release. Discover a fantastic selection of themed accommodation at Gulliver's Valley Resort. We can offer more than just a brilliant family day out. Whether it's a one-night sleepover or a week-long short break, enjoy accommodation designed especially for families. Stay and Play packages include entry to Gulliver's Valley Theme Park."

Gulliver's Valley website

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News: Rotherham's Carlton Park secures new owners

Rotherham's largest independently-owned hotel is under new ownership and the team behind the acquisition have wasted no time in announcing plans to invest a seven figure sum in the popular three star venue.

Aiming to establish Carlton Park Hotel as one of South Yorkshire's premier destinations, the Moorgate hotel is set to become the flagship destination new owners Red Admiral Vintage, who are planning to embark upon an extensive refurbishment programme which is set begin in the New Year.

Responsible for operating 18 hotels throughout the UK as well as a property portfolio comprising, the purchase of Carlton Park marks a significant phase in the company's plans to strengthen its position within the hotels and leisure industry and marks Red Admiral's largest acquisition to date.

The new owners have confirmed that staff employed at Carlton Park have been retained, with up to 20 additional new jobs set to be created. As part of the company's future investment plans, the hotel's conference and banqueting suites, reception areas and 80 bedrooms are set to be transformed – with some areas being reconfigured to reflect the changing way in which the venue is used by local businesses and community groups.

The longstanding Rotherham-based hotel, which boasts a five star food hygiene rating, is currently gearing up towards its busiest period as it prepares to welcome thousands of guests during the busy Christmas period, with seasonal menus built around locally sourced produce and specialities.

Once named as Yorkshire's most romantic workplace, today the hotel hosts a range of business and community events ranging from glittering awards ceremonies to networking events and special family occasions.

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Kevin Saville, general manager at the Carlton Park Hotel, said: "The acquisition of Carlton Park Hotel marks an exciting new chapter in our long history. The exciting plans our new owners have for the business will see new jobs created, existing roles safeguarded and are designed to reflect the changing role hotels play.

"Since opening its doors in 1981, Carlton Park has played a vital role in the local community, something which will continue, offering a destination for families to celebrate special occasions, a hub for the local business community as well as providing the perfect destination for those spending time visiting our region."

Lee Pemberton, director of Red Admiral Investments said: "Carlton Park is very much a sleeping giant within South Yorkshire's economy. It is a hotel packed with potential. The venue is largest we have acquired to date and our plans will place the venue at the heart of our future development and growth plans.

"Our plans are currently underway and our vision is for Carlton Park to become the flagship  of our growing hotel business, forming a key part of our future growth plans."

Carlton Park website

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News: AMRC inspires next generation of female engineers

More than 100 schoolgirls from across the Sheffield city region (SCR) have now been shown the huge potential of a career in engineering thanks to the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre's (AMRC's) #AMRCtribe campaign.

Fifty-four pupils, from schools in Barnsley, Rotherham and Sheffield, were invited to the AMRC, part of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult, in the latest event of a programme which aims to inspire young girls to pursue a career in STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths).

Attracting more women into engineering is one of the most serious challenges facing the industry and a large part of #AMRCtribe, which launched in June this year, is to create a supportive network for teenagers to talk openly about their interest in STEM subjects and STEM-related careers. An exclusive social media group provides a safe environment for young women to talk in confidence to like-minded peers who may attend different schools.

Ami Swales, the AMRC’s STEM and Outreach Coordinator, said: "We want to connect young girls from the Sheffield City Region so they feel they’re not isolated. Often they can be the only one in their friendship group that is interested in engineering, but with #AMRCtribe they can meet other people who have similar interests and it might empower them to pursue that career.

"We invited five schools to this event and each has had tours of the AMRC Training Centre, the Design and Prototyping Centre, Factory of the Future, Nuclear AMRC and our Manufacturing Transporter (MANTRA)."

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Following the tours the schoolgirls were then set an engineering group activity, working in mixed teams, to build a model Ferris wheel using little more that paper, masking tape, string and bolts.

Asha Spruce, 16, from UTC Sheffield, said: "I think #AMRCtribe is such a good initiative because women feel intimated going into such a male-dominated industry. Having the tribe means there is support there and it gives us women a chance to meet others doing the same thing.

“Seeing the Digital Operating Theatre in the Design and Prototyping Centre was so impressive, I have never seen anything like that before; it was the best part of the tour. I knew I wanted to be an engineer before coming to the AMRC but until I saw the Digital Operating Theatre, I didn’t know medical engineering was an option."

Speakers at the event, held at the AMRC's Knowledge Transfer Centre on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham, included Fellow of the Institute of Physics, Mark Wrigley and second year apprentice machinist at Boeing Sheffield, Rosie Davies.

Asha added: "Hearing from people like Rosie and seeing other female engineers working on the shop floor really inspires me; it shows that it can be done."

#AMRCtribe will continue throughout 2020, with further events for schools at the AMRC.

AMRC website

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