News: New future for demolition-threatened Rotherham grammar school building

Months after plans were submitted to knock it down, new plans have now gone in to save and reuse a historic part of Maltby Old Grammar School.

Rothbiz reported in April that the iconic clock tower, which was saved from demolition when the academy trust revamped the site in 2013, was set to be knocked down.

In those plans, the Trust said that: "The Grammar School is now in an “abandoned” state due to anti-social behaviour, trespass and illegal break ins causing damage to the building internally and externally." It added that the damage to the block, which dates from 1932 but is not a listed building, "is extensive and dangerous."

However, with the hope of new funding, a new planning application has been submitted detailing how the building could be saved.

Rotherham Council is bidding to the Government's Levelling Up fund for a £23m project to kickstart the leisure and visitor economy. It includes £4.5m of Government funding in the £6.3m redevelopment of the former Maltby Grammar School to create an incubator space for training, apprenticeships, and start up support in the leisure and hospitality sectors.

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Plans from Maltby Academy show a sixth form centre and a community and enterprise centre.

The plans, drawn up by Derek Cox Architects, state: "The Maltby Learning Trust is seeking planning permission to remodel the old Grammar School Building on the Maltby Academy site. This would involve partial demolition of the single storey wings on the North side of the building adjacent to the quadrangle at the centre of the Academy site.

"The remainder of this building will be re-developed with planned works consisting of overhaul of the roof, restoration of the clock tower, installation of new aluminium windows and doors, repairs to rain water goods, making good brickwork, introduction of a partially glazed roof over the internal courtyard, new M & E services throughout and complete internal refresh.

"This proposal will retain the substantial part of the complex and repurpose the building for mixed use comprising a sixth form centre, accommodation to support acquiring skills and supporting apprenticeships, enterprise and new businesses and provide spaces for community use to support lifelong learning, group meetings and exhibitions.

"The project involves refurbishing the structural fabric of the buildings, reconfiguring the spaces and creation of a ‘heart space’ that would be the focal point of the complex.

"It is recognised that this group of buildings are of historic importance to the Local Community Heritage Asset and provide a catalyst for redefining and reshaping the town centre through creating a civic hub around the existing community services, leisure centre and the new community orientated facility."

David Sutton, CEO of Maltby Learning Trust, said: “Hopefully through retaining the buildings links with Maltby Academy and sharing the facilities and expertise available, young people of Maltby and the broader community can be assisted in the move to employment and apprenticeships and the Trust can encourage start-up initiatives, provide guidance and create new work experience opportunities.

“The Trust is committed to engaging with a number of local community groups, the Town Council and Local Authority to try to access specific funding streams designed to upgrade old buildings, invest in community regeneration and crime reduction and bring safe community spaces into Town Centres.”

Maltby Learning Trust website

Images: Maltby Learning Trust

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News: Acquisition concludes merger inquiry

3G Truck and Trailer Parts (3G), based in Rotherham, has been acquired. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) ordered the sale following an inquiry.

The £16m-turnover Hellaby-firm is a commercial vehicle components supplier and initially went through a merger in 2020 with TVS Europe Distribution Limited (TVS).

The CMA concluded that the merger may be expected to result in a substantial lessening of competition in the wide range wholesale supply of commercial vehicle and trailer parts to motor factors in the independent aftermarket in the UK. The Group concluded that the sale of the 3G business, to a purchaser approved by the CMA, would be an effective and proportionate remedy.

Following a competitive sale process, a joint venture between John Bruce and Peter Beaumont (original investors), and commercial vehicle brake specialist Thos Winnard & Sons agreed a deal to buy back the company.

John Bruce, Director, said “We look forward to working with the proven management team to continue the growth of the business.”

BHP Corporate Finance, led by Don Gray and Declan Savage, acted as lead advisors to the buyers.

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Declan Savage, Assistant Director at BHP Corporate Finance, said “3G has grown significantly over the past two years and we are delighted to have assisted John and Peter to buy back the company they helped to found and grow into the successful business it is today. I have no doubt that under their leadership it will continue to grow further”.

HSBC provided a combined acquisition finance and working capital facility to support the transaction. Chris Alsop, Relationship Director at HSBC, said “This impressive management team have a great opportunity to grow this well-established business even further – I am very confident they will do so and am pleased that HSBC have been able to support them on this journey."

Yorkshire law firm Gordons provided legal advice to the buyer. Gordons corporate partner Jonathan Asquez led on the deal assisted by corporate solicitors Lisa Murphy and Andrew Moore.

Jonathan added: “We were very pleased to provide advice on this deal, particularly as we worked on the sale of 3G to TVS last year.

“This meant we were able to facilitate the transaction quickly thanks to our existing knowledge of both companies.”

HSBC were advised by Richard Goodall of FRP Advisory (financial due diligence) and James Burdekin of Knights plc (legal advice). Schofield Sweeney acted for TVS.

3G Truck and Trailer Parts website

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News: South Yorkshire to pilot new Local Skills Improvement Plan

South Yorkshire’s Chambers of Commerce have come together to lead a successful bid that could transform skills supply, employment prospects, and business productivity across the region.

The South Yorkshire Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) Trailblazer will be led by Doncaster Chamber working alongside Sheffield, and Barnsley and Rotherham Chambers of Commerce and a range of partners including the region’s colleges and Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) Training Centre.

The bid was backed by all of the region’s MPs, the Sheffield City Region Mayoral Combined Authority, Local Enterprise Partnership and a range of other strategic partners.

The targeted pilot will work closely with colleges and other provider to provide skills solutions for employers in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) related industries. As well as putting businesses in the driving seat when it comes to articulating skills demand, the pilot will also seek to encourage businesses to increase the level of investment in their workforce.

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Andrew Denniff, CEO Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber, said: “This is excellent news for South Yorkshire. Improving skills supply and encouraging businesses to invest in workforce development are two priorities within the region’s ambitious Strategic Economic Plan. This is an opportunity to put employers at the heart of skills planning in a new and innovative way.”

Dan Fell, CEO Doncaster Chamber, said: “Our bid was backed by a range of STEAM-related employers, including some of the region’s exemplar businesses, who have committed to working with the Chambers and Colleges as early adopters to make this this project a success. The collaborative approach to this bid demonstrates the ability of ‘Team South Yorkshire’ to sing from the same hymn sheet and to create positive outcomes for the region’s businesses and residents.”

Louisa Harrison-Walker, an Executive Director at Sheffield Chamber, said: “Developing a highly skilled workforce is so very important to our Chamber members and the wider business community. This work will be led by businesses for businesses, but it will involve genuine collaboration with all those who care about developing a highly skilled workforce fit for the 21st century.”

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News: Fan zone plans for Guest & Chrimes

Football fans and visitors to Rotherham town centre will have more to cheer if new plans for a micro-brewery and fan zone can be realised at a rejuvenated Guest & Chrimes site.

Rothbiz reported last month that the historic site was in line for a funding boost as the borough had been selected by the Government to receive £31.6m to revamp areas of Rotherham town centre as well as Templeborough and Eastwood.

It was outlined that the site, which suffered a fire in 2018, was set to provide attractive public spaces and leisure facilities.

Now further details of the proposals show that £4.5m has been earmarked from the Towns Fund pot for the saving of the landmark water tower, the development of a new building, and new public spaces on the site. 16,000 sq ft of new commercial space would be created alongside 0.26 hectares of new public realm.

The aim is to create an "enhanced townscape that is more attractive and more accessible to residents, businesses and visitors" and help build an "improved arts, cultural and heritage offer that is more visible and easier for residents/visitors to access."

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Investment plans state: "New developments have brought life to the area with the arrival of Rotherham United’s New York Stadium and Riverside House, home to Rotherham Borough Council and currently the Central Library. However, the vacant and semi-derelict buildings at the former Guest and Chrimes factory, which is of significant historical importance to Rotherham, being Grade II listed, remain present and unused. An options appraisal has been completed and a solution which celebrates and retains the building’s heritage, and its surrounding uses has been identified.

"This is a longstanding vacant heritage building complex, desperately in need of regeneration. The new solution has now been developed in partnership with Rotherham United Football Club, creating complimentary leisure uses and outstanding public realm. The key heritage feature of the building is retained and incorporated into a vibrant new leisure-based scheme.

"The project comprises the development of a new building and public realm, providing space for the expansion of successful local businesses into the town centre. There is demand for this space as evidenced by consultation with local businesses, including a micro-brewery, football club fan-zone."

A recent council bid to the Levelling Up Fund includes the provision of a new pedestrian bridge across the river between the new residential development on Sheffield Road and Guest & Chrimes and New York Stadium.

Rothbiz reported in 2019 that Historic England had received an application to remove the building from the listed buildings register. The historic frontage was demolished following the fire.

The new project aims to secure the refurbishment of the landmark water tower and the completion of a "light-box" landmark feature.

Empty since 1999, the site was purchased by Rotherham Council for £2.6m from developers, Evans in 2010 and is now controlled by the football club which has a very long lease from the Council. English Heritage (now Historic England) "strongly objected" to 2012 plans to demolish the former factory.

The company established a manufacturing operation near to Rotherham's Market Place in 1843 with the Chrimes brothers, Peter and Edward, setting up a brass foundry where they invented and produced the high-pressure loose valve screw-down tap.

The firm rapidly expanded into sluice valves, fire hydrants and water meters and John Guest joined the firm in 1847. Following a very large order from Spain, the company moved to the present site in 1857.

The new project wants to tell the international story about Guest & Chrimes through branding and public art to raise ambitions and aspiration of young people. Public realm space would include "interactive New York style Fire Hydrant water features for children’s play - reflecting the product that was designed and manufactured here. This will help to maximise the natural assets of the river and canal."

The plans give an indicative completion date for the project of 2024.



Images: RMBC / Tom Austen

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News: South Yorkshire’s SMEs set for £3.3m grant funding boost

A grant scheme which aims to help businesses across South Yorkshire to bridge the productivity gap is set to provide up to £3.3m in grant funding to boost the local economy, after the region was identified as the lowest performing City Region in England and one of the worst performing areas in Europe.

With productivity being closely linked to improving quality of life, the Business Productivity Programme which was launched in October and to date has supported over 100 businesses, will help businesses to overcome barriers to growth and productivity challenges by applying for a match-funded grant.

Projects which include both consultancy services and investment in new equipment or machinery up to a value of £24,999 can apply for up to 50% of the costs to be funded through the new grant scheme. The new scheme is funded through the European Regional Development Fund and will be delivered by Enterprising Barnsley, Business Sheffield, Business Doncaster and Rotherham Investment and Development Office (RiDO).

To qualify for the grant funding, businesses must be based in South Yorkshire and been trading for more than twelve months. As part of the application process businesses must submit a detailed expenditure plan.

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According to the latest statistics released by the Office of National Statistics, only Swansea Bay City Region had a lower level of productivity than the Sheffield City Region. Data published by the Sheffield City Region has also suggested that if business productivity levels increased, the size of the local economy would increase from £35bn to £44bn if it matched the UK national average, and £62bn when compared with London.

Anna Smith, Programme Manager, Business Productivity Programme said: “As many businesses turn their attentions to working in a post Covid-19 and post Brexit world, many have been forced to adapt and embrace news ways of running their business. The business productivity programme was developed in a bid to help businesses access the skills, support and capital needed to respond a changing economy.

“Business productivity is an important benchmark and research has consistently showed strong links between economic growth, quality of life and standard of living. Although there have been some signs of increases in productivity in recent years, South Yorkshire has struggled to catch up with other parts of the UK. Instead, the gap appears to widening.

“Historically, the local economy has been dependent upon low-skilled jobs and according to research published by the Sheffield City Region, nearly half of those jobs are at threat of automation within the next two decades. The aim of the business productivity programme is to help equip South Yorkshire businesses with the skills and support needed to innovate, invest in R&D and drive future economic growth within the region.

“The long term aim of the programme is to help attract and retain high skilled jobs within South Yorkshire, by helping businesses to understand and overcome perceived barriers to growth."

RiDO website

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News: Permission secured for new Rotherham warehouse unit

Planning permission has been secured for a new 72,685 sq ft warehouse development in Rotherham to replace commercial space on an established business park.

Vinter Estates submitted updated plans for the speculative redevelopment of the site at Hellaby Industrial Estate earlier this year.

Formerly occupied by Benson for Beds, the approved proposals are for an industrial / warehouse unit for B2 / B8 use, including air conditioning units, modified site access, car parking, vehicle service area, landscaping and associated works. Vehicular access would be from Bramley Way to the south of the site.

Savills and Heaney Micklethwaite are agents for the scheme which is being marketed as a "Focus 72" - a high specification warehouse / distribution facility on a site of approximately 4.1 acres.

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Plans were updated to enable owners to extract some 900 cubic metres of coal from the site in between demolishing the old building and erecting the new facility.

The new development will replace the 46,068 sq ft Rosedale House, a bespoke unit for Bensons Beds, which included both warehousing and manufacturing facilities. It was vacated approximately two years ago, despite numerous options being considered for bringing the site back into occupation, none of these were successful, with the site remaining unoccupied.

In approving the plans, council officers said that "It is considered that whilst larger than the building it replaces it would not result in the site being overdeveloped, furthermore it would not appear at odds with the immediate surrounding given the similar sized buildings within this particular industrial estate."

Objectors raised issues around traffic and air quality but officers are not concerned as any increase in traffic is considered negligible.

Images: Heaney Micklethwaite

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News: Plans progress for Magna Park & Ride

Plans for a £6.65m project to introduce a new tram-train stop on the existing network with a new Park & Ride site at Magna in Rotherham are coming down the line.

Rothbiz revealed in 2019 that the Magna project had been included in a bid to secure over £200m from the Government's Transforming Cities Fund (TCF). The Sheffield City Region (SCR) secured £166m with the Templeborough scheme picked out by the Government for funding.

South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive (SYPTE) is promoting the project and is currently developing a full business case whilst launching a consultation to help to shape and inform the scheme design and operational requirements.

The overall aim is to create a realistic alternative to the car for journeys between Rotherham and Sheffield, improve connectivity for the Magna Science & Adventure Park and wider Templeborough area and increase tram-train patronage thereby contributing to the longer-term viability of the Supertram service.

The proposed scheme will link to Rotherham Council’s proposals for an active travel corridor between Rotherham town centre and Tinsley and Sheffield City Council’s proposals for walking and cycling links continuing to Meadowhall.

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Starting services in 2018, passengers in South Yorkshire were the first in the country to benefit from the innovative tram-train pilot project where special vehicles use pioneering technology to run on both Sheffield's tramlines and the rail network in Rotherham.

Network Rail will be responsible for development of the design and construction of the new 30 metre tram-train stop. A Network Rail scheme at Rotherham Central was hampered by delays and their work on the heavy rail modifications also delayed the tram-train scheme.

This is the first through stop on the tram-train route which will be served exclusively by Supertram services. Meaning its design will be unique and differ to a standard mainline station, typically found on the National Rail network.

Consultation documents explain: "The building of two new staggered, low level Tram Train platforms at Magna Science & Adventure Centre - one for each running line, connected by an accessible footbridge with lifts and stairs - with passenger information, lighting, CCTV and passenger shelters. A separation fence between the running lines will dissuade trespass onto the railway from the low-level platforms."

In addition, the scheme includes the introduction of a new 100–150 space Park & Ride within the existing Science & Adventure Centre park.

SCR documents show that Magna are very receptive to the scheme and that "a 100-year lease over the land required for the P+R (and its access) at peppercorn rates is likely to be agreed."

A completion date of April 2023 is mentioned.

SYPTE Director of Transport Operations, Pat Beijer, said: “Passengers in South Yorkshire are the first in the UK to benefit from pioneering Tram Trains, and we’re seeking your views to help shape this ambitious project - the first to grow the network since it opened in 2018. The important proposals aim to improve connectivity between local neighbourhoods and centres. We hope the new Tram Train stop and Park & Ride will help to address traffic congestion and air quality in the area, particularly at Junction 34 of the M1, by encouraging people to think about choosing public transport and active travel over private cars.”

Rotherham Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport and the Environment, Cllr Dominic Beck, said: “We want everyone in Rotherham to have sustainable, convenient and affordable travel options – and public transport is central to that. This scheme stands to benefit us all by reducing traffic congestion and harmful emissions, so I encourage everyone who lives in, works in or travels through this area to examine the proposals, and help make the most of this investment.”

Route Director for Network Rail’s North and East route, Matt Rice, added: “The proposed Tram Train stop would improve connectivity for local businesses, visitors to Magna Science & Adventure Centre and people living in the Rotherham area, with better access to a fast, clean method of transport. We’re pleased to be working closely with SYPTE and join them in encouraging local residents and Tram Train users to share their views through the consultation.”

SYPTE website

Images: SYPTE

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News: Jobs queue updated at instantprint

The UK’s largest online printing company, instantprint, is on the lookout for over 74 new team members - the majority for its headquarters in Rotherham.

The Manvers-based printers, which started out as a two-man business just ten years ago, employs in excess of 600 people across the South Yorkshire region and is looking to expand further following exponential growth over the past year.

With its usual peak period (September-November) on the horizon, and the end of Covid-19 restrictions expected to drive further demand for print products such as signage, posters, and menus, instantprint is preparing for a yet another wave of business growth and is delighted to be able to offer these exiting roles to local jobseekers.

The variety of roles up for grab in the upcoming weeks are: business development executives; machine operatives; junior artworkers; engineers; client service advisors.

In the immediate future the Business Development Executives, Artworker and Client Service roles consist of a mixture of working from home and working from the instantprint offices based in Wath-Upon-Dearne. All other roles will be permanently based at the instantprint headquarters.

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instantprint has also announced that it will be a Real Living Wage employer. The Real Living Wage is voluntarily paid by around 7,000 UK businesses who believe their staff deserve a wage which meets every day needs. The Real Living Wage is at least £9.50 per hour - £1.14 more than the UK minimum wage of £8.91.

Angela Hunter, TX Operations Manager at instantprint, said; “Despite Covid-19, we have gone from strength to strength. Due to this, alongside ongoing investment in our people and production facility, and a forecasted increase in demand following the end of Covid-19 restrictions, we are so proud to be able to expand the instantprint family yet again and create further job opportunities.”

“Although the business employs over 600 people, we still have that start-up mentality and part of that is having a close-knit team who contribute to the positive working culture that we have and take pride in.

“We look forward to receiving CVs and meeting with candidates in the coming weeks.”

instantprint is part of the Bluetree Group, which has also seen a recruitment surge for its medical manufacturing division, also based in Rotherham.

Bluetree Group website

Images: Bluetree Group

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News: Pyronix supports Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice’s summer initiative

Rotherham manufacturing firm, Pyronix, has donated over £600 to Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, in support of their summer craft boxes initiative.

The initiative seeks to provide tailored fun activities for families to do together, whilst making special memories.

Based in Hellaby, Pyronix is an award-winning manufacturer with an extensive range of electronic security equipment for intruder alarms. It is a long-time supporter of Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, who care for children and young adults whose lives are sadly just too short, both in their own homes and at their hospice located in North Anston, Rotherham.

Bluebell Wood’s main focus is making magical memories for children, young adults and their families, whether they have years, months, weeks or days together.

The summer boxes contain craft items such as paint and glitter, sensory items such as modo (a special type of playdough with scents and bright colours), water beads, light up toys, as well as something special for the child or young adult and their siblings, to ensure each family feels special.

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Laurence Kenny, Pyronix Marketing Director, said: “We’re really pleased to be able to donate towards the Bluebell Wood craft box initiative. The boxes are offered to the Bluebell Wood children, young adults and their much deserving families, to provide enjoyable experiences and memories together and we’re delighted to be able to provide our support.”

Pyronix said that it is proud to support this great initiative and looks forward to continuing a relationship with Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice in the future.

Jason Gossop, Regional Fundraiser at Bluebell Wood, said: “Throughout the pandemic we’ve been working hard to find new ways to be there for the families in our care and the craft boxes are just one of the many ways we’re helping them to make precious memories together.

“Without the support of community-spirited local businesses like Pyronix, this simply wouldn’t be possible so we’d like to say a huge thank you for their generosity.

“We’ll look forward to continuing to work closely with the brilliant team at Pyronix in the weeks and months ahead.”

Pyronix website
Bluebell Wood website

Images: Pyronix

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News: Government washes its hands of Droppingwell tip planning permission

Despite original plans being approved in the 1950s, the Government has confirmed that it will not intervene in the planning issue around a controversial tip reopening in Rotherham.

When landfilling operations ceased at the Droppingwell site, the planning permission and environmental permit allowing landfilling activity in January 1978 remained in place. The EA granted a permit variation in 2016 which allows for 150,000 tonnes of inert waste to be imported, and 55,000 tonnes of waste for restoration, each year.

The operator, Grange Landfill Limited, is working under the conditions of the environmental permit, to install engineered infrastructure to meet the requirements of the permit to ensure that the proposed landfill activity at this site will not impact on the local environment. This includes the importation of inert waste for use in construction, which is legally allowed under the terms of the Permit.

It is thought that the conditions of the Environmental Permit have not yet been met, and full landfilling operations are not able to commence.

Opponents, including residents, users of nearby football and golf facilities, the council, and the local MP, have raised concerns regarding traffic, noise and other impacts on the local area which has changed since the original plans were approved in the 1950s.

The Council has looked in detail at the contents of the 1958 planning permission and considered all of the information provided to a public inquiry in 1992 and determined that legally relevant planning permission is in place.

An update to councillors states that the Council has now had a response from the Government regarding revoking planning permission at the site.

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The update reads: "The Council last wrote to the Secretary of State on 26th February 2021, to ask them to use their powers under the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, to revoke or discontinue the planning permission and to fund any compensation claims from the Government purse. Whilst additional information has been requested by, and provided to, the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government in March 2021.

"A response was received from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) on 14th July 2021. MHCLG conclude that they: “…do not consider it would be expedient for the Secretary of State to exercise his powers to revoke planning permission or to discontinue use of land in this case.”"

The authority had already ruled out using Section 102 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 in terms of the potential for making a discontinuance order on the site. Any discontinuance would be subject to compensation and the Council calculated this to be potentially in excess of £20m.

A statement from the Council on the issue explains: "The Council does not have the financial resources to pay at that level of cost. In addition, the Council is unlikely to be able to justify the proportionality of spending such a large amount of local public money on a single planning issue without contravention of our value for money and financial fiduciary requirements."

Any Order made by the Council would not take effect unless it was confirmed by the Secretary of State, either without modification or subject to such modifications as the Secretary of State determines.

Section 104 of the Act gives the same power directly to the Secretary of State should they consider it expedient to use it. The Council decided that the best way forward in terms of the site is for the Secretary of State to intervene, and to use their powers to revoke or discontinue the Planning permission.

The response this month seems to rule out any Government intervention.

The update to councillors also highlights temporary traffic regulation orders to try and prohibit large vehicles in the area, issues over the access road, public rights of way, site security and the ongoing monitoring of the area. The Council also admitted that, despite the authority's stance on the issues, 30 lorry loads of waste were carried to the tip from contractors working on council-backed housing schemes.

Images: Google Maps

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News: First deal secured at Rotherham industrial development

Network Space has secured its first letting at its speculative multimillion-pound Woodhouse Link development, close to M1 Junction 31.

BLE Smoke and Fire Curtains Ltd is taking the 31,200 sq ft Unit 3 on a 15-year lease. A second unit is also under offer.

Rothbiz reported earlier this year on plans for the site of the former Laycast foundry that had been "sterilised" by previous HS2 proposals.

Local construction company Harris CM is onsite delivering 116,600 sq ft of prime industrial space across four high specification units. Ready for occupation in early 2022, Woodhouse Link will be capable of fostering approximately 200 new jobs.

BLE is part of the family owned Lowe & Fletcher Group. A global supplier, the company has designed, made, installed and maintained innovative, bespoke smoke and fire curtains for buildings for the last 40 years, providing life-saving protection for millions of people in commercial buildings, stations, airports and hospitals.

The expansion to Woodhouse Link reflects the continued growth of the company. Nigel Ward, Managing Director from BLE said: “This purpose build facility in such a great location will offer the company an exceptional base for our fast growing business.

“The integral office will be to headquarter standard, in keeping with our brand and helping us to add the best talent to our team. The flexible design and high sustainability standards are ideal for our needs.”

Simon Peters, Development Director at Network Space, explains: “Woodhouse Link is designed to meet the shortage of quality industrial space within the Sheffield City Region, where it is evident that new supply is struggling to keep pace with strong demand.

“We’ve already had a lot of interest in the development and we are delighted to welcome BLE as our first occupier. Woodhouse Link offers a great central location and with a further unit under offer and strong enquiry levels in the remaining space we could be fully let before this speculative development completes.”

Woodhouse Link lies close to junctions 31 and 33 of the M1, to the east of Sheffield and on the south side of Rotherham, within the Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation District and close to the Advanced Manufacturing Park at Waverley.

The development has planning permission for 24/7 operation and is suitable for manufacturing or distribution uses. The detached and self-contained units all provide secure storage yards and parking, 8 to 10 metre high eaves, integral offices and are designed to a high sustainability standard, including EV charging points, and to a BREEAM Very Good rating.

With unit 3 now let and a further unit under offer, only units 1 and 2 remain available providing 48,900 sq ft and 13,200 sq ft respectively. Avison Young and CPP have been appointed to market the site.

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Toby Vernon, Director at CCP introduced the deal. He said: “Demand for quality units such as those at Woodhouse Link is going from strength to strength. We saw a record take up in 2020 and high demand for space has continued in 2021. Occupiers want modern, efficient buildings that will stand the test of time, which is one of the reasons demand is so high, evidenced by the letting to BLE.”

Rob Oliver, principal from Avison Young said: “We have always known this development will be well received by the occupational market, so we were delighted, but not surprised, to have two units under offer before speculative construction began.

“Well designed and highly specified they suit the demands and expectations of today’s occupiers who want accessible and cost effective premises which facilitate efficient operations, present the right impression to clients and the workforce and meet their environmental agenda.”

The project team includes DLA Architecture, Spawforths planners, Tetra Tech and CJR Midlands M&E engineers, Walker Sime QS and project management and Gateley legal.

It is being constructed by Yorkshire company, Harris CM. Jason Adlam, CEO at Harris CM, said: “This project is an impressive industrial development and we look forward to working with Network Space on our first contract together.

“The scheme demonstrates the importance of Sheffield’s industrial and manufacturing sectors and provides further opportunities for our workforce and supply chain, with a significant proportion being South Yorkshire based.”

BLE Smoke and Fire Curtains website
Network Space website

Images: BLE / Network Space

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News: Approval recommended for development on "last piece of AMP expansion land"

The last phase of new development at the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham is being recommended for approval by council planners.

Rothbiz reported in Frebruary on plans from landowners and developers, Harworth Group plc, for land to the south of Whittle Way and Highfield Spring.

Around 18 acres, land which has previously been granted planning permission for business and industrial uses, could soon be home to a further 242,000 sq ft of commercial floorspace.

An indicative masterplan shows seven units, ranging in size from 16,500 sq ft to 85,000 sq ft, with access from Whittle Way.

The plans are going to Rotherham Council's planning board due to the number of objections received. They have been revised after taking into consideration neighbour comments and consultation responses.

Objections centred around traffic and the location of commercial units close to houses.

Waverley Community Council is objectiong due to the loss of privacy for the houses opposite the site as a result of the positioning on Unit No. 10 so close to Highfield Spring. There is also a loss of the green corridor alongside the railway track and footpath.

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A report from offciers to the planning board states that: "Whilst the assessment of the traffic impact of the development shows that it will have some effect on local traffic, the site is in a sustainable location. With proper attention to details of travel planning, the site can be developed with a minimum of impact on the local highway network and is acceptable in highway/transportation terms."

The application site boundary is at the closest point approximately 25m away from the front elevation of nearby properties. The amended plans have included a strategic landscape buffer being provided along the Highfield Spring frontage of the site to soften any proposed development and improve residential amenity for the residents opposite. Additionally, the proposed hight of unit 10 has been reduced by 1.5m to a maximum height of 11.5m.

The site was earmarked for industrial use in the Council’s Local Plan which was adopted in 2019. The report adds: "The houses facing Highfield Spring across from the application site were therefore always going to face industrial development if the full allocation was developed out."

In its latest financial results, Harworth stated that 1.5 million sq ft had been built so far on the AMP with the intended amount of development on completetion (scheduled for 2025) at 2.1 million sq ft.

The outline plans are due to be discussed by the board this week.

Images: Harworth / Harris Partnership

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News: Further delay to publication of Government’s Integrated Rail Plan

Key to large scale transport interventions in the the North, ihe Integrated Rail Plan (IRP) will not be published prior to parliamentary recess and will now be delayed until September 2021 at the earliest.

Rothbiz reported in March how the much anticipated document is expected to set out the long-term investment plans for the North’s rail upgrades as well as details on how the projects will be delivered.

It is hoped that a new mainline station in Rotherham is somewhere within the plans.

Sub-national transport body. Transport for the North (TfN) has now updated its members that the plan, first expected by the end of 2020, will now not be published prior to the parliamentary summer recess, commencing on July 22 2021.

TfN has agreed its final recommendations for the new Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR - a rapid, reliable and resilient rail network between the North's six biggest cities and other economic centres) but at request of the Department for Transport, TfN has agreed to delay submitting the business case until the Government’s Integrated Rail Plan has been published.

Board papers state: "The earliest possible SOC [Strategic Outline Case for NPR] – based on the earliest possible IRP after summer recess and the most minimal changes to modelling and the SOC drafting - would now be submitted 12 months later than previously programmed (March 2022), but potentially much later. This would in turn result in delays to the programme and start of construction, meaning that the potential gains in the programme to be made by rephasing the SOC will be outstripped by the continued delays to the IRP, delaying the step-change in connectivity, delivering transformational, clean, economic growth across the North of England brought about by Northern Powerhouse Rail."

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The South Yorkshire Mayor Dan Jarvis, said: "“We’ve now been waiting for eight months to see the Integrated Rail Plan. This ongoing delay is completely unacceptable.

"As a consequence, we’re being asked to make impossible decisions about vital rail links, such as that between Sheffield and Manchester Airport, without even seeing the government’s list of rail investment projects.

"This continued delay further fuels the suspicion that what is being planned falls far short of the promises that were made. Indeed, after a certain point, delay starts to send a strong message of its own.

“I struggle to see how this government can claim to be serious about ‘levelling up’ the North, when there are so many question marks about something as basic as improving rail connections between our towns and cities.

"We desperately need the Government to provide clarity on their plans for HS2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail serving our region. They’re prolonging the uncertainty for businesses and people living on the proposed HS2 route in the North.”

The Sheffield City Region Mayoral Combined Authority (MCA) put forward a number of high profile schemes and projects where it believes the Government should intervene.

Interventions include things like the HS2 "Northern Loop" out of Sheffield to Leeds, completing the electrification of the Midland Mainline and a national rail connection to Doncaster Sheffield Airport.

It also includes: "A new NPR station on the Midland Mainline at Rotherham which will significantly enhance regional and national rail connectivity for Rotherham and open up development opportunities. This should be integrated with the tram-train network to connect to the town centre."

SCR documents show that TfN is also proposing a new NPR station on the main line at Rotherham to support the economic regeneration of the town.

A new mainline station for Rotherham and a Barnsley Dearne Valley parkway station are set to be progressed through NPR and not HS2. A location for the Rotherham station is expected to be in Parkgate.

Images: HS2 Ltd

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News: UK's steel safeguards extended

Local MP, John Healey has welcomed a last-minute Government U-turn over the removal of safeguard tariffs on cheap steel imports.

Rothbiz reported last month that Ministers were considering scrapping safeguards to protect the industry from foreign steel dumping.

The Trade Remedies Investigations Directorate (TRID) published its final recommendation recently. The body recommends axing protections for the British steel industry by removing several categories of steel from safeguard measures.

One of the products set to be removed is wire steel, produced at the Liberty plant in Rotherham. The US and EU are keeping protections in place.

As the deadline loomed, the Government announced that the five most important safeguards under threat would be extended for a further year, and that the decision-making powers of the Trade Remedies Authority would be reviewed.

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Healey, the MP for Wentworth and Dearne, said: “This is a huge victory for our steelworkers, who have campaigned hard over the last month against the removal of these safeguards. Their efforts helped me and other MPs make the case in Parliament, force the Government to change its plans, and keep these protections in place.

“But the fight does not stop here. As part of the government’s review, I want the Trade Remedies Authority reformed to represent the views of workers and industry and consider the impact of its decisions on communities like ours.

“And second, we may have stopped the immediate threat from cheap imports, but we have to do more than that to protect the future of the British steel industry. We need a long-term plan for investment and modernisation, making the UK a world leader in low carbon steel production and putting British-made steel at the heart of every major infrastructure project in our country.”

Next on the agenda for the industry and parliamentarians is the issue of energy prices. MP Stephen Kinnock, who chairs the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Steel and Metal-Related Industries has warned of a catastrophic impact on steel production if Ofgem, the energy regulator, goes through with a proposed hike in charges that would double network charges.

French and German steel makers face network charges equivalent to £1/MWh whilst UK steel makes already face network charges of £9 - £11/MWh.

Images: Liberty Steel

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News: Magtec opens new factory for electric and hybrid vehicle drive systems in Rotherham

Magtec is opening a state-of-the-art factory for the design, manufacture and integration of its world-leading drive systems for electric and hybrid vehicles in Rotherham.

The company has commissioned a 65,000 sq ft facility at Templeborough to scale up production and meet growing international demand for its innovative technologies.

Founded in 1992, Magtec designs and manufactures components for a wide range of applications including trucks, buses and military vehicles.

The privately-funded move represents a multi-million pound commitment and creates 30 highly skilled new jobs for engineers to work on projects at the cutting edge of transportation.

Magtec, founded by chief technical officer Marcus Jenkins, is delivering best-in-class electric and hybrid drive systems for buses, commercial vehicles, special vehicles and trains.

The company employs 125 people including six apprentices and has been operating from two sites in Sheffield and Rotherham.

Managing Director Andrew Gilligan said: “We are delighted to be opening our new factory in South Yorkshire and proud to be investing in the future of high-tech design and manufacturing in the UK.

“Fears over a climate emergency are driving change across the global transport industry and Magtec is absolutely at the forefront of the technology needed to make it happen.

“Our new factory gives us the space to grow, increase production volumes and fulfil our potential in this exciting sector.”

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Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng said: “I’m excited that this new factory is opening up in Rotherham, creating highly-skilled jobs in the local community as part of the growing electric vehicle market.

“This is a perfect example of how our transition away from petrol and diesel cars to electric vehicles can create jobs and attract investment, all while cutting emissions so we can end our contribution to climate change.”

The new site at Magna 34 Business Park, close to the M1, is spread across two buildings.

Magtec One houses the Centre of Excellence for engineering and a cellular manufacturing facility for motors and gearboxes, test rigs for production and development work and a machine shop with the latest equipment.

Magtec Two houses the battery build section, raft build production lines for electric vehicle and hybrid drive systems for road and rail applications, a controller build section, an environmental test chamber and vehicle integration section. It will also serve the company’s growing business re-powering buses for transport groups.

Last year, Magtec was awarded £3m via the Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC) for a project which aims to utilise the latest automation technologies and establish the company as a tier one supplier to the global transport industry.

Magtec website

Images: Magtec

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News: Action taken over problem pubs

A pub in Rotherham town centre is under review after South Yorkshire Police petitioned for its premises licence to be scrutinised following a number of incidents.

Venues in Kimberworth Park and Thornhill have recently seen action taken against them by Rotherham Council's Licensing department.

Earlier this month members of the council's licensing sub-committee discussed a number of representations regarding The Red Lion, Bridgegate which reopened in 2018.

Rotherham' licensing service received an application from South Yorkshire Police for the summary review of the Premises Licence at the pub due to a number of serious incidents connected to the premises that occurred on June 18 and 20.

The application outlined numerous incidents of serious crime and disorder – some involving the use of snooker cues and glasses as weapons, and children as young as 13 being served alcohol at the premises.

The police also reported: "problematic and obstructive staff and customers who reported themselves as being in charge on behalf of the owner, most of whom were drunk" and "attempts to intimidate police officers as they were carrying out their duties."

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In addition, police found significant non-compliance with national legislation / guidance introduced to control the spread of Coronavirus.

When the council's enforcement team visited the premises to discuss the review, and a suspension of the licence whilst it takes place, they reported that they found staff to be confrontational and customers who were very aggressive and used foul and abusive language.

A representation from the premises refutes that the premises were out of control, adding that they believed incidents occurred outside the premises due to the Euros football and other town centre pubs closing early. It also states that they tried to cooperate to the best they could with council staff "only for lies to be made up."

A decision on the future of The Red Lion is due to be published soon.

Following an earlier decision by the licensing sub-committee regarding The Haynook, the Designated Premises Supervisor of the Kimberworth Park pub was ordered to be removed from the Premises Licence which was also suspended for three months. Violent disorder, drug dealing and drug use had been connected to the premises which also had a reported lack of effective management control and an "apparent obstructive/dismissive demeanour demonstrated by the Designated Premises Supervisor."

The licensing sub-committee has also voted to revoke the premises license at The Bungalow, an African community centre on Tenter Street. It followed a previous licencing review in February 2019.

Images: Google Maps

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News: Rotherham's hopes for high-quality cycle network

Rotherham Council is asking for comments on its draft cycling strategy and its proposals to create cycle tracks along the A6178 Sheffield Road.

The Council has launched public consultations into two elements of its plans to improve the borough’s cycling provision and encourage more people to make more journeys by bike.

A number of cycle schemes are in the frame for funding and Rothbiz reported last year on a project at Templeborough where works include a full-width road resurface, the installation of new cycle lanes and repairs to 500 metres of damaged highway drainage. Funding via the Sheffield City Region Mayoral Comined Authority is also being tapped into for later phases and improvements closer to the town centre.

Rotherham Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport and the Environment, Cllr Dominic Beck, said: “Cycling has a key role to play in reducing traffic congestion and harmful emissions, providing affordable transport and encouraging more active lifestyles – which are good for physical and mental wellbeing. Making it easier to travel by bike benefits not just to those who cycle, but the whole community.”

Data from previous years shows that even for Rotherham residents whose commutes are less than three miles (around 20 minutes by bike), 59% drive and only 1% cycle.

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The draft Rotherham Cycle Strategy outlines broad design standards to develop a high-quality cycle network as well as a range of supporting facilities and potential services to help increase the proportion of journeys made by bike.

The Council is asking residents, businesses and road users to share feedback on the draft, and their own current travel habits.

Proposals to create cycle tracks and ease traffic congestion along the A6178 between Ickles and Templeborough form the second phase of work along Westgate and Sheffield Road to make it easier to walk or cycle between Rotherham town centre and Tinsley.

The route between Rotherham town centre and Tinsley will link to Sheffield City Council’s proposed walking and cycling links onward to Meadowhall, and to South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive’s proposed scheme for a Tram-Train stop with a park and ride at Magna. The scheme is one of eight proposed in Rotherham using money from as part of the Transforming Cities Fund, secured through Sheffield City Region.

Rotherham businesses, residents and road-users are being asked to share their comments on the proposed design to shape the final implementation.

Cllr Beck added: “Making cycling part of everyday travel can, and must, support local communities, businesses and regeneration from the bottom up. But to do that we need everyone – especially those who don’t currently cycle – to give us their feedback on our proposals and tell us a little about their current travel habits. I encourage everyone who lives, works, trades or travels in Rotherham to take part in these consultations.”

Details of both consultations can be found here.

Images: Google Maps

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News: Plans in for Catalyst development

Detailed plans for 285,000 sq ft of industrial, warehousing and roadside opportunities at Sheffield Business Park, which could create up to 500 jobs, have been submitted.

Outline plans were approved in 2019 to enable the successful Sheffield Business Park to expand into Rotherham. "Phase 4" is planned for a 17.9-acre site that was previously kept in the greenbelt when Sheffield City Airport was in operation.

Rothbiz reported in April how Premcor, a private UK based property development company, had joined with Peveril Securities, a wholly owned investment and development division of Bowmer and Kirkland, to work together on their first ever South Yorkshire site.

Launched as Catalyst, the new development will offer design and build opportunities for sale or to let from 22,354 to 108,237 sq ft alongside the parkway and at the heart of the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District. Plans show five units that would be accessed via Britannia Way from Europa Link.

Simon Hawkins, director at Premcor, said: “Catalyst is an exciting development set to be fuelled by the region’s impressive manufacturing pedigree and status. Our development will truly reflect the catalyst for growth here.

“The Sheffield City Region, which includes Rotherham and this site, is one of the UK’s major manufacturing locations. Contributing nearly £20 billion to the national economy, the area is set to see strong growth and has a high availability of labour meaning competitively-priced wages compared to regional and national averages. Sheffield also has a 5.1% predicted growth rate from 2018-2028.

“The site enables occupiers to be at the cutting edge of UK manufacturing and within the north’s new logistics hotspot. Catalyst forms part of the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District (AMID), a world leading, research-led Advanced Manufacturing cluster along the Rotherham-Sheffield corridor.”

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Ralph Jones, managing director at Peveril Securities, added: “The site masterplan offers five units, with design and builds suitable for industrial, manufacturing and logistics uses, finished to a high specification.

“Sustainability is high on the agenda of our plans with our specification including target EPC rating ‘A’, minimum BREEAM rating of ‘Very Good’, PIR controlled LED lighting to the offices and a rooftop solar PV system ready, reflecting the environmental demands from occupiers.

“We are pleased to be pushing forward delivery plans for Catalyst which ultimately aims to deliver up to 285,000 sq ft of vibrant new industrial space.”

The Grade-A specification units will feature high standard floors, loading areas and eave heights, plus two storey offices with mechanically ventilated systems, suspended ceilings and raised access floors. Outside the development will include gated service yards with 24-hour access, security lighting and fences, covered cycle shelter and private on-site car parking.

Rebecca Schofield, partner and head of the Yorkshire industrial team at Knight Frank, which are retained agents with BNP Paribas Real Estate on Catalyst, said: “Catalyst is the latest development at Sheffield Business Park. Fronting onto Rotherham Gateway, it is in prime position to meet the needs of a wide range of occupiers.

“The 18 acre site is currently masterplanned for industrial and warehouse use, with a range of unit sizes that may be further tailored with bespoke design and builds.”

Guy Cooke, director and head of agency at BNP Paribas Real Estate Sheffield, added: “Catalyst is strategically situated to directly address large, regional and national markets and ideally located for a Regional Distribution Centre.

“Fast links to the M1, M18 and A1(M) bring the large consumer markets of the Greater Leeds area and the East Midlands within 90 minutes by HGV. The major manufacturing heartlands of the North, North West and West Midlands lie within 180 minutes, making Catalyst ideal for national distribution and just-in-time supply chains. London, Newcastle and Bristol fall within a single 270 minute HGV journey.

“Large local markets, plus a position immediately facing a major link route, also make Catalyst an ideal roadside opportunity.”

Sheffield Business Park website

Images: Peveril / C4 Projects

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News: S2S makes capital purchase

Rotherham-based data destruction and WEEE recycling solutions company, S2S, has brought London-based Data Eliminate, into its group.

S2S Group at Manvers is one of the leading players in electronics manufacturing, asset recovery and electronics recycling, specialising in the disposal and management of IT assets at the end of their lifecycle, offering a certified and eco-friendly IT Asset Disposal (ITAD) service.

As part of ambitious expansion plans, Data Eliminate, the data destruction specialists from Fleet Street, has joined forces to enhance the service offering in the London area and increase the group's secure Data Destruction capacity.

Just last month, S2S secured a £975,000 funding package from NatWest to enable the purchase of its current premises, which it had previously leased, on Farfield Industrial Park.

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Grant Barton, CEO of S2S said, “The deal with Data Eliminate Ltd will enhance our London based presence with immediate effect. This strengthens the opportunities for Data Eliminate customers and our existing London based clients, to have their redundant equipment processed by S2S; one of the UK’s leading ITAD companies.

"Our recent organic growth and profitability has allowed us to look strategically at our needs for the next phase of our development and this expansion fits comfortably into our existing infrastructure, whilst at the same time creating new job opportunities in a number of areas."

Julian Fraser, Director of Data Eliminate Ltd, added: "Joining S2S was a clear choice for us because our ethos and business practices are aligned. They are accredited by the Ministry of Defence and Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure (CPNI) – just like Data Eliminate Ltd – and are able to provide the high-level of service expected by our customers.

"Data Eliminate has worked closely with S2S on projects for a number of years so we are well aware of S2S’s capabilities as a ‘one stop’ ITAD company and the integrity with which they operate. We are delighted to become part of this exciting business and the expanded range of secure ITAD services now available will be a huge benefit to all of our clients."

S2S Group website

Images: S2S

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News: Welcome Break set to operate new £40m motorway service area in Rotherham

Welcome Break, one of the UK’s leading motorway service operators, is in the driving seat to operate a proposed motorway service area (MSA) on the M1 in Rotherham, new detailed plans have revealed.

Rothbiz reported in 2019 that Applegreen plc, a major petrol forecourt retailer in the Republic of Ireland with a significant and growing presence in the UK, had secured planning permission for a new development at Junction 33 of the M1 at Catcliffe.

The £40m investment is set to create 300 jobs.

Now detailed plans show that Welcome Break will operate the site. Applegreen took a majority holding in Welcome Break in 2018.

Welcome Break runs 44 service areas and 31 hotels across the UK, including Woodhall on the M1 in Rotherham. It works with brands such as Waitrose, Burger King, Harry Ramsden's, Subway and WHSmith.

The Catcliffe site is considered acceptable, given its existing allocation for mixed use and the previous plans for a hotel and pub which were approved but never implemented.

Currently scrub land on either side of the motorway, the outline plans were for HGV parking and amenities to the north of the M1 with customer parking and amenities for other motorway users to the south of the M1, via an underpass.

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The latest plans confirm that the main amenity building, measuring 32,000 sq ft, will include seven concession units, a retail area, gaming area, toilets, seating and a kid's play area on the ground floor. A mezzanine floor includes an eighth unit, further seating and a business lounge / remote working hub.

Separate plans have also been submitted for a standalone drive thru unit for global coffee chain, Starbucks.

The latest application also includes details around building materials and landscaping. Issues around highways were covered in the initial outline application which was approved by Rotherham Council.

An Environmental Impact Assessment has not been deemed to be required as "the proposal is not considered to have more than a local importance due to the type and scale of the development proposed."

Overcoming concerns from Highways England, access to the MSA would be from the roundabout via a new arm junction between the M1 Southbound off slip and A630 Rotherway. This would lie within the Green Belt.

Exit for the majority of traffic would be via a new access to the Parkway some 300m from the junction. This exit will create new traffic lanes on approach to the junction. An alternative exit for HGVs would be created via a new slip road to the A630 Rotherway.

Highway improvements would tie in to the £45m plan to widen the Parkway where work got underway earlier this year.

Welcome Break website

Images: Carwright & Gross Architects

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News: New Trustees helping to shape Wentworth Woodhouse’s future

Three additional specialists have joined the board of trustees at Wentworth Woodhouse.

The Preservation Trust’s expertise has been strengthened by the arrival of Matthew Hirst, who is Curator at Woburn Abbey, and Rotherham Council’s former Head of Planning, Bronwen Knight.

In addition, Rotherham’s youth champion Toni Paxford, who became a junior member of the board in 2019, is now a fully-fledged trustee and leading on establishing a Wentworth Woodhouse youth forum.

Toni, 22, of Kimberworth, is a youth and community worker. She rose to prominence in the town in 2017 when she launched Paige’s Project, a social action group for 11-25-year-olds with ‘invisible’ illnesses.

She went on to become a member of the Rotherham Youth Cabinet and the UK’s Youth Parliament and has added her expertise to projects with Rotherham Council, church organisations and the NHS Youth Forum.

Said Toni: “Wentworth Woodhouse has always fascinated me and I aim to encourage other young people to discover and support it and help,” said Toni.

Matthew Hirst brings his specialist knowledge of historic interiors to the board. He became Curator at Woburn Abbey in 2015 and is playing a key role in its current restoration.

Previously Head of Arts & Historic Collections for the Devonshire Collections, he managed a major conservation programme at Chatsworth and the representation of many of its historic interiors.

From 2000-2007 he was Curator at Waddesdon Manor, where he reinstated the 19th century Baron’s Room to its original glory after painstaking research.

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Bronwen Knight is a chartered town planner. She was Chief Planner (Head of Planning and Transportation) at Rotherham Council for 15 years until 2020.

Under her leadership, Rotherham was the first authority in the region to adopt a Local Plan, bringing forward attractive, sustainable sites for development to grow the economy.

Her transformation of the service saw Rotherham named the best performing planning authority in the UK and win the 2018/19 RTPI Planning Excellence award.

Bronwen is now Director of Planning, Transportation and Strategic Highways at Wakefield Council and has a key role developing master plans, the local plan and new transportation projects and works closely with West Yorkshire Combined Authority on investment opportunities.

Bronwen in Rotherham and her keen interest in Wentworth Woodhouse goes back to childhood. She visited with her school when the house was used as the Lady Mabel College of Physical Education and in her career with Rotherham Council, she worked with the house on regeneration opportunities.

Established to secure a long-term future for Wentworth Woodhouse, the Preservation Trust is now made up of eleven trustees, including the Duke Of Devonshire, Sir Philip Naylor-Leyland, a representative of the family that once owned Wentworth Woodhouse, and Rotherham businesswoman Julie Kenny CBE, whose passion drove the £7m purchase of the house in May 2017.

The board’s vast range of skills and knowledge runs from construction and law to finance, business management, conservation architecture and the upkeep of historic buildings.

Said WWPT CEO Sarah McLeod: "We are delighted to be adding further experience and knowledge to our board of trustees and are extremely grateful for every member’s time and commitment."

Wentworth Woodhouse website

Images: WWPT

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News: Gulliver’s Valley celebrates first anniversary

Gulliver’s Valley Theme Park in Rotherham is celebrating its first anniversary this month.

The popular family theme park, that opened in the middle of the global pandemic, has quickly become a welcome addition to the Rotherham family leisure scene.

Thousands of visitors have passed through its door, despite the stop/start impact of the lockdowns in England.

Visitor numbers have been restricted to meet covid guidance, but the family-run business has continued to develop the park with the recent addition of a new Gulliver’s Gears car themed area with new rides and activities.

With short stay accommodation available on site from the princess castle to dinosaur themed lodges the park team are expecting a busy summer as more people plan to holiday in the UK this year.

Julie Dalton, managing director of Gulliver’s Theme Park Resorts, said: “What a year it has been! We are thrilled to be celebrating our first anniversary at Gulliver’s Valley and it would be right to say it has been a rollercoaster of a year.

“Our opening was delayed due to the pandemic, and we were unsure how and when our rides would arrive. There was so much uncertainty behind the scenes.

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“When we finally got to open our doors, it was such an emotional day. As a family business we’d worked so hard to get to this point and my brother Nick and I both had a tear in our eyes as we watched the faces of our customers light up as they entered Gulliver’s Valley and enjoyed all that we’d created.

“There is no denying that is has been an extremely challenging period for people both personally and from a business perspective but the response we’ve received from our customers has been fantastic and we’ve been so pleased with the positive welcome the South Yorkshire business and local community has given us.

“We are now looking forward to building on this first year with the introduction of events and activities that are popular at our other three parks such as birthday parties and community events and we’ll be looking to the next stage of our development.

“We’d really like to say a huge thank you to everyone for their support, from our staff teams who worked tirelessly to get the park open and deliver a fun family experience in difficult circumstance to our customers who’ve returned time and time again to enjoy the Gulliver’s fun and the partners we’ve worked with in the local business community – your support has been invaluable.

“We are a family business who has put absolutely everything into this new resort so to have the backing of our customers, who really are at the heart of everything we do, has been so important to us. This is just the beginning for Gulliver’s Valley and there are lots more exciting things to come.”

Aimed at children between the ages of two and 13-years-old, the new Gulliver’s Valley houses more than 30 rides and attractions, including an Apache Falls ride, full-size diggers, the Ghostly Galleon pirate ship and a Lost Jurassic World area. Accommodation options are also available, including Unicorn and Princess Suites alongside Western Cabins and Lost World Lodges, with sleepover adventures on offer.

Gulliver's Valley website

Images: Gulliver's

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News: Aldi puts Rotherham store up for sale

Could Aldi be checking out of its store in Rotherham that is only ten years old?

Despite being Britain's fastest growing grocer, the German discount retailer has recently put its Eastwood store up for sale.

The supermarket, which currently has over 900 stores, plans to open on average a new store every week over the coming years as it targets 1,200 stores by 2025.

But commercial property agents, Lamb & Swift have now been instructed to advertise the store on Fitzwilliam Road as being for sale and to let.

The 15,080 sq ft unit was built on the former Matthewman's car showroom with work starting in 2011.

The modern retail unit, which is on a site with an area of 1.7 acres and has 78 car parking spaces, has been made available by way of a new lease or for sale with asking prices only available on application.

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It is not clear what Aldi's motive is for putting the Rotherham store up for sale but Lamb & Swift are currently working for Aldi to sell former stores in Altrincham, Rhyl, Tyldesley (near Wigan), and Leyland in Lancashire, where the supermarket has moved to larger or newer premises nearby.

In 2019, rival discount chain Lidl, opened a 23,000 sq ft store on the site of the former Dalton Progressive Working Men's Club, just over a mile away. The Eastwood site is also located between large Tesco and Asda stores, as well as being close to Iceland and Heron Foods outlets.

Since the Eastwood store opened, Aldi has gone on to open Rotherham stores at Parkgate, Bramley, Maltby and Swallownest.

The company is investing £500m in new and upgraded stores, distribution centres and its supply chain in 2021. Aldi recently announced it would spend an additional £3.5bn a year with British suppliers by 2025 as part of its expansion plans.

Aldi regularly publishes its property requirements but no areas of Rotherham are in the latest update.

Aldi website

Images: Lamb & Swift

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