News: Plans to reuse land by Rotherham nightclub site

Plans have been submitted to make use of vacant land on the edge of Rotherham town centre, close to where a popular nightclub once stood.

Rotherham-based developer EV Waddington Ltd has supplied much needed industrial and manufacturing accommodation across the borough over the years and is now looking to build a speculative development on land off Brinsworth Street.

To the rear of the site of the Liquid & Envy nightclub, the brownfield land has in recent years been used as a car park and was made part of a site for Mixed Use Allocation in the borough's Local Plan called "MU9."

New plans form Waddingtons show four employment units totalling 23.400 sq ft.

The application site comprises some 0.9 hectares and was granted a temporary consent as an open car park in October 2013.

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The application, drawn up by JVH Town Planning Consultants, states: "The proposed development is the making of a development platform and the erection of a new building comprising four employment units, together with a car park. Access will be taken from the existing access at Brinsworth Street.

"Since the adoption of the Local Plan the Use Classes Order has been changed to provide a more flexible approach to land use planning and encourage development. This proposal seeks consent for B2 B8 and E [g] uses, which will offer arrange of employment opportunities on this site.

"Pre application discussions have taken place looking into both the issue of the flood position and the uses on the site. The Applicants have been encouraged to consider employment uses to deliver the development of the site.

"An employment use is considered to be the best use for the subject site and will bring employment and regeneration to the location. It is considered that the development of the subject site will also be a catalyst to the redevelopment of the remaining parts of MU9, and will assist in bringing this land into a prosperous economic use."

The town centre masterplan of 2017 had the Main Street area down for a new gateway development providing commercial use retail uses close to but not competing with the core town centre. This included a new larger format discount-convenience food store along with ancillary large format retail units and a drive-thru café / food and drink unit. The latest plans state: "At the time this document was produced there was retail interest in the northern site which we understand is not now the case."

A similar development of industrial units was approved last year for the nearby car park on the site of the former Traveller's Rest.

E V Waddington Ltd has already developed 31 East in Dinnington, Northfield Business Park in Rotherham, Vantage Park in Sheffield, Shortwood Business Park in Barnsley, and Aldwarke Business Park and Chesterton Court in Rotherham.

The Liquid & Envy nightclub on the edge of Rotherham town centre closed in 2012 following a decline in trade. The previous operators, Luminar Leisure, went into administration in October 2011 and a subsequent £45m deal to save the operation included the purchase of the Main Street venue but it closed in the December of 2012.

The site went up for sale but it was demoloished in 2015.

Waddingtons website

Images: Google Maps

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News: AES subsidiary lands £8m of orders

The reliability consultants AVT Reliability Limited (AVTR), a fully owned subsidiary of AES Engineering, based in Rotherham, have landed £8m of new orders globally for its Cloud/Internet of Things and Remote Data Centre (RDC) business, collectively branded as Machine Sentry.

This technology allows UK-based reliability engineers to collect and monitor data on the health of factory machinery all over the world, in order to ensure reliable performance, avoiding breakdowns and potential environmental accidents.

Clients are provided with detailed tools to monitor industrial equipment from anywhere in the world, supported by engineers in Rotherham.

The largest contract is for the remote collection and analysis of data on off-shore platforms. Other significant wins have been in the USA in Pulp and Paper, a UK based water authority and a 24 plant global roll-out in the cement industry.

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A recent installation in Togo, Africa at a facility that had never previously engaged in Condition Monitoring demonstrated how quickly a plant can be surveyed, gateways and wireless internet of things Machine Sentry sensors installed and training provided.

Chris Rea, Managing Director of AES Engineering Ltd, the holding company of both the AVTR and AESSEAL groups, said: "This technology means that it is both practical and cost effective to deliver a Condition Monitoring solution in Africa within a week and provide professional support in a remote data centre more than 3,000 miles away. This demonstrates that the Fifth Industrial Revolution is a reality."

The orders coincide with the launch of a new Machine Sentry Fixed Wireless Data Collector.

AESSEAL website

Images: AES

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News: Planning granted for 70-home development in Rotherham

Avant Homes is set to bring 70 homes to Rotherham, after planning permission was granted by Rotherham Council for a new £20.7m development.

Named Brecks Lane Park, the 7.25-acre site is situated in Brecks. The development will feature a selection of three and four-bedroom homes across eight of Avant's most popular house designs.

Of the 70 new-build homes, 25% have been designated to affordable housing with Avant Homes also committing to a community contribution of more than £220,000 towards local education and transport, including bus services and sustainable travel.

Work is set to commence on the development in September, with the showhome expected to open at the end of March next year. The first homes are due to be ready for occupation in spring 2023. Overall, the development is expected to take two years to complete and will create hundreds of jobs.

Reserved matters were recently approved by the planning board at Rotherham Council. 40 objections were received and outline permission for housing on the agricultural land was approved in 2019. The recent approval includes an education contribution.

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Avant Homes Yorkshire managing director, Alastair Hart, said: "We're very pleased that planning permission has been granted to deliver Brecks Lane Park, allowing us to bring 70 high-quality homes to Rotherham."

Avant Homes' acquisition of Rotherham's Brecks Lane extends the housebuilder's existing presence in the town following years of success during the regeneration of Waverley, also in Rotherham.

Previously, the housebuilder has acquired six parcels of land at Waverley delivering almost 400 homes including its current Sorby Park development, which is set to deliver 144 homes.

Alastair added: "Rotherham is a thriving town and as we've seen with our previous developments in Waverley, there is a real demand for attainable, design-led homes for modern family living. We're excited to move forward with our plans on Brecks Lane with work set to start in in September."

Avant website

Images: Avant

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News: Government decision on Rotherham mainline station "makes no sense"

The leader of Rotherham Council says that a government decision to put the brakes on a proposed new £30m mainline station in Rotherham "makes no sense economically or environmentally."

Rothbiz revealed earlier this month that the Government has confirmed that it will not allow the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) to use £8m from its City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS) for the project.

SYMCA and Rotherham Council have been developing a scheme to return mainline train services to the borough for the first time since the 1980s. A site at Parkgate is the frontrunner for a regeneration project described by experts as "a relatively straightforward scheme for delivery within three to four years,"

As well as £8m from the CRSTS, £10m has been earmarked to support the mainline station as part of Rotherham Council’s successful £31.6m award from the Towns Fund.

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Instead of the full £8m, Grant Shapps, Secretary of State for Transport has only allowed for £1m in this CRSTS period to be used to develop the Outline Business Case (OBC) for an integrated mainline and tram-train station. It means that further spend beyond this – and work on the ground – is delayed until 2027 at the earliest.

Cllr. Chris Read, leader of Rotherham Council, said: “This is an unexpected, disappointing and arbitrary decision from the government, kicking into the long grass the major upgrade that our local rail services needs. For us, this would be a significant investment to upgrade train travel, helping to take cars off the road and protecting our rail services from the potential worst impacts of HS2. But in national terms this should be a no-brainer; it’s a relatively small cost, with funding largely already identified, for a scheme that’s relatively easy to build, directly in line with what the government says its policy is.

“Nearly six months ago, I wrote to the Secretary of State urging him to support this scheme. And while I continue to wait for a reply, it seems that he has just decided to put Rotherham on the back burner again. It’s a decision that makes no sense economically or environmentally. We’ve already waited more than thirty years for the next mainline service for our borough, the arrivals board should be counting down the next two years now and instead we’re stuck in limbo.”

The region now waits on an update on the studies into taking HS2 services to Leeds, which could benefit Rotherham, that are expected in September.

Images: Northern Rail

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News: Rotherham pub reopens after £250,000 makeover

The historic Earl of Strafford in Rotherham has reopened after a £250,000 makeover serving the best in classic country pub food and drinks, just as it has done for hundreds of years.

At Hooton Roberts, the 16th century, Grade II listed manor house which was built as a home for the first Earl of Strafford, Sir Thomas Wentworth, now offers a quality home-from-home experience with tasty fresh menus for all the family to enjoy. As well as new furniture and fittings inside and out, the bar menu has been extended.

The Earl of Stafford is part of the Stonegate Pub Company - the UK's largest pub company that operates around 4,800 managed, leased and tenanted pubs. It sits within the company's "Classic Inns" brand.

General Manager at the Earl of Strafford, James Mault is thrilled with the new-look pub. He said: “This is such a special pub, with so much history and charm, and now it is even better! We have carefully balanced all the original features and character of this lovely building with a touch of comfort. Everything here is about quality – great fresh food and drinks with the best service. That goes for everyone including our four-legged friends who will like our very own Dog Bar!

“Attention to detail has been key in the short month-long closure, so every aspect of the food, drink, service, kitchen, bar and dining (inside and out) are now fantastic. This is a special pub in a wonderful location and it’s ready to serve Hooton Roberts and further afield for many more years to come. It’s an exciting next chapter for this amazing historic building.”

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After years running pubs, James settled in Rotherham 13 years ago. He said: “I have always enjoyed running local community pubs, they are rewarding and I really like the family feel they have. The Earl of Strafford has a great atmosphere and is warm and welcoming. When I am not here you will probably see me with my children and walking my dog, Wesley. We look forward to welcoming everyone to this brilliant family-friendly pub (furry, four-legged friends, as well!).”

Local MP, John Healey, recenlt paid a visit. The Wentworth and Dearne MP, said: “The Earl of Strafford is a pub I have known for decades and it was a real pleasure to see its transformation first hand. The team at Stonegate really has paid attention to detail with the renovation and the pub has a very welcoming atmosphere. It’s the best I’ve seen it looking for some time and I’m glad to see that it is being managed well.

“It was a pleasure to meet the team behind The Earl of Stafford, they were very enthusiastic about the future of the pub and its place in the community. I look forward to calling into the Earl of Strafford for a meal in the future.”

Earl of Strafford website

Images: Stonegate

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News: £8m for levelling up Rotherham country parks

Plans are progressing for £8m of improvements at two country parks in Rotherham.

Rothbiz reported last year that two of the three bids from Rotherham were successful in securing money from the Government's Levelling Up Fund. £19.9m was awarded for a number of connected projects which aim to build a new leisure industry that responds to the challenges of economic recovery and health and well-being.

At Rother Valley Country Park, the idea is to create a new "Village Centre" with new waterfront buildings, a cycle hub and improved car parking.

Operated by Rotherham Council, the park opened in 1983 following the restoration of an opencast mining site.

Draft plans submitted to the Council, drawn up by AHR Architects, show a "New Waterfront Building featuring a cafe and play area with increased seating capacity and first floor events space with views across the lake" for land currently used to store boats. The car park between the new building and the existing activity centre is set to be turned into a landscaped waterside area.

Boat storage would move to south of the activity centre where the "beach" will also be extended.

South of the existing courtyard, the bungalow is shown to be demolished in order to relocate the Cycle Hub and associated storage to this area.

Improvements are also planned for the parking to the north of the village and there is a planned relocation of parking away from the centre of the site to the area on Pithouse Lane currently earmarked for coach parking.

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The disused play area, which was privately operated but has not repoened since the COVID-19 pandemic, looks unlikely to reopen and plans show that it is set to be utilised for a Ranger's Storage Compound.

When the Levelling Up bid was submitted, the project cost for Rother Valley was £5.5m.

At Thrybergh Country Park immediate upgrades include a new café and public realm improvements. AHR Architects have also drawn up plans for the site showing the cafe, waterside landscaping, wider accress roads and a new entrance kiosk.

Also operated by the council, Thrybergh is a 60 acre country park set around a beautiful reservoir.

When the Levelling Up bid was submitted, the project cost for Thrybergh was £2.5m. Looking ahead, long-term proposals for the Thrybergh Country Park Masterplan are also in development.

Rotherham’s Cabinet Member for Social Inclusion, Cllr David Sheppard, said: “Our parks and green spaces are one of the great things about our borough, and we want to ensure that this funding makes our country parks even better for the people that use them.

"We want to help local people get the full economic benefits too, so it's important to me that there will be chances for people to access training and gain new skills to improve their career opportunities as part of our investment plans.”

Images: Google Maps

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News: AESSEAL's Factory of the Future takes shape in Rotherham

The steel frame for the centrepiece of AESSEAL’s new Factory of the Future is now under construction at the company’s global headquarters in Rotherham.

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 near £200m turnover business employing more than 1,800 people across the world.

The project, which includes the refurbishment and “greening” of AESSEAL’s existing plant as well as a state-of-the-art, 60,000 sq ft extension that will almost double the site capacity, brings the firm’s total investment in Rotherham to over £61m.

BDB Design Build is leading on the construction.

Designed by Sheffield-based architects, Race Cottam Associates (RCA), the new building creates an advanced precision engineering factory together with office space, new entrance, statement reception and café. RCA is targeting a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating for the building, which is designed to store its own energy and be all-electric.

“The initial concept was to provide a new manufacturing facility capable of supporting state-of-the-art robotic machines whilst simultaneously creating new workspace and a statement entrance for AESSEAL’s international clients and colleagues,” explains RCA’s architect and project lead, Mark Eden. “In addition, part of the brief was to create an open plan production area that would not only allow for internal reconfigurations as the business grows but also significant viewing platforms for staff and visitors.

“Our design integrates AESSEAL’s original facility via a two storey, linked structure which incorporates the new entrance. Large areas of glazing ensure full exposure to the precision engineering manufacturing and world-leading robotics,” concludes Mark.

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The wider project includes a significant investment in the latest environmental measures, including photovoltaic panels, advanced battery storage and the use of recycled products such as shredded car tyres to form the tarmac for the car park. Surrounding the ten acre site, which was originally filled with steel slag, a ‘Tree Walk’ will act as an educational and environmental resource and will include a wetlands area and accommodation for bees, hedgehogs and other wildlife.

RCA’s partnership with AESSEAL dates back to 1996, when the practice was first appointed to design and deliver a new industrial and office complex. Chairman and co-founder, David Cottam said: “Initially we were asked to produce a sensitive design, not too strong or ostentatious, that could be built in phases to match business expansion. Since then, AESSEAL’s growth has been exponential and I’m exceptionally proud of what we have achieved together in almost three decades. I firmly believe what we’re creating now will be a true legacy building and showcase for AESSEAL’s success.”

Chris Rea, managing director of AESSEAL and the AES Engineering Group added: “I congratulate Dave Cottam and his team at Race Cottam Associates for going on this journey with us and producing a design that provides a showcase for industry and the environment working in harmony. The Factory of the Future is a symbol of our commitment to keep pushing beyond Net Zero and encourage our customers and suppliers to do the same, proving that it is possible to be a globally successful business and also take care of the planet.”

Construction began on AESSEAL’s new Factory of the Future in January and is expected to complete in May 2023.

Images: AESSEAL / Race Cottam

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News: Contracts exchanged for new Rotherham hotel

The UK’s second largest hotel chain, Travelodge, has solidified its commitment to anchoring the Forge Island regeneration scheme in Rotherham town centre.

Forge Island is a Council-owned site which sits between the River Don and South Yorkshire Navigation Canal. Led by Muse Developments, it will host a new leisure scheme with an 8-screen boutique style cinema, modern hotel, food and beverage (F&B) outlets and car parking. It is set to be completed in 2024.

In 2021, Rothbiz reoprted that the hotel chain had exchanged a deal with Muse Developments and Rotherham Council to join The Arc Cinema as anchor tenants at Forge Island.

Now Travelodge has confirmed that it has agreed contracts with Muse Developments and Rotherham Council to develop a 69-room hotel which will be Rotherham’s first Travelodge hotel.

In a recent announcement, hotel bosses said that the North East remains a key growth area and they are actively looking for a further 16 hotel sites across the region - kickstarted by the new Rotherham deal. The expansion programme could represent an investment of around £160m for third party investors and create 400 new jobs. The chain has built up a number of partnerships with local authorities with the deals helping to unlock major redevelopment, create jobs, boost the local economy and provide a long term income stream for councils.

The approved plans are for a four storey hotel at the north of the Forge Island site, designed with a metal top and brick base in grey. It is likely that the new Rotherham hotel will be in Travelodge's new-build budget luxe hotel brand. It has also been confirmed that it will incorporate the new Bar Café concept offering unlimited breakfast, tasty evening meals and fresh barista coffee.

Earlier this year, Travelodge announced it is evolving its core brand product to a new budget-luxe premium look and feel design - whilst maintaining its great value price proposition. The new budget-luxe design includes all the low cost efficiencies you would expect from Travelodge but with the added benefit of thoughtful, stylish design and homely touches throughout its interiors.

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The new Travelodge budget-luxe design includes a timeless classic, elegant style reception which is the hub of the hotel. A next generation room which has been smartly devised to create a multi-dimensional space by utilising the new luxurious signature Travelodge navy blue colour for the R&R (resting and relaxing) section of the room and a serene colour palette for the functional and energising side of the room to work and get ready.

The Bar Cafe restaurant features a contemporary design, with key statement features and a warm relaxing ambiance. The restaurant offers distinctive zones designed to suit the needs of business and leisure travellers. These include counter seating with built-in USB and laptop power for those working outside the room, dining zones with intimate booths and dining benches for groups. Situated in the heart of the Bar Café is a stylish statement bar which offers a selection of wines, popular spirits and a range of ales.

The Travelodge budget-luxe design also includes a number of sustainable initiatives. This includes the new carpet being made from recycled fishing nets which are part of a project supporting clean ocean initiatives, tackling over 640k tonnes of discarded fishing nets currently impacting marine life. The carpet backing is also made of old plastic bottles. Every ten of these bottles which are recycled rather than being sent to landfill saves enough energy to power a laptop for 25 hours. The other features include low energy lighting, motion sensing controls and aerated showers and taps.

Steve Bennett, Chief Property & Development Officer at Travelodge, said: “2022 marks an important milestone in the evolution of Travelodge, as we launch our new premium look and feel budget-luxe Travelodge design hotels and expand our estate with new hotels and in-house restaurants . We are seeking to continue this expansion with plans for more than 75 new Travelodge hotels throughout the UK over the next five years, which will create around 2,000 new jobs.”

"As we look to the future, the long-term prospects for low-cost hotels remain strong. Britain has become a nation of value conscious travellers, with more of us choosing to stay in budget hotels than any other hotel type, supporting our plans to expand our hotel network. It is also an interesting time for the property sector; as the Covid pandemic has accelerated major change and opened opportunities for us to take Travelodge to new locations. We are very excited by the next phase of our expansion plan, which will see us deliver more choices in more places than ever before.”

Travelodge website

Images: Muse / Travelodge

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News: Rotherham director banned for wrongly claiming Bounce Back Loans

A Rotherham-based director overstated turnover for his four construction contractor companies to secure £200,000 Covid-19 financial support to which he was not entitled.

Stephen Burke, 63, from Woodhouse Mill, has been disqualified as a director for 11 years after he took £200,000 of taxpayers’ money through the Bounce Back Loan scheme that his companies were not entitled to.

Burke was director of four companies that provided services to construction projects: Yorkshire Plant Hire and Sales Ltd, Yorkshire Site Preparation Ltd, Woodhouse Civil Engineering Ltd and Richmond Brokers Ltd.

One of the four companies, Yorkshire Site Preparation Ltd, was listed as dormant with Companies House by January 2020. Of the other three, their company accounts ending January 2020 indicated turnover ranging from just £635 to £3,400.

Despite this, Burke, who was sole director of each company by 2020, stated on the application forms that turnover was between £200,000 and £320,000 for each company. This allowed him to secure four Bounce Back Loans for the full £50,000 permitted under the scheme.

He spent £174,000 repaying a personal loan to his former partner, which was also a breach of the loans’ conditions as they could only be spent on legitimate business expenditure.

In February 2021, Burke sought to dissolve all four companies. This was blocked due to the outstanding loans being identified, and instead the companies were placed in liquidation. The Liquidator has begun recovery action.

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The Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy accepted a disqualification undertaking from Stephen John Burke, after he admitted obtaining £200,000 in government Bounce Back Loans, the maximum amount available of £50,000 per company, by overstating company turnover, then using the funds obtained to repay a personal loan and not for the economic benefit of the company.

His ban is effective from 4 August 2022 and lasts for 11 years.

The disqualification undertaking prevents him from directly, or indirectly, becoming involved in the promotion, formation or management of a company, without the permission of the court.

Rob Clarke, Chief Investigator at the Insolvency Service, said: "Coronavirus support schemes were introduced to help British businesses through the most testing of times, providing them with the financial support to protect jobs and return to prosperity.

"Stephen Burke not only sought to defraud the Bounce Back Loan scheme for personal gain, but then sought to cover his tracks by dissolving the companies he’d used. This abhorrent conduct has rightly resulted in a lengthy ban, removing his ability to trade with the benefit of limited liability until 2033."

Images: Insolvency Service

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News: Plans approved for major Rotherham link road project

Plans have been given the green light for a £10m+ transport scheme that aims to improve the area around Parkgate Shopping in Rotherham.

The South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive (SYPTE) submitted plans for the works last year following a period of consutation.

A proposed new 800 metre Parkgate Link Road between Aldwarke Lane and both Stonerow Way and Stadium Way is set to provide a second access route to Parkgate Shopping, via a roundabout between the two railway bridges. It is designed to relieve existing congestion on the A633 around Parkgate Shopping and improve traffic flow and bus journey times on the corridor and wider road network.

£11.52m is required from the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority Transforming Cities Fund towards project costs of £12.86m. £7m is for the new access route and £3.4m for a new Park & Ride facility. £1.7m is needed for upgrades to Taylor's Lane roundabout nearby - a seperate part of the scheme.

Planners agree that the proposed link road will result in the redistribution of a portion of the existing arrivals and departures from Parkgate Shopping. "This redistribution will result in shorter and more time efficient journeys to and from the site and will deliver higher level benefits to congestion and air quality" their report states.

Parkgate Shopping has annual visitor numbers of 6.9 million.

The report adds: "Parkgate Shopping Park provides retail and employment within the general area of Rotherham. The popularity of this district shopping area has the effect of creating trip generated congestion on Great Eastern Way and Rotherham Road. This is especially apparent at weekends where congestion occurs beyond traditional peak travel times.

"In conjunction with Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council (RMBC) and Stadium Developments, SYPTE have identified an alternative route into Parkgate Retail Park via a new link road between A6123 Aldwarke Lane, Stonerow Way and Stadium Way. The proposed route will be built to a standard that RMBC will be willing to adopt and maintain in perpetuity."

The brownfield land was allocated for mixed use in the borough's Local Plan which recognised that further infrastructure may be required to address wider highways and public transport issues, in the form of a link road.

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The report states: "From a planning policy perspective this link road development would potentially make the wider site more attractive for the land owner to bring forward. This is a large site within the urban area which has potential to contribute towards employment land provision plus other uses. The site is close to the Tram-Train pilot scheme station, and offers potential for supporting uses, such as a park and ride facility."

Plans show a roundabout in the centre of the link road with a potential junction to the land to the North.

The proposals also include a new 300 space Park & Ride facility for the tram-train to be located on land close to the existing Matalan store. 42 spaces are electric vehicle bays.

After changes to the vehicular access into the parking area, Rotherham Council's transport planners are happy with the plans. Agents for Parkgate Shopping had expressed concern over a potential increase in commercial vehicles driving through their retail park but "overall, they are supportive of the scheme."

Following an objection, a revised ecology study was submitted and the biodiversity improvement plan was revised. Planners conculde that "the benefits of the link road and parking area outweigh the any potential detriment on onsite ecology" and highlight that the area will also benefit from new landscaping proposals.

Approved without going in front of the council's planning board, planning permission comes with a number of conditions relating to things like drainage, land contamination and working close to the railway.

Rothbiz reported in March that Tilbury Douglas was to undertake the construction of the link road and construct the park and ride facility at Parkgate.

The contract, worth £8,420,930, is subject to securing planning permission, securing funding, and completion of legal documentation with landowners, Stadium and the Parkgate Rotherham Unit Trust.

Tilbury Douglas is a remaining division of British construction company, Interserve, that collapsed into administration in 2019 before being saved by creditors.

Interserve's recent work in the area includes the £12m contract for the refurbishment and upgrade of Rotherham Interchange.

SYPTE website

Images: Google Maps / SYPTE

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News: SBD Apparel invests £12m in new Rotherham manufacturing facility

A purpose-built factory which will produce high-end sportswear for top-flight athletes has reached completion in Rotherham.

The 100,000 sqft development on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham is for end user, SBD Apparel.

SBD Apparel is a world-renowned sports brand manufacturing premium performance clothing and strength supports which are worn by elite strength and fitness athletes across the world. It is well known for its affiliation with the World Strongest Man competition.

Having moved its offices and warehouses closer to its main factory in Rotherham five years ago, SBD has expanded its workforce from four to 125 staff, increased turnover by over 600% and now supports over 200 professional athletes.

Following £1.5m of grant funding from the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, Freeths was instructed by SBD Apparel in June 2020 in connection with the purchase of a circa 3.76 acre plot of land at the AMP from Harworth Estates Investment Limited, together with a simultaneous Development Agreement for Harworth to carry out the proposed development.

Freeths legal team included Real Estate Partner John Flathers, Corporate Partner Peter Crawford, Managing Associate Marie Mulligan and Associate Robert Mander, supported by Associate Victoria Price and Legal Assistants Molly Happs and Josephine Connery.

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The £12m acquisition of SBD Apparel’s new site also included the construction of a bespoke industrial unit, creating over 200 new jobs, and additional land for future expansion supporting SBD Apparel’s ongoing plans for growth.

William Islip, commercial director at SBD Apparel, said: "We are delighted to make this significant investment within the South Yorkshire economy which is key to the continued delivery of our long-term growth strategy. We are grateful for all the hard work undertaken by everyone at Freeths to ensure this transaction was completed within the agreed timeframe."

John Flathers at Freeths, added: "We were really pleased to act for SBD Apparel on the development of their impressive new 100,000 sq ft building at the Advanced Manufacturing Park, Rotherham. This was a real team effort over a two-year period and with over 200 new jobs created for the region, it is fantastic to see SBD Apparel go from strength to strength and also investing in the South Yorkshire economy.”

Delivered on time and on budget, main contractor Lindum York, has recently completed the construction of the new facility which includes 52,500 sqft of production floor space and 30,000 sqft of offices over three floors, plus warehousing and car parking.

SBD Apparel website
Freeths website

Images: Lindum / Harris Partnership

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News: Rotherham enterprise launches first range of ethically produced soaps

A community interest company in Rotherham, which is embarking upon a long-term mission to support some of the region’s most vulnerable people, has launched its first range of hand-made soaps.

The new product range marks a significant milestone for Parkgate-based Labre’s Hope, which was founded by young entrepreneurs Aaron Probert and Joash Nelson Piercy earlier this year in a bid to provide vital support to tackle long-term homelessness as well as offering a unique chance for individuals who have found themselves living on the streets to rebuild their lives.

Since March, Labre’s Hope has been working in close collaboration with the South Yorkshire Housing Association and homeless charity Crisis. The company has successfully supported 18 people and currently employs 13 members of staff, all of whom have been affected by homelessness.

Each employee not only receives a living wage to help them secure a home of their own, they are also supported by weekly coaching and wellbeing sessions to help them learn the skills needed to enjoy a clean start to their lives. Face-to-face employment support is also provided to help them realise their career goals.

The first range of soaps will feature five different scents designed to help relax, reinvigorate and refresh and are manufactured using plant-based sustainably sourced materials. The soaps are specially formulated to be gentle to the skin and avoid using products that are harmful to the environment such as palm oil, commonly used in soap production. As a finishing touch, the packaging of each bar of soap is signed by its maker, creating a connection between consumer and producer.

Following the launch, the soaps will be available from the company’s Parkgate-based headquarters as well as available via the company’s website. Aaron Probert hopes that the new product range will help to raise awareness of the complex issues surrounding homelessness.

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Aaron Probert, Founder, Labre’s Hope, said: “The launch of our first product range is a significant milestone for Labre’s Hope and the result of many months of planning, development and preparation. When we launched the business in March, it was our long-term vision to rethink the way we view homelessness, by not only addressing the root causes that can result in someone losing their home but crucially, equipping those we support with the vital skills to help them to rebuild their lives.

Many people who find themselves homeless are often trapped in a vicious circle, which can prevent them from returning to the workforce. However, homelessness is a complex issue and we recognised that it was vital to create a supportive environment, which not only provides a chance to learn new skills, but crucially, provides emotional and mental health support. I am hopeful that Labre’s Hope will illustrate that businesses can play an important role when it comes to supporting some of the most vulnerable members of society, and if successful, we hope to roll out our business model across the UK in the future.”

Labre’s Hope was founded by Aaron Probert and Joash Nelson Piercy in March 2022. Aaron first began developing his ideas whilst studying towards his business degree, and his plan was the result of a chance encounter with a homeless woman who was forced to leave the family home after experiencing domestic abuse, leading to alcohol dependency as a way to escape her problems and social isolation. The experience led Aaron to develop a new business model, which placed social accountability at the heart of entrepreneurship.

The result of Aaron’s work was Labre’s Hope. The company is named after Benedict Labre, a Franciscan monk who turned his back on his affluent family background to adopt the life of a pilgrim, travelling to holy sites across Europe on foot and subsisting by relying on the kindness of strangers. He was canonised following his death and is now regarded as being the patron saint of homelessness.

Labre’s Hope was launched in March 2022 and has secured more than half a million pounds through the government’s Community Renewal Fund and is part funded by the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority.

Labre’s Hope website

Images: Labre's Hope

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News: Plans in for new £60m Rotherham solar energy park

A planning application for an innovative new renewable energy generation and storage project on agricultural land has been submitted to Rotherham Council.

If approved, it would result in thousands of solar panels installed on green belt land.

Rothbiz reported in June that independent renewable energy firm Banks Renewables was developing plans for a new solar energy park on a 116-hectare site to the west of the Todwick Road Industrial Estate in Dinnington, around three miles east of Banks’ Penny Hill wind farm at Ulley.

The applicants admit that the development "will result in a limited number of adverse affects" but state that it will also generate a number of benefits.

The Common Farm Solar project would have an installed capacity of up to 50MW. This compares to the capacity of up to 20MW at Penny Hill Wind Farm and 44MW at the Templeborough Biomass power station.

Planning permission would be for a period of 40 years. The construction period is an estimated 6-9 months.

On 116 hectares of mainly arable fields, Banks' plan for Common Farm is to install rows of 4.5m high solar panels and a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). Electricity generated will be taken by cables, wither overhead or underground, to the Thurcroft electricity sub-station around three kilometres to the north of the site forms part of the project, which will help support the long-term security of energy supplies to UK consumers.

Fences will be erected for security and to prevent glare and hedgerows around the site will be "gapped up" to provide landscape and visual mitigation. On top of mitigation measures, applicants are proposing biodiversity measures.

A detailed ecology and biodiversity strategy which will ensure the site delivers a net benefit in biodiversity to the local community also forms part of the scheme. Measures include bat and bird boxes and areas of scrubland.

The ground around and beneath the solar panels will be used to create a wildflower meadow and there will be increased planting of hedgerows, while part of the site will also be managed to encourage Lapwings to thrive.

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In terms of economic benefits, the planning documents say that the development represents £61.2m of investment over the lifetime of the project which would "contribute to the diversity and security of the UK's energy supply by generating electricity from a sustainable, indigenious resource and providing energy storage facilities."

In a similar move to Penny Hill, Banks says that it would deliver an annual package of community benefits totalling £50,000, or more than £2m through its lifetime to support local community projects.

Adverse impacts include localised adverse landscape and visual affects.

With regard to the use of the greenbelt, documents state: "Such developments need to be built if we are going to achieve net zero ... there are no alternative suitable sites within Rotherham that are located out with [sic] the green belt" and add that the development "will not result in a significant encroachment into the countryside that will undermine the purpose of the green belt."

Lewis Stokes, senior community relations manager at The Banks Group, said: "Maximising the production of renewable energy from domestic sources is a crucial part of the UK’s ongoing journey towards its Net Zero targets, especially within the current energy security climate.

“The Common Farm solar scheme will extend the contribution that we’re able to make locally towards reaching these goals while also increasing the tangible benefits that we can deliver to local communities through the benefits package that will form a key part of the project.

“We’re excited at what can be achieved through this important project and hope that Rotherham Council’s planning committee will support our vision for delivering it.”

Banks Group website

Images: Banks / Wardell Armstrong

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News: New tenant eyes up empty Rotherham retail unit

Wren Kitchens has recently applied to Rotherham Council for planning permission that would enable new signage on a prominent unit at a popular retail destination.

Plans are for three replacement illuminated fascia signs and three replacement non-illuminated flag signs at Unit 4b at Parkgate Shopping.

Founded in 2009, Wren Kitchens is described as the UK’s number one kitchen retailer and the UK's fastest growing bricks and mortar retailer. It utilises cutting edge technology, modern transport fleets, integrated systems and inspirational showrooms. Turnover was up 15% to £703m in 2021 despite the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic keeping stores and showrooms closed.

Just before the first lockdown in 2020, the company applied for signage for the vacant 15,000 sq ft unit formerly home to Mothercare but a move never materialised. The unit was subsequently snapped up by JD Sports.

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With manufacturing operations in Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, where it designs, manufactures and delivers over 2,000 kitchens every single week, Wren now has over 100 showrooms.

If plans are approved it would be a step toward Wren taking over the 16,336 sq ft unit that is currently listed as under offer by agents, Edgerley Simpson Rowe.

Vacant for over a year, the unit was previously occupied by Outfit.

Outfit was the out-of-town store brand within the Arcadia group which brought together brands such as Topshop and Burton. Arcadia went into administration in 2020.

The Rotherham Wren Kitchens showroom has been at the nearby Foundry Retail Park at Parkgate.

Wren kitchens website

Images: Google Maps

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News: New Rotherham hotel set to be called "Courtyard by Marriott Sheffield"

A new 150 bedroom hotel being built in Rotherham has a management company in place and is set to be called Courtyard by Marriott Sheffield. It is due to open in Spring 2023.

Rothbiz reported last year that Essex-based developer, Stapleford Ventures Ltd, had secured planning permission for a six storey, 150 bedroom hotel on land off Highfield Spring and Poplar Way where the Waverley development meets the Morrisons roundabout at Catcliffe.

Leading independent hotel management company, RBH Hospitality Management, has been appointed by Stapleford Ventures Ltd to operate the new Courtyard by Marriott Sheffield.

The new-build property will include a brasserie restaurant, as well as a fitness centre and meeting facilities. It will occupy a prominent position at the entrance roundabout to the Waverley development, and will provide an important community asset for use by residents, and businesses at the adjacent Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP).



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The signing marks the further strengthening of RBH’s Marriott portfolio as the company’s fifth Courtyard by Marriott, and ninth overall Marriott opening in recent years, following the launch of The Westin London City in November - Marriott’s 1000th EMEA opening. The opening will closely follow the launch of the new AC by Marriott Glasgow, also scheduled to open in Spring 2023. As well as operating the Courtyard by Marriott Sheffield, RBH has also been selected to provide technical assistance and IT Project Management throughout the build phase of the project.

David Hart, CEO of RBH Hospitality Management, said: "This new hotel is a great addition to our 2023 pipeline and a reflection of the continued success in our growth strategy. We are delighted to have forged a new relationship with Stapleford Ventures, a family-run business led by Neil Searle, that importantly holds a similar culture and set of values to our own and we look forward to growing our partnership together.”

Neil Searle, Managing Director of Stapleford Ventures, added: "We are excited to bring the first Marriott-branded hotel to the Sheffield area and to be working alongside RBH who we know will bring a depth of experience to the project. Courtyard by Marriott Sheffield will be a great addition to the area, offering the perfect destination for business travellers in light of its proximity to the business park, as well as for leisure visitors. Plans are well underway and we look forward to opening this fantastic property in partnership with RBH and Marriott in 2023.”

Courtyard by Marriott website

Images: S R Davis

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News: Countdown on for Yorkshire entrepreneurs to join business boost programme

Yorkshire start-ups have until August 15 to sign up to join an accelerator programme designed to take their business to the next level.

Successful London start up accelerator Unrest is on the quest for Yorkshire start-ups and early stage companies who are ready to take their business to the next level, as applications for its first programme in the North close on Monday August 15.

Designed to unlock growth opportunities, Unrest will run its 16-week programme from Sheffield aimed at consumer-driven startups which positively impact on people’s lives.

Yorkshire’s aspiring intrapreneurs and entrepreneurs are invited to apply with the most promising entrepreneurs chosen for a place on the programme which starts in September.

Orr Vinegold, co-founder of Unrest, said: “This unique programme fills in the knowledge gaps and teaches founders how to navigate investors, consumers, experience, technology, and their own impact.

“Unrest allows access to the insight and tools needed to accelerate their business to a level of success that might usually be achieved after many years in business. This is such an exciting opportunity for businesses in the region.

“Entrepreneurship is a key driver for regional growth. We want to unlock opportunities within Yorkshire’s diverse business sectors.

“We are committed to helping start-ups. This year alone we have developed 16 businesses further their potential and go on to bigger and better possibilities.

“Our goal is to find the game-changers and innovators who are ready to be brave with their thinking and develop sustainable businesses to stimulate the economy’s growth and prosperity.”



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Unrest South Yorkshire will be delivered in partnership with Capital Enterprise (UK) Limited and Barnsley Council, and is part-funded through the European Regional Development Fund.

Laura Bennett, Regional Lead, Capital Enterprise (UK) Limited, said: “Yorkshire is proudly supportive of social impact initiatives and mission-driven projects, and we have a long tradition of social enterprises founded here, working to support our communities and reduce inequalities.

“We are thrilled that Unrest are bringing their expertise, experience, and networks to the region to supercharge 30 mission-driven businesses to think big and act globally – taking South Yorkshire ingenuity and passion for social good to a national and international audience.”

The Unrest programme has already incubated 16 brands including Bea Fertility, the first at-home fertility treatment, making ICI fertility treatment accessible and affordable, now cited as one of WIRED’s 2021 100 Hottest Start-ups in Europe and has raised $1m in funding.

Unrest website

Images: Unrest

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News: Development to start at massive new Rotherham warehouse

Work is due to start this month on a huge distribution centre development alongside the M18 motorway in Rotherham.

Rotherham Council recently approved a reserved matters planning application for two facilities adjacent to junction 1 of the M18, one of 630,000 sq ft, which will be one of the largest-ever speculative logistics buildings in the north of England, and a smaller 80,000 sq ft facility.

Outline plans were approved for "Interchange Park" on former greenbelt land at Hellaby in 2020 and applicants said that it could be home to over 1,000 jobs. Since then, Panattoni, the largest industrial real estate developer in Europe, has bought the Cumwell Lane site, gained approval for changes to the plans and reserved matters.

Panattoni said that it will commence speculative development of the two units in August, with completion expected in July 2023. They will be built to a BREEAM sustainability rating of ‘Very Good’ and an EPC rating of ‘A’.

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Dan Burn, Development Director at Panattoni, said: “This nationally significant development reaffirms our commitment to a significant speculative development programme in the UK this year and we are very pleased to now be able to progress with the delivery of the scheme.

“We would like to thank Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council for the proactive way in which they have helped to facilitate the development and we look forward to working with them over the coming months as construction progresses.”

Letting agents for the 40-acre Panattoni Park are M1 Agency, Legat Owen and Knight Frank. Lichfields advised Panattoni on the planning application.

Over 100 objections were recieved regarding the latest plans including from Bramley Parish Council. The application was a reserved matters application to assess the matters reserved in the determination of the outline application. It focused on appearance and landscaping and meant that most of the reasons for objection had already been assessed in the original outline application.

Panattoni website

Images: Panattoni

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News: South Yorkshire councils working together on Eurovision bid

Sheffield is bidding to host the Eurovision Song Contest 2023.

The BBC has described it as "one of the most exciting events to come to the UK in 2023” and would follow on from Sheffield and Rotherham both recently being host cities for the UEFA Women's Euros.

The broadcaster recently accepted the European Broadcasting Union (EBU)’s invitation to host the 67th Eurovision Song Contest in the United Kingdom in 2023 on behalf of the Ukrainian broadcaster, UA: PBC.

The EBU explored a number of options with UA: PBC, but after extensive consultation made the decision that it wouldn’t be possible for next year’s event to be held in Ukraine.

With the bidding process underway to find a host city, Sheffield Council has confirmed a bid and that it is working with fellow South Yorkshire authorities.

Cllr. Julie Grocutt, Deputy Chair of the Strategy and Resources Committee at Sheffield Council, said: “Sheffield is honoured to be bidding to be the Host City for the Eurovision Song Contest in 2023. While Sheffield will be the Host City, we have come together in solidarity as a region to support our bid, drawing on the assets and strengths of our communities across South Yorkshire. As a region we are proposing the Utilita Sheffield Arena as the hosting venue.

"We are working in partnership with Sheffield City Trust, SYMCA [South Yorkshire mayoral Combined Authority], Doncaster, Barnsley and Rotherham councils to deliver the bid application requirements and continue to demonstrate our capability and aspiration to deliver this international event on behalf of the Ukrainian people.

“Sheffield would be a fantastic host city and it would be exciting to work with our partners across the region on a huge celebration of Ukrainian and South Yorkshire culture and music. It would undoubtedly benefit the whole region and our Ukraine communities. We would be proud to bring the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 to the region in solidarity with Ukraine.”

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The selection of the host city will be determined by the BBC and the EBU in a two-stage process. To be considered, any potential candidates must meet a set of minimum standards that demonstrate they have the capacity, capability and experience to host an event of this scale and complexity.

The BBC has confirmed that the final decision will be based on a city or region’s capacity and capability in meeting the BBC’s and the EBU’s requirements, as well as availability of resources and general experience in hosting a large and complex event such as the Eurovision Song Contest.

Last year the EBU’s criteria was based on providing a venue able to accommodate at least 10,000 spectators (as well as a press centre), that should be within easy reach of an international airport and with ample hotel accommodation.

Tim Davie, BBC Director-General, said: "It is a matter of great regret that our colleagues and friends in Ukraine are not able to host the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest. Being asked to host the largest and most complex music competition in the world is a great privilege. The BBC is committed to making the event a true reflection of Ukrainian culture alongside showcasing the diversity of British music and creativity."

The 2022 competition reached over 180 million viewers on TV and digital platforms.

Eurovision website

Images: EBU

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News: Future stars create fusion energy machine at school

School children from Waverley Junior Academy in Rotherham have combined science with art to create a fusion energy machine of the future.

Year 5 students took part in two workshops to learn about fusion – based on the same processes that powers the sun and stars – which has great potential to become an environmentally responsible part of the world’s future energy supply.

Before taking to their pens and pencils to design a star-making machine, the students discovered what fusion is and let-off steam by running around to create energy of their own.

The fun and interactive sessions were delivered by a team from the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) based at the neighbouring Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP).

Last year the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) opened a £22m Fusion Technology Facility on the AMP where it works with industrial partners to put the UK in a strong position to commercialise nuclear fusion as a major source of low-carbon electricity in the years ahead.

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Jordan d‘Arras, graduate development engineer at UKAEA, said: “The children were really enthusiastic and asked so many good questions. They learned the importance of safe, low carbon energy in the fight against climate change and heard about the variety of career opportunities we have at UKAEA that will help make fusion happen. We hope to have inspired our engineers, scientists and communicators of the future!”

The students went head-to-head in a design competition and impressed the UKAEA team with their interpretation of what a future fusion energy machine could look like.

Waverley Junior Academy’s Year 5 teachers, Patrick Selkirk and Holly Peace, were very proud of the scientific knowledge and artistic talent of their classes.

Patrick said: “It was a great experience for the children to fully engage with. They had previously learnt all about renewable energy and the effects of non-renewable sources. The UKAEA workshop was enlightening and well-pitched to the children. The workshop began conversations that sparked debate about fusion energy.”

UKAEA website

Images: UKAEA

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News: Council confirms final levelling up bid

Rotherham Council has confirmed that it has put together a bid of almost £20m for money from the Levelling Up Fund for a further two projects in the borough.

Rothbiz reported last month that another bid was submitted to the Government's £4.8 billion competitive fund that is being invested in infrastructure that improves everyday life across the UK.

If successful the money will be used to create a new mixed-use development in Wath town centre, as well as delivering significant improvements to Dinnington High Street and market

The Council has already had two of its three bids for funding from the Levelling Up Fund approved by the government, with almost £40m agreed to help improve the Leisure Economy and Skills in the borough and Rotherham Town Centre.

This marks the third and final bid for the Council taking the total possible funding to £60m to be spent on projects which aim to spread the benefits of this opportunity across the whole borough.

Work earmarked for Dinnington includes; clearing the burnt out buildings, investment in the outdoor market and the creation of a new commercial square which aims to enhance the retail and food and beverage offer in the town and improve public realm and connectivity.

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The proposal was developed in collaboration with ward councillors based on the neighbourhood plan and previous local consultations. Local stakeholders will have the chance to influence the final designs if the bid is approved.

In Wath, the existing Library will be demolished and replaced with a mixed-use building with a greater offer to include; library and exhibition space, sensory provision, collaboration space, café and commercial units. The public realm around the building will also be improved including new ‘play on the way’ equipment.

Wath ward councillors have helped shape the bid proposal for the new hub to include facilities which benefit local residents.

The Council’s Cabinet Member for Jobs and the Local Economy, Cllr Denise Lelliott, said: “We have put together three bids that will reach out to all areas in Rotherham and help us to continue the progress we’ve already made to regenerate our town, create jobs and build a better borough.

“If successful this final bid will make a real difference to local residents of Dinnington and Wath, providing new facilities and enhancing the retail offer to ensure these much-loved town centres remain vibrant and well-used.”

Government are expected to announce the outcome of the bids in Autumn and if successful the Council will have until March 2025 to deliver on the projects.

Images: RMBC

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News: Powell's pulls plug on Rotherham routes

A large scale social enterprise has closed its bus companies in Yorkshire - a move that affects a depot and a number of routes in Rotherham.

HCT Group announced last week that their Powell's and CT Plus bus companies would close and services stopped running on Monday August 8.

HCT Group started out as Hackney Community Transport in 1982 when around 30 local community groups in the London Borough of Hackney pooled their vehicle resources. A new business model was launched in the 1990s based on social impact and a commercial focus has seen the group expand to merge with other community transport providers across the UK.

The enterprise acquired Powell's in 2018 for an undisclosed sum.

With a depot at Hellaby, Powells Bus Company Ltd was a family run bus service operating local bus services, school buses and private hire services in the Rotherham and Doncaster areas. Founded in 1996, it has a fleet of approximately 30 vehicles.

The latest news affected 19 services across South Yorkshire from its Powells depot in Hellaby, where it employed around 50 staff.

Travel authorities have been working to find alternatives.

Routes in Rotherham include the 18 (Doncaster - Edlington - Maltby - Hellaby) where an alternative is two journeys on Service 10 provided by First South Yorkshire from Hellaby to Doncaster.

Globe is set to take on the X20 route with a reduced service and replacement operators are being sought for services at Wales High School for September.

No replacement is planned for the 3 service (Rotherham - Ravenfield Common) with alternative journeys available on the 116 and X10 services.

Alternatives have not yet been annouced for the 117 (Rotherham - Bramley) service or the A1 (Sheffield - Waverley - Meadowhall) route.

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Lynn McClelland, HCT Group Chief Executive, said: "This is a very sad day for us all at HCT Group. Everyone at Powell’s – and across the wider HCT Group – has worked tirelessly to put the operations in Yorkshire on a sustainable footing, but there is nothing further to be done.

"It has been our pleasure and privilege to serve the people of South Yorkshire since we began operating services in 2018, and an honour to work with such a dedicated team. I am saddened for those colleagues whose livelihoods are affected and for the passengers in Yorkshire who rely on us. I am deeply sorry that this is the outcome we face."

South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard said: "At a time when operators are already failing to provide passengers with the services they need and deserve this is another blow.

“With the limited public money available to support bus companies, we had been providing Powell’s with additional levels of financial support this year. Their announcement this week is just another example of how the system as a whole is broken - temporarily plugging the gap of at-risk services is not a viable long-term solution or a route to building the public transport network our region needs.

“Right now we have a broken system that allows operators to simply walk away, leaving taxpayers to step in and prop up services, so people can get to work, school, medical appointments and to see family and friends. That’s why we are undertaking the assessment into whether we can franchise South Yorkshire’s buses, as a route to a long-term solution for our public transport network. In the meantime, it’s also why we’ve asked the government for a funding package that allows us to better support and maintain our public transport network.

“More immediately, I have asked officers to look into all the options open to us to protect services, including our legal position in relation to ownership of bus companies. People will understand that it’s a complicated process, limited by legislation in the Bus Services Act and a host of other challenges. However, I will explore any and all opportunities to protect and improve services.

“However, my priority is to move at pace to find operators to plug the gaps that have been created by Powells. I’m pleased to say we have had positive conversations with alternative operators and I’m confident we are in a position to fund other operations to provide some of the services that are at threat of being cancelled. We’ll make details available as soon as we have them.”

Images: Powell's / Faebook

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Rothbiz is changing its email subscription service

Current email subscribers to Rotherham Business News need to resubmit their details in order to continue to receive free email updates.

With the introduction of new General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the fact that Google is no longer supporting the Feedburner service, Rothbiz is switching its emails to Revue, an editorial newsletter service acquired by Twitter last year.

Previous Rothbiz email services are being turned off.

Unfortunately the switch to a new service won't be done automatically and you need to resubscribe by entering your email address in the box on the right and following the instructions. You will be sent an automatic email and you will need to confirm your subscription (check your spam folders).

Alternatively, you can subscribe via this link.

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News: Work getting underway at derelict and at-risk Camellia House

Work gets underway this month on a regeneration project at the Georgian Camellia House at Wentworth Woodhouse, home to some of the Western World’s oldest camellias.

The Grade I listed architectural jewel in Rotherham is currently undergoing a programme of mixed-use regeneration, described as the most exciting and challenging heritage project of a generation, that will take up to two decades to deliver and will cost over £130m.

Camellia House, which is Grade II*listed, is currently a roofless shell on the Heritage at Risk Register.

Restoring it and giving it a new life, Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust’s first full regeneration project, will cost £5m.

Construction specialists William Birch & Sons Ltd will carry out the year-long task after winning an exacting tendering process.

The York-based company was selected for its expertise in the heritage sector, having delivered the award-winning restoration of Hylton Castle, a Scheduled Ancient Monument, and most recently the restoration of the Old Deanery and Exchequergate Arch at Lincoln Cathedral.

Gemma Shahjahan, Business Development Director, said: “We are in awe of the incredible architecture of Wentworth Woodhouse and its impact on the local community. It is an absolute pleasure to be selected to work at the Camellia House, on the next phase of the Trust’s journey.”

Its team arrives on site on August 15 to erect scaffolding and put measures in place to protect the building’s inhabitants, camellias dating back to the early 1800s.

“Our sensitive approach to working on some of the region’s most treasured buildings ideally places us to restore the building, but also carefully safeguard the rare collection of camellias at the heart of the project,” said Gemma.

“They will be protected by a scaffolding framework wrapped in a fine netting, which will allow daylight through but mitigate dust and debris around the trees. The planting area will also be protected to prevent lime plaster dust entering the soil.

“We will be working closely with the Trust’s Head Gardener, who will be monitoring the camellias daily and carry out a programme of feeding and propagation during the construction phase.”

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The building’s extensive refurbishment will include repairing or renewing roof timbers, stonework, windows and doors, walls and ceilings. A new roof, toilets and a kitchen will be created at the historic front of the Camellia House, and a new glass roof will be re-introduced at the back, where the camellias are housed in historic troughs, and where visitors will enjoy sampling teas from around the globe.

The building has no water or electricity supply; bringing in services and drainage facilities will be a complex task.

The contract also includes the creation of a new visitors' car park near the Stables, on the site of a 1960s swimming pool block erected while the mansion was home to the Lady Mabel College of Physical Education.

In addition, the scope of works will reduce the Trust’s environmental impact with the addition of ground-source heat pumps, which will provide heating for the Camellia House and part of the Stables.

The process will be led by UK-wide specialist conservation architects Donald Insall Associates, which opened a York studio in 2021.

The award-winning practice and historic buildings consultancy is known for conservation work at some of Britain’s most significant stately homes. It has worked extensively at Wentworth Woodhouse during recent phases of restoration work and emergency repairs at the mansion and stables, which cost £9.7m.

In 2021 it was chosen to develop designs for the Camellia House and gain Rotherham Borough Council planning approvals.

Dorian Proudfoot, architect and Associate Director, commented: “Following on from our practice’s experience of noteworthy glazed garden buildings at Kew Gardens, we were delighted to be involved in shaping the future of this rare and impressive 18th century Camellia House at Wentworth Woodhouse.

“It has been particularly interesting to combine the accurate restoration of the roofless ruin with sensitive adaptation of the building for its new use as a tea house and events venue.

“All through the design we have been conscious to protect and provide a safe future for the extremely special and rare camellia plants that have called this Grade II* listed building home for the last two centuries.

“Its redevelopment is the next stage in securing a sustainable future for Wentworth Woodhouse, one of England’s finest country houses.”

Sarah McLeod, CEO of Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust commented: “This is a very exciting time for us - the transformation of the Camellia House is the first project we are undertaking which will bring an entirely derelict area of the site back into full use.

“We are delighted that it is in such safe hands. Donald Insall Associates and William Birch & Sons have extensive heritage sector experience and will be undertaking the project with great sensitivity - not least towards our camellias, some of which have survived for 200 years and will have pride of place in our beautiful tea house.

“Of course none of this would be possible without the support of National Lottery players and Historic England, and we are very grateful.”

Situated close to the site of a menagerie where the 1st Marquess of Rockingham’s famed collection of exotic animals lived, the glass-fronted structure was originally named the Menagerie Greenhouse.

Its oldest parts, at the back of the building, date back to 1738 and were a tea house where Lady Rockingham, wife of the 1st Marquess, entertained guests with the fashionable new drink of the day.

Eventually the glazed area became home to highly prized camellias from the Far East. It’s believed the 2nd Marquess could have begun the collection and the 4th Earl Fitswilliam took up the hobby.

Up to 22 new local hospitality jobs will be created when the tea house opens in summer 2023. A tea menu will embrace tea-drinking ceremonies and cultures from across the globe and the Camellia House will also serve as an evening events space.

Its restoration and repurposing is thanks to a number of grants, including £4m from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, £250,000 from Historic England and £364,622 from The Hamish Ogston Foundation, via Historic England.

David Renwick, Director, England, North, at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “We have been delighted to support Wentworth Woodhouse over the last six years. Our latest grant means the Trust can embark on restoring the beautiful Camellia House for the public, and especially the local community, to enjoy and explore its fascinating heritage.”

Giles Proctor, Historic England Heritage at Risk Architect, said: “We have been working closely with Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust on the first phase of the restoration of the mansion and our £250,000 grant to the Camellia House project, along with the award from the Hamish Ogston Foundation, acts as a vital catalyst to attract greater amounts of funding.

"It will help rejuvenate this wonderful building, provide a lifeline for the skilled crafts people who help keep historic places alive, and give their trainees the opportunity to gain hands-on experience.”

WWPT’s own funds and grant applications will contribute £136,536, the Garfield Weston Foundation has donated £118,257, the Ian Addison Charitable Trust £7,500, in-kind donations total £19,270 and volunteer time £33,400.

Plans have recently been submitted for another phase of works at Wentworth Woodhouse, focusing on repurposing the expansive stable block and riding school.

Wentworth Woodhouse website

Images: WWPT / David Sowter

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