News: Rotherham's thirst for micropubs continues

New microbars and micropubs have opened in Rotherham, others are planning to expand, and the borough's newest brewery has produced its first beers.

Starting with the likes of the Wath Tap, Something Brew Inn and the Dragon's Tap, the number of smaller locations for alcoholic refreshment continues to grow, just as larger PubCo pubs continue to close - a trend seen across the country.

At Parkgate, The Little Haven is hoping to move to larger premises, five years after opening in a former Post Office on Broad Street. A new premises licence application has been made by the operators of the bar that serves locally sourced real ale, craft beer and ciders, for a vacant unit just over the road.

19 Broad Street was a former angling centre and the licence would allow for live music and the sale of alcohol and late night refreshment.

A change of use planning application for the property has also been submitted. The applicants explain: "Our business has being respectfully run by myself and my partner for five and a half years now but unfortunately the building where we are is in need of a lot of internal and external repairs and the landlord is not willing to fix these issues to the standard that is needed. In the long term its not viable to run my business from here so my proposal is that I would like to move premises.

"We have chosen this location as we know the landlord has done a lot of internal and external work which means I know our business would be safe for another ten to fifteen years its also got more room for my customers to move during jam nights etc."

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On nearby Kilnhurst Road, the Rawmarsh Tap, has opened with a focus on food and cocktails, similar to connected business, The Timberyard in Wath.

At Bramley, The Yellow Broom (pictured) has opened this month, taking on a former bridal boutique in the AEON Court development that ironically replaced the Master Brewer pub.

Operated by three friends, the new microbar has two cask and seven keg lines offering independently sourced craft beers along with craft beers from more well established breweries.

At East Herringthorpe, a planning application has been submitted that would enable the change of use of a former fish & chip shop into a microbar on Laudsdale Road, next door to the closed sports and social club.

In Dinnington, it has been a few years in the making but microbrewery, Ticking Clock Brew Co., is making up for lost time with the launch of new and special edition beers.

Launched by Ben Womersley and Jamie Berry, friends with a shared desire to provide great flavoursome beer, Ticking Clock launched its first beer, Swamp Thing, earlier this year. This has been quickly followed by the likes of Night Moves IPA, Ceremony Session IPA, Punch The Clock (a fruity sour) and a Citra IPA called Every Second Counts.

Led by Doncaster's Draughtsman Alehouse, the microbrewery has already managed to get its beers in a number of micropubs.

Little Haven website
Rawmarsh Tap Facebook page
Yellow Broom website
Ticking Clock Brew Co. website

Images: Yellow Broom / Facebook

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News: Rotherham retail parade back up for sale

A Grade II listed retail parade built on the site of the College of Jesus in Rotherham town centre is up for sale.

Having previously been withdrawn when it went to auction in 2019, the prominent property has now come on to the market with agents and auction specialists, Bond Wolfe.

The property at 2-8 Effingham Street in Rotherham, which includes a vacant second floor that could be converted to residential use, subject to planning, is available for offers based on £895,000.

Current rents total £85,200 a year so the purchase would represent a yield of more than 9%, based on the offer price.

James Mattin, Managing Director of Bond Wolfe, said: "This prominent retail parade is within a conservation area on the corner of the pedestrianised Effingham Street, close to All Saints Square, part of Rotherham’s prime retailing area.

“The property includes four ground floor retail units which have extra space on the first floor, with established tenants including a Greggs bakery and Timpson shoe repairs.

“Other tenants include Harvey & Thompson Harvey Pawnbrokers, one of the oldest and leading pawnbrokers in the UK, and Cash Shop Ltd, established by the founder of the UK’s original cheque cashing company.

“There is then self-contained office accommodation on the second floor accessed via a dedicated entrance on Effingham Street, and this could potentially be converted into residential use, subject to planning consent.”

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The property, along with the large B&M Bargains unit that surrounds it, are built on the site of the former College of Jesus.

In 1482, Thomas Rotherham, the priest who was appointed Archbishop of York and Lord Chancellor, oversaw construction of the Chapel of Jesus on the south side of All Saints Church in Rotherham and the following year saw work start on the Chapel on the Bridge. Thomas was also responsible for the College of Jesus on the site of his birthplace, accommodating church choristers and grammar school teachers.

Following the suppression of chantries in 1547, the college buildings were converted to a mansion, before becoming part of the College Inn. For many years College Yard / College Square was a focal point of the town; large crowds gathering to hear the proclamation of new monarchs, the declaration of election results and on other public occasions.

Parts of the college building survive incorporated into later buildings. The remnants are notable as the earliest surviving brick structure in South Yorkshire and formed part of a fundamental element in the development of Rotherham.

The walls of the college were repeatedly altered before being incorporated into present structure dated 1930 and by the architects, Flockton of Sheffield. They were thought to be lost but were re-exposed during internal remodelling in 1984 but are now encased.

A 17th Century doorway from college buildings was re-erected in the nearby Boston Park.

Bond Wolfe website

Images: Bond Wolfe

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News: The Sheffield fast food favourite that wants to open in Rotherham

The revamped Westgate Chambers development in Rotherham town centre could be a new home for "Britain's best takeaway," if newly submitted plans are approved.

Westgate Chambers is a large private-led regeneration project - a £10m scheme designed by Sheffield-based Self Architects involving the creation of a showcase commercial, retail and residential development that involves renovating the buildings that surround a landscaped internal courtyard, including a superb Georgian Grade II listed building, one of the oldest surviving historic structures in Rotherham town centre.

With the New York View apartments joined by the likes of Pot8's snooker club and the new location for rock bar, Snafu, the latest application is for a change of use that would enable an empty unit to be used for a hot food takeaway.

Plans show that it will be for Sheffield-based burger bar, Munchies.

With three locations across Sheffield, Munchies garnered national acclaim earlier this year when it won The Best Takeaway In Britain Award at the Just Eat Restaurant Awards.

The brand is famed for its burgers and milkshakes and describes itself as having a "generous menu that satisfies big cravings from a business which is big on personality and bigger on flavour."

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If approved, the revamped 1,800 sq ft unit at 4 main Street would enable Munchies to expand into Rotherham with plans showing kitchen and preparation areas to the rear and booths and banquette seating at the front.

A design statement submitted with the application hints at a playful interior, neon lights and an "instagram-worthy atmosphere."

The application states that the new takeaway aims to enhance the dining options in the urban area characterized by a mix of pubs, bars, offices, and retail outlets. It adds: "Its introduction as a fast food takeaway/restaurant complements the existing mix of uses, providing a new and desirable food option that caters to the needs of local office workers, residents, and visitors.

"It promises to enhance the local dining landscape, contribute positively to the area's vibrancy, and meet the needs of a diverse range of users."

In 2020, Rotherham Council introduced a planning policy including the restrictions on the location of new hot food takeaways within 800 metres of schools and colleges.

Munchies website

Images: Munchies / Google Maps

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News: Templeborough regen projects get green light

Two regeneration schemes in Templeborough have secured planning approval from Rotherham Council, meaning that more business units and new food outlets can be added to the former steelworks area.

Rotherham Council has been developing plans for the Templeborough area, with around £6.5m in government funding from the Town Deal set to be used to create a new "heart" of the business zone by "bringing forward underutilised sites and creating new opportunities for businesses within accessible and pleasant public realm."

Planning permission has been granted for the land between Magna and Sheffield Road confirming the demolition of the former "Cent" Building and the construction of six new employment units along with two food and beverage units.

The industrial units total 9,762 sq ft and would provide "flexible commercial spaces to meet the requirements of a range of potential occupiers."

Two proposed food and beverage units will sit in an area known as "Magna Plaza" which also includes car parking, a pedestrianised area and outdoor seating, and a flowering grass area.

Planning officers say that with the demolition of the existing buildings and erection of new buildings of a more modern design, "the introduction of modern light industrial units in this prominent location is considered to benefit the character of the surrounding area and will represent an improvement to this site."

Rotherham Council has already awarded Henry Boot Construction Ltd the first stage of a £5.8m two stage tender for the design and build of the project.

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Closer to Ickles roundabout, Euro Garages Limited has received planning permission to repurpose a vacated car showroom.

Plans submitted last year showed that the the existing 9,000 sq ft showroom would be retained and be converted into a petrol station building with an ancillary retail store and three food-to-go units. The coffee shop would be a seperate building proposed to the south of the petrol station, with its drive through lane running along its southern side.

The proposal is at odds with the business / industrial designation of the site but planning officers agre with the applicants that the site has a long established history of not being in an industrial or commercial use, adding that: "it can be argued that the site will provide some employment opportunities and will regenerate this vacant site and bring it back into an active use."

The site benefits from the Rotherham Renaissance Flood Alleviation Scheme and officers also agree with the assessment that found no available sequentially preferable sites. Sequential tests ensure that development is located in the most sustainable location first (usually in town centres), before other, less sustainable locations are chosen.

EG Group is a big player on the sector and was recently acquired in a £2bn deal by Asda. It already works with Asda and Spar, as well as Burger King, Greggs, Cooplands, Krispy Kreme, Starbucks, KFC, Cinnabon and Subway.

Images: AHR / Colliers

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News: Olive Lane plans passed

Plans have been approved for the long-awaited mixed-use scheme which is set to form the heart of the community at the Waverley development in Rotherham.

Rothbiz reported in August that a planning application had been submitted by the Harworth Group showing a scaled back development, much reduced compared to previous iterations.

The latest plans describe the proposals as "a new high quality vibrant mixed-use centre at the heart of Waverley with uses specific to the needs of residents and occupiers at the AMP to create a truly sustainable new community."

The scheme proposes a new high street within Waverley which would incorporate retail, leisure, office, community uses, outdoor events and pop-up market stall spaces. The proposal also includes 50 residential units along with car parking, public realm and an improvement to existing public transport infrastructure.

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The 2021 application has been withdrawn and new proposals no longer include a 16,500 sq ft discount supermarket and office space is reduced. A £2m medical centre on the site already has planning approval.

The plans include a new High Street that will include six commercial buildings suitable for leisure and retail uses such as a pharmacy, optician, nursery, bars / restaurants or bakery. The street will be anchored by a 4,000 sq ft supermarket and a new community centre.

The proposed new local centre includes a new piazza which will be available for a variety of outdoor uses including community events, pop-up markets and stalls and farmers markets.

The application was approved without going before Rotherham Council's planning board. It includes a number of conditions.

A report from the planning officer concludes: "The proposed local centre is at a scale to help serve the people who live and work at Waverley, accommodating the needs of the day-to-day retail facilities and employment uses. The reasoning and justification for the policy thresholds [in the masterplan for the area] is to ensure the Highfield Commercial Area is sufficiently balanced in terms of place making. The proposed uses are considered suitable and will not result in any adverse impacts on other areas. The proposed development will provide an important local service for residents and commercial occupiers."

In a statement on social media, Harworth Group said: "Olive Lane will provide a new social hub for Waverley residents and workers at the Advanced Manufacturing Park, further enhancing the amenities already available on site, which include 310 acres of green space, a school, family pub and community garden.

"Construction of Olive Lane is expected to begin within weeks, with completion anticipated by the end of 2024. Discussions are ongoing with potential occupiers for the retail and leisure units.

"We know that many members of the local community are excited about this part of Waverley being created, and we’re looking forward to it being a place for those living and working on the site to come together and shop, eat and drink, or meet with friends."

Harworth website

Images: Harworth / VectorDC

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News: Balliante transforms historic Furness House into a hub of innovation

Balliante, a proudly Rotherham-based company, is thrilled to announce its recent move from a serviced office in the town to the stunning historic Furness House, where they will continue to specialize in IT Support, high-end bespoke Website Design and Development, Software, Hardware and their mission of "Innovating Businesses with Technology."

This significant move signifies a key milestone in their journey to bring business back to the heart of Rotherham and solidify their commitment to the local community.

Furness House, on The Crofts in Rotherham town centre, was built in 1776, and has a storied history as a solicitors practice in the 1800’s, a grand family home in the early 1900’s, as well as more recently being a bank, and an accountancy practice. Balliante’s decision to make this building their new headquarters aligns with their goal of reinvigorating Rotherham’s economy and preserving its heritage.

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Balliante has been a trusted partner in IT Support, providing cutting-edge solutions and a wide array of services, including bespoke solutions and the latest Technology. Their team of experts is dedicated to harnessing the power of technology to help businesses thrive and innovate.

“We see our move to Furness House as a symbolic step forward,” said Craig Boddy, Managing Director at Balliante. “It allows us to not only expand our company and team, but also support more businesses while embracing the rich history of Rotherham and be part of its economic resurgence. Furness House will become a hub of innovation, where we’ll continue to specialize in IT solutions and technological advancements that drive business growth.”

Balliante is committed to driving business excellence in Rotherham while providing tailored IT solutions that cater to the unique needs of local enterprises. Their new headquarters marks a significant leap forward, symbolizing a future filled with innovative possibilities.

Balliante website

Images: Balliante

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News: Haworth to welcome Danieli to AMP

Global steel business Danieli has committed to a major investment in the UK with the development of a new headquarters in Rotherham.

Rothbiz reported in May that a planning application for the Italian firm had been submitted to Rotherham Council for a 51,000 sq ft facility on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP), which is in Rotherham.

The Italian-based group – which has annual revenues of £3.6bn and designs, builds and installs low emission plants for the steel industry worldwide as well as producing quality special steels – is to build a 47,000 sq ft head office, research and distribution facility fronting the Parkway.

Harworth Group plc will develop the new Danieli headquarters at its flagship Waverley site, which is already home to some of the world’s biggest manufacturers including Boeing, Rolls-Royce and the UK Atomic Energy Authority.

The new facility will occupy a prime location within the AMP next to the McLaren Automotive Composites Technology Centre.

Work will start on the project this month and will be completed before the end of 2024.

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Rotherham is already home to one of its twelve global design centres - at Templeborough - but the site is now too small for the growing firm.

The new headquarters will support the further growth of Danieli in the UK with state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, and will increase its distribution capabilities five-fold.

Andrew Betts, Managing Director at Danieli UK, said: “Our development of a new headquarters is a landmark moment for the company and a very significant signal of our future growth in the UK. Danieli has enjoyed stellar growth since it launched in the UK 25 years ago and this major investment to bring all our operations onto a single site further strengthens our ability to support our partners in the UK steel and metals recycling industry as they move towards net zero. We first opened a 3,000 sq ft site in the Lower Don Valley in 1999 and this move to a 47,000 sq ft headquarters on the prestigious Advanced Manufacturing Park is the latest chapter in our growth story in the UK.”

Chris Davidson, Regional Director for Yorkshire & Central at Harworth Group, added: “Danieli is a world-leader in the supply of high-technology plant and equipment, so we are delighted that they have chosen the Advanced Manufacturing Park as the site of their UK headquarters and appointed Harworth to develop this facility. The AMP has established itself as an international centre of excellence for advanced manufacturing, with its recent designation as part of the UK Government’s first Investment Zone has helped to cement this reputation further, and we continue to see very strong levels of occupier interest for space at the site."

Danieli website Harworth Group website

Images: Harworth

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News: Plans submitted for a new McDonald’s restaurant in Dinnington

McDonald’s has submitted plans for a new and attractive Drive-Thru restaurant in Dinnington to Rotherham Council.

Rothbiz reported in September that the fast food giant was working on emerging proposals on the site of the former colliery which has been reclaimed and transformed as part of a successful regeneration scheme.

The proposed site at Campbell Way and Nobel Way is surrounded by commercial and industrial units and is close to the Monk's Bridge Farm pub.



The plans, if approved, would deliver a new McDonald’s Drive-Thru restaurant, featuring indoor and outdoor seating, as well as on-site car parking spaces, cycle storage and new high-quality soft and hard landscaping.

The proposals would also benefit the local economy by creating up to 120 new jobs and generating around £60,000 in business rates every year for Rotherham Council to use to fund key local services.

McDonald’s held a community consultation in August, where local residents were encouraged to provide their feedback on the proposals.

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The plans will now be considered by Rotherham Council’s Planning Department and residents will be able to provide their feedback on the planning application.

Andrew Crewther, Senior Acquisitions Surveyor at McDonald’s, said: “We are pleased with the positive response we have had from the community regarding our proposals for Dinnington. It is clear from the feedback we have received that a McDonald’s restaurant in this area would be welcomed by the local community.

“We have wanted to expand our offering of amazing value and high-quality food in Dinnington for some time and we are thrilled that our plans to regenerate this vacant, well-situated site have now been submitted.

“As part of our plans, we will submit detailed traffic impact assessments to account for the effects the development may have on local roads. Our operational plans will also explain how we will manage litter around the site, ensuring that we are a considerate neighbour.”

A transport assessment submitted with the plans concludes that "the proposed development would not result in any severe impact on highway capacity or road safety." Businesses nearby have asked for double yellow lines on Campbell Way to improve road safety.

McDonalds has more than 1,400 restaurants across the UK and Ireland, employing over 130,000 people. Opportunities for progression, training and apprenticeships are at the heart of McDonald’s’ offer to the local jobs market.

Images: McDonald's / Lichfields

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News: Government grants Rotherham flexibility over regeneration millions

Rotherham Council is being granted more flexibility over the £80m+ regeneration funding it has secured from the Government.

Designed to bring various funding pots together and speed up spending, Simplification Pathfinder status also means that the authority could delay schemes that are due to complete in 2024 by two more years, and not risk sending the money back to Whitehall.

The National Audit Office (NAO) has recently warned of delays around spending the Government's Levelling Up funding pots, with less than £1bn out of £9.5bn allocated and £2bn distributed spent by March 2023. Inflationary pressures, skills shortages, and wider construction industry supply challenges have combined with problems over funding announcements.

In 2021, Rotherham secured £31.6m from the Town Deal to revamp areas of Rotherham town centre as well as Templeborough and Eastwood, and £12.6m from the Future High Streets Fund. From the first round of the Levelling Up Fund, two of the three bids from Rotherham were successful in securing money - £19.5m for the town centre and £19.9m for a number of connected projects which aim to build a new leisure industry.

The Simplification Pathfinder Pilot sees ten local authorities across England pilot a simplified approach to funding delivery. A Government report explains: "Pilot local authorities will have greater ability to make decisions locally about moving funding between projects in their funding portfolio. We will devolve decision-making responsibility over 3 in-flight capital funding programmes in pilot areas, increasing local flexibility, and reducing bureaucracy and inefficiency within the delivery process."

The Rotherham funds will be aggregated into a £83.6m pot which can be managed flexibly across a portfolio of projects.

Instead of reports for each funding stream, local authorities will agree an investment plan and submit one 3-monthly report (focusing on spend and progress) and one 6-monthly delivery report based on a combined set of outcomes and outputs.

The council will only now need to seek approval from the government if they are making a "material change" to its investment plan - moving at least £5m to a different intervention theme or moving at least £5m between projects in the same intervention theme. Delays happened in Rotherham, when partners needed to seek approval to move its live music venue proposals away from the Guest & Chrimes site when they couldn't make it work.

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Future High Street Fund and Levelling Up Fund money was due to be spent by March 2024. In Rotherham this includes projects that have suffered delays due to rising costs and difficulties securing contractors.

The revamp of Rotherham Market, which is using money from the Future High Street Fund, has only just seen enabling works start and a final cost is not yet known. At Riverside Gardens, another Future High Street Fund project, a contractor has only just been identified.

Other schemes are at different stages, with some far from complete. These include new units at Templeborough, more housing in the Riverside Quarter, leisure economy projects at Maltby, Gulliver's Valley and Wentworth Woodhouse, the pocket park on High Street, replacing the burnt-out buildings on Corporation Street, redevelopment to extend the leisure quarter in the town centre, the proposed new Mainline Station, and new connections between Eastwood and Parkgate.

Council minutes on the status explain: "It's quite [a] considerable amount of money before we have to report into government, whereas at the moment any changes to outputs, any changes to projects or significant moving of money, we have to report that to government, which can be quite lengthy process. It's something that we did with the Guest and Chrimes project.

"It also would adjust the timeframe, so we would bring all the timeframes for all the programmes into one. For example, at the moment Town Deal is March 2026 for delivery and Future High Street fund and Levelling up fund are March 2024. It would allow us to push that deadline back so it essentially gives us another couple of years to deliver the projects, which again is a huge, huge benefit for us. Other towns are not getting that benefit, it is all really positive news."

Since the borough was named in the pathfinder pilot, the Government announced that Rotherham would receive £20m endowment-style funds over ten years to invest in local people’s priorities.

Rotherham's Town Board will have direct government support in addition to the funding and powers they receive through the government's new "Long-Term Plan for Towns," and will be required to engage local people on their long-term plan.

Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, said that it would replace short-term funding pots where little or no consultation with local people is carried out, with investment directly in the places that need it most, and "not politicians that squander the most."

Images: RMBC / Tetra Tech

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News: £60m Rotherham industrial development complete

Mirastar’s £60m industrial development called Sheffield Catalyst, which is could bring around 500 jobs to the area, is now complete.

As Rothbiz explained, outline plans were approved in 2019 to enable the successful Sheffield Business Park to expand into Rotherham.

Investor, developer and asset manager Mirastar has brought forward the Catalyst development on a 17.9-acre site that was previously kept in the green belt when Sheffield City Airport was in operation.

Comprising five units totalling 285,000 sq ft along the Parkway, 50% of the scheme was pre-let.

Agents Knight Frank, GV & Co and M1 are marketing the remaining three units of 22,448 sq ft, 28,309 sq ft and 91,923 sq ft which are immediately available and suitable for warehouse and distribution, general industrial and manufacturing.

Rebecca Schofield, partner and head of the Yorkshire industrial team at Knight Frank, said: “This scheme is at the heart of the region’s distribution and manufacturing location and sits in a prime central UK position allowing potential occupiers access nationwide.

“Potential occupiers should be attracted by the nearby demographics for employees and potential customers. More than 477,000 people are within five mile radius of site and 65 per cent of the UK population can be reached within 4.5 hours.”

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Henry Watson, associate at M1 Agency, said: “We are seeing specification and location be paramount to occupier requirements in the current market and Catalyst benefits from best in class building specification and unrivalled location, just off J33.”

Earlier this year Rothbiz reported that surfaces specialist Cosentino was the first tenant to sign up, taking a 33,608 sq ft, with JLA Group, a market leader in the supply and maintenance of commercial equipment, taking 109,166 sq ft.

Daniel Walker, from GV & Co, said: "The units at Catalyst, Sheffield Business Park have been constructed to a high specification and the quality of the interest we have received to date is testament to that. Only three units now remain and we are keen to speak to those companies who have active requirements in the area and are interested in being based on the park."

Earlier this year, property development company, Premcor Estates, together with joint venture partner Peveril Securities sold the development to Mirastar, KKR Real Estate's industrial and logistics platform in Europe, for an undisclosed sum.

Premcor director, Simon Hawkins, said: “Premcor has an entrepreneurial approach to property development and a track record of successfully matching market demand with investor requirements and this deal was no different.

“The site was part of the former Sheffield Airport land so we were delighted to be able to buy it off market. It’s in a highly sought after location, just off the M1 and close to the M18 where there has been a lack of new development stock coming forward recently, which means the area benefits from a strong occupier demand with rents moving on towards and beyond £8/sqft."

Sheffield Business Park website

Images: Knight Frank

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News: New apprentices take first step on construction career ladder in Rotherham

Four ambitious trainees have taken their first steps towards a career in construction after securing sought-after apprenticeships with energy and regeneration specialist Equans.

The new recruits will work alongside experienced teams and mentors on the housing repairs and maintenance service which Equans provides on behalf of Rotherham Council.

Over the course of the contract so far, Equans has created apprenticeships for 35 local people, providing the chance to build a successful career whilst learning trades and skills to last a lifetime.

On completion of their apprenticeships, the latest new recruits – who will study at local colleges - will be qualified in fields including joinery, electrical engineering, gas and heating engineering and plumbing.

One of the new apprentices is 20-year-old George Scattergood from Wath-upon-Dearne, who said: “When I started my joinery apprenticeship, I thought I would just be shadowing my mentor, but I’ve actually been able to get really stuck in and hands-on and have learnt so many new skills already!

“Everyone at Equans has been really welcoming and I can’t wait to see what opportunities there will be in the future after the completion of my apprenticeship.”

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Neil Wright, Head of Operations at Equans, commented: “I’m incredibly proud of the apprenticeships we have created in Rotherham – leaving a legacy in the communities where we work is really important to us. Apprenticeships not only provide valuable opportunities for individuals to kickstart their careers in the construction industry, but also contribute to the long-term development and growth of the borough.

“I am excited to see our latest recruits progress at Equans and to see the positive impact they will have.”

Rotherham Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing and Neighbourhood Working, Cllr Sarah Allen said: “Apprenticeships are a fantastic way for organisations such as Equans to recruit enthusiastic employees with practical skills and relevant qualifications. For the apprentices, it is a great opportunity to get hands-on experience, learning directly from the experienced professionals at Equans, in a field they feel passionately about.”

Equans employs around 150 staff on its ten-year contract with Rotherham Council, which provides repairs, maintenance and upgrades to approximately 20,000 council-owned homes.

Equans website

Images: Equans

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News: Forge Island pre-let leaves Doncaster base

It hasn't panned out in Doncaster town centre for an independent South Yorkshire restaurant chain that is set to open on the Forge Island development in Rotherham town centre in 2024.

The Rustic Pizza Co. exchanged a deal at the start of this year with nationwide placemaker, Muse, to open a new outlet in the last remaining retail space at the £47m leisure development onForge Island.

But the firm's first permanent base in Doncaster's Wool Market is closing after the management company decided to increase rent and charges.

The Rustic Pizza Co was founded in 2017 by Doncaster-based husband and wife team Lee and Sian Ogley who originally ran a mobile street food business. It opened an outlet at the popular food court in Doncaster in 2019 and a new restaurant at Lakeside Bouvelard in the city over the summer.

A post on social media explains that Market Asset Management (MAM), Doncaster Council's operator for the market, was using a break clause in the lease in order to "re-align contracts to commercial levels" and charge a 20% turnover rent.

Rustic Pizza Co founders said that it had offered to pay a capped yearly rent of £40,000 but this was rejected before a notice to leave in January 2024 was served.

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Operators were also critical of the costs not being included in the rent, the increase in electrics costs and the restrictions enforced by the management company.

A post added "MAM mention the wool market is running at a loss but forget they removed 24 retail units with the potential to earn £400K a year in rent. This money needs to make up from somewhere.

"DMBC [City of Doncaster Council] funded the leisure part of the wool market, but this is also not generating the income expected so they need to find the income from other sources, The only source is the food and bar traders.

"We wish all the traders in there all the success but for now we focus on our new venture."

Construction is well underway in Rotherham where boutique cinema operator, The Arc, and national hotel chain, Travelodge, who will anchor Forge Island.

Joining the pizza place, the Thistle Group is signed up to bring a number of brands. These include Portuguese and Southern African eatery, Casa Peri Peri, created by Masterchef star, Bobby Geetha; Estabulo Rodizio / Sakku Samba – a dual-branded concept honouring the Gaucho style of cooking and a fusion of Japanese-Brazilian cuisine, and luxury coffee shop Caffé Noor. Local burger, shake and dessert restaurant, Cow & Cream has also taken space to complete the mix of eateries.

Rustic Pizza Co website

Images: Rustic Pizza Co

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News: Enterprising friends band together to return Rotherham pub back to its former glory

The Earl Grey, in Rawmarsh, Rotherham, has opened its doors once again to the public after being purchased by a group of friends looking to make a better pub for the local community by offering live music and events.

After opening its doors once again in June 2023, The Earl Grey has already seen success with its function room, as well as its traditional pub.

The landmark building had always been of interest to Matthew Fletcher, who had previously worked in the pub trade. Already possessing an alcohol licence, he felt it was a natural next step to manage his own premises, with the support of friends within the community.

The Earl Grey now offers a range of events and live music, aiming to be a pub geared towards the local community, as well as visitors from further afield who are looking to enjoy a night out.

Matthew has made various additions, including introducing a new Atlantic beer, along with Spanish beer, Cruzcamp. He also plans to offer real ale, which will change regularly, and bring in food, to be developed over the coming weeks.

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Further developments include hosting a pool team, along with various other community events.

Matthew applied for a Kickstart grant from UKSE – a local investment company that provides finance of up to £1.5 million to growing businesses and supports start-up ventures - which helped with advertising costs for events.

Reflecting on the venture, Matthew said: “We are still in the beginning stages of our journey at The Ear Grey but the support we have received so far has been amazing.

“The grant from UKSE allowed us to reach further audiences for our event and let the community know The Earl Grey was back with plenty of events, that support has helped us get off the ground and we are truly thankful.”

Steve Lyon, Area Manager at UKSE, said: “It is great to see The Earl Grey open its doors once again, and the success Matthew and the team have already found, we wish them all the best for the future.”

UKSE website

Images: UKSE

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News: Maltby pit housing plans set for approval

A planning application is being recommended for approval for 185 houses on the site of the former Maltby Colliery, where underground operations ceased in 2013.

Rothbiz reported last year on an outline application from Hargreaves Land showing a site to the west of the colliery coming forward for new housing.

The 29.5 acre site is currently a mix of green space, including informal allotments and a recreation ground, between Highfield Park, Tickhill Road and the colliery.

The land was allocated for residential use - 150 dwellings - in the Council's local plan. It is close to where Jones Homes are planning to build hundreds of new houses at Grange Lane.

During the application process the applicant has agreed to reduce the overall number of dwellings from 200 to 185. A minimum of 25% of the dwellings will be affordable.

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A new vehicular access is proposed directly off Tickhill Road at the southern end of the site. As part of the development, the current 40 mph speed limit on Tickhill Road will be extended to the east of the site access to improve the level of road safety in the vicinity.

Also part of the plans, approximately 100 no. allotment units will be accommodated on a 1.2 ha area of land at the northern end of the site, and the existing public open space, which measures approximately 3 ha (including woodland), to the west of the centre of the site will be retained and enhanced.

Local residents, councillors and the MP have raised issues with the plans, including the impact on local services and highways/traffic.

The planning board at Rotherham Council will meet to discuss the application next week and are being recommended by officers to approve the proposal.

If approved, it would come with a number of conditions around affordable housing, contributions to education and sports provision and a cycle link to nearby Glencairn Close.

Andrew Johnson, head of asset management at Hargreaves Land, said: "If approved our plans will provide an exciting new development, delivering much needed new housing for the local community and vastly improve what is currently a largely neglected area of land."

Hargreaves Land website

Images: Hargreaves Land / Edward Architecture

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News: Burnt-out buildings "gone by Summer"

Almost 20 years since the first fire created an eyesore on a key route into Rotherham town centre, the council now says that it anticipates that the burnt out buildings on Corporation Street will be demolished by Summer 2024.

The restaurant at no.7 suffered fire damage in 2005 with the nightclub above suffering a similar fate in 2007. The restaurant at no. 3-5 was also fire damaged in July 2011.

Rotherham Council has recently taken the decision to self-confirm a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) and acquire the properties.

At the same time as working on the CPO, the council also managed successful negotiations with the executors of the late owner’s estate in July 2023. Officers also worked to remove all objections to the CPO and the agreement to acquire the properties negated the need for a Public Inquiry.

Rothbiz understands that the price to acquire the properties is in the region of £250,000.

A report to the council states: "Dialogue is ongoing with the Planning Casework Unit [part of the Government's Department for Communities and Local Government] regarding the removal of the CPO objections and the timescale associated with the Council’s ability to self-confirm the CPO. It is anticipated that this will take place within three months of the transactions completing and the CPO should therefore be confirmed by February 2024.

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"Upon acquisition of the site and in anticipation of confirmation of the CPO, demolition of the existing fire damaged structures on site will take place at the earliest opportunity. Depending on the contractor's approach to the demolition, it may be necessary to obtain agreement, in the form of a licence, to access the site from neighbouring property owners. A Procurement Business Case to appoint a demolition contractor has been prepared and surveys have been undertaken.

"It is anticipated that demolition together with necessary party wall works will be completed by Summer 2024. Procurement of a developer is underway and running simultaneously with the demolition programme."

Rothbiz reported on the search for a developer for Corporation Street last month.

The proposal is to replace the buildings with a £6m residential-led, mixed-use development, comprising of apartments with commercial space on the ground floor. Plans were approved in May.

Handing over the land and plugging a viability gap, the Council is seeking to appoint a developer who will lead, finance, manage delivery, and retain ownership of the scheme. Tenders are due to be evaluated in January.

Demolition is timetabled to start in March 2024 and complete in June 2024.

Images: RMBC / AHR

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News: Licence approved for massive Reytons gig in Rotherham

FKP Scorpio UK has seen its licence application conditionally approved that will enable hometown heroes, The Reytons, to play a massive event at Clifton Park in Rotherham town centre next summer.

Rothbiz revealed in September that FKP Scorpio, one of the world’s top ten leading concert promoters, and the promotor for The Reytons tour, had applied to Rotherham Council for a licence for Clifton Park in July 2024.

The licence covers the performance of live music, any playing of recorded music and the sale by retail of alcohol. "Opening hours" cover July 6 and 7 and would be from 2pm until 11:30pm, although activity, including soundchecks, could take place from the Friday afternoon.

Documents submitted as part of the application show that the site would have a capacity of 20,000.

Within two days of going on sale, 10,000 tickets were sold for the gig on July 6.

The licence comes with a number of conditions relating to alcohol sales and security.

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Promotors will also need to provide an Event Management Plan (EMP) to the Council and other responsible authorities no less than 12 weeks prior to the event.

A standard practice for large events, the EMP covers aspects around event safety, event management, transport, contingency plans, noise management, adverse weather and risk assessments.

FKP Scorpio is responsible for some Europe's biggest festivals such as Hurricane and Southside aswell as being a tour partner of music giants such as The Rolling Stones, Foo Fighters and Ed Sheeran. For The Reytons gig in Rotherham, it is working with consultants at SC Productions Ltd who have worked on high profile events such as concerts at Knebworth and Cardiff Castle, Creamfields and Ed Sheeran's stadium tour.

The approval states that: "The event shall not take place until such time that the Premises Licence Holder has received written confirmation from the Licensing Authority that that the EMP is agreed as satisfactory."

The licence was granted without going before any boards or committees at the council, which may mean that no objections were received. Applications like this would usually go to a hearing for consideration of any objections.

Rotherham Council is also due to make a decision this month on a contract for the hire of Clifton Park for the event "from the 1st – 10th July 2024, including set up and de-rig."

As previously reported, the stage is set to be situated on the extended car park area off Doncaster Road, with bars, toilets, food areas, backstage and medical tents all enclosed in a "steelshield."

The perimeter is shown around the car park, along the tree line on Middle Lane, along a tree-lined avenue towards the musuem, across the field towards the fun park and back along the path opposite the play area. Plans show two customer entrances and exits - one opposite the fun park and one in the field that backs onto Clifton Grove.

Releasing 100% independently, with no label backing, The Reytons secured their first-ever Number 1 album with "What’s Rock And Roll?" at the start of 2023.

The journey began with 350 people at Plug (now Network) in Sheffield, via The Leadmill, O2 Academy, the fruit and veg aisle at Tesco Extra, and Magna in Rotherham (the 4,500 capacity 2022 gig which sold out in ten hours), before reaching the 12,500 capacity Utilita Arena. A recently announced European tour is due to start in April.

The Reytons website

Images: The Reytons / Facebook / Google Maps

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News: Wentworth's Camellia House removed from at risk register following £5m revamp

The Camellia House at Wentworth Woodhouse in Rotherham is no longer on Historic England's Heritage at Risk Register following the completion of a £5m restoration project.

When the Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust took over the mansion and its 82-acre grounds in 2017, the Grade II* Listed Camellia House was in a sad state of repair and on the Heritage at Risk Register - a list which helps to focus efforts to preserve cherished sites across the country.

Thanks to an award of over £4m by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and other funding, work got underway last year to bring the Georgian building back into use as a speciality tea house and events space. Historic camellias, some surviving from the early 1800s, will have pride of place.

An official opening is scheduled for Spring 2024 when the flowers will be in bloom but the Camellia House has already hosted test events, and even its first wedding.

In the 1800s the Camellia House was used as a tea house by Lady Rockingham, wife of the 2nd Marquess, to entertain guests with the most fashionable new drink of the day.

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Construction specialists William Birch & Sons Ltd were lead contractors, working alongside UK-wide specialist conservation architects, Donald Insall Associates.

The restoration process has been captured by Wentworth Woodhouse volunteers with a series of YouTube videos highlighting the level of detail and master crafts involved - joiners, masons, roof and window glazers, ground workers, steel erectors, tilers, lead workers and underfloor heating specialists.

Of the 39 subcontracters, 33 were from Yorkshire and of these around half were from South Yorkshire.

The project has already been awarded a Green Apple Award for Environmental Best Practice for its use of ground source heat pumps, rainwater recycling, natural ventilation and much improved breathable thermal insulation throughout to significantly reduce the environmental impact of the building in use.

Duncan Wilson, Chief Executive of Historic England, said: "Protecting our heritage is so important. It is truly inspirational to see communities coming together to help save historic buildings and places and find new uses for them.

"The Heritage at Risk programme shines a light on our historic sites most in need and can help to attract funding and help. After a quarter of a century of the Heritage at Risk Register, we are celebrating how many places have been saved and continue to find new ways to involve local people in caring for and enjoying their heritage."

The next part of the estate that could be removed from the at risk register is the magnificent stable block where another multimillion pound regeneration scheme is already underway.

Wentworth Woodhouse website
Historic England website

Images: WWPT / Donald Insall Associates

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News: Rotherham businesses celebrate success

Three Rotherham businesses have walked away with top business accolades, as the Barnsley and Rotherham Business Awards returned to Magna Science Adventure Centre.

Over 550 representatives took part in the glittering event, which took place at Magna and was hosted by BBC Look North presenter Amy Garcia and featured entertainment provided by Barnsley-based composer Catherine Rannus and Britain’s Got Talent finalist Kyle Tomlinson.

The winners on the night saw Enhanced Skin Health secure the title of Excellence in Customer Service, IT Desk (UK) were presented with the Commitment to People Development Award and the Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust secured the Business Community Impact Award.

Sponsored by the RNN Group, Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber’s glittering Celebration of Business event showcased the extraordinary efforts made by businesses and individuals – from apprentices taking the first steps in their respective careers to businesses going above and beyond the call of duty when it comes to staff development, business growth, sustainability, customer service and much more.

A total of ten Rotherham-based businesses were highly commended during the evening including the YWCA in the charity of the year category, who walked away with a cash prize to support its vital work. The overall title of Business of the Year was presented to Warwick Ward Machinery, which has established itself as one of Europe’s largest suppliers of new and used earthmoving and waste recycling equipment and employs more than 100 people across four sites in the UK.

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This year also saw the very first President’s Salute to Business presented. The special accolade, which recognised the important contribution made by individuals and organisations, was presented to the NHS in recognition of its 75 years of service to the people of Barnsley and Rotherham. A special accolade was also awarded to Chamber past president Joada Allen in recognition of her efforts in supporting Barnsley & Rotherham’s business community during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as marking 10 years in business.

The awards also recognised the longstanding contributions of several businesses including Davies Turner & Co, which celebrated its 150th anniversary, and H E Barnes, which marked its centenary.

Matthew Stephens, President, of Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber, said: “This evening was more than a celebration; it was a showcase of the resilience, innovation and collaborative spirit that defines the thriving business landscape of Barnsley and Rotherham. This year, to coincide with the 75th anniversary of the founding of the NHS, I felt it was fitting for the business community to recognise the dedication and service provided by our healthcare workers. It is the first time that we have presented a President’s Salute, and I felt it was important for the Chamber to recognise the invaluable work delivered by both the Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and the Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust.

"We received a high number of entries; the judges were faced with a difficult task, and I would like to congratulate every business that was highly commended and made the shortlist. You should all be very proud of your efforts. The Chamber Business Awards is one of the most important events in the Chamber calendar, and it helps to illustrate not only the strength and diversity of South Yorkshire’s local economy but also how many businesses across the region are going above and beyond the call duty when it comes to building a stronger regional economy.”

Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber’s Celebration of Business will return in 2024.

Business of the Year:

Winner:
- Warwick Ward Machinery

Apprentice of the Year:

Winner:
- Harry Walker, Total Training Provision
Highly commended:
- Bartosz Pilarcyk, Fresh Pak Chilled Foods
- Kamran Hussain, Equans
Finalists:
- Tom Goodall, SS Systems Ltd
- Jasmine Harrison, Equans

Business Community Impact

Winner:
- Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust
Highly commended:
- Equans
- Enviro Electronics
Finalists:
- Fareshare Yorkshire
- Make Your Mark

Business Growth:

Winner:
- Warwick Ward
Highly commended:
- SMH Group
- New Design Windows
Finalists:
- Grass Roots Sports Academy
- LensGo Visual Media

Business Person of the Year:

Winner:
- Hayley Koseoglu, iekos
Highly commended:
- Stuart Turner, LensGo Visual Media
- Rob Shaw, Glu Recruit
Finalists:
- Nicky Thomas, The Growth Community
- Jason Mace, Gala Technology

Charity of the Year:

Winner:
- FareShare Yorkshire
Highly commended:
- YWCA Yorkshire
- BIADS
Finalists:
- Barnsley FC Community Trust
- Rotherham United Community Trust

Commitment to People Development:

Winner:
IT Desk (UK)
Highly commended:
- Hine Labels
- Equans
Finalists:
- Taattoo
- Total Training Provision

Excellence in Customer Service:

Winner:
- Enhance Skin Health
Highly commended:
- Raspberry Flamingo Copywriting
- Osborne Technologies
Finalists:
- MCi 4 Service
- IT Desk (UK)

Most Promising New Business:

Winner:
- Gala Education & Marketing
Highly commended:
- Jiggle Recruitment
- Trust Education
Finalists:
- Tiny Rockets
- Coven Barnsley

Sustainability Award:

Winner:
- Andel
Highly commended:
- Cranswick Foods
- Wentworth Woodhouse
Finalists:
- KCM Waste Management
- Professional Energy Purchasing

Salute to Business

Presented in recognition of longstanding support to the local and regional economy:
- Davies Turner & Co. – 150 years
- HE Barnes – 100 years
- Morthyng Group – 35 years
- Jeremy Neal Funeral Directors – 25 years

President’s Salute to Business

NHS (In recognition of 75 years’ service to the communities of Barnsley and Rotherham, presented to:
- Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
- Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust
Presented in recognition of 10 years in business as well as the outstanding support delivered helping members of Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber during the Covid-19 Pandemic:
- Joada Allen, Visualised IT

BR Chamber Awards website

Images: BR Chamber

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News: Supertram renewal will cost £596m

The cost to keep the Supertram network going for another 30 years in South Yorkshire is now nearly £600m, new combined authority papers show.

Only the first £105.95m has been secured and the total doesn't include the Sheffield-Rotherham tram-train or any future extensions.

Opened in 1994, Sheffield's Supertram system cost £240m and now serves major residential and employment sites in Sheffield. A tram-train pilot project brought new vehicles to Rotherham in 2018.

The running of Supertram services, infrastructure and finances will be controlled by South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) when Stagecoach’s current contract for operation of the network ends next March.

In 2021, the MCA successfully secured a £100m grant from the Department for Transport’s City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS), which supports a partial renewal and life extension of the tram assets.

Work has continued on an Outline Business Case (OBC) for submission to the Department for Transport (DfT) to confirm the release of resources and satisfy the DfT that there is a case for ongoing tram asset renewal.

SYMCA papers show that, based on the full cost of renewals (up to 2032) is £596m.

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Studies have indicated that the fleet should start to be replaced from 2024 as there are issues with obsolete parts, particularly in the motor and auxiliary power supply systems on the vehicle. Traction power supply/substations, supervision, control and communication system also need to be replaced in the next few years. Work to modernise the depot and passenger facilities is also required.

The preferred option for a new fleet of trams would allow Supertram to operate until at least 2054.

The £596m cost includes inflation (and the £100m CRSTS allocation) but doesn't cover things like the relatively new tram-train operation, work on park & ride sites (like those underway at Parkgate and Magna in Rotherham), or any extensions to the network.

SYMCA's transport vision includes extending tram/tram-train coverage across the Sheffield city region. New routes from Rotherham to Swinton and Doncaster, and the potential to use the route passing a new station planned for Waverley have been mentioned.

The report to the Mayoral Combined Authority Board states: "It was agreed that the case for renewing the existing network needs to be made and opportunities for extensions are actively being reviewed as part of a separate tram vision exercise."

The authority's Audit, Standards and Risk committee were also told that "the expansion of the tram network was a longer-term ambition for the MCA. It would be important to invest in the current network and ensure it was fit for the future before considering expansion."

In the short term, The MCA has established an arm’s length, wholly owned, subsidiary company to operate the Supertram system from March 2024. But this too will cost the authority as the operation is currently loss-making.

£7m is being set aside from the MCA budgets to support any operating losses. This is £7m each year, reducing over time.

A long period of track renewal and the COVID pandemic has seen patronage fall from its peak of 15 million passengers per annum in 2010/11. Now, around 9.5 million people travel on Supertram every year. The new company's five year strategy sees Supertram go through a recovery phase before an improvement phase and then a growth phase.

The region has not yet finished paying for the original cost of the tram. The SYPTE (now subsumed by SYMCA) had a deficit of £30.5m on its general reserve budget relating to part of the construction of the Sheffield tram network and extended loans in 2014 that, unless repaid early, would still be paying off into 2034.

Images: SYMCA

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News: Relocation for outdoor market as revamp works begin

Rotherham outdoor market will be temporarily relocated from the outdoor covered market to Effingham Street as works progress of the regeneration of Rotherham Markets.

Rothbiz rerported last month that enabling works had started on the £30m+ project after it was delayed due to rising costs. Rotherham Council has recently approved a way forward so that the lead contractors, Henry Boot, can get on site.

To allow this work to take place, the outdoor market will be temporarily relocated to Effingham Street to ensure that market traders can operate, and shoppers can continue to use it while redevelopment work is carried out. The new temporary location has been carefully chosen to provide vendors and patrons with a welcoming and accessible space while the redevelopment project is in progress.



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Rotherham Council’s Cabinet Member for Jobs & the Local Economy, Councillor Denise Lelliot, said: ”We are excited to begin the next phase in the redevelopment of the town centre markets. Local businesses, vendors, and community members have expressed their enthusiasm for the upcoming changes. This temporary relocation is seen as a steppingstone towards an even more exciting and vibrant marketplace in the future.”

This relocation ensures that the existing outdoor market can continue to thrive while Rotherham evolves and grows. It also offers an exciting opportunity for both vendors and shoppers to experience a fresh and revitalised market atmosphere.

Once the works are complete, visitors will benefit from a refurbished indoor and outdoor covered market, extensive public realm, a modern and accessible central library and improved links to the town centre and college.

A key part of the borough’s town centre masterplan, a previous estimate of £31.7m for the markets redevelopment puts it second only to the £47m Forge Island development in terms of town centre investment.

The proposals have been designed to appeal to young generations and new customers, whilst not alienating the existing customer base.

Images: RMBC

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News: Freight firm plans Rotherham expansion

Plans have been submitted to enable a local distribution firm to expand in Rotherham, bringing a recently closed factory back into use.

Hallam Express has identified the former Toyoda Gosei plant at Templeborough in its search for larger premises, and a new home for 100 staff.

A recently submitted planning application from property firm, Hydra Park, is for a change of use to storage & distribution (Use Class B8) for the 220,000 sq ft warehouse on Centurion Business Park.

With its headquarters at North Anston Trading Estate in Rotherham, Hallam Express is part of the The Pallet Network, an alliance of 125 partner companies, all top regional transport companies in their own right, and with more than 143 depot locations across the UK.

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The plans, drawn up by agents, Knights, state: "Hallam Express Ltd currently operate from an existing local depot although are in need of larger premises due to the success of their business. Accordingly, Hallam Express Ltd has identified this site as providing the necessary facilities and floorspace to enable their operations to continue to grow and support the local economy."

No changes are planned to the industrial unit and a transport assessment concludes that changing from an automotive manufacturing facility to storage and distribution use would not result in any unacceptable harm on matters of local highway safety.

If approved, the new 16 acres site would include an indoor storage area that can accommodate over 22,000 pallets.

Rothbiz reported in September that Japanese-owned auto parts manufacturer, Toyoda Gosei was dissolving its subsidiary in the UK as a part of its restructure of the company’s European business.

The Rotherham factory closed in July with European manufacturing moving to the Czech Republic. Along with challenges from the COVID pandemic, Toyoda Gosei said that Brexit impacted turnover and profitability of UK operations.

Hallam Express website

Images: Hallam Express

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News: Latest on Rotherham hotels used for asylum seekers

The Government has announced that more than 50 hotels accommodating asylum seekers will be exited in the coming months.

The first 50 hotels across the UK will stop housing asylum seekers by the end of January the Immigration Minister has confirmed.

The Home Office has already notified local authorities, MPs and the accommodation providers, informing them that the first 50 hotels temporarily accommodating asylum seekers will be exited as part of the move to return hotels to their proper use by communities.

Rother Valley MP, Alexander Stafford stated that the use of the Ibis at Bramley for asylum seekers is to end.

The government said that initial efforts will focus on hotels that can be exited quickly. This announcement will help to relieve pressures on local services in the areas where exits are taking place, and provide a boost to the local economy.

These hotels will be gradually handed back to hoteliers by the end of January 2024, with the first of these expected to be exited in the coming days.

Asylum seekers currently accommodated in these hotels will be moving to other parts of the UK’s asylum estate, including the Bibby Stockholm barge.

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Wentworth and Dearne MP, John Healey has raised the issue over the use of the Holiday Inn at Manvers which he said is "utterly unsuited as accomodation for 130 asylum seekers."

Speaking after the latest announcement, Healey said: "Our Manvers hotel has been used by the Home Office as an asylum hotel for over 18 months now, despite repeated objections from Rotherham Council, local residents and me as their local MP.

"The hotel and the Manvers area are totally unsuited to house asylum seekers and I wrote again last month to the Home Secretary asking for clarification on whether or not the contract would be extended beyond October 2023. As I have still not had a reply, I am writing today to ask you to release our Manvers hotel in line with the previous commitments I’ve been given by Ministers that its use as an asylum hotel would be a on a “temporary basis”.

"I am also set to meet with the owners of the hotel next week to make clear to them that I remain determined to see the hotel back open operating as a hotel."

Images: Google Maps

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