News: Where would the new Rotherham mainline station be located?

Rothbiz details the area of land at Parkgate being looked at for the new £100m+ Rotherham mainline station.

With a potential station at Forge Way, it could see Rotherham Council buying back land that it disposed of in 2016.

The South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) and the council have been developing a scheme to return mainline train services to the borough for the first time since the 1980s.

The project was one of many contained in the much-derided "Network North" document, published by the Government when it axed HS2 going beyond Birmingham.

Rothbiz revealed last year that the total project cost was £107.6m. £99.5m for the station and £7.1m for the tram-train stop when it went before SYMCA.

Rotherham Council's cabinet gave the green light for the authority to start negotiations to acquire land needed for a new mainline station in September.

The masterplan identified connections between the mainline and tram-train (which runs on the line between Rotherham Central and Parkgate), a preferred location for the station building and a layout for supporting facilities including car parking, a pick-up/drop off area and space to accommodate rail replacement bus services. Potential development plots have also been identified.

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Council minutes show that the station format for a site at Forge Way has been agreed with the masterplanners. In this area, known as Northfields, regeneration has taken place to create a large warehouse unit - occupied by Trade Centre UK - and a number of commercial units built at Kaldo Court by local developers, Waddingtons.

Also at Forge Way is the site of the former Greasbrough Road depot, disposed of by the council in 2016 and now used as storage by the Stobart Group. This land is where the two railway lines are closest.

Council minutes also shows that the authority needs to acquire land to the north of the mainline for a secondary access. Land at Mangham Way on the Barbot Hall Industrial Estate is being looked at which would be accessed via an underpass.

£1m has been secured to develop the Outline Business Case and £10m in funding has been secured for land assembly.

The council is aiming to snap up five sites and has been investigating the potential use of powers for a Compulsory Purchase or Transport and Works Act orders to acquire the necessary land, although negotiation remains the preferred option.

Wider regeneration opportunities in the area and a 15–20 year programme are also being assessed including "connections to the town centre and to the north of the site on the wider masterplan area and opportunities for regeneration."

With the development of the project business case and acquisitions set to take some time, construction is not due to start until 2026, with an opening for the new station pencilled in for Spring 2028.

Reliant on securing further Government funding, the proposals would see new direct services into York and Birmingham, with faster services to Leeds, Sheffield, and Doncaster than currently offered.

Huw Merriman MP, Minister of State for Rail and HS2, was in the region last month to see proposals for improving transport. He said on social media at the time: "Sheffield and Rotherham are now at the heart of Northern Powerhouse Rail, transforming connectivity east and west.

"In Rotherham, Network North delivers a new mainline station. I saw how SYMCA and Rotherham Council plan to capitalise on this by expanding tram-train services, driving regeneration of the local area further."

Images: Google Maps / Huw Merriman / X

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News: Council plans another public realm scheme for Rotherham town centre

Another scheme of public realm improvements in the town centre has been unveiled by Rotherham Council, aiming to create a more pedestrian friendly area.

The work to improve Upper Millgate and Corporation Street public space scheme will form a key gateway between the Forge Island leisure development and the town centre.

Rothbiz reported this week that building work is on track at Forge Island ahead of opening to the public towards the end of summer 2024.

But Council-led work to extend the culture and leisure quarter beyond Forge Island has hit delays.

For example, Rothbiz repotred in October on delays to Riverside Gardens - a riverside park alongside the Forge Island development.

Plans were approved in June for a scheme using a mixture of soft and hard landscaping to create a gateway on an area extending from the demolished Riverside Precinct, covering the old abattoir site behind Market Street and passing the Old Market, Keppel Wharf and Westgate Chambers residential developments.

With rising costs and procurement problems, the local authority was forced to combine the work together with other planned public realm improvements in the area.

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Humberside-based CR Reynolds is being lined up for the contract, which is being paid for through the government’s Levelling up Fund.

Now further details have been revealed for the rest of the scheme where the aim is to create a more pedestrian friendly area, incorporating green spaces and seating, as well as enhancing the crossing points to Riverside Gardens and the cinema, hotel and restaurants on Forge Island.

Aspects could include the widening and improvement of footways and public realm along Corporation Street, and reduction of crossing distances, to provide better access for pedestrians.

The current restrictions to traffic (except buses) travelling up towards Ship Hill would be kept, although bicycles will now be permitted to travel up Corporation Street. All traffic will still be allowed to travel down Corporation Street.

One key idea is to remove the signalised pedestrianised crossing at Upper Millgate (the gateway to Riverside Gardens and Forge Island) with an informal, raised crossing point with a reduced crossing length, "to better cater for pedestrians."

At the junction with High Street and Ship Hill the traffic lights could be permanently removed following a trial period through 2023. The junction layout would be changed to provide better visibility for drivers pulling out of the junction on Ship Hill, with improved public realm and reduced crossing distances.

A council consultation document states: "Corporation Street does not carry heavy levels of traffic, and the light controlled crossing was not and cannot be located where it is most convenient for pedestrians to cross. The signals also effectively prioritised traffic. The proposed arrangement, including traffic calming, the raised crossing point, and narrower carriageway, will enable pedestrians to cross more freely, and more quickly than allowed for by correct use of the crossing."

A decision on the way forward for the regeneration of the former bank buildings on Corporation Street is expected in February.

Images: RMBC

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News: South Yorkshire Apprenticeship Hub launches

A new initiative to recruit and train more South Yorkshire apprentices has been officially launched by regional civic and business leaders.

The hub, which aims to create better quality and a higher number of apprenticeships start-ups in the region, launched recently at Rotherham’s Aesseal New York Stadium, with employers, education providers and stakeholders from across the region attending to find out more about this new service.

Now launched it will have an initial target of 300 new apprenticeships and will be a one-stop shop for businesses, apprentices, and anyone hoping to start an apprenticeship by providing a range of services.

The initiative is being funded by the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) and the South Yorkshire Colleges Partnership.

Based at SYMCA’s office on Broad Street in Sheffield, the hub will raise awareness of the benefits of apprenticeships. The hub will also provide impartial guidance and connect employers with the best training provider for their needs.

South Yorkshire Mayor, Oliver Coppard, said: “South Yorkshire doesn’t just need a bigger economy, we need a better economy. But if we’re going to get there, and if everyone is going to be able to access the jobs and opportunities that the new economy will bring, we need to make sure people have the right educational skills, so they can access opportunity wherever it might be.

“That’s what our new Apprenticeship Hub is all about; offering people, organisations and businesses a ‘one-stop shop’ for all the information and support they need to get the right skills, in the right place, so we can all benefit from more jobs, grow.”

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The Hub is based at the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority offices in Sheffield and will be delivered through the South Yorkshire Colleges Partnership.

Fliss Miller, Director of Skills at South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, said: “This is great news for the South Yorkshire economy. At the moment, there is an opportunity for us to deliver a brand-new service that employers, providers and apprentices across South Yorkshire desperately need. By offering this service, that will be delivered by SYMCA in collaboration with South Yorkshire Colleges Partnership, we are going to be able to fulfil many of the requirements that have been lacking across our region for far too long.”

South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority’s Strategy Economic Plan has a vision that South Yorkshire will recover and grow an economy that works for everyone. This includes, in terms of skills, developing 30,000 more people with higher-level skills and 9,000 fewer people with low or no skills.

A new apprenticeship levy matchmaking service was also unveiled at the launch. The service will enable larger employers to donate part of their unspent apprenticeship levy to support SMEs in funding their apprentices.

The apprenticeship levy is paid by large employers with a pay bill of more than £3m. It is set at a rate of 0.5% of their total annual pay bill. Large employers can access their levy funds to pay for apprenticeship training. Their contributions can also fund apprenticeship training for smaller employers who pay 5% of the cost of apprenticeships.

Apprenticeships not only benefit employers but enable young people and adults to earn as they learn on-the-job skills, study a qualification, and start and progress in a career.

SYMCA website

Images: SYMCA

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News: Rotherham's Forge Island on track for 2024 completion

Building work is on track at Forge Island in Rotherham as the flagship development enters the final months of construction ahead of opening to the public towards the end of summer 2024.

The new landmark destination, which will bring a much-needed family-friendly offer to Rotherham as part of Rotherham Council’s regeneration vision for the town centre, is being delivered in partnership with the Council, nationwide placemaker Muse and contractor Bowmer + Kirkland.

Work began on site in November 2022 and construction has continued at pace, with all topping out milestones due to be reached early next year on the cinema, Travelodge hotel and retail buildings – set to house a mix of independent eateries. Once construction completes at the end of spring, the tenants will fit out their premises ready for the scheme opening.

Work has also recently got underway on the £30m+ markets redevelopment across town with Rotherham Council's cabinet approving the way forward this week.

Rotherham Council’s Cabinet Member for Jobs and the Local Economy Denise Lelliott said; “These developments form the main cornerstones of the council’s multi-million-pound investment in Rotherham’s future. A number of major milestones have been achieved at Forge Island over the last 12 months, including the installation of a new pedestrian bridge, which connects to the town centre and which nods to the town’s rich engineering heritage and is inspired by the world-famous Bailey Bridge designed by Rotherham-born civil engineer, Donald Bailey, during the Second World War. Thousands of local people also discovered more about the past, present and future of Forge Island at a dedicated marquee at the Rotherham Show in September.”

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Earlier this year, two giant cranes erected on site were named ‘Rotherham Rainbow’ and ‘Steely Crane’ by pupils at the local Thornbury Primary school following a ‘crane naming’ competition which received more than 70 entries. The cranes were dismantled last month as construction work nears completion, but children from the school were recently invited back to the site for a special ‘time capsule’ ceremony which saw books, school uniform, glasses and colourful drawings added to specially made capsule now buried on site.

Raife Gale, Senior Development Manager at Muse, said: “Developing a transformational scheme of this scale always comes with its challenges – not least the difficulties of building on an ‘island’ surrounded by water – so the fact we’ve remained on track is a testament to the hard work of the whole project team. It’s fantastic to see the impact Forge Island has already made on the town centre skyline, and we can’t wait for the community to come and enjoy all that it has to offer when it opens next year.”

Construction work on the £47m Forge Island scheme – which was announced as 100% let in October 2022 – is led by contractor Bowmer + Kirkland, working alongside the wider project team which also includes Arup, Helm Consulting, Arcadis and re-form Landscape Architecture. The new pedestrian bridge was designed by FaulknerBrowne Architects.

Arc Cinemas is the anchor tenant. The Rustic Pizza Co, Cow & Cream, Casa Peri Peri, Estabulo Rodizio, Sakku Samba and Caffe Noor will offer visitors a range of culinary flavours from across the world.

Forge Island website

Images: Muse / RMBC

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News: Change of use for Rotherham town centre building

The Old Warehouse on Bridge Street looks set to be converted as plans are approved to enable it to be used as a wedding venue. Retail premises on Bridgegate are also earmarked for change.

Rothbiz reported in October that a premises licence application was submitted for the Old Warehouse covering the sale of alcohol, late night refreshments and for the performance of live and recorded music. Opening hours would be until 1am Monday - Saturday.

Plans show how the restored warehouse building on the banks of the canal, and close to Rotherham central station and Forge Island, would include a bar area, toilets and areas for entertainment, plus tables and seating.

The outside area on the canal could inlcude a log cabin, outside bar, a marque seating area and space for a food van and temporary toilets.

An accompanying planning application for the Old Warehouse states that the first floor would become "a venue which can hold weddings and cultural events etc."



The building was previously used by furniture retailer, Made by Nook, and a printing firm remains on the ground floor.

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The Council's Environmental Health team raised the issue of the proximity to a residential dwelling on the site - Wharf House - which is occupied by the applicant and is connected to the business.

Documents state: "There is the potential for nuisance to any future occupiers of Wharf House (should it be sold or rented to somebody other than the applicant) as a result of noise from the function room including amplified music and raised voices. However, following discussions with the applicant they are willing to maintain the link between the proposed business and the dwelling.

"The applicant is willing to ensure that the Wharf House is not rented or sold separately to The Old Warehouse. There is no objection from the applicant to the imposition of a planning condition to ensure that The Old Warehouse only be operated by the person who occupies the dwelling at Wharf House. If this condition can be imposed, it will remove the possibility of noise complaints as a result of the use of the proposed business."

A condition has been attached to the planning approval.

At 36 Bridgegate, known to many as Ashwoods Furniture, plans have been submitted to change the commercial unit on the ground floor and the units above.

The application, submitted by SLA Design for M Manzoor, shows that the upper floors of the three storey mid-terraced commercial property would be converted into flats - 3 one bedroom apartments and 1 three bedroom apartment.

Plans for the ground floor are for it to change from retail to a 1,600 sq ft restaurant with takeaway and delivery.

The building is within the town centre conservation area and no internal or external alterations are proposed to convert the upper floors into flats.

Images: Google Maps / SLA Design

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News: Rotherham family karate club gets kickstart from UKSE

Family and volunteer-run Rotherham Shukokai Karate has its sights set on the WUKF World Championships in Switzerland, with the help of founder and WUKF 2023 World double silver medallist Lynette Whitehouse.

Established in December 2020, the club was founded by Lynette and Sam Whitehouse, Lynette had trained in Shotokan Karate as a child and through her teenage years where she gained her 1st Dan.

Lynette and Sam met in the army, and upon settling back in Rotherham, Lynette wanted to get their children into Karate to help with their confidence along with other values that come with karate, like self-defence, respect, self-discipline, fitness, mental health and making friends to name a few.

Lynette later joined the army reserves and trialled for the army karate team, where she succeeded in gaining six years of competing and training with them at an International and World level.

Earlier this year, the pair 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 was used to purchase Tatami (mats) , which are used in competitions to prepare students who wish to compete.

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Commenting on their journey so far, Lynette said: “We are so grateful for the support from our parents along with UKSE to enable us to reach our goals.

“Our intentions are to train and prepare our students who wish to compete for the WUKF World Championships in Switzerland in 2025 by getting on the competition circuit a lot more.

“We hope that the future for RSK is long and bright to enable our students to be the best version of themselves and to keep pushing those comfort zones in order to grow and be better than they were the day before.”

Amber Winfield, Administrator and Receptionist at UKSE, said: “It is great to see the ambition at Rotherham Shukokai Karate, we wish them all the best moving forward and hope to see them compete up to the world championships!”

Rotherham Shukokai Karate website UKSE website

Images: UKSE

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News: Council's cabinet commits capital for Rotherham markets revamp

Rotherham Council has committed to pay for the redevelopment of Rotherham markets - the second largest regeneration scheme in the town centre behind Forge Island.

But the final cost of the delayed scheme is not yet known. At the last count, costs had risen to over £30m.

The plans, which were approved in the summer, will bring together the library, markets, food hall, gallery, and event spaces onto one site, off Drummond Street. Once works are complete, visitors will benefit from a refurbished indoor and outdoor covered market, and an external recreation area.

Not only will this provide a modern and accessible central library but will also ensure links are improved between the town centre, library, and college.

Appointed on a two stage proccess last year, Henry Boot and the council have been finalising designs for the redevelopment and confirming development costs. The Sheffield firm began enabling works on site in October.

Now Rotherham Council's cabinet has approved the scheme enabling the delivery of main works and contract award (with Henry Boot Construction Ltd), subject to budget parameters that have not been made public. The Council currently anticipates that the final costs for the main works will be confirmed in Spring 2024.

With officers delegated authority to complete the deal, the report states that "this option provides an upper funding limit, allowing for a swift response once the costs are confirmed and mitigates the risk of additional costs as a result of inflation and other market pressures."

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Rotherham's markets date back to the 13th Century and have been at their current site since 1971. Cllr Chris Read, leader of Rotherham Council, told the meeting that the revamp was "big and exciting" but warned that the alternative was that the markets would close given the current state of the buildings.

Cllr Denise Lelliott, Cabinet Member for Jobs and the Local Economy, said: “This next phase of the town centre masterplan is a testament to the Council’s dedication to investing in Rotherham’s future and to preserving the heritage of the town while embracing its dynamic future. The redevelopment will not only breathe new life into the community, but also provide economic opportunities for local businesses.

“Small independent retailers play a vital role within the wider town centre offer and whilst the works are on-going, we ask that residents continue to support local traders by visiting the markets.

"The reinvention of the markets is not just a facelift, but a holistic reimagining that aims to boost the local economy, celebrate our diverse community and provide an accessible, enjoyable space for all."

Main work will begin in Spring 2024, once a developer has been appointed. The report adds that: "The works programme is currently estimated to last for 29 months with a targeted completion date in late 2026 to be confirmed."

The outdoor market has already been moved to Effingham Street in preparation and will remain there until the new premises are complete.

Images: RMBC

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News: Concept plans for town centre regeneration

Plans are moving ahead for the £20m of government funding being used to deliver two projects in the town centres of Dinnington and Wath, both in the Rotherham borough.

The £11m scheme at Dinnington aims to address blight in the town centre and boost the local economy. The funding will facilitate clearance of the burnt out and derelict buildings on the hight street and pave the way for a new attractive town square, with purpose built commercial units to diversify the local offer.

Improvements to the outdoor market will contribute to a more attractive environment and give it pride of place on the high street. This will potentially be a pack-away provision, that allows for the space to be used for events and general use on non-market days.

The redevelopment will include high-quality public realm investment and soft landscaping to create a healthy and sustainable town centre. Redesigned pedestrian routes will create safer and more accessible links between the bus station, car parks and the high street.

Physical works are expected to commence autumn 2024 with an aim for the project to be completed by spring 2026.

Early concept plans show the property that would need to be acquired in order to create a "purpose-built town square with specialist retail and food and beverage spaces which will spill out to create a vibrant café culture destination."

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£8.9m of Government funding is being used to deliver a development scheme in Wath town centre.

The initial bid involved the existing library being demolished and replaced with "a mixed-use building with a greater offer."

Early concept plans show space for a main library, chiildren's library and maker's space on the first floor with a cafe, meeting and conference space and a "community bank" on the ground floor.

Rothbiz reported in September that Wath was in line for a Banking Hub. Owned by Cash Access UK, funded by the banks, and run by the Post Office, they're a way of bringing back banking to the people and areas that need it. Wath has been without face-to-face banking for six years.

Led by Rotherham Council, planning applications are being prepared for both schemes.

Images: RMBC

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News: New Rotherham business hub opens at Manvers

Micro and start-up businesses will benefit from high-quality serviced spaces following the official opening of Century 2 Business Park at Manvers.

Rotherham Council has invested £5.4m in its 5th business hub, creating 20 new workshops, 16 offices and two laboratories. The neighbouring Century Business Park has supported over 400 businesses since it was set up 22 years ago.

Century 2 will feature a central reception and lettable conference facilities for large meetings and functions. Externally, the site will include car parking, cycle storage and electric car charging points.

A fabric first approach has been taken towards creating a more sustainable building and renewable heating will be incorporated within the office spaces via air source heat pumps.

Cabinet Member for Jobs and the Local Economy, Cllr Denise Lelliott said: “Our investment will create more better paid jobs and increase spending in the local economy as a result.”

“We’re building on the existing success story at Manvers by creating a new vibrant workspace where more entrepreneurs and small businesses can get the support they need to grow. These are exciting times for small businesses who can tap into the specialist expertise offered by Rotherham Council.”

The site is located just off the A6195, with links to M1 and A1. It will be managed by the Council’s Rotherham Investment and Development Office (RiDO), which manages similar facilities across the borough.

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Sarah Rimmington, a Director at independent travel agency SANS Travel and her three colleagues moved from working at their homes to the Century 2 business hub last month.

Sarah enthused: “Business is absolutely booming. This place is cost effective and provides us with an excellent working environment. We’ve never looked back since moving in – it’s perfect.

“It’s a new building with great facilities, easy to get to and has secure parking. The facilities are fantastic too. There’s a Board Room if we need it, and a shower room if we want to bike or run to work.

“We’re living our dream right now. We’re happy what we’re doing, offering fantastic customer service and bringing customer’s dream holidays to life. We’ve expanded quicker than we thought possible and are just happy to be doing what we do best within our local community.”

Esh Construction was appointed to deliver the scheme as design and build contractor on behalf of Rotherham Council.

Esh’s Operations Manager, Andrew Schofield, said: “This development will provide an important facility for local businesses to operate and grow from therefore we are pleased to celebrate the official opening.

“Throughout our time on site we delivered a number of social value initiatives within the local community, including careers and employability workshops for young people in nearby schools and colleges, site visits for college students, and apprentice training on site. We collaborated with the Better Learners Better Workers programme and RNN Group’s Dearne Valley College to deliver tailored, meaningful engagement within the area.”

The new centre is located near to the original Century Business Centre that opened in 2000 and was originally developed to help local people in the Manvers area of the Dearne Valley to set up their own businesses following the decline of traditional industries.

RiDO Business Centre website

Images: RiDO

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News: Jobs boost as manufacturer looks to press ahead with Rotherham expansion

Specialist manufacturer, MTL Advanced has submitted a planning application to expand its operations in Rotherham.

If approved, it could lead to 70 new jobs being created.

Part of the WEC Group, the leading contract manufacturing and fabrication specialist already operates a 300,000 sq ft facility at Brinsworth, working with specialist metal to supply sectors such as defence and rail.

The latest plans involve an under used area at MTL's Grange Lane site, which was previously home to Exel Logistics, and the erection of a new manufacturing facility with ancilliary offices as an expansion of the existing business.

The intended use for the 73,700 sq ft industrial unit is to house a new manufacturing line for fabrication of steel products for the construction industry.

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Plans, drawn up by agents at Stainton Planning, state: "Due to the continued success of this resilient and innovative business, and to ensure they can stay, and expand, in Brinsworth, MTL now urgently require additional space for the manufacture of steel for construction industry plant.

"As well as delivering new jobs, this development will secure the future of this business on this site in Rotherham, and remove any potential need for the business to move out of the area.

"The proposed industrial building would deliver significant economic and social benefits by allowing this existing established and thriving business to stay in their current location, enabling them to expand and deliver at least 70 new jobs."

Rotherham Council has asked for an updated transport statement regarding staff arriving and leaving at busy periods given that public transport is poor.

The expansion marks a remarkable turnaround for the company. Having relocated from Darnall, Sheffield in 2010, just four yers later MTL went into administration, downed by problems with a £25m overseas defence contract. Saved by the Darwen-based WEC Group, the new company has continue to grow since 2015, picking up large scale contracts on the way.

MTL introduced an apprenticeship scheme in 2015, after opening an in-house engineering academy. Over 60 apprentices have now come through MTL’s apprenticeship scheme.

MTL Advanced website

Images: Google Maps

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News: Completion of £3.6m Rotherham transport scheme that actually delays traffic

Cyclists, pedestrians, motorists and bus passengers can again fully access Wellgate shops and businesses, with the completion of the Broom Road Cycleways scheme and reopening of Clifton Lane roundabout.

At Wellgate and Broom Road a £3.6m scheme sees Rotherham Council introducing 1.4km of dedicated cycle tracks on Wellgate between Hollowgate and Boswell Street, along with three new signalised junctions, one new road crossing, two improved road crossings and associated connecting works.

Two-way traffic has returned to Wellgate, double yellow lines are controlling nuisance parking and the cycle lanes are ready for use. Resurfacing on Broom Road is now complete, including line markings.

The finishing touches will be made to Wellgate with resurfacing to take place around the third week in January to minimise disturbance to businesses during the run up to the festive period.

The council say that the latest phases of the cycleways will provide a safe and pleasant cycling environment that connects developing communities along the route, reducing air pollution, congestion and supporting healthy lifestyles.

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Clifton Roundabout, along with its approaches, has been narrowed to a single lane to control vehicle speeds, provide space for cycle tracks, separate from traffic and pedestrians, all the way around, and improve the refuge areas for pedestrians and cyclists crossing each arm of the roundabout.

The current bus lane on Broom Road now ends before the roundabout where two lanes merge into one, with the cycle track alongside. The existing westbound bus lane will be kept, and goods vehicles will be newly allowed to use the bus lane.

Rothbiz revealed when the scheme was proposed in 2021 that it would reduce the capacity of the roundabout, making queuing longer at busy times.

Despite representing poor value for money, funders acknowledged that "arguably (with evidence), some “sticks” as well as “carrots” are necessary to encourage more active travel."

ESH Group secured the contract for the works, which began in April.

The funding for the scheme was secured by the council through the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) Active Travel Fund (ATF), Gainshare and the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS). The rationale for the scheme is to encourage a mode shift away from private car use and to enable cycling in an area identified as a priority in the Rotherham Cycling Strategy.

Images: RMBC

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News: Backer Electric Company acquired

Historic Rotherham company, Backer Electric, has been acquired by Heatrod Elements.

It comes at the same time as a move to new premises accross Rotherham to Dinnington.

The manufacturer of heating elements, founded in 1938 with premises at Eastwood, supplies products in high volume to the majority of household brand names, producing domestic electrical appliances, spares to distributors and specialist elements for use in industrial, catering and commercial applications.

Greater Manchester based Heatrod Industrial is the UK’s leading manufacturer of heating elements and associated process heating equipment required for industrial heating applications. Heatrod Elements is part of NIBE Element, the world's largest heating element manufacturer, and represents NIBE in the UK.

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Simon Ellam, managing director at Heatrod, said: “The NIBE Element group shares it’s roots with Backer Electric and many of our manufacturing sites across the world carry the Backer name. Christian Backer, originally founded both Backer Electric in the UK as well as our group’s own beginnings in Sweden. To bring such a wealth of history and knowledge back together is a proud moment for all of the team at Heatrod and the wider NIBE Element Group.”

Paul Daffin, general manager of Backer Electric, added: “The acquisition of the assets of Backer Electric by Heatrod Elements Ltd represents a return to it’s original Swedish roots as part of The NIBE Element Group and heralds the start of a new and exciting chapter for Backer Electric. The acquisition allows the ‘Backer Electric’ name and history to be globally preserved. Combined with the additional knowledge and support resources available within the whole NIBE Element Group, this can only be beneficial to our Customers, whom we look forward to servicing from our new premises in Rotherham.”

Norwegian Christian Backer patented the modern day tubular heating element back in 1921 and went on to establish a separate, wholly owned company called Backer Electric Ltd. in Rotherham in 1938. He set about establishing a business in Sweden after World War II.

Backer Electric will become a trading name of Heatrod Elements, operating from the new site in Rotherham. The production of Backer Electric’s product range will move to Heatrod’s purpose built manufacturing facility in Bolton.

Backer Electric website

Images: Backer Electric

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News: Council contract confirms potential for second Reytons gig at Clifton Park

Contract talks over the hire of Clifton Park show that a possible second concert by The Reytons could take place next summer.

Rotherham Council, owners and operators of Clifton Park on the edge of the town centre, say that the event "represents an opportunity to celebrate Rotherham talent, build civic pride and support the burgeoning local visitor economy."

In September, Rothbiz revealed first 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 hometown heroes confirmed the gig in October and within two days of going on sale, 10,000 tickets were sold for the July 6 date.

Documents submitted as part of the application show that the site would have a capacity of 20,000. Now council documents show that the promoters are hiring the park from July 1 to July 10 2024. The first five days are for building the stage and fencing and performing soundchecks.

Saturday July 6 is set for the concert, with Sunday July 7 earmarked for a "possible second concert, curfew 10.00pm (shut by 10.30pm) – held for a potential second date dependent on ticket sales for 6th. To be confirmed."

The following days would be for packing away after the concert(s) and the hire will involve temporary closure of parts of the park, including the Doncaster Road car park.

The amount Rotherham Council is receiving for the hire of the venue has not been disclosed but it has been confirmed that the authority will instruct a company to manage nearby Herringthorpe playing fields as a paid car park, similar to that at Rotherham Show. Parking would be charged at £5, cheaper than typical concert parking to "minimise disruption and discourage parking on residential streets."

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FKP Scorpio has already been granted a premises licence, with no formal objections. It is due to be reviewed by Rotherham Events Safety Advisory Group (RESAG) in January.

The band recently used social media to announce that the age limit has been reduced to age 10 from 14. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult ticket holder who remains on site.

Support acts have also been confirmed for "the biggest concert the town has ever seen" - Jamie Webster, Little Man Tate, Lucy Spraggan, Andrew Cushin and The Rosadocs.

The council report adds that talks began over a Rotherham concert back in 2022, before The Reyton's secured their first-ever Number 1 album with "What’s Rock And Roll?" at the start of 2023.

The report states: "The Reytons have a significant local fanbase and have referenced Clifton Park in one of their hit songs, with the video also filmed at Clifton Park. There is no large enough music venue in Rotherham to host this home-coming gig, other than an outdoor venue.

"Clifton Park is so strongly associated with the band that any alternative would have meant the concert would be unlikely to go ahead."

Making the decision to hire out the park, the report concludes: "It represents support for a local cultural phenomenon of national significance, and will widen access to local talent for Rotherham audiences, strengthening civic pride. The event is anticipated to bring positive press coverage and will further support the burgeoning local visitor economy by encouraging overnight stays from the band’s regional and national fan base."

The Reytons website

Images: The Reytons / Facebook

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News: The Rotherham company powering fleets of electric bin lorries and sightseeing buses

ETRUX, the advanced manufacturer and commercial vehicle specialist, has placed a multi-million pound order with Rotherham manufacturer, Magtec for a fleet of MEV75s, the new 7.5 tonne electric truck approved for use in the UK.

Based at Templeborough, Magtec is a leading designer, manufacturer and integrator of drive systems for electric commercial vehicles. Its technology has been deployed on vehicles in service across the UK, including 180 electric refuse collection trucks.

The MEV75 is designed for daily urban operations including last-mile logistics, waste collection and refrigerated deliveries and is ideal for low emission zones. The standard 80kWh version has a range of up to 100km, a charge time of up to four hours and a life cycle of up to 10 years.

The deal represents the largest single order to date for the vehicle, which is fully tested. This means it is eligible for a government plug-in grant, offering fleet managers a discounted purchase price and reduced monthly finance option.

Gerard Galvin, managing director of ETRUX, said: “We are hugely excited to be offering the MEV75 to fleet operators, which will help them to meet net zero targets. This groundbreaking agreement with Magtec signifies our commitment to the advancement of the market for electric commercial vehicles.”

Magtec secured GB Small Series Approval for the MEV75 earlier this year in a significant milestone for the company. The scheme is applicable for manufacturers wishing to place vehicles and components on the market in Great Britain.

Andrew Gilligan, managing director of Magtec, said: “We are thrilled to be working with ETRUX and helping to meet increasing demand for zero emissions transport. We are very proud of the MEV75, which is the ideal solution for clean urban logistics operations.”

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Magtec has also been engaged by Tootbus to repower its fleet of 15 open top double-decker buses for its iconic sightseeing services in central London.

Under the multi-million-pound agreement, Magtec will equip the 23-tonne triaxle buses with high-tech electric drive trains including its long-range 280 kWh battery system. Each vehicle will be operating hop-on, hop-off routes past world-famous landmarks and covering more than 70 miles per day in and around Westminster.

Gilligan, said: “We are delighted to be strengthening our partnership with Tootbus to support its drive to green services and provide an even bigger ‘wow factor’ for its customers. As a UK company, we are proud to be flying the flag for UK manufacturing and helping to improve air quality in the heart of our capital city.”

Magtec has 15 years’ experience in bus repowers and previously supplied an electric drive system for one of Tootbus’ smaller vehicles, an 18-tonne dual axle bus.

Recommended reading: Can Technology Lead the Way in Reducing Fleet Emissions?

Gavin Brooking, managing director of Tootbus UK, said: "This agreement enables us to continue to deliver on our commitment to a truly sustainable service. We are the first clean energy sightseeing bus company, and remain driven to push the boundaries of green tourism at an accelerated rate – indeed our recent Sustainable Tourism Barometer showed that operators need to make it easier for consumers to adopt greener options. Magtec’s market-leading battery technology will underpin these efforts.”

Magtec website

Images: Magtec

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News: Work completes on high spec Rotherham industrial unit

Work is complete on a new state of the art industrial unit and modern office space, that has been built next to the M18 in Rotherham and is now ready for immediate occupation.

The 72,685 sq ft unit, known as Focus 72, has been built by Yorkshire and Lincolnshire construction firm, Hobson & Porter, at Hellaby Industrial Estate, on behalf of Vinter Estates. The unit is now being marketed by joint commercial agents Savills and Heaney Micklethwaite.

Vinter originally secured planning consent for Focus 72 in July in 2021 with ammended plans approved in October 2022.

The self-contained building offers 69,685 sq ft of warehouse space and 3,000 sq ft of office accommodation, with a substantial yard and parking area, within a fully fenced and secure 4.1 acre site. The unit also benefits from 12.5m eaves, seven loading dock levellers, two ground level drive in access doors and a rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) system.

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Joe Booth, Business Development Director, from Hobson & Porter, said: “We’re very pleased to complete work on Focus 72, working in collaboration with our dedicated local supply chain. It’s been well-publicised that there is a shortage of new and speculatively built mid-sized industrial units in the region, and this unit is built to an exceptional standard and will help to address the lack of supply in the market.

“Crucially, the project also reaffirms our reputation as a specialist in the construction of high-quality industrial sheds and distribution units up to 200,000 sq ft.”

Tom Asher, from Savills, added: “Focus 72 is a superb, high quality warehouse unit, manufacturing site or distribution centre. It also benefits from immediate access to the national motorway network and is located right next to junction 1 of the M18, as well as being just five miles from Rotherham town centre and approximately nine miles from Sheffield city centre.

“It will therefore suit a wide range of occupiers looking for a modern, landmark facility in a central South Yorkshire location and we’re already generating strong levels of interest in it.”

Other neighbouring occupiers at Hellaby Industrial Estate include Clipper, Stanley, Acorn Industrial Services and KP Snacks.

Hobson & Porter website

Images: Hobson & Porter

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News: B&Q bid for new Rotherham store

B&Q, the UK's leading home improvement and garden living retailer, could make a return to central Rotherham, if new plans are approved.

The retailer, part of the Kingfisher group, currently only operates at Cortonwood in the borough.

B&Q formerly occupied a 51,000 sq ft store at Northfields, Parkgate. It was purposely built to enable a move from the edge of the town centre in 2009 but it was vacated in June 2016 when B&Q cut back its UK store numbers.

Australian retail giant, Wesfarmers, opened and closed a Bunnings Warehouse in the unit in the space of five months before it returned to being a Homebase in 2018. The Trade Centre Group turned the site into a massive car showroom that opened in 2021.

Now the owners of the retail park at Great Eastern Way, also at Parkgate, are hoping to make space for B&Q by combining units together to create a new large store and garden centre.

The plans, from Rotherham Foundry RP Limited, involve Units 2 and 3, in addition to the existing rear service yard and a small area of car parking to the front of the units.

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Unit 2 (at 9,880 sq ft) is currently occupied by Bensons for Beds and Unit 3 (9,930 sq ft) is currently vacant, having previously been occupied by Harveys Furniture prior to the company entering administration.

Agents, Montagu Evans, state: "This application proposes a series of external alterations to the elevations of Units 2 and 3, associated with the proposed amalgamation of the two retail units to create one new retail unit to be occupied by B&Q.

"The proposed works are minor in scale, and will result in the shopfront remaining in keeping with the design of the other shopfronts at the Retail Park. This application also proposes the creation of a garden centre within the existing rear service yard."

The application argues that the planning permission for the original scheme means that the units have an "open Class E use with no restrictions on the ability to amalgamate the floorspace" and that the extension for an outdoor garden centre is specifically to meet the requirements of incoming tenant B&Q and is sequentially preferable in planning terms.

Applicants conclude that creating a 20,010 sq ft store, with a 5,145 sq ft external garden centre for B&Q would: "result in the re-occupation of a vacant unit at the site, thereby bringing it back into an active economic use, generating a significant number of new employment positions.

"Further, it will bring a new national retailer to Rotherham, not currently represented in the town. The closest store to the site is currently over 10km away at Cortonwood Shopping Park in Brampton. The proposed development will therefore reduce journey times for residents, as well as improving the choice and competition in the DIY local market."

Kingfisher plc operates over 2,000 stores, including both B&Q and Screwfix in the UK. It reported an adjusted pre-tax profit of £758m for the year January 31 2023, compared with £949m in the previous year.

B&Q website

Images: B&Q / Google Maps

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News: Wickersley pub and bar policy to continue

Rotherham Council's cabinet has approved the continuation of a policy that affects the number of new or varied alcohol licences being granted in the popular Wickersley area of the borough.

A statement of licensing policy was approved in 2020 as the council is responsible for licensing the sale of alcohol, hot food and various events. It included a Cumulative Impact Policy which detailed that an area of Wickersley village would become a Cumulative Impact Zone.

Policies are introduced if the authority considers that the number of licensed premises within a defined area is at such a level that the granting of further licences would be inconsistent with the promotion of the licensing objectives.

The zone covers Wickersley North, Thurcroft and Wickersley South and was introduced to combat "problems surrounding anti-social behaviour, low-level crime, public nuisance including noise and ambulance related alcohol call outs in a mainly residential area."

Following a review, cabinet members met recently to agree that the policy stays in place.

42 of the 47 responses relating to Wickersley were from local residents, all of whom stated that they had experienced noise disturbance and littering / dumping of rubbish in the last 12 months. All but two of the residents that responded indicated that they have experienced vandalism / criminal damage or antisocial behaviour in the last 12 months.

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A council report adds: "Five Wickersley based businesses responded to the consultation, all of whom disagreed that the Cumulative Impact Assessment has had a positive impact on their business. However only two of those expressed the view that the Cumulative Impact Assessment has prevented them from carrying out their business activities / interests."

Sam Barstow, Assistant Director, Community Safety & Street Scene, at Rotherham Council said: "In 2020 The council considered that the number and type of premises in the Wickersley area were having a detrimental on the lives of local residents, and particularly on the licence holders to meet the licencing objectives - particularly around crime and disorder and public nuisance.

"We have used the consultation to assess whether the zone in Wickerlsey is still justified, but also to see if any other areas of Rotherham would benefit from a similar zone.

"The review has concluded that the Wickersley zone should be retained but we have not identified any evidence at this stage to justify any zones elsewhere across the borough."

The Council was keen to make clear that the policy does not create a ban on the grant of licenses within Wickersley but an applicant "must be able to demonstrate to the Council and other responsible authorities that granting a new or varied licence will not add to the cumulative impact already being experienced within the area."

Since the policy's introduction, FIKA Coffee Lounge successfully secured a licence for the sale by retail of alcohol and over the road, The Garrison restaurant secured planning permission in 2021 to operate as a drinking establishment, despite objections.

In 2022, Rothbiz reported that operators of Seasons restaurant, who are also the owners of The Courtyard next door, wanted to vary its premises licence. Earlier this year, The Yard applied for planning permission so that it can continue to open later.

Images: Google Maps

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News: Architects welcome approval for vital community hub for Waverley residents

The award-winning team at Sheffield’s CODA Architecture have welcomed Rotherham Council’s approval for the long-awaited retail development at Waverley.

CODA’s design for Olive Lane - on behalf of Harworth Group plc - which will create a high-quality retail, leisure and community development centred around a pedestrianised high street.

It will include a series of high-quality public realm spaces and gateways designed by PWP Design which will tie in with the wider Waverley development strategy.

And as well as providing a community focus and much-needed facilities, it will also provide a vital link between the growing Waverley residential site near Catcliffe and the neighbouring Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP).

The Olive Lane application, showing a much reduced scheme compared to previous iterations, was approved last month,

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Matt Bowker, director at CODA, said: “Following several years of design development and two planning applications we are happy to confirm that planning has been approved for a mixed used high street located in Waverley.

“Our clients Harworth Group plc set out to deliver further amenities and public realm for the residents of Waverley with the ambitious vision of Olive Lane.

“We are very proud to have been able to play our part in designing the scheme alongside an amazing consultant team.

“Olive Lane is delivering retail, commercial and a medical centre to the local neighbourhood all within 15 minutes of the Waverley residents’ homes and in addition, there will also be 50 new houses directly adjacent to the high street.

"At CODA we love working on projects that create beautiful homes and sustainable neighbourhoods and this certainly feels like one of those special projects.

“We can’t wait to get started on site with Harworth and their development partners to begin delivering this important new phase for Waverley, one of the UK's biggest and best brownfield redevelopments.”

CODA's innovative designs can also be seen at the Sky-House developments at Waverley which uses a modern back-to-back housing concept.

CODA website

Images: CODA

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News: New Magna stop is "a vindication of the Tram-Train trial"

A planning application has been submitted for a £6.65m project to introduce a new tram-train stop on the existing network with a new Park & Ride site in Rotherham.

The scheme is designed to provide a boost to the Magna Science Adventure Centre and the wider Templeborough area, as well as improve alternative travel options in an area known for low air quality. Network Rail say that the "new station at Magna is seen as a vindication of the Tram-Train trial" - the £100m+ pilot project which was first announced in 2009.

Extending the Sheffield Supertram network to Rotherham and Parkgate using the heavy rail line, the programme has been in place for five years and has demonstrated benefits from the lower infrastructure capital and maintenance costs compared to a heavy rail service; and the level of passenger demand and satisfaction it created, with over 2.3 million journeys. The new tram-train stop at Magna is seen as a logical enhancement of the network.

Backed by the Government's Transforming Cities Fund (TCF), South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) has been working with Network Rail on the business case for the new station.

Submitted two years after funding was confirmed, the plans from Network Rail explain: "The Tram-Train line runs to the rear of the site; therefore, an opportunity has been identified to build a new stop serving Magna and the wider area. This would improve connectivity and provide additional transport options for accessing Magna and the wider Templeborough / Sheffield Road area from both Sheffield and Rotherham.

"Alongside helping to provide growth to Magna and the local area, the new stop also supports Rotherham Council’s aspirations for increased investment in the regeneration of the wider Templeborough area and provide access to areas of opportunities from areas of need."

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Rothbiz has reported on a number of new commercial schemes in the area, including a council-led scheme for new industrial and food units on land owned by Manga.The area is also included in the South Yorkshire Investment Zone.

Magna has plans to continue growing its events business (e.g. holding conferences etc.) and wants to develop a night-time economy (e.g. bands/concerts etc.). The site currently attracts around 160,000 non-school visitors per year, mostly in the school holidays. This comprises 80,000 attraction and 80,000 events visitors. Operators hope that recent investments in the visitor attraction will boost visitor numbers to 100,000 in 2023/24 and 120,000 in 2024/25.

At the same time, making use of the existing underutilised parking supply at Magna is seen as a cost-effective way of increasing Park & Ride facilities in the area. Plans add: "This will encourage drivers to park and then travel by Tram-Train. It is estimated that over 200,000 journeys annually would be made using the tram-train facility."

The application shows a station with two, 30m long platforms on land next to the car park at Magna, further down past the AquaTek outdoor play area. It is described as having basic facilities including a shelter, information boards, lighting, CCTV and cycle parking. A bridge, with lifts, and a fence running between the two tracks are also included.

The station will be accessed directly off the existing car park, which itself has direct access onto Bessemer Way.

The plans include the re-arrangement of existing car park spaces to increase capacity to 428 spaces from the existing 399 (which would include an additional number of disabled, motorcycle and electric charging spaces) available. Plans note that "the existing car park is currently operating at around 4% of capacity so there is ample room for the introduction of tram passenger parking on the site without detriment to the operation of the existing car park for Magna patrons."

A standard day in May 2022 saw only 14 of the car parking spaces used.

The application concludes: "The proposal for a new station at Magna is seen as a vindication of the Tram-Train trial and is seen as a key enhancement in improving the public transport system of the Rotherham area, enhancing journey opportunities between the Magna attraction, the town, and the wider Sheffield area. It makes an important contribution to the sustainable development of the tourist attraction and the wider town in aiding modal shift and reducing dependence on the private car, enhances economic prospects for job creation and helps to maintain the attractiveness of the Magna facility."

Magna website

Images: SYMCA / Network Rail / Google Maps

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News: Rotherham library closure brought forward following discovery of RAAC

The Swinton library building in Rotherham has been closed for the foreseeable future after RAAC was discovered following inspections.

A long-awaited £8m regeneration revamp of Swinton includes a new library, but it is not yet complete.

Rotherham Council’s Asset Management Team has been reviewing the authority’s estate to check for the presence of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC). Should RAAC be found, actions are taken to ensure buildings remain safe to residents and staff.

In the case of Swinton Library, RAAC has been identified in the roof and therefore the building has been closed.

In the 1990s, several bodies recognised structural deficiencies in RAAC panels installed up until the mid-1990s. It was recognised that the in-service performance was poor with cracking, excessive displacements and durability all being raised as concerns.

Alternative arrangements have been put in place at the newly renovated Swinton Civic Hall, while the council conducts further surveys to see whether remedial work is appropriate.

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A newly refurbished library is planned to be opened early next year at the former customer service centre building as part of a major redevelopment of Swinton town centre. This will mean the demolition of the current library off Station Street, with the area then landscaped.

Building work has already started on affordable new homes, upgraded community buildings and public spaces in Swinton Town Centre.

This includes building 49 new homes, the upgraded and improved Civic Hall, a green and the demolition of the current library. Under these ambitious plans the existing Council Customer Service Centre will house the new library.

Assistant Director Rob Mahon, who oversees the maintenance of all Rotherham Council owned buildings said: “The health and safety of our residents and staff is our priority, which is why we have temporarily closed Swinton Library as a precautionary measure.

“We made the decision to close the site as a precaution last week while further surveys are conducted, and potential mitigations investigated.

“This decision is supported by recent government guidance issued due to concerns where RAAC has been used in schools, prompting similar concerns around other public buildings including libraries. Our approach here is in step with similar approaches taken by other local authorities.”

Images: Google Maps

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