News: Dinnington recommended for new banking hub

LINK, the UK’s Cash Access and ATM network, has announced that residents and businesses in Dinnington, Rotherham could soon find it easier to access banking services thanks to the addition of a new banking hub in the town. The announcement follows a request from local MP, Alexander Stafford.

The hubs are dedicated places where communities can access everyday personal and business banking services, such as withdrawing and depositing cash easily, or paying in cheques, over the counter. 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.

Dinnington has been left without a major High Street bank since the closure of HSBC and NatWest.

Rothbiz reported last year that Wath is set to get a new banking hub after it too suffered a similar fate.

Banking hubs can be recommended by LINK through a community request or following the announcement of the closure of the bank branch in a location. Successful recommendations are determined by several factors including the number of shops in the area, demographics, and proximity to other banking services.

To date, LINK has recommended over 100 banking hubs, including ones in Rossington and Thorne. There are currently 34 banking hubs up and running across the UK, with dozens more set to open in the coming months.

Representatives form the major banks, inlcuding NatWest and HSBC, are available on different days but availability will vary for each hub based on local demand.

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Alexander Stafford, MP for Rother Valley, said: “I am delighted that banking services will return to Dinnington though the banking hub. I have been working with LINK and Cash Access UK to make sure that customers, businesses and all residents can have access to the banking services they need. I will never stop fighting for those in my area to be able to access the services they need, when they need it. This banking hub, alongside the £12m to rejuvenate the high street given to us by the Government, will do a world of good towards that goal.”

Cllr. Julz Hall, who represents the Dinnington ward, said: "As a local business owner, I am thrilled that we have secured a banking hub for our area. This will give people a reason to visit our high street and I really hope it will encourage them to buy coffee from an independent café and visit some of our shops while they are here. We also have huge potential for new businesses to set up here when the new units are completed, and access to cash will be a big positive for them. I am really excited about this new development."

Over the next few weeks, Cash Access UK will begin to engage with the local community and will start to look for potential sites. The hub will likely open in 12 months’ time.

Nick Quin, Head of Financial Inclusion LINK, said: “We’re very pleased to recommend a new hub in Dinnington. There are millions of people in the UK who are not ready to go cashless and prefer to conduct their banking face-to-face. If a community believes that it needs additional cash services, they can contact LINK directly and we can assess whether we can recommend new services such as a cash machine or banking hub.”

Cash Access UK website
LINK website

Images: Google Maps

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News: Tiny Toes families brought together thanks to W. Wrights sponsorship

Rotherham Hospital and Community Charity’s Tiny Toes appeal has received a major boost from W. Wright Electrical and Mechanical after they sponsored one of the neonatal unit’s new parent bedrooms.

The Sheffield-based firm’s £7,500 sponsorship has funded the complete redecoration of the first of three family rooms, including furniture, and will allow parents of premature and poorly babies to stay close to their precious newborns.

Bill Wright, Managing Director at W. Wright, said: “We are honoured to be part of the Tiny Toes appeal and to support the neonatal unit at Rotherham Hospital. We love to give back to the community and believe in the importance of supporting families during challenging times.

“We hope that our contribution will make a meaningful difference for parents and their newborns on the neonatal unit and were proud to see it progress so wonderfully. The team has pulled out all the stops to make it happen.”

The charity’s Tiny Toes appeal was launched in August 2023 and aims to raise £150,000. Thanks to the generosity of individuals, businesses and schools, the appeal has raised a third of its target so far.

The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust has refurbished the neonatal unit for the first time in 40 years to future-proof it for generations to come, with the charity continuing to fundraise in 2024 for the added extras.

Babies may spend a few days or weeks on the unit, but occasionally this could be up to six months. The unit becomes a home from home for many parents as their little ones are cared for.

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While the neonatal unit has reopened and is providing care, there is still work to be done to continue adding the special touches, including some additional furniture and a new bed for the family room. The charity’s fundraising will continue to provide the extra special resources, equipment and facilities which will make a huge difference to families.

The neonatal unit has two further family rooms that require sponsorship. The rooms have been redecorated but are awaiting furniture and soft furnishings to make them feel welcoming and cosy for new parents.

Rachael Dawes, Head of Fundraising, added: “The first bedroom was top of our ‘wish list’ so we’re thrilled to see it completed. It will provide comfort to families for generations to come and we are truly grateful for the partnership with W. Wright’s.

“We are now keen to find corporate sponsors for the remaining two family rooms and other key facilities, equipment and projects for the neonatal unit. We’re looking for funding for everything from recliner chairs, baby diaries, furniture, cots and skylights – all extras which the NHS cannot afford.

“It’s a great opportunity for businesses in particular to do something wonderful for the NHS, to have a lasting impact on the care we provide while also fulfilling your Environmental, Social and Governance policies too.”

W. Wright website
Rotherham Hospital and Community Charity website

Images: Rotherham Hospital and Community Charity

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News: Printing merger comes under scrutiny

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is investigating a proposed joint venture which would lead to the closure of printing operations in Rotherham.

Rothbiz reported in October that the state-of-the-art printing facility in Dinnington was under threat.

DMG Media, the operators of The Daily Mail, Metro and i newspapers and websites, and News UK, (formerly News International), the current publisher of The Times, The Sunday Times, and The Sun newspapers, proposed a joint venture which would combine their printing operations.


The proposal would retain three current sites in Broxbourne (Hertfordshire), Knowsley (Merseyside) and Eurocentral (Glasgow), and would potentially mean the closure of DMG Media sites in Thurrock and Dinnington.

DMG Media only acquired the site at Dinnington in 2020. The facility was created by Johnston Press at a cost of £60m on the site of the former colliery.

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The CMA is a non-ministerial department of the government that promotes competitive markets and tackles unfair behaviour. It investigate mergers that have the potential to lead to a substantial lessening of competition. If a merger is likely to reduce competition substantially, the CMA can block it or impose remedies to address those concerns.

The CMA is investigating the anticipated joint venture between Daily Mail and General Holdings Limited and News Corp UK & Ireland Limited in respect of their newspaper printing activities.

The deadline for the CMA to announce its decision whether to refer the merger for a phase 2 investigation is March 28.

The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC), the statutory body in Ireland, has already signed off on the merger.

Trade reports from Print Week indicate that DMG Media has already issued advanced notification of redundancy notices for its Dinnington site and that a redundancy package has been offered to affected workers.

Over the years, the Dinnington site, which is also known as Associated Print Holdings, has printed everything from the Daily Express, Daily Mail, Daily Star, The Sun and Sheffield Star.

Last August, it was reported that National World, the company behind The Yorkshire Post and Rotherham Advertiser, had signed a deal with Newsquest that would see production end in Dinnington.

Images: News Corp

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News: Rotherham is one of the UK's greenest places to live

An analysis of which UK towns and cities have the best access to green space has placed Rotherham right near the top.

There is the perception of the borough as still being an old industrial town but 70% of Rotherham is open countryside.

Eurocell, a manufacturer, distributor, and recycler of building products, has been looking at the issue of housing and the access to private gardens, local parks or national parks, and ranked towns and cities in the UK.

Rotherham is fourth in the rankings.

Eurocell looked at data including the number of homes in each area with a private garden, the average square footage of that garden, as well as the average distance to public green space and the percentage of homes on the market that are currently listed as having a private garden.

Nearby towns, Chesterfield and Mansfield, ranked first and second with Barnsley at nine.

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In Rotherham, 95% of homes and flats have private outdoor space, the joint highest precentage in the report. With numerous parks in the borough, from Clifton Park in the town centre to the transformed former coalfield sites at Rother Valley and Manvers, the data showed that the average distance to the nearest park, public garden or playing field was 319.23 metres.

Beth Boulton, marketing director at Eurocell, said: “Outdoor space is hugely important for our health and well-being - it breathes life into a home and helps us to de-stress when we need to.

“Outdoor space has become a much bigger priority for homebuyers since the COVID-19 pandemic when many people started working from home for the first time. Since then, working from home has become much more of a norm for millions of people. The daily commute is no longer a good source of fresh air!

“We’ve seen a big spike in the number of people choosing to expand their home by utilising their outdoor space, such as with the introduction of using garden rooms as a home office. In most cases, planning permission isn’t necessary, so they’re a great solution for both adding more space to your home, but also potentially more value when you come to sell the property.”

Eurocell website

Images: Sheffield Cable Water Ski

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News: Residential conversion planned for more Rotherham town centre properties

Private sector owners continue to agree with the Rotherham town centre masterplan, which confirmed the need for more housing.

Seperate change of use planning applications have been submitted to enable the conversion of commercial properties and use the upper floors for residential.

On Effingham Street, one of the prime shopping streets in Rotherham town centre, an application has been submitted by the owners of the vacant former jewellers.

24-26 Effingham Street, previously occupied by H Samuel until it closed during COVID-19 lockdown, sold for £150,000 when it went up for auction with Barnard Marcus in 2022.

Now new owners want to convert the vacant upper floors to four flats - one, 1 bed flat, one, 2 bed flat and two studios. The ground floor would remain as commercial use.

The council's environmental health team has already asked the applicant, Mr Yousaf, to carry out a noise impact assessment "to assess the potential impact of noise from general town centre footfall and fixed plant to nearby buildings and noise transmission between retail and residential units."

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Across town, on the corner of Corporation Street and Upper Millgate, a prominent building is in line for conversion.

Starting life as a restaurant before becoming a nightclub - known to many as Crestas, Precint or Diamonds - applicant, AKM Holding LTD, is applying for a change of use to use the space as a house in multiple occupation (HMO) with nine bedrooms.

Opposite the new £47m Forge Island development, Rothbiz reported last year that planning permission was sought to enable Favorite Chicken to open as a hot food takeaway in the empty ground floor unit.

The takeaway application has been granted but opening hours were resrticted and an extraction system secured through planning conditions.

Large housing developments in the town centre are being led by Rotherham Council, including replacing the burnt-out buildings on Corporation Street with a £6m scheme.

Other private sector led schemes include the approved plans to convert the upper floors at 5 - 9 All Saints Square and at 36 Bridgegate - Ashwoods Furniture - which is yet to be determined.

Images: Google Maps

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News: Rotherham business park becomes fully let

MAGNA 34 Business Park in Rotherham is fully let, with the last of the units having successfully agreed on new 3-year and 5-year leases.

Mileway's 40,200 sq. ft. business park, located on the site of the former steelworks at Templeborough, now has occupiers for the thirteen modern warehouses including DB Automotive, WashCo Ltd, Tyrolit Limited, Check Fire and Keyhole TIG (UK) Pty Ltd.

The development was completed in 2022 having been approved in 2018. Commercial Property Partners (CPP) and Knight Frank (KF) are joint letting agents.

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Chloé Bennett, for CPP, said: “Magna 34 has come to market at the height of demand for warehousing, and its location between Sheffield and Rotherham ensures access to a highly skilled and motivated work force within easy commuting distance.

“We are obviously delighted that Magna 34 is now fully let, testament to the quality of the units of offer and the very favourable location of the scheme - but there is still need for additional stock to satisfy the confirmed demand for space from occupiers.”

Harry Orwin-Allen, for letting agents Knight Frank, added: “Magna 34 is an established business park in a very sought-after location with great access to the M1. We are delighted to have concluded lettings on this scheme and have secured a mix of well-established national and local occupiers.

“Demand remains high across South Yorkshire for new, purpose-built commercial space, particularly for sub-5,000 sq ft units such as the units offered at Magna 34. The Magna 34 scheme has provided much-needed high quality industrial accommodation for the South Yorkshire region, with lettings swiftly achieved to a variety of well-established occupiers, which demonstrates the huge success of the development.”

Mileway website CPP website Knight Frank website

Images: CPP

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News: The brands set to open at Parkgate in March

Next month is set to be a busy time at Parkgate Shopping in Rotherham, with new outlets, big store moves and the return of a familiar name.

Wilko recently announced that it was to launch a concept store in Rotherham, and new owners have now confirmed that the opening date will be Good Friday, March 29.

Rothbiz reported last month that recruitment was underway for a wilko after The Range agreed a deal to buy the British high-street retail chain's brand, website and intellectual property after wilko fell into administration. The store has already recruited a third of its team from among former wilko employees, who received prioritised interviews.

It was later confirmed that Wilko would open in Rotherham at Parkgate Shopping Park - on the site of the former wilko business.

Alex Simpkin, CEO of CDS Superstores, trading as wilko and The Range, said: “It’s clear that there’s a huge love for wilko and we’re proud that store doors will reopen in Rotherham very soon.

“We’re also glad to be bringing employment opportunities to the area, and for helping local families and communities to have easy access to all the everyday home and garden items they need once again.”

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Across the park, which was recently sold to Columbia Threadneedle Real Estate, work is well underway to bring a large vacant store back into use.

The Frasers Group has taken over what has previously been Homebase, Best Buy, Kiddicare and an outlet for JD Sports Fashion plc's outdoor brands - Millets and Blacks.

An updated set of plans from Frasers was approved by Rotherham Council last year allowing for the creation a partial mezzanine for a gym measuring 22,646 sq ft.

Fraser's Everlast Gym has announced that it is opening in Rotherham in March.

It is set to contain six unique group training concepts - HAYMAKER, HUSTLE, CRANKED, BREATHE, BACKBONE, and APEX to improve the strength, stamina and well-being of members. There's also a flavore bar serving freshly made smoothies, coffees and other post-workout fuel.

The main operator on the ground floor is to be Sports Direct and plans showed 6,000 sq ft of space on the ground floor for Fraser Group retailer, USC, along with smaller space for GAME and Evans Cycles. A 7,000 ft unit is also included which could be sub-let by the group.

The new development would mean the relocation of Sports Direct and USC which already have units at Parkgate.

The construction of a new £12m transport scheme at Parkgate is also scheduled to end in March 2024.

Work began at the start of 2023 on a new 800 metre road between Aldwarke Lane and both Stonerow Way and Stadium Way which is set to provide a second access route to Parkgate Shopping, via a roundabout between the two railway bridges.

Parkgate Shopping website
wilko website
Frasers Group website

Images: Google Maps / Everlast Gyms

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News: South Yorkshire Innovation District launches business-led energy challenge

A pioneering initiative is underway as the South Yorkshire Innovation District, in collaboration with industry leaders, announces the start of a pilot ‘Innovation Challenge’ aimed at transforming manufacturing practices through the practical application of regional innovation capabilities.

This joint effort, supported by the business community, South Yorkshire Innovation District, Four Jaw Analytics, and Made Smarter, boasts a collaboration with prominent industry partners including Gripple, AESSEAL, PEP GB, Amodo and the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC).

The initiative underscores a collective commitment to foster innovation-led growth and tackle challenges faced by manufacturing SMEs in South Yorkshire. Originating from the Innovation District Business Network established in 2022, the initiative aims to drive a more prosperous regional economic outlook by facilitating practical solutions and access to new opportunities.

The Innovation Challenge targets energy optimisation and operational efficiency improvement within participating SMEs. Companies such as Arden Winch, Charles Day Steels, EE Ingleton, Footprint Tools, Maher, Steetley Corner, and Whites Bakery are set to benefit from Four Jaw's manufacturing analytics technology during a 3-month trial period. This solution, coupled with tech advice and peer mentoring, empowers businesses to enhance insights, reduce costs, and boost productivity.

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In addition to technological support, participating SMEs will receive financial support from Made Smarter, enabling them to embark on a digital transformation journey. Made Smarter will also craft bespoke digital roadmaps for each business, paving the way for future success in an increasingly digitised and competitive landscape.

Recognising the importance of mentorship in navigating these transformative changes, the South Yorkshire Innovation District has curated a mentor programme comprising seasoned industry experts. These mentors will provide invaluable guidance and support to the leadership teams of participating SMEs, ensuring they are equipped to capitalise on the opportunities presented by the innovation challenge.

Gordon Macrae, Special Projects Manager at Gripple, siad: "We are thrilled to unveil this collaborative initiative, which exemplifies the spirit of innovation and partnership in South Yorkshire. By leveraging the expertise of industry leaders and SMEs, we aim to drive meaningful change, accelerate innovation adoption, and unlock new growth opportunities."

The Innovation Challenge will run for 12 weeks, culminating in a "Demo Day" in May where SMEs and mentors will showcase their innovation journey and future business prospects.

Images: Harworth

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News: Investment continues into new council housing across Rotherham

Rotherham Council has committed £126m for hundreds more Council homes by 2026.

It comes at the same time as planning applications are submitted for council-led housing developments and the authority makes moves to purchase homes built by commercial developers.

Despite the council owning 20,127 homes, which puts it in the top 20 local authority stock owners in England, there were over 7,000 individuals and households on the Council’s Housing Register.

The Right to Buy initiative has also seen 956 Council homes sold between January 2018 and November 2023 with just over 500 affordable homes delivered by the council in that time and 104 acquired from developers. The aim is to deliver over 1,000 homes by 2026.

Plans are being advanced for a number of construction projects across the borough including Canklow, Eastwood, and Maltby, with £430,000 of funding secured to redevelop brownfield land owned by the council. Future sites could also inlcude Boswell Street near Herringthorpe Playing Fields and the site of the former Thornhill School, both of which are in the pre-planning stage.

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Reaching planning application stage are proposals for former council care home sites at Addison Road in Maltby, where 27 dwellings (a mix of flats, houses and dormer bungalows) are planned, and at former Netherfield Court in Eastwood, where 19 affordable dwellings (a mixture of 3-bedroom and 4-bedroom housing) are planned (cgi, below).

Also at Eastwood, the prominent council-owned former car park on York Road is set to be transformed with 12 new affordable house on what is considered to be a gateway site into Rotherham town centre. Here four 2-bedroom accessible flats, six 3-bedroom dwellings and two 2-bedroom dwellings are planned (cgi, top).

Plans for residential developments have also been submitted by the council for the site of the former Parkhill Lodge care home and at Elm Tree Road in Maltby, the site of the former Ship Inn in Swinton, and on land at Princess Street / Albert Road and Princess Street / Winterwell Road in West Melton.

With only limited land in council ownership, homes have been bought in developments such as Harron's "The Paddocks" in Wickersley and Redrow's "Poppyfields" in Ravenfield. Acquisitions are expected at Brecks, Parkgate and Waverley.

Cllr. Sarah Allen, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member Neighbourhood Working and Acting Cabinet Member Housing at Rotherham Council, updated councillors on the completed developments, a mix of sizes and tenures, saying that she would be proud to live in any of the houses she has had the privelige to see.

Looking ahead Cllr. Allen said: "We do still have a high demand for council homes, with around 7,000 people on the housing register. Our ability to meet that demand is still being eroded by the Right to Buy initiative. We have, however, just bought back our "first refusal" on a Right to Buy property but one house is only the start of that initiative."

Cllr. Chris Read, leader of Rotherham Council called the first refusal scheme "completely nonsense," adding: "The Council were forced to sell Council housing stock under the Right to Buy Scheme at a massive discount. Although the receipts were kept by the Council, they do not cover the cost of replacing those properties. Further, buying those same properties back later, at an inflated value from a private owner, is a waste of public money."

Cllr. Read said that the Council was doing the things possible within the legal framework but stated that the legal framework had to change.

Images: RMBC / Race Cottam

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News: Forge Island recruitment underway

Local residents are being encouraged to explore the job opportunities on offer as part of Rotherham’s town centre transformation into a regional leisure destination.

Outlets from Forge Island – the town’s new landmark leisure destination being delivered by Rotherham Council in partnership with Muse - including Arc Cinema, who specialise in providing a VIP cinema experience and national hotel chain Travelodge, will be among the companies advertising roles at an event being held in the town centre this week.

Leisure and hospitality roles including chefs, waiting and bar staff, housekeeping, front of house will all be available at Rotherham Council’s annual recruitment event at Riverside House.

In addition, a wide range of established employers from across the borough will also be at the event on Friday 23 February from 10am until 2pm, including some who will be able to hold interviews on the day.

Both public and private sector employment opportunities are available including in construction, health and social care, customer services, administration, leisure and security. Other opportunities are also being showcased, including further education, training, volunteering and foster care.

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Cabinet Member for Jobs and the Local Economy, Cllr Denise Lelliott said: “Our aim has always been to bring more people into our centre to live, work and play, restoring pride and activity in our town centre. Forge Island is a major milestone in our efforts to provide Rotherham with a family-friendly destination people can enjoy and be proud of, whilst providing hundreds of jobs.

“I’m pleased that we have been able to bring such a diverse range of employers together for this recruitment event. With people juggling different demands, it’s good to see a variety of working patterns will be available, which include part-time, full-time, working from home or evening working.

“Whether you’re looking for extra hours or pay, wanting to further your career or develop new skills through education and training, I’d encourage people to come along and see the wide range of opportunities available.”

The recruitment event takes place on Friday 23 February, 10am to 2pm, at Riverside House, Main Street.

Forge Island website

Images: RMBC / Muse

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News: AMRC Training Centre launches new composite apprenticeship with McLaren

The University of Sheffield AMRC Training Centre in Rotherham will become the first training provider in South Yorkshire to deliver a new composites apprenticeship in a move to sustain the longevity of the capability within manufacturing by creating its workforce of the future.

Together with McLaren Racing and McLaren Automotive, the AMRC Training Centre will deliver a new advanced level composites technician apprenticeship, in addition to the metallic machining apprenticeship the centre is already delivering with McLaren. 

Alongside McLaren, Wirral-based Teledyne CML Composites, who specialise in the manufacture of composites parts and assemblies on some of the world's most advanced aircraft platforms is also supporting the new apprenticeship – with the aim that more companies will come on board in the future.

With state-of-the-art facilities on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham, the centre has trained over 1,700 apprentices since it opened ten years ago.

Nikki Jones, Director of the AMRC Training Centre, said it was a real pride point to launch the new apprenticeship, adding: “Working alongside McLaren and Composites UK, a need for such an apprenticeship was identified to help fill the national skills gap of people in composites due to an ageing workforce.

“Composites has always been a capability the AMRC has had a big focus on and as its new building is underway to deliver a new programme called Composites at Speed and Scale (COMPASS), which is likely to provide a number of jobs in the region – we are acting now to build our expertise and capacity in composites to help supply the future workforce.

“Along with employers, we’ve put a new delivery model together to meet the needs of industry and we are the only people to deliver this composite apprenticeship in the region. This is something we are very proud of and we are excited to see this course grow.”

Piers Thynne, Chief Operating Officer for the McLaren Formula 1 Team, said: “McLaren Racing has led the way in pioneering advanced composite materials in our 60-year history. From being the first team to introduce carbon fibre to the F1 car, to trialling innovative and sustainable alternatives like recycled carbon fibre on track.

“To continue to lead the way, we need the best talent at the cutting edge of composites. That's why we’re delighted to be working with our colleagues at McLaren Automotive and the AMRC Training Centre to add to our existing apprenticeship programme with this composites apprenticeship.

“We believe in creating pathways for everyone to get into motorsport, which is why our early careers pipeline is vital to delivering the continued high-performance standards we set ourselves both on and off the track.”

John Toner, Vice President and General Manager for Teledyne Aerospace and Defence Electronics UK and General Manager of Teledyne CML Composites, said: “Teledyne CML Composites are very excited to be part of the apprenticeship programme launched in partnership with the AMRC and McLaren to provide a market leading training pathway for composites manufacturing personnel.

“The composites technician apprenticeship is a key part of our young employee training strategy that will yield the next generation of highly skilled composites experts and fulfil our commitment to the development of young people and sustain Teledyne CML Composites’ continued growth ambitions.”

Trade association Composites UK, which supports companies to enable them to grow and succeed in the competitive global market, said the new composites apprenticeship at the AMRC Training Centre is a pivotal tool in helping to meet the current and future skills challenges currently being faced by the sector.

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Matt Bradney, Skills and Workforce Development Director for Composites UK, said: “Composite materials are critical in order for the UK to meet its net zero targets and composites is an exciting and growing industry for young people to be involved in. There are various entry points, a key one being the composite technician apprenticeship.

“For the apprentice, learning and earning on the job is a great way to get a head start. For the employer, the new apprenticeship model launched by the AMRC gives flexibility in the delivery of the learning aspect, making it easier to get involved with a more efficient way to develop the workforce of the future.”

The AMRC, one of seven centres in the High Value Manufacturing Catapult, is working with other catapult centres to build industry-ready technology capabilities, alongside supporting the development of future engineers.

Steve Foxley, CEO for the AMRC, added: “The AMRC Training Centre is helping the manufacturing industry by training new composite apprentices who are vitally needed for the future, while making sure the courses tie into technology areas of growing importance, such as the ones seen in catapult centres including the AMRC. This capability is key for a growing number of businesses in South Yorkshire and beyond for their productivity growth.

“It’s fantastic to see how the AMRC Training Centre continues to build on its industry-forward approach by adding another important learning capability to its ever-widening selection of subjects.”

Students who are undertaking the 36-month apprenticeship will engage in the production of composite components or products that are used in a range of applications, some of which include automotive, motorsport, aerospace, rail and renewable industries.

The first cohort for the apprenticeship started last September, which includes an all-female group based at McLaren’s headquarters in Woking, alongside two other learners at the McLaren Composites Technology Centre (MCTC) in Rotherham. Opened in 2018 on the AMP, MCTC has established itself as a world-leader in lightweight carbon fibre construction for the automotive industry and is where the McLaren carbon lightweight architecture for the McLaren Artura high-performance hybrid supercar is constructed. Three more learners are placed with Teledyne CML at its base in Bromborough on the Wirral.

AMRC Training Centre website
McLaren website

Images: AMRC

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News: More new venues in Rotherham town centre

Premises licences are being sought for a number of venues in Rotherham town centre.

Alcohol could be on the menu at a former church building on Ship Hill as literacy charity, Grimm & Co, prepares to open at its magical new location.

Following the purchase of a former church building on Ship Hill in 2020 thanks to support from an Arts Council England small capital grant, Grimm & Co were looking to proceed with the renovation and refurbishment work when lockdown hit.

Now a few years on, the charity has begun hosting workshops and events at its wonderful new space.

In addition to educational space, the new Grimm & Co. location has retail space and a café. Known as The Feastery, it will include story-themed activities for young people to enjoy, a space to catch up with friends, relax with a good book, or simply have a moment of peace in this cozy, magical space.

The premise licence, recently approved by Rotherham Council, allows for the sale of alcohol between 9am and 11pm, everyday.

A spokesperson for Grimm & Co. explained: "We can’t wait to open the doors to our new feastery cafe, book nook and story themed marketplace in our Emporium of Stories! We work with thousands of children and young people every year and we also deliver arts-based learning activities to families and teachers.

"This fabulous new venue will be one of a kind and the funds raised through the cafe, shop and events will help fund activities in the charity. This licence application will help us to provide a food and beverage offer to suit all communities and events."

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At the foot of Rotherham Minster, the operators of a successful café at Rotherham Markets has taken prime space at All Saints' Square.

Work is underway to create Ginge's Tap, a retro music bar specialising in a range of beverages that won't break the bank along with sharing platters and live music.

A premises licence here would enable alcohol to be served between 10am and 11pm in the week and on Friday and Saturday between 10am and midnight.

Just off All Saints' Square, an application has been submitted that would enable a former pub to serve alcohol again.

Rothbiz reported in 2021 that the Red Lion was under review after South Yorkshire Police petitioned for its premises licence to be scrutinised following a number of incidents.

Having applied for a number of temporary licences at the end of 2023, the new application would allow alcohol to be served on every day of the week between 11am and 03:30am the following day.

Travelodge Hotels has recently secured a premises licence in preperation of the opening of its brand new 69-room hotel on Forge Island in the summer.

The "budget-luxe" hotel is set to include a 2,400 sq ft cafe bar on the ground floor.

A 24 hour operation, alcohol could be sold pretty much all the time, but its sale will be restricted to hotel residents and bona fide guests of hotel residents after 11pm when access is to be restricted to residents with a key card.

Grimm & Co. website
Ginge's Tap website
Travelodge website

Images: Grimm & Co. / Muse / Travelodge

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News: England's first Newton Room opens in Rotherham

Rotherham has become home to England’s first Newton Room, a permanent classroom with three table top flight simulators used to teach students various Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) concepts including aviation modules.

The Boeing-supported Newton South Yorkshire, hosted by Magna Science Adventure Centre in partnership with the non-profit foundation FIRST Scandinavia, will promote STEM education and innovation in the region.

Sarah Champion, MP for Rotherham, officially opened Newton South Yorkshire recently, joined by representatives from local government, education and community groups including members of the local Sheffield Air Cadet unit, 362 Squadron.

The MP said: “I am delighted to officially unveil the Newton Room at Magna Science Adventure Centre. It is fantastic to have such advanced learning facilities here in Rotherham that will benefit students across South Yorkshire and beyond.”

Newton South Yorkshire builds on Boeing’s longstanding presence in the region, which began as co-founders of the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) in 2001 to help develop advanced manufacturing partnerships in the region. Boeing subsequently opened its first manufacturing site in Europe in 2018 in Sheffield and recently announced a further joint industry and government investment for dedicated aerospace research facilities at the AMRC.

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Maria Laine, president of Boeing in the UK, Ireland and Nordic region, said: “Nurturing the next generation of scientists, engineers and aviators is not possible without like-minded partners such as Magna Science Centre and First Scandinavia, and we're proud to continue being a conduit for collaborations that help develop vital skills for the future.

"This partnership builds on our long, proud involvement in the South Yorkshire region and reflects our ongoing commitment to the local community.”

The concept originated in Norway, and South Yorkshire is the latest in a network of six Boeing-supported Newton Rooms across Europe. The UK’s first Newton Flight Academy was opened in Scotland at Glasgow Science Centre in 2022.

Kevin Tomlinson, CEO of Magna Science Centre, said: “The brand-new aviation-themed facility at Magna will help to create new opportunities for visitors to enjoy immersive STEM learning.

"The success of similar projects across Europe illustrates the important role of the Newton Concept when it comes to inspiring the next generation of engineers, scientists and aviators. It’s a terrific coup for Magna to be chosen as the site of England’s very first Newton Room, and the new facility will enable us to provide new forms of creative learning, which complements and enhances our existing offering.”

Per-Arild Konradsen, CEO of First Scandinavia, added: "I am thrilled to witness the opening of our first Newton Room in England, housed at the Magna Science Adventure Centre in partnership with Boeing.

“This marks a significant milestone in our mission to inspire the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers around the world. Our collaboration with Boeing continues to underscore our commitment to fostering high-quality STEM education globally. Together, we aim to provide young minds in the South Yorkshire region with an immersive and engaging learning experience, igniting their curiosity and passion for science and technology."

Newton South Yorkshire is open to schools during term-time and families at weekends and school holidays.

Magna website
Boeing website
Newton Room website

Images: Magna

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News: Small business minister visits Rotherham

Kevin Hollinrake MP, Minister for Small Business, Enterprise and Markets, was in Rotherham recently for a roundtable with hospitality businesses.

The MP for Thirsk and Malton was invited to the borough by Rother Valley MP, Alexander Stafford, who is a keen supporter of local businesses.

As a Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Business and Trade. Hollinrake, who studied at Sheffield Hallam University, has responsibilities that include small business and enterprise, hospitality, retail and levelling up and regional growth.

The roundtable event took place at The Cafe At The Corner in Swallownest recently.

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Alexander Stafford, MP for Rother Valley, said: "It is important that those in power hear first hand from local businesses about the issues and challenges they face, and have opportunity to put forward what solutions they would like to see. These kind of meetings are crucial for ministers to understand what is really happening in the economy.

"Small businesses are the lifeblood of our local economy and I will always ensure they are heard at the top table."

Images: Alexander Stafford / Facebook

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News: Two popular Rotherham venues announce closure

It was a heart-breaking Valentine's Day for two popular Rotherham venues as they both announced shock closures at the same time.

Tonight, the shutters were down and the locks were bolted with no couples enjoying a romantic meal or sharing a drink.

The operators of Rancheros Bar and Grill posted on social media that it had closed "due to circumstances outside of our control," just hours after the operators of neighbouring Roadhouse Bar & Bottles posted the same.

Rancheros brought Brazilian and Latin cuisines to the borough, converting an empty retail unit into a restaurant and bar at Stag Roundabout. Opening when Covid-19 restrictions were still in place, the venue became a hit with TripAdvisor reviewers who made it the number one ranked restaurant in the town.

The restaurant is from Doncaster-based restaurant entrepreneur, Masud Rana, owner of La Boca and La Rustica in Doncaster town centre, and the La Fiesta tapas restaurant in Armthorpe. Whilst the Rotherham branch underwent a revamp in 2022, the Doncaster branch of Rancheros closed in 2023, within a year of opening.

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A message on the restaurant's Facebook page reads: "With a heavy heart, Rancheros Rodizio bar & grill will be closed for the forseeable future due to circumstances outside of our control.

"We would like to thank all our beautiful, supportive customers for being part of our extended family, providing such great times and unforgettable memories.

"Rest assured, all booked customers who paid a deposit will be contacted and reimbursed.

"We will continue to work hard in providing a community space to be enjoyed by all in the future.

"Watch this space for more updates!"

The announcement message is similar to that posted by the team at the Roadhouse, the bar which opened in 2021 in the former supermarket store room near to Rancheros.

The reasons for both closures have not been made public but a notice of peaceable re-entry by the landlord was on display at the restaurant premises.

Leases often allow for landlords to take back possession of a property by physically entering it and changing the locks without court proceedings - if they think they have the right to do so - usually a breach of the lease by the tenant.

The property which contains both, 154 - 156 Wickersley Road, was listed for sale with Crosthwaite Commercial in October 2023, expecting offers around £350,000 for the freehold interest.

The 13,926 sq ft property was owned by London-based The Bampton Property Group Limited, the same company issuing the notice this week, when a ten year lease was signed for the restaurant unit in 2019.

The notice shows that the operators of Rancheros and Roadhouse came together to create a company and that is who has the lease.

For the team at the Roadhouse, plans were already underway for another venture in the borough. A premises licence was recently secured for an empty former opticians on Laughton Road in Dinnington.

Images: Crosthwaite Commercial / Tom Austen

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News: Negotiations stall with landowners at Dinnington market revamp

An £11m regeneration scheme at Dinnington is at risk as Rotherham Council tries to buy up the property needed to make it happen in time.

In last year's Budget, the government announced that Rotherham will receive £20m for regeneration for Wath and Dinnington. It came after earlier bids for funding for the schemes were turned down twice.

For Dinnington £11,049,547 has been allocated to deliver significant improvements to Dinnington High Street and market, with the project focusing on high quality place making to restore the cultural heart of the town centre, increase footfall, boost the local economy, and restore a sense of pride amongst the community.

Concept drawings were revealed last month as the development of detailed proposals continued, with negotiation and the acquisition of property taking place at the same time.

An update to the council shows that the authority is close to buying the land for the "Northern Access Road" to the project for £22,500.

Consultants Gateley Hamer have been appointed to negotiate purchase arrangements with the landowners and long-term leaseholders on the proposed regeneration site which has a prominent position on the high street, located between anchor stores, Tesco and Aldi, and directly adjacent to the bus station. It also borders the main car parks serving the town centre.

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The update reads: "Across the site, there are 9 plots of land owned by 7 different landowners. In order to bring forward the regeneration project by the March 2026 deadline, it is vital that agreements for purchase are made at pace for a fair value to both negotiating parties.

"In the case that agreement cannot be reached the Council will be required to explore the use of compulsory purchase powers to ensure the scheme can be delivered."

As seen in Rotherham town centre, the council's use of compulsory purchase (CPO) powers takes a long time.

The update states that purchase of all land included in the proposed site "must be completed before Autumn 2024," but warns that: "Although negotiations with some of the landowners are moving forward in a timely and positive manner, other negotiations have stalled with some landowners unable to reach agreement based on the independent valuations.

"If these negotiations continue to be protracted, the council will need to progress with compulsory purchases. This process can be lengthy and as such there is a risk that the scheme will not be delivered by the March 2026 deadline.

"Rotherham Council is moving forward with the process to tender a compulsory purchase lawyer to assist in bringing forward the site within the timeframe so that demolition and construction can begin in Autumn 2024."

Images: RMBC

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News: Skills Street in Rotherham gets seal of approval

A group of officials from Rotherham Council and the Civil Service enjoyed a visit to Gulliver’s Valley recently to find out more about the exciting Skills Street development.

Building work on South Yorkshire’s new innovative and immersive careers experience, Skills Street, is now well underway at the Rotherham theme park. Expected to open later this year, it will provide a new hands-on approach to developing, growing, and honing skills with the aim of inspiring and informing children, young people and adults about the world of work and careers.

The interactive centre, which will be a Centre of Excellence to learn about the world of work across all sectors and industries, is part of a winning bid secured by Rotherham Council through the Government’s Levelling Up Fund.

The visiting group included Rotherham Council chief executive, Sharon Kemp, along with representatives from the civil service including the Department for Education; Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities; Department for Business and Trade; and Department for Work and Pensions (Job Centre Plus).

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Sharon Kemp, chief executive of Rotherham Council, said: “It was exciting to be able to see first-hand how the Skills Street development is coming to life, and I very much look forward to seeing the project continue to take shape.

“Having Skills Street in Rotherham will be so important in terms of raising aspirations of our children, young people and generations to come. The fun and practical approach makes the project unique as well as supporting the different employment and skills opportunities available locally.

“Partnership working has been essential to the success of this project so far and it was great to meet with the Gulliver’s team, alongside our civil service guests, to find out more about what Skills Street will deliver in the region once opened later this year.”

Julie Dalton, managing director of Gulliver’s Theme Park Resorts, said: “It was an honour to welcome Rotherham Council and the civil servant guests to Gulliver’s Valley so they could see for themselves the difference Skills Street is set to bring to Rotherham and the surrounding area. It’s been a collaboration right from the start and continuing to work with a wide variety of partners is crucial to its ongoing success.

“Skills Street is an engaging, innovative experience developed to inspire and inform children, young people, and adults from across the region and it was great to be able to showcase these elements at this event.”

The project is part of a £20m pound investment secured by Rotherham Council to help improve the leisure economy and skills in Rotherham. Other attractions also benefiting from the Leveling Up funding include Wentworth Woodhouse, Thrybergh Country Park, Rother Valley Country Park, Magna and Maltby Learning Trust.

At Skills Street children and young people will be able to walk into a bank and learn about the different roles and skills needed to work in the financial sector, or step into an engineering environment and have a go at designing or making a product. retail shops will enable customer service and money taking skills to be practiced and leisure and hospitality outlets will demonstrate the skills needed to succeed in these careers – all through hands on play, practice and performance.

Skills Street website

Images: Gulliver's / Skills Street

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