News: National retailer takes unit at new Rotherham development

The anchor tenant for the long-awaited mixed-use scheme which is set to form the heart of the community at the Waverley development in Rotherham looks set to be a national retailer.

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

In a scaling back of the plans, a 16,500 sq ft discount supermarket for the likes of Aldi and Lidl was taken out of the scheme and replaced by a 4,000 sq ft supermarket.

Particulars for the scheme now show that the unit is no longer just "under offer" but it is shown as being a Tesco Express.

Express is the name for Tesco's smallest stores, launching in 1994 and designed for maximum convenience, allowing customers to buy fresh, quality food close to home or work.

Tesco has also recently submitted planning aplications for signage, automatic doors, a cash machine and ventilation at the unit that is at the centre of the scheme which sits between the housing developments at Waverley and the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP).

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Rothbiz recently reported on the progress being made on site by Lindum Group, the lead contractor for regeneration specialists, Harworth Group.

Following an agreement with NHS England and Rotherham Council, Lindum also began construction of the site’s £3m two-storey medical centre in February, which is set to be handed over in October.

Olive Lane is due for completion in November and as well as the convenience store, it will include cafes and restaurants and public realm and landscaping.

Sky-House and Forge New Homes are building new homes at the Olive Lane scheme. Sky-House Co., the Sheffield company that is pioneering 21st century back-to-back housing at Waverley, announced that it will relocate its HQ and 30 jobs to office space at Olive Lane. The company also said that a new concept from the innovative food entrepreneuers behind Sheffield's JÖRO Restaurant would also take space.

Waverley Community Council is expected to help create a community hub on Olive Lane in one of the larger units and the latest marketing brochure from Knight Frank and Fox Lloyd Jones shows that seven of the ten remaining units are already under offer.

Olive Lane website

Images: Knight Frank / Fox LLoyd Jones

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News: Beatson Clark helps council keep glass recycling local

More local glass recycling is to be turned into new glass packaging for niche brands in the food, beverage and pharmaceutical market in Rotherham after Beatson Clark signed a contract with Leeds City Council.

Leeds City Council specified that as far as possible the waste glass they collect should be processed in Yorkshire, reducing transport emissions and keeping the process as local as possible.

So, an amount of the glass from Leeds will be sent by HW Martin Waste Ltd to Beatson Clark’s on-site recycling plant in Rotherham, where it will be melted down and turned into new bottles and jars for Beatson Clark’s customers.

Charlotte Pike, Marketing Manager at Beatson Clark, said: “Recycling waste glass is a really important part of our manufacturing process as it reduces the amount of raw materials we use and cuts down of energy use and carbon emissions too.

“On average our amber glass containers are made up of over 56% post-consumer recycled glass and over 36% for our white flint glass containers; this is in addition to any industrial waste glass generated during the manufacturing process.

“Every 10% of recycled glass means an estimated 5% reduction in CO2 emissions and a 3% cut in energy consumption, so the more recycled glass we can use, the better it is for the environment.

“We’re pleased to say that through our relationship with HW Martin we’re also helping Leeds City Council with its sustainability objectives: much of the waste glass we use is recycled in Yorkshire and made into new Yorkshire bottles or jars!”

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Every year Beatson Clark processes around 44,000 tonnes of waste glass recovered from kerbside collections, bottle banks and the hospitality trade at its on-site recycling plant on Greasbrough Road.

This ‘closed loop’ recycling system ensures that large volumes of recycled glass are processed on site and used in the production of new containers, significantly reducing the environmental impact of the manufacturing process.

Leeds currently collects about 8,000 tonnes of glass from its network of 700 bottle banks around the city, but 11,400 tonnes is going in the general waste wheelie bins. If this 11,400 tonnes were placed in the recycling wheelie bin the environmental benefit would be an annual carbon saving of 2,600 tonnes per year - the equivalent of taking 975 cars off the road.

Beatson Clark is reminding households to recycle correctly by identifying what glass can go in the recycling bin and what glass can’t.

Heatproof glass like Pyrex and oven doors can’t be recycled with bottles and jars, for example, and the same applies to mirrors, spectacles, window glass and light bulbs. They melt at a different temperature and can cause glass defects in the new packaging being produced.

“Kerbside collections contribute enormously to the industry’s target of achieving 90% glass collection rate by 2030,” added Charlotte. “We are already well on our way with over 74% recorded in the UK, and with councils like Leeds introducing kerbside collections, we are paving the way to reaching this goal.”

Leeds City Council’s executive member for climate, energy, environment and green space, Councillor Mohammed Rafique, said: “We are delighted to be able to start this glass collection service, which we know has long been an aspiration for the city and its residents.

"[It] will help make a significant difference to our recycling rates and benefit the environment and the local economy."

Beatson Clark website

Images: Beatson Clark

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News: Film fans get an advance preview as Rotherham cinema opens early

The new Arc Cinema in Rotherham is open for bookings from this week as the Forge Island site welcomes film fans ahead of an official launch event next month.

The move coincides with National Cinema Day on August 31 and means that film fans will be able to catch summer blockbusters including Deadpool & Wolverine, Alien Romulus, Twisters and Bad Boys 4, along with family films such as Inside Out 2 and Despicable Me 4 with ticket prices starting from £4.

Forge Island is the town centre's new landmark leisure destination being delivered by Rotherham Council in partnership with Muse. The £47m development includes an 8-screen boutique cinema operated by The Arc Cinema, a 69-roomed Travelodge Hotel as well as two independent restaurants - The Rustic Pizza Company and Cafe Noor.

Rothbiz reported last week that the Irish cinema operator had confirmed that an advance preview of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is set to take place on September 5, with an official launch on September 6 at the new site, the first cinema in Rotherham town centre for over 30 years.

Arc said that it was "thrilled to announce that we’ll be opening our doors a whole week earlier than planned for special preview screenings."

Arc has 12 locations spanning across the UK and Ireland with three more in the works.

Positioned at the south of the former home of the Rotherham Forge & Rolling Mills, the design of the new Rotherham cinema looked to the strong industrial heritage of the site which was historically home to a foundry and an iron works.

The cinema will have two flagship Hypersense screens, including Dolby Atmos sound, a giant screen and a 4K Laser projector – which creates a truly immersive experience. Additionally, it will also have six medium-sized screens that provide an intimate atmosphere for smaller showings – perfect for Arc's popular events like ‘Silver Screen’ and ‘Kids club’ which will be launching in Rotherham.

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National Cinema Day has cinemas up and down the country, including Arc Cinemas, celebrating with £4 tickets.

Regular prices are around £6 for standard screenings and £8 for Hypersense screenings. Offers include £5 tickets for students and for Second Chance Cinema on Mondays, plus £5 prices for the over 60s on Thursdays afternoons. Thursday evenings are designated Date Nights with tickets at £14 per couple.

The Kids Club is £3.50 for family-friendly showings every Saturday & Sunday around 11am and every morning during school holidays. The chain also takes part in Meerkat Movies, offering 2-for-1 cinema tickets every Tuesday and Wednesday.

And cinema-goers will also be able to park at Forge Island for free.

Laura Vickers, the newly appointed General Manager of The Arc Cinema Rotherham, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to be able to open our doors earlier than expected. This is a fantastic opportunity for our team to get to know our new community and for Rotherham to experience the unique cinematic experience we’ve worked so hard to create. We can’t wait to welcome you all and start sharing the magic of the movies with you.”

Arc Cinema website

Images: ARC / Facebook

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News: Water Lane work will open up Rotherham's riverside residential quarter

Esh Construction has commenced public realm improvement works which will support further riverside development in Rotherham town centre.

Rothbiz reported last year on plans at Westgate and Sheffield Road to address the river wall and carry out work to Water Lane that will enable future phases of housing where, as part of the £31.6m Town Deal programme, government funding is being used to continue the development of a Riverside Residential Quarter.

Procured through YORhub’s YORcivil2 framework on behalf of Rotherham Council, Esh will deliver £4.1m of upgrades on land just off Westgate, while highway upgrades will be actioned on Water Lane.

A new carriageway will be constructed at Water Lane to improve existing vehicular access and provide a link to a new riverside footpath which will reconnect Water Lane to Rotherham town centre. Cut and fill operations, deep drainage works, Japanese knotweed remediation, pavement construction and new fencing is required, while gabion baskets will be used to create a retaining wall feature along the new pathway.

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Michael Sherrard, Construction Manager at Esh Construction, said: “We look forward to bringing our expertise to this project which will play an important role in improving and facilitating the connectivity of Rotherham Riverside for the future development of the town.

“Esh has vast experience in delivering public realm projects and we are thrilled to continue our working relationship with Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council.”

Esh’s civil engineering division will also carry out repairs and remedial works to the existing river walls, with 180m long sheet piles up to 18m in depth being installed to strengthen the river wall. A capping beam will also be added on top to secure the wall structurally and support a guard rail, while cosmetic repairs will be carried out to the existing masonry river wall by rope access trained personnel.

The project builds on the success of Esh’s recently completed active travel schemes for Rotherham Council, which include Wellgate and Broom Road, as well as Sheffield Road Cycleways and Maltby Bus Corridor.

Having acquired the land in December 2022 the project forms part of the Council’s continued investment into the town centre, bringing new homes, leisure uses and improved public realm.

Rotherham Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, Jobs and the Local Economy, Cllr Robert Taylor said: “The access road and creation of a new walkway into the town centre will really complement the new housing developments and leisure scheme at Forge Island. The route will support us to continue to breathe new life into this side of the town by helping facilitate new housing developments in the future.”

The council confirmed last year that the project had been delayed after it was "rescoped" in order to remove the proposed new bridge that would have joined to the Guest & Chrimes site and the New York Stadium.

Images: ESH / AHR

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News: Council and contractor mark market progress

After a number of delays due to rising costs, work is now well underway on the redevelopment of Rotherham Markets as contractors begin fabrication works in the outdoor market and underground car park.

Rotherham Council’s Cabinet Member for Jobs and the Local Economy, Cllr Robert Taylor, joined Henry Boot Construction's Managing Director, Tony Shaw, and Head of Operations, Ian Gresser, on the site to have a look at how the £36m Rotherham Council project is progressing.

Currently, the former outdoor market space flooring has been stripped while downstairs, works have begun to strengthen the foundations of the outdoor market space.

Preparation work for demolition has also begun on the former Drummond Street shops – also known as the Guardian Centre buildings. These are set to be demolished in autumn 2024 to make way for a brand-new library building.

Following the demolition of the Drummond Street shops, the outdoor market canopy will be removed in stages. Covering over 37,000 sq ft of the market, removing the structure will be a very complex operation. A crane will be moved on site during the removal.

The Indoor Market remains open throughout the redevelopment, with a range of stalls and products available from local traders. Outdoor markets, such as the Tuesday Market, have been relocated to Effingham Street while the project is under way.

Henry Boot Construction, the contractor for the Rotherham Market redevelopment, was onsite when ground was broken in October 2023. Since then, they have been working with teams at Rotherham Council to progress the project.

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Henry Boot Construction’s Managing Director, Tony Shaw, said: “We are pleased to see the Rotherham Markets project progressing. We're looking forward to continuing to work closely with the Council and breathing new life into this area of the town centre.”

“Creating high-quality, vibrant urban spaces is part of our DNA. Having led on several of the region’s major regeneration over recent years, we have witnessed first-hand the transformative impact investments like this one can have – helping to boost community pride and identity, increase footfall and grow the local economy. We pride ourselves on leaving a positive legacy in the places where we work. To do this we have committed to deliver significant social value outputs by utilising a local supply chain wherever possible, local site-specific employment, and delivering multiple training and educational initiatives.”

Rotherham Council’s Cabinet Member for Jobs and Local Economy, Cllr Robert Taylor, said: “The Markets redevelopment is part of the Town Centre Masterplan, and to see people on site and spades in the ground shows that the plan is becoming a reality. The redevelopment of the markets is a complex project which will not only breathe new life into our community, but also provide economic opportunities for our local businesses. Working with Henry Boot, the markets redevelopment will provide an accessible, enjoyable space for all which celebrates our diverse community and heritage.

“Rotherham Market continues to remain open for the public with the fantastic range of outdoor markets now taking place in the town centre, so I encourage residents to continue to support our local traders until they are in their new facilities.”

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

Rotherham Council received funding from the government's Future High Street Fund to pay for part of the improvements at the market with additional funding secured from the Council and the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority.

Having secured government money (£8.9m) from the Future High Streets Fund in 2020 for the project, a funding gap of £9.8m was identified in 2022, largely due to the impact of inflation on the project delivery costs. In 2023, Rotherham Council's cabinet committed funds for the redevelopment.

Images: Henry Boot

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News: Rotherham Hospice opens innovative charity shop

Rotherham Hospice has opened the doors to a brand-new charity shop in Manvers, the first of its kind in its retail lineup, featuring a fresh, innovative design that fundraisers believe will redefine charity fashion shopping in the area.

The only adult hospice in Rotherham for the people of Rotherham, Rotherham Hospice is an independent charity and requires a staggering £3m per year to allow them to continue to carry out this invaluable service.

The August grand opening at the Onyx Retail Park was marked by a special ribbon-cutting ceremony. The honour of cutting the ribbon went to Jonathon, the first volunteer in Manvers.

The hospice describes the new shop as a "bold step forward in our retail strategy" and has been designed as a pilot for a new look and feel that could then be extended across existing stores. The concept is also paving the way forthe Rotherham Hospice's first-ever superstore at Great Eastern Retail Park in Parkgate, which is expecting to opening in Autumn 2024.

Rothbiz reported in March that a planning application had been submitted that would enable a vacant unit on the retail park to be brought back into use. Rotherham Hospice wants to operate a large charity shop from the 7,900 sq ft Unit 5, which was previously home to United Carpets.

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Mat Cottle-Shaw, CEO of Rotherham Hospice, said: "The opening of our Manvers shop marks the beginning of an exciting few years for Rotherham Hospice. This shop is the first manifestation of our ambitious strategy, shaped by the valuable insights gained from our recent community survey. Our goal is to enhance and expand our retail offerings, starting with Manvers and continuing with the launch of our superstore in Parkgate later this year and other locations across Rotherham.

"The positive feedback we’ve received already is truly encouraging. One of our first customers was thrilled with their shopping experience, saying: “I walked in thinking I wouldn’t be able to afford the clothing, but the prices are amazing! It’s wonderful to see secondhand clothes that are presented so nicely and still affordable.”

"Our new shop in Manvers isn’t just about offering a unique shopping experience; it’s also a crucial part of how we fund the vital services we provide. Charity shops like ours generate 30% of the income needed to keep Rotherham Hospice running. By shopping with us, you’re directly supporting the compassionate, high-quality care we provide to patients and their families.

"We invite everyone to visit our new shop, discover some great fashion finds, and support our mission. Your purchases make a real difference in the lives of those we care for."

Rotherham Hospice website

Images: Rotherham Hospice

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News: Wheels in motion for new bus lanes in Rotherham

Consultants have been appointed to work up a business case for a number of bus lanes across Rotherham.

Pell Frischmann is working with the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) to manage the design and business case development work for seven bus lane schemes in Sheffield and Rotherham. The aim is to optimise public transport and reliability in these areas.

Upon re-election in May, Mayor of South Yorkshire, Oliver Coppard, set out his vision to connect people across South Yorkshire to opportunities through an integrated public transport network that puts people at its centre. The mayor described the current bus system as broken, having "lost 40% of bus miles in the last decade."

The latest scheme will see Pell Frischmann implementing bus lane improvements in Rotherham on the following corridors:

- A631 Bawtry Road
- A630 Doncaster Road and Whinney Hill
- A629 New Wortley Road Bus Gate
- College Road Bus Gate
- A631 / A618 Whiston Crossroads

Various scheme options have been developed as part of the preliminary design and include the implementation of new bus lanes in areas with heavy traffic congestion to improve bus journey times and reliability. Existing bus lanes could also be extended to reduce the number of buses idling in traffic congestion before entering the bus lane.

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The widening of the existing carriageway in specific locations is also being considered so that buses will have priority alongside existing general traffic.

The enhancement of bus gate signals would mean that buses will be allowed to continue their routes prior to the movement of general traffic and the improvement of signage, road marking, and lining would ensure compliance from other road users.

If everything stacks up, construction is set to begin in May 2026, followed by the opening in November 2026.

Pell Frischmann Consultants Ltd secured a £252,342.03 contract for the Bus Lane Review Implementation Project at the start of 2024.

Adam Lechmere, Pell Frischmann’s Highways & Transport Technical Director, said: "This project will provide new bus priority measures along several key corridors in Sheffield and Rotherham in order to reduce journey times and improve service reliability. Pell Frischmann has recently developed preliminary design options and produced a Strategic Outline Business Case (SOBC) for submission to South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMC). The next stage of the project will see us progressing the scheme through detailed design and preparation of an Outline Business Case for funding approval."

Rothbiz reported in 2022 that The City Region Sustainable Transport Settlements (CRSTS) investment had been secured meaning that £570m would bring significant improvements to South Yorkshire’s transport system, enabling people to make public transport and walking and cycling their first choice for travel.

Pell Frischmann website
SYMCA website

Images: Google Maps

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News: Progress for latest firms expanding onto the AMP in Rotherham

Steelwork erection has completed at the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham on the new development for Technicut, the global leader in solid rotary cutting tools for the aerospace industry.

Rothbiz reported last year on plans for a purpose built unit for Technicut to go alongside McLaren.

Construction firm, Britcon, has been appointed to work alongside The Harris Partnership on a 86,800 sq ft warehouse and progress is being made.

The value of this contract is £9m with an anticipated end date of March 2025. Britcon is aiming to achieve a BREEAM status of Excellent for the dedicated building comprising a mix of production, lab, office and meeting room space.

The new location will enable the company to remain local to its origins whilst providing the space it needs to further grow the business.

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Also at AMP, a planning application has been approved for a purpose built unit between Brunel Way and the Parkway for Vulcan Engineering Ltd.

Currently based in Sheffield, Vulcan Engineering Limited is part of the wider AES group and specialises in the production of mechanical seals and encapsulated ‘o’-rings. The company has a global presence and is an established world leader in the development and manufacture of high purity, composite encapsulated seals that fulfil a demand in the market where an engineering polymer is either not available or is extremely cost prohibitive.

Having doubled their turnover in the last five years from £15m to £30m as a Group on sealing products, the move is part of expansion plans where turnover is forecasted to increase to £60m within the next five years.

At 52,000 sq ft, the new development would create 110 jobs.

Also fronting the Parkway, work is closer to completion on a new headquarters for global steel business Danieli. The Italian-based group – which has annual revenues of £3.6bn and designs, builds and installs low emission plants for the steel industry worldwide as well as producing quality special steels – commissioned a 47,000 sq ft head office, research and distribution facility having outgrown its site at Templeborough.

Units 8, 9 and 11 on the AMP have also been completed. Landowner and developer Harworth Group has already confirmed that 60% are now let with the remaining entering negotiations.

Calibre Scientific UK and Insight Direct UK are two of the companies expanding at the AMP.

AMP website

Images: Britcon / Harris Partnership

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News: Wentworth Woodhouse cuts quote "not relevant to the site today"

A quote which talked about the possibility of severe cuts at Wentworth Woodhouse included in a national report about how the cost of living crisis is impacting on England's heritage sector is "not relevant to the site today," confirmed bosses at the Rotherham stately home.

Rothbiz reported last week on an insight report from the Heritage Alliance, England’s largest coalition of heritage interests which looked at the economic pressures on the sector and the case for further investment.

The report said that increases in the minimum wage, costs for power, heating, and lighting has seen overall running costs at Wentworth increase from £2.339m (year end March 2023) to £2.962m (year end March 2024); an increase of approximately 26%. The Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust (WWPT), the charity that runs the Grade I listed mansion has not wanted to pass rising costs on to its visitors.

In a statement, Sarah McLeod, OBE, CEO of WWPT, said: "On August 1, a post appeared briefly on X (formerly Twitter) which may have given the impression that the CEO of Wentworth Woodhouse, Sarah McLeod OBE, had made a statement on impending cuts to programming, staff levels and services.

"A quote in the post was taken from a document published by the Heritage Alliance earlier this year to lobby the Government for more heritage sector support.

"The quote from Sarah McLeod formed part of a wider report regarding the crippling rises in energy costs, the cost of living and inflation, which were impacting on Wentworth Woodhouse and other heritage sites at the time the report was written. The quote is not relevant to the site today."

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Since the publication of the report in May 2024, Wentworth Woodhouse has opened its largest ever exhibition, Beneath the Surface: George Stubbs and Contemporary Artists.

Described as its "most ambitious exhibition to date" the three month run brings seven remarkable works by George Stubbs to Grade 1-listed mansion to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the artist’s birth - and his residency at Wentworth Woodhouse in 1762.

It is now known Stubbs created seven artworks for the 2nd Marquess of Rockingham over many months in 1762. Four of these 1762 paintings have "come home" on loan from a private collection.

The exhibition, sited in the mansion’s State Rooms and free to view with a house admission ticket from until November 3.

Other events this summer included the return of outdoor music, theatre and cinema, The Great British Food Festival, WE Wonder and workshops and summer camps.

Also on display is the exhibition of Wentworth’s Coal Story, which runs until October 6, explaining how the fossil fuel industry affected the mansion’s rise and fall.

Next year, The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), the organisers of the Chelsea Flower Show, the world’s greatest and most famous gardening event, are introducing an event in the grounds of Wentworth Woodhouse.

A major boost for the house, and tourism in Rotherham, the show is likely to compare to the RHS Flower Show Tatton Park in Cheshire that hosts around 80,000 visitors.

Wentworth Woodhouse website

Images: WWPT

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News: Showtime! Opening date for new Rotherham cinema

Over 30 years in the making, Arc Cinema at Forge Island has announced the opening date for its new site in Rotherham town centre.

Forge Island is the town centre's new landmark leisure destination being delivered by Rotherham Council in partnership with Muse. The £47m development includes an 8-screen boutique cinema operated by The Arc Cinema, a 69-roomed Travelodge Hotel as well as two independent restaurants - The Rustic Pizza Company and Cafe Noor.

The Irish cinema operator has confirmed that an advance preview of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is set to take place on September 5.

The fantasy comedy horror film directed by Tim Burton is a sequel to 1988's Beetlejuice that may well have been shown the last time Rotherham had a cinema. Cannon, the last in the town centre, closed in 1990.

Positioned at the south of the former home of the Rotherham Forge & Rolling Mills, the design of the cinema looked to the strong industrial heritage of the site which was historically home to a foundry and an iron works. The cinema design incorporates a saw-tooth roof profile with a metal cap and a robust brick podium base.

Arc has previously confirmed that the Rotherham cinema will have two flagship Hypersense screens, including Dolby Atmos sound, a giant screen and a 4K Laser projector – which creates a truly immersive experience. Additionally, it will also have six medium-sized screens that provide an intimate atmosphere for smaller showings – perfect for Arc's popular events like ‘Silver Screen’ and ‘Kids club’ which will be launching in Rotherham.

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Across the site, the first occupier to open at Forge Island, Travelodge Rotherham Central – the town’s first branded hotel, recently held an official opening.

The new design includes a redesigned reception, next-generation rooms, and a number of sustainable building features.

A new Bar Café welcomes both hotel guests and passers-by, offering an all-day dining service including breakfast, lunch and dinner menus and bar.

Travelodge Rotherham Central, situated next to Rotherham train and tram station, is set to have a positive impact on the town’s tourism economy. Located a short walk from the town centre, it is just a few miles from a host of major visitor attractions including Magna Science Adventure Centre; Gulliver’s Valley Theme Park, Clifton Park and the Grade 1 listed Wentworth House stately home and gardens.

Tony O’Brien, UK Development Director, Travelodge, said: “We are delighted to announce that our first hotel in Rotherham has now opened its doors. With its new premium design and great location, I have no doubt that our hotel in Rotherham will be a strong addition to the area. We have a fantastic hotel team in place and are already receiving very positive feedback from customers.

“Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council is doing a great job in investing to regenerate the town centre. Its funding support has enabled the delivery of this development, at a time when private sector funding is in very scarce supply. This will be of great benefit to the Rotherham community for many years to come. Forge Island is a great addition to the town centre and will support the existing shops and attractions, such as Rotherham United’s AESSEAL New York stadium, so there is plenty for Travelodge’s business and leisure customers to enjoy.”

Raife Gale, Senior Development Manager at Muse, added: “The hotel opening marks the first opportunity to welcome people to Forge Island, and with other tenants working hard to complete their fit outs it won’t be long before more residents and visitors will be able to experience all that Forge Island has to offer.”

Arc Cinema website
Travelodge website
Forge Island website

Images: Arc Cinema

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News: National beer festival's Magna move highlights Rotherham's pull factor for unique events

The winter version of Britain’s biggest beer festival is heading to Rotherham in 2025.

Problems with a Bradford venue has seen organisers searching for a suitable alternative venue with CAMRA (the Campaign for Real Ale) settling on the Magna Science Adventure Centre for the Great British Beer Festival Winter (GBBF Winter).

Tens of thousands are expected to make their way along to the five-day jamboree from 12 to 15 February 2025 – with beers, ciders and perries on offer from the length and breadth of the kingdom.

CAMRA rotates the location of its festivals around the country with cities including Birmingham and Norwich recently acting as hosts. 2025 will mark the first of a number of potential events in Yorkshire.

As the winter counterpart to CAMRA’s Great British Beer Festival, visitors will find a fantastic range of not only dark and winter brews but a great selection of light and hoppy ales to sample.

Previous events have included a number of Brewery Bars, a Learn & Discover bar, Bieres Sans Frontier bar, and a dedicated Champion Winter Beer of Britain bar - the prestigious Champion Winter Beer of Britain winners being announced during the trade and press session. A range of live music, entertainment and food is also on offer.

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Set in the former Templeborough steelworks, Magna is a family attraction with more than 100 hands-on exhibits. Millions of pounds have been invested in unique events spaces and conference facilities at the centre which is operated by a charity, the Magna Trust.

The venue is no stranger to hosting large beer festivals with The Rotherham Real Ale and Music Festival attracting over 5,000 people each year. Proceeds from the festival are used to support the work of local charities.

Starting at Oakwood School in 1992, the event went on to become the largest indoor beer festival outside of London but organisers warned that 2024 could be the last, stating that rising costs make charity events of this scale more and more unviable.

Another new event to Magna, which also hosts a number of trade fairs, business events and comic-cons, is FightFest 2024, which takes place this weekend.

Reminiscent of the hit TV show Robot Wars, this year's event will see a record 39 robots enter the purpose-built arena, in a bid to be crowned European Featherweight Champion.

Kevin Tomlinson, Chief Executive at Magna, said: "At Magna, we have made it our mission to inspire curiosity by giving visitors the chance to enjoy hands-on exhibits. Robot combat takes this to a different level, by bringing STEM concepts to life, truly showing that science isn't simply a subject that's studied, it's one that needs to be experienced.

"We're looking forward to welcoming FightFest to Magna, and with plenty of activities taking place throughout the weekend, there are lots of reasons to visit Magna this bank holiday."

Magna website
CAMRA website

Images: Rotherham Real Ale and Music Festival / LensGo

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News: Job cuts warning from Wentworth Woodhouse CEO

A report highlighting how the cost of living crisis is impacting on England's heritage sector has revealed that the winter of 2024/25 poses "some very real threats" to the survival of Wentworth Woodhouse in Rotherham.

Saved by the Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust (WWPT) in 2017, the charity that runs the Grade I listed mansion has not wanted to pass rising costs on to its visitors and has posted a financial loss that is "unsustainable in the longer term."

"On The Brink: Heritage in the Cost of Living Crisis" is an insight report from the Heritage Alliance, England’s largest coalition of heritage interests. It looks at the economic pressures on the sector and the case for further investment, concluding that "the risk of collapse is real – and in many cases, literal."

Described as the most exciting and challenging heritage project of a generation, the projects at Wentworth Woodhouse will take up to two decades to deliver and will cost over £150m. With a focus on delivering high quality, creative and relevant visitor experiences, millions has been secured to repair parts of the building and adapt spaces for new uses, including new dining and events spaces. A big part of the regeneration is the training, work experience, and job opportunities created for the local area.

Opening to the public, visitors have been able to experience house tours, nature walks, craft workshops, educational talks, theatre performances, and music festivals.

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The report states that Wentworth Woodhouse "relies heavily on the local community to visit regularly and generate secondary spend. However, Rotherham has been badly impacted by the cost of living crisis, with inflation straining household budgets. As families face difficult choices, cultural visits are increasingly viewed as a non-essential luxury."

Increases in the minimum wage, costs for power, heating, and lighting has seen overall running costs at Wentworth increase from £2.339m (year end March 2023) to £2.962m (year end March 2024); an increase of approximately 26%.

In the report, Sarah McLeod, CEO of WWPT, said: "We have not been able to pass these cost increase on to our visitors – an audience who are already cutting back on their spending. Instead, the Trust has been seeking imaginative ways of trying to bridge the funding gap whilst continuing to provide a much-needed community facility.

"After the last year (2023/24), we will post our first financial loss since our inception in 2014. The loss is substantial – circa £250k – and at a level which is unsustainable in the longer term, as we have no endowment.

“We are confident that we can survive the summer, as we are entering our busiest time of year, but the sad reality is that the winter of 2024/25 poses some very real threats to our survival. If the economic situation does not improve, then in September 2024 we may well need to make severe cuts to our services, workforce, and ability to deliver for our local communities.”

Wentworth Woodhouse website

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News: "Forge Island alone will not turn things around"

Rotherham's MP has called on the government to continue to support the regeneration of the borough's town centre, warning that even when the Forge Island development opens fully next month, more funding is required.

Forge Island is the town centre's new landmark leisure destination being delivered by Rotherham Council in partnership with Muse. The £47m development includes an 8-screen boutique cinema operated by The Arc Cinema, a 69-roomed Travelodge Hotel as well as two independent restaurants - The Rustic Pizza Company and Cafe Noor.

Sarah Champion, MP for Rotherham, said that the imminent opening of Rotherham’s Forge Island development will "begin a new era for our town centre" but has written to the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Democracy and Local Growth regarding uncertainty over regeneration funding awarded to Rotherham town centre under the previous government.

Rothbiz reported in 2023 that Rotherham had been selected by the government as one of 55 towns to be given £20m endowment-style funds to invest in local people’s priorities.

Town Boards were asked by the Government to submit their Long-Term Plans (comprising their 10-year vision and 3-year investment plan) before August 1. Town boards from the 55 locations are now saying that the deadline has been moved and they are awaiting a new timescale.

Sarah Champion, who sits on Rotherham's Town Board, posted on social media: "The imminent opening of Rotherham’s Forge Island development will begin a new era for our Town Centre. This has been a long time coming, but I hope that the new facilities will play their part in revitalising Rotherham.

"But Forge Island alone will not turn things around. We need sustained investment in town centre facilities to deliver the improvement we all need to see. I am therefore concerned by reports that central Government funding programs may be under threat and I have written to the Government urging them to back our town centre."

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In 2021, Rotherham secured £31.6m from the Town Deal and £12.6m from the Future High Streets Fund. Town centre projects include the revamp of Rotherham Markets, Grimm & Co, enhancing the leisure quarter next to Forge Island, a potential new music venue in town and supporting the development of further residential schemes.

The Long-Term Plan for Rotherham is to focus on three key themes: Safety and security; High streets, heritage and regeneration; Transport and connectivity.

Sarah Champion's letter states: "I am writing to you regarding the Long Term Plan for Towns. I understand that the future of the scheme is being considered by the Government and that Rotherham may as a consequence miss out on much-needed investments.

"As you will be aware, Rotherham MBC is in the process of a substantial investment in the town centre. The town centre has notably declined in recent years, with the loss of many businesses, both local and national chains.

"Rotherham faces unique competition, being sandwiched between Parkgate Retail Park and Meadowhall Shopping Centre. This has left Rotherham struggling to attract visitors and the Council's commitment to creating a unique and compelling offer is commendable.

"But this inevitably requires significant and sustained investment to deliver. I am concerned that the potential loss of funding through the Long Term Plan for Towns could make the challenges facing the town centre still more challenging.

"I do of course recognise the difficult financial situation facing the Government. But I do not believe that we can deliver the growth we all want to see without investment.

"I understand that the Leader of the Council has written to you urging the Government to ensure that the Long Term Plan for Towns is delivered, or suitable alternative funding be made available. I would echo his comments and hope that the Government will commit to supporting Rotherham's development."

In July Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves discussed a projected overspend of £22bn inherited from the previous government, adding that when it comes to commitments which they did not fund, seemingly including the £20m endowment-style funds, "If we cannot afford it, we cannot do it."

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News: Chamber Means Business Expo: tickets are now available

One of South Yorkshire’s largest and longest-running business events is returning to the AESSEAL New York Stadium in Rotherham, giving business owners across the region a unique opportunity to network, learn and collaborate.

Taking place on Thursday 19th September, Chamber Means Business, which is organised by Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber, is planning to welcome hundreds of business owners from across the region to take part in the free-to-attend event.

Sponsored by KAT Communications, EntrySign and KCM Waste Management, Chamber Means Business will give visitors the chance to find out more about some of the work currently being delivered across South Yorkshire, with more than 60 different businesses taking part in the sell-out exhibition.

In addition to creating opportunities for businesses to forge new connections, re-connect with others and explore some of the innovative work being delivered across the region, Chamber Means Business will also give visitors the chance to find out more about the Chamber’s Buy Local initiative, which aims to help businesses access a wide range of business opportunities when it comes to supplying the public sector.

The day will also feature a sales and marketing masterclass. Delivered by Dan Broadbent, Managing Director of Objective and Hayden Fox of the Sales Geek, the seminar will draw upon their knowledge and expertise to help business owners develop business leads, access innovative tools to identify new customers, as well as exploring different methods which can be used to convert leads into sales.

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Shane Young, Operations Director, Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber, said: “Chamber Means Business is a popular and well-attended event that has firmly established itself as one of the go-to events on the local business calendar. It’s a popular and well-attended event that gives business owners the opportunity to make new connections on the day, network with businesses operating in many different sectors as well as find out more about some of the truly innovative work that’s currently being delivered in South Yorkshire.

"This year we have been working closely with a number of public sector organisations to highlight the importance of buying local, and with public sector buyers also in attendance, it will give opportunities for businesses to find out more about overcoming perceived barriers when it comes to supplying goods and services to the public sector.

"Above all else, I think what makes Chamber Means Business such a popular and well-attended event is the unique atmosphere it generates on the day. This year, all exhibition stands sold within just 48 hours of going on sale, which is a testament to the popularity of the event. It promises to be an unmissable event and one that I’m confident will give delegates the opportunity to connect with like-minded business owners and build lasting relationships, which will help to lay the foundations for future success.”

Chamber Means Business website

Images: BR Chamber

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News: More new openings at Parkgate planned

An international coffee chain and two national footwear retailers are taking steps to open at Parkgate Shopping in Rotherham.

Rothbiz reported in June that several new lettings, upsizes and relocations were close to being finalised at the 2nd largest purpose-built retail warehouse park in the UK.

American coffee company and coffeehouse chain, Starbucks, is planning to open a new site, despite already operating less than a mile away.

Starbucks constructed a new Drive Thru store at nearby Foundry Retail Park at Parkgate and opened in 2020.

Now the Seattle-based chain wants to take on an empty unit at Parkgate Shopping that was previously home to rival chain, Costa.

Costa expanded at Parkgate Shopping when it built a 1,800 sq ft standalone drive-thru unit between Wilko's and Morrison's in the existing car park in 2017.

A planning application has been submitted for new signage for unit 32 that would see Starbucks slot in between Vision Express and Greggs.

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More shoe retailers have recently announced that they are coming to Parkgate.

With Deichmann opening in Rotherham in 2023 and Shoe Zone starting recruitiment but not actually opening, Pavers and Footasylum look to have got their feet in the door.

Founded in York in 1971, the family-owned business opened the first Pavers shop in Scarborough in 1981 and since then has grown to over 180 stores nationwide. One of the UK’s leading comfort shoe retailers, it offers a wide range of brands including Fly Flot, Skechers and Padders and the business now includes acquired brands, Jones Bootmaker, Herring Shoes and Van Dal.

Store manager and customer advisor roles are currently being advertised in Rotherham.

A unit for the retailer has not been announced but the job advert from Pavers confirms: "We are thrilled to announce the opening of our BRAND NEW STORE at Rotherham Parkgate Shopping Park in September 2024!"

Footasylum, the streetwear and sportswear retailer, has also begun recruiting for a store manager for a Rotherham store.

Founded in 2005 and headquartered in Rochdale, Footasylum had been owned by JD Sports since 2019 until it fell foul of the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). It was bought by Aurelius in 2022 and, backed by the German investment firm, has expanded through new store openings and upsizing existing locations.

Footasylum stock includes Nike, Adidas Originals, Under Armour, The North Face, and more.

Again, a unit for the retailer has not been announced but the job advert from Footasylum confirms that it is for "one of our exciting NEW stores opening at Parkgate Shopping Park in Rotherham."

Also at the park, current tenant Superdrug has seen its planning application for new signage at Unit 7 approved. This will allow for an expansion for the beauty and health retailer to expand into the unit vacated by Poundland.

Parkgate Shopping spans over 40 acres and has 577,837 sq ft of ground floor retail accommodation. The destination was sold for around £60m at the start of 2024.

Starbucks website
Pavers website
Parkgate Shopping website

Images: Pavers / One Fine Day Design

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News: Rotherham Council commits to more housebuilding

Rotherham Council are continuing to honour its commitment to deliver more new homes for the borough through an ambitious Housing Delivery Programme.

It comes as the new government announces plans to tackle the housing crisis and meet the its own commitment to deliver 1.5 million more homes. Under a proposed new method of local housing targets, Rotherham's target would increase from 544 to 1,233.

The Council has pledged to deliver hundreds of new high-quality homes across the borough by either building new homes, or through acquiring properties from a range of sources, including private developers and the open market.

Since April 2024, nearly 60 new homes have been delivered for Council rent or shared ownership, taking the total to 575 homes since January 2018. A further 129 are currently under construction or in the process of being purchased.

The Council’s Cabinet has approved further updates to the Housing Programme which looks to address the borough’s continuing need for more affordable homes across the borough.

An additional ten schemes have been added to the housing programme, delivering homes on both Council owned sites and through strategic acquisitions. Sites at Kiveton Park, Thrybergh, Bramley, Harthill and Herringthorpe have been identified and are in pre-procurement.

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Assistant Director of Housing at Rotherham Council, James Clark said: “In 2018 we made a pledge to support our residents with their housing needs by providing more affordable and high-quality council homes for local people to rent. Five years on, we remain committed to this ambitious programme and continue to work at pace to deliver, despite the growing challenges of the cost of living crisis.

“Over 7,200 households are currently on our Housing Register and the level of demand only continues to rise. With this in mind, it is vital that the Council looks at all opportunities to build or acquire good quality, affordable homes to ensure more residents have a safe, secure place to call home.”

Cabinet Members also considered proposals to develop a Council-owned site at Far Lane in East Dene. If agreed, the site will deliver an estimated 14 new homes on a former garage site.

Whilst this scheme is still at an early stage in the design process, the development is likely to deliver 14 two-bedroom apartments across seven two storey semi-detached and detached buildings.

Officers warned that construction costs remain volatile and uncertain and extensive market engagement has been carried out, including holding a number of contractor information days. The Council has amended the procurement approach to respond to changes in market conditions and maximise what can be delivered in the programme timeframe.

The authority is also continuing to acquire houses at developments being built by the private sector, targeting sites at Waverley, Brecks, Kimberworth, Dinnington, Throapham, Swallownest and Kimberworth.

Images: RMBC

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News: CPO readied for Rotherham regeneration project

A costly legal process could slow the progress of a Rotherham regeneration project further as the council heads to its last resort to secure the properties needed.

Rothbiz recently reported on the current progress of the project centred around Dinnington's market where a planning application has recently been submitted.

Funding for the project had was allocated by Government in March 2023 and the funding agreement was received in June 2023. Rotherham Council's cabinet approved the start of the scheme in June 2023.

The scheme involves replacing old buildings and market stalls with six new commercial units and a large building, which could be used by the community and for commerce, plus a fully landscaped area of public realm to create a new market square.

However, the authority continues to warn that "protracted negotiations" with the private landowners has slowed the scheme down and officers are preparing to use a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) at the site.

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The Government grants powers to enable acquiring authorities to compulsorily purchase land to carry out a function which Parliament has decided is in the public interest.

A CPO order was made by Rotherham Council in its long-running attempt to acquire the burnt-out buildings on Corporation Street in the town centre. In the end an agreement was reached so the order, which could have taken more than 12 months to resolve if objections were received and an inquiry was required, was not necessary.

At Dinnington, Rotherham Council now owns numbers 38-54 Laughton Road and has agreed terms with four other owners regarding the acquisition of their interests.

On July 30 an officer decision was made to approve the council's acquisition of land interests to help facilitate the Dinnington High Street/Market scheme. It is thought that this refers to Plot 4 at 36 Laughton Road.

At the same time a key decision was added to the council's forward plan relating to "the acquisition of land at Laughton Road on terms to be agreed and approve the making of a Compulsory Purchase Order." A further report on the use of Compulsory Purchase powers is set to be presented the cabinet in due course.

In correspondence with Jake Richards, MP for Rother Valley, Rotherham Council's chief executive, Sharon Kemp, said that "good progress can be reported on assembling this site, which is in fragmented ownership, to enable the scheme to be completed."

Kemp added: "The fact that the site was in wholly private ownership at the start of the project inevitably leads to difficulties accessing the site, completing surveys, and collecting site information, which has a resultant impact on programme timescales.

"Later than planned due to protracted negotiations, it is now the Council's ambition to complete the assembly of the site by December 2024, with a view to commencing work on the new scheme in early 2025 and completing mid 2026."

Earlier this month, Rotherham Council's cabinet confirmed the provisional allocation of £1m from its own Towns and Villages Fund to support the regeneration of Dinnington.

With the Government funding having to spent by the end of March 2026, the council's own funds are expected to be used "toward the latter end of the programme to mitigate the risk of surpassing the funding deadline."

RMBC website

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News: AES is top UK apprentice employer in manufacturing again

Rotherham-based AESSEAL is the top UK apprentice employer in the manufacturing sector for the second time, according to the Department of Education’s annual rankings.

AESSEAL is the largest part of the AES Engineering Ltd group, which operates in over 100 countries. The British-owned group manufactures its core products in Templeborough, and they are used by major industry globally to prevent the leakage of liquids and gases into the environment, thereby preventing environmental damage as well as avoiding a health and safety risk.

The Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers and Top 50 SME Apprenticeship Employers showcase the apprenticeship employers that have done the most to provide apprenticeship opportunities over the past 12 months.

AES was one of 700 major UK businesses assessed, drawn from the public and private sectors, and while the company’s apprentice intake during 2023-24 was significantly lower than many of the other entrants (number 1 was the British Army with over 4,000), AESSEAL was in the top 7% of all of those assessed, based on criteria including diversity and apprentice completions.

AESSEAL managing director Chris Rea said: “Getting and keeping great people is a key part of our formula for business success and this accolade shows the Department of Education rankings are not purely a numbers game.

“Congratulations to all the other manufacturing and engineering companies, and every other UK business that is investing in the future."

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Lucia Bird, CAM Apprentice at AES, added: “I started my apprenticeship in September 2020, studying at the AMRC. I then went on to work full time at AESSEAL. I began working volume production as a CNC machinist and was able to work on different machines that allowed me to gain experience and progress through the company. Also, I had many opportunities to attend different events to interest new apprentices in the company, which I thoroughly enjoyed.

"Engineering has always been a male dominated industry. So, as a woman starting out in engineering it is great to be part of a team at AESSEAL, they’re such an inclusive company to work for. I would recommend it as a career path for any young woman.”

Overall, 14% of AESSEAL employees started as apprentices, and 39 new apprentices were taken on in 2023-24. With an overall placing of 50th out of 700, the company was the top-ranked manufacturer for the second time, after a similar placing in 2022.

First compiled in 2020, the prestigious annual employer rankings have been developed by the Department of Education, in partnership with High Fliers Research, who independently assess and rank the nation’s top apprenticeship employers.

AESSEAL website

Images: AESSEAL

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News: Rotherham Welcome Break brands revealed

The brands set to open at the new £40m motorway service area (MSA) on the M1 in Rotherham have been announced by the operator as recruitment gets underway.

Rothbiz revealed in 2021 that Welcome Break, one of the UK’s leading motorway service operators, was to take on the site after outline planning permission was secured by Applegreen for a new development at Junction 33 of the M1 at Catcliffe.

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

Welcome Break runs 59 Motorway service areas and 31 hotels across the UK's motorway network, including Woodhall on the M1 in Rotherham.

At Catcliffe, the company has confirmed that the new MSA will open in January 2025.

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An update from Welcome Break reads: "We're opening an impressive line-up at Rotherham - Starbucks, KFC, Burger King, Waitrose, a Starbucks Drive Thru, Pret a Manger, WHSmith, Chopstix, The Good Breakfast, and a convenient Forecourt.

"We're on the lookout for around 250 friendly faces to join our team across these brands."

Licences are also beeing sought for two of its "Game Zones" which include adult gaming machines.

A hiring event is schduled to be held at the Holiday Inn, Rotherham on the 10th, 11th, and 12th of October 2024.

On the scrub land on either side of the motorway where previous plans for a hotel and pub were approved but never implemented, the Welcome Break includes HGV parking and amenities to the north of the M1, with customer parking and amenities for other motorway users to the south of the M1, via an underpass.

Main contractor HML Construction began work on the development in 2023.

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

Separate plans were approved for a standalone drive thru unit for global coffee chain, Starbucks.

Access to the MSA is coming from the roundabout via a new arm junction between the M1 Southbound off slip and A630 Rotherway.

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

Welcome Break website

Images: Carwright & Gross Architects / HML

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News: Another commercial to residential conversion in Rotherham town centre

Plans have been submitted that would enable more vacant commercial space in Rotherham town centre to be converted into flats.

The Rotherham town centre masterplan of 2017 confirmed the need for more housing and leisure uses as a way to develop economic vitality, bringing more life, activity and spending back into the town centre.

On Doncaster Gate, the Royal Chambers building is the latest in line for conversion.

Known by many as part of Cooper's Toy Shop, 8 - 12 Doncaster Gate has been used for a number of years as commercial units - a tattoo studio and offices for a recruitment firm.

Now an application has been submitted that would enable a change of use of the upper floors.

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Plans from Nottinghamshire-based Current Property Ltd, involve creating five, 1-bed flats on the first and second floors.

Drawn up by Building Link Design, there are no plans to change the external appearance of the building and the ground floor would remain as two commercial units.

Commercial property agents, CPR, has been advertising the building for sale at £295,000. Their advert reads: "Royal Chambers comprises of a detached three-storey office building and benefiting from rear car parking. The property provides an attractive stone façade, offering modern offices to all three floors with the ground floor providing a mixture of open-plan offices together with private glass-wall partitioned offices to the rear.

"The building offers a useful self-contained separate access from Doncaster Gate which leads to the first and second floors. There are further offices at second floor level. The top floor has been used as a gymnasium and could easily be converted back to office accommodation."

If approved, the new flats would sit alongside The Cinema House residential development and opposite to the successful conversion of a former department store and pool hall.

Images: Google Maps / Haybrook

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News: Entrepreneur Me launches innovative program in South Yorkshire schools

Entrepreneur Me is bringing the entrepreneurial spirit to children across South Yorkshire, backed by positive psychologist Lisa Avery and UKSE.

Founded by Matt Stewart, Entrepreneur Me has been inspiring children across the world for over 20 years, with its latest cohort of schools in Barnsley, Sheffield and Rotherham.

The project, “Enterprise in the Business,” spans eight weeks, dedicating one day to inspire students, teachers, and parents on how to pair entrepreneurship with community values.

During these sessions, students receive £25 to create products and tackle various challenges, with profit champions announced at the end of the day.

For the remaining weeks, students implement their own business plans, using real money to make a profit. Any money made from the project is to be given away to the community cause of their choice.

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Having collaborated with UKSE for over a decade, Matt applied for a kickstart grant from UKSE – a local investment company that provides up to £1.5 million to growing businesses – which helped fund the full day programme in school.

Lisa Avery, an expert in positive psychology and coaching psychology, recently joined the Entrepreneur Me team, enhancing the program with her expertise.

Commenting on the expansion of the program, Chief Executive Matt Stewart said: “We are fortunate to have the support of UKSE, which has been instrumental in bringing our vision to life in South Yorkshire, with sessions scheduled from the beginning of June into July.

“By instilling entrepreneurial skills early on, we aim to foster social change and community development.”

Steve Lyon, Regional Manager at UKSE, said: “UKSE is proud to support Entrepreneur Me in delivering this innovative program to South Yorkshire schools.

“The encouragement of entrepreneurship with community at its core is fully aligned to the ethos here at UKSE, we wish them the best moving forward with the program!”

Images: UKSE

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News: Fuming! South Yorkshire's new electric buses needed DIESEL generator to get going

A multimillion pound transport project to introduce state-of-the-art electric buses on to South Yorkshire's roads got off to a spluttering start with a diesel generator being used to charge up their batteries in Rotherham.

With just seven out of 20 electric buses in service daily, bosses at operator, Stagecoach, expressed their frustration with Northern Powergrid.

Rothbiz reported in January that electrification work had begun at the Rawmarsh depot ahead of the arrival of the first fleet of 23 zero emission electric buses to arrive in the region.

The brand-new electric Yutong buses have now been introduced on the region’s bus network, featuring on the 22x and 221 routes which connect the Dearne Valley across Rotherham, Barnsley and Doncaster.

The project is part of South Yorkshire’s first successful bid for Zero Emission Bus Regional Area funding (ZEBRA) from the Department for Transport (DfT) in partnership with South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) and Stagecoach.

DfT contributed £8,351,721 and SYMCA contributed £2,683,051 of their City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS) provided by Government. Stagecoach is contributing around £4m.

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The bid included 23 x 150kW depot chargers for Stagecoach's Rawmarsh depot purchased by Stagecoach and 2 x 300kW opportunity charging units for routes located at Rotherham Interchange to be owned and purchased by SYMCA.

SYMCA's July Enhanced Partnership Board heard an update on the project.

Minutes state: "Stagecoach discussed frustration with the delays to the Electro ZEBRA project. Although the buses were ready in April and infrastructure was installed by the end of that month, delays with Northern Powergrid have hindered progress. Currently, 7 out of 20 electric buses are in service daily.

"Fast chargers have been installed, and a diesel generator will be used for the next six weeks. Stagecoach reported that so far, the initiative has saved 27 tonnes of carbon and achieved a 3.8% year-on-year growth."

Stagecoach confirmed that in the last week of July, they managed to get a full run out of all the electric buses into service on the 22X and 221 calling it "another positive in the whole project."

One Electro bus saves 66 tonnes of CO2 per year compared to a standard bus. That’s the same as the emissions produced by driving a petrol car 169,000 miles.

At Rotherham Interchange, which underwent a £12m refurb five years ago, the plan was to install pantograph chargers, usually involving an arm that extends from a charging station and connects with a receptor on a bus’ roof.

A planning application showed that, following a review of the electricity demand requirements for the pantograph chargers, "it has been identified that the existing Interchange electricity connection does not provide sufficient power. Therefore, to ensure the correct amount of energy is supplied a new electricity substation is required."

The plans were approved in May with work currently taking place for the new substation at the Drummond Street side of the bus station.

Stagecoach website

Images: Stagecoach

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