News: Rotherham hotel expansion plans checked in again

New plans are back in to extend a Rotherham hotel, eight years after the operator secured approval for a similar scheme.

Premier Inn has identified a "considerable demand" for additional accommodation at its Rotherham East hotel in the Brecks area.

The latest proposal, drawn up by Walshingham Planning, is for a 4,800 sq ft two storey extension to the east of the current hotel. It would provide an additional 16 bedrooms but two current rooms would be lost to create a new corridor. It would take the total rooms at the site from 62 to 76.

The Premier Inn was originally constructed in 1984. It underwent extensions and alterations in the 1990s and early 2000s and has been extended most recently in 2006.

2016 plans for an extension to the east was for a net increase of 21 bedrooms over three floors. It was approved despite objections regarding car parking and the impact on nearby businesses. However, the scheme was never built out.

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The latest application states: "The proposed development will meet Premier Inn's operational requirements at this location, and will help to address the identified bedroom demand.

"It is proposed to erect a two-storey extension to the east of the hotel to provide a net additional 14 bedrooms on the site. The extension will provide an additional 16 bedrooms, but two existing bedrooms will be lost to accommodate an internal corridor. The extended hotel will provide a total of 76 bedrooms.

"The extension will incorporate identical design features to the hotel and will represent a continuation of the building.

"As a consequence of the extension, the car park to the east of the hotel will be reconfigured. The extended hotel and restaurant will be served by a total of 83 car parking spaces including 12 disabled bays. This excludes the 16 spaces which are allocated to the Sainsbury's Local store."

The development would lead to a net reduction of 15 car parking spaces.

The application adds: "With the development in place, there is estimated to be a peak accumulation of 72 cars, assuming all hotels rooms are occupied. The total number of car parking spaces proposed to serve the extended hotel and restaurant (83 spaces) is therefore considered to be suitable to accommodate the likely demands generated by the uses, offering spare capacity for any intermittent peaks on unusually busy days."

Earlier this year, Premier Inn's parent company, Whitbread plc announced a move to "unlock 3,500 new room extensions" and increase the brand's total rooms to 97,000 across the UK within the next four years though extensions and by converting underperforming restaurant space - a c.£500m investment.

Premier Inn website

Images: Google Maps / Walshingham Planning

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News: £11m Rotherham regeneration plans approved

Plans have been approved for an £11m regeneration project in Rotherham centred around Dinnington's market.

Rothbiz reported in July on the plans that outlined how the project will replace old buildings and market stalls with six new commercial units and a large building, which could be used by the community and for commerce. These buildings will overlook a landscaped town square that will be home to new market stalls, that will be stored when not in use.

With the private sector failing to address the declining physical infrastructure around the market, Rotherham Council is using Government funding to purchase privately owned buildings and regenerate the area.

Drawn up by AHR Architects and Oobe Landscape Architects, the plans confirm: "The proposal is to demolish the burnt-out building, the indoor market, the outdoor market, the colliery band building, and half of the shopping parade (36 - 44 Laughton Road). These structures will be replaced with six new commercial units, a pop-up market, a new commercial / community building to be used for public rental, and a fully landscaped area of public realm to create a new market square and clear routes between Laughton Road, the bus station, and well-used car parks.

"The remaining half of the shopping parade will be refurbished to complement the rest of the regeneration project."

The regeneration of the area is identified as one of the key moves in the Dinnington Town Centre Design Support document and the plans were passed without going before the planning board with no representations received.

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Planning officers at Rotherham Council concluded: "The proposed development as a whole will have a significant benefit to the vitality and vibrancy of Dinnington Town Centre, will enhance the markets as a destination and be of benefit to the community.

"The existing area is in a very poor state of repair with a burnt out building on site and other buildings and structures on site have a very utilitarian appearance that brings down the town centre as a whole and creates a negative impression for visitors.

"Dinnington Town Centre has suffered in recent years with the closure of some shops and facilities and a reduction in footfall along Laughton Road, despite the success of Aldi and Tesco Supermarkets. The new market square modern buildings and refurbished shops will create a quality town square that Dinnington is missing for both shopping and community facilities."

The new sqaure is described as being a high standard with high quality landscaping in an interesting design. The new shop fronts are also described as high quality and will include internal shutters "to prevent the later addition of ugly shutters."

Rotherham Council has previously warned that "protracted negotiations" with private landowners has slowed the scheme down and officers were preparing to use a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) at the site.

Images: RMBC / AHR

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News: Record number attend the Chamber Means Business Expo

Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber of Commerce has announced the incredible success of the 2024 Chamber Means Business Expo, which took place recently at the AESSEAL New York Stadium in Rotherham.

This year’s expo attracted over 450 attendees from across the South Yorkshire business community. The event showcased more than 65 local businesses, with the addition of a new second floor of exhibitors representing anchor organisations from across South Yorkshire, creating an engaging Expo for regional innovation, networking, and growth.

Held on Thursday September 19, the Expo was a representation of the growing business landscape of Barnsley and Rotherham. From new innovations and solutions to long-standing local services from trusted businesses, the event provided a great opportunity for businesses across various sectors to connect, collaborate, and exchange ideas.

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The sold-out exhibition was a testament to growing business community in the region, sponsored by KCM Waste Management Limited, KAT Communications Ltd, and EntrySign, the event continues to fulfil the appetite for business networking opportunities across the region. Through the support of the sponsors and exhibitors, Chamber Means Business has cemented itself as the go-to business expo in the regional business calendar, and their ongoing support reflects their commitment to supporting growth within the local community.

Shane Young, Operations Director of Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber, said: “Chamber Means Business Expo 2024 was a great reflection of the businesses and connections happening across Barnsley, Rotherham and the wider region through the Chambers membership network. This year we smashed previous records with attracting over 450 in attendance.

"Through the support of our sponsors and exhibitors we achieved record participation, highlighting the growing momentum behind this event since it began in 2012. We are proud to see this expo continue to grow year after year, bringing more and more businesses together.”

As Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber gears up for an exciting autumn line-up, including the Manufacturing Supply Chain Expo in October, the Chamber remains focused on creating further opportunities for its members.

BR Chamber website

Images: BR Chamber

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News: Rotherham Council's market move to remain temporary

With work well underway on the £36m redevelopment of Rotherham Markets, Rotherham Council is taking the opportunity to review how it will operate the markets when it reopens in late 2026.

With traders in the indoor market suffering, the move of the outdoor market to the main shopping streets is set to remain a temporary measure.

Henry Boot Construction, the lead contractor, was onsite when ground was broken in October 2023 and 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.

The redevelopment has meant that outdoor markets have been moved temporarily onto nearby streets, a move which has proved popular with some. The indoor market remains open.

Cllr. Robert Taylor, Cabinet Member for Transport, Jobs and the Local Economy at Rotherham Council was recently asked about the move.

Cllr. Taylor explained that trader numbers had been good but added that this could be "partially due to the financial support for traders during the redevelopment the Council has put in place in the form of reduced rents."

For street markets, logistical demands on staff and the impact of bad weather were also discussed. A number of on street markets have had to be cancelled due to high winds.

Since work began, traders in the indoor market have experienced a loss of footfall and trade as a result of closure of entrances and loss of connectivity with the outdoor covered market, which traders say has been exacerbated by the expansion of on street trading.

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Cllr. Taylor, added: "The completion of the market redevelopment presents an opportunity to offer a more stable and sustainable environment for both traders and customers.

"The scheme is being developed to accommodate the needs of our market community, providing improved infrastructure, better amenities and a more comfortable shopping experience that will help the market flourish and benefit the town centre as a whole. In the long-term I believe this will be welcomed by customers and traders. It therefore remains our preference that the move of the outdoor market remains a temporary measure although we are exploring the opportunity to add street markets where possible."

Rotherham Council is using £38,000 coming via the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) for a study which will include more trader, stakeholder and public engagement.

A council paper signing off the appointemnt of specialist consultants states: "While the capital investment in the fabric of the building is vital, it is essential the future operations of the market are fit for purpose and responsive to the current and future needs of a modern market facility.

"Since the works on site, and consultation with traders commenced, there have been changes to the way the market operates and the way people are using it. The information gathered has highlighted an opportunity to review the future market model, with the view to creating a new more diverse destination with a wider scope of activity and greater income generating opportunities."

With an ambitious concept for the new market and food hall, the strategy could include additional ad-hoc markets on street (food markets, continental markets, etc) that would complement and add to the core offer within the new market building.

Images: RMBC

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News: Gulliver’s Theme Parks scoop national award

Gulliver’s Theme Park Resorts is celebrating after winning a prestigious award at a national awards ceremony.

The family-owned company, which has resorts Gulliver’s Kingdom in Matlock Bath, Gulliver’s World in Warrington, Gulliver’s Land in Milton Keynes and Gulliver’s Valley in Rotherham, walked away with a Gold award for Best Theme Park for families at the UK Theme Park Awards.

In addition, the Land of Light lantern festival which runs each winter at Gulliver’s Land in Milton Keynes and Gulliver’s World in Warrington won in the Best New Event category.

Gulliver’s Theme Park Resorts was founded by Ray Phillips and his late wife Hilary, who opened the family’s first theme park, Gulliver’s Kingdom in Matlock Bath, in 1978 - beginning a life-long passion for the family to provide great value days out and short breaks to generations of children across the UK.

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Today, the company boasts four parks across the UK aimed at families with children aged two to 13-years-old and each offering a great variety of rides, attractions and accommodation options, as well as a calendar packed full of special events throughout the year.

The Gulliver’s business is now headed up by Ray and Hilary’s daughter, managing director Julie Dalton, along with her brother Nick Phillips, who is also a director.

Julie said: “We are delighted to have won the Best Theme Park for families at the UK Theme Park Awards. As a family-company, we strive to continually innovate bringing new ideas and activities for our guests to enjoy whether that be a visit to our theme park or a short stay break in one of our fabulous themed accommodation options. Creating magical memories and experiences for all the family is really at the heart of what we do so it means a lot to the entire Gulliver’s team when we are recognised by the industry in this way.

“To also get the gold award for best new event for Land of Lights is fantastic and just shows how well received the event has been. We can’t wait for the festivals to open again this November at both Gulliver’s World and Gulliver’s Land.”

Gulliver's Valley website

Images: Gulliver's

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News: Which Rotherham town centre sites could be next for development?

Rotherham Council has identified a number of sites that could build on the foundations of a reinvented town centre, with more new multimillion pound developments and regeneration projects.

A number of new residential developments and a new theatre are possibilities.

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 and moving away from the traditional retail market. It also highlighted the need for derelict and long-term vacant sites to be brought into public ownership.

The council has been successful in acquiring a number of sites and securing funds from various regional and national pots. Its most recent major housing development was the £30m+ "Trilogy Collection" - Westgate Riverside, Wellgate Place and Millfold Rise - that has seen 171 new homes built in partnership with Willmott Dixon.

The cinema and hotel have also recently opened as the anchor tenants at the Forge Island development, which the Council has fully-funded having acquired the site of a Tesco supermarket.

A recent council report confirms that the next phase of development is underway and involves Snail Yard, where a temporary pocket park is replacing a demolished former Primark on the High Street, but the long term aim has always been to use the site for development, potentially for residential.

Work is also underway 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.

And on Corporation Street, burnt out buildings are being demolished to make way for a potential £6m residential led mixed-use development.

As for future phases, the council reports highlights a number of sites:

- Riverside Residential Quarter Phase 2
- Bailey House
- 2 Corporation Street, former Mecca Bingo
- 30 – 32 Corporation Street, former Lloyds and NatWest Banks
- The Statutes

With £3m coming from the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA), Rotherham Council has set up a £600,000 "Feasability Fund" to develop the "first stages of planning and feasibility for a programme of interventions which seeks to secure a future for these sites and meets the Council’s longstanding aims for regeneration of the town centre as a vibrant and successful place."

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The projects will be designed to build on the mixed use, commercial and residential offer in the town centre and will tie in to the Council's place-based investment strategy that was signed off in 2023.

For the town centre, the strategy includes things like a new £28m theatre and town centre health services to go alongside the £47m Forge Island lesiure scheme and the £36m revamp of the markets and new library.

The strategy also includes residential developments earmarked for The Statutes, where Rotherham Council acquired the site of the former Magistrates' Court, and on parcels of land acquired along Sheffield Road.

Lorna Vertigan, Head of Regeneration at Rotherham Council said: "The Council’s success in securing public funds and its own investment in the town has attracted private sector interest in investing in the town’s future. This is increasingly resulting in Rotherham being seen as a place to do business.

"A cluster approach is considered necessary to create a sufficient quantum of development potential to tackle viability, and to create a greater sense of place in the town centre.

"Now is the time to capitalise on this interest and the strong progress made to date, to bring forward ambitious plans that will create a new community in the town centre, bringing with it a sense of place and long-term positive legacy for the town centre.

"A programme of redevelopment is to be scoped, which will ultimately see the regeneration of town centre sites to create a mixed use, commercial and residential offer. Bringing in a new community which supports and builds on the momentum of Forge Island and other regeneration interventions to bring greater footfall and end users.

"Over the last two years the Council has taken a key step in realising its vision for growth by securing a number of stalled, underutilised and derelict sites in order to bring them into positive use. This funding allocation will accelerate the first stages of planning and feasibility for a programme of interventions which seeks to secure a future for these sites and meets the Council’s longstanding aims for regeneration of the town centre as a vibrant and successful place."

The next steps involve working up planning applications and a procurement business case to appoint a developer for the first phase of sites - Snail Yard, Riverside Residential Quarter and Corporation Street.

A previous tender exercise for the £6m scheme on Corporation Street received no interest, likely due to the smaller size of the scheme.

Images: RMBC / Google Maps

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News: Floorcoverings group acquired

A Rotherham-based designer, producer and supplier of high-quality commercial carpet tiles has been acquired in a management buy out (MBO), backed by Nimbus, the Pan European investor.

Paragon Carpet Tiles is based in Manvers and makes up part of National Floorcoverings Group (NFG).

NFG consists of four market facing divisions Heckmondwike, Paragon, Playrite and Mat.Works and has been under family ownership for over 60 years. In that time NFG has dominated the educational sector with its flagship fibre bonded product Supacord whilst continually developing and introducing new product lines to appeal to wider commercial offices and sports organisations.

The acquisition by Nimbus, which has offices in Munich, Zeist and Leeds, represents the first UK investment out of its new Fund V investment vehicle following the successful exits of two UK manufacturing businesses earlier in the year.

Nimbus have supported the incumbent Managing Director David Rhodes and his Management Team in leading a management buy out. Mr Rhodes commented “This investment marks an exciting new chapter for the group and we are looking forward to working with Nimbus who have an excellent track record in supporting UK manufacturers adapt to ever-changing commercial landscapes”.

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David Keenan, who led the investment for Nimbus, added “NFCG holds a very strong market presence in the UK and we hope to work with David and his team to advance further export opportunities whilst introducing new product ranges to our existing markets”. The investment comes swiftly after the successful exits of Paralloy Ltd and Hawthorn Timber Ltd for Nimbus which delivered market leading returns for investors. Nimbus continues to pursue traditional UK businesses with its hands on approach and capital transforming and future proofing their manufacturing footprints."

Looking ahead, NFG is focused on capitalizing on its manufacturing capabilities and exploring new market segments, including potential expansions into overseas markets where the demand for British-manufactured products remains strong. Through ongoing investments in operational improvements and product development, the group is well-positioned to continue its growth trajectory and uphold its tradition of delivering high-quality flooring solutions.

Paragon Carpet Tiles website

Images: Paragon Carpet Tiles

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News: The Reytons homecoming gig gave Rotherham economy a massive boost

The Reytons’ sell-out homecoming gig in Rotherham was a celebration of music enjoyed by people of all ages, and a big boost for the local economy.

A study by Sheffield Hallam University revealed that the event contributed an impressive £1m to Rotherham’s economy and £1.36m benefit for South Yorkshire.

The concert held earlier this summer drew thousands of attendees from across the nation, with some travelling from as far as Glasgow and Southampton. It marked the largest outdoor music event ever held at Clifton Park, attracting around 20,00 people.

Money spent by fans on public transport, food, drink, and hotels has all positively contributed towards keeping local businesses thriving, whilst putting a sense of pride back in Rotherham.

England’s quarter final Euros match against Switzerland was shown live on a screen at the opposite end of the park to the stage, providing people with another reason to head into Rotherham and join the excitement.

The Reytons performed for over an hour, featuring hits such as Slice of Lime, Red Smoke, and Adrenaline, finishing with Kids Off the Estate and a Disney-inspired fireworks display. It is the first band to play in the park since T-Rex in 1971.

Rotherham Council’s Cabinet Member for Social Inclusion, Cllr Sheppard, said: “I cannot sum up into words how incredible it was to have The Reytons perform in Clifton Park. The atmosphere on the day was thrilling and a joy to be a part of. Having the band here has done wonders for the local economy and given residents something to be proud of. Visitors have said that Clifton Park was an excellent venue, and the event was very well run so we will now be looking to see whether we can host similar such events in the future.”

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Fans took to social media to share their views on the concert.

One said: “We come from Warrington. The minute we got off the train station at Rotherham there were volunteers trying to help us. We went to Ginge’s Snap for some food and beer. The owner and her team were unbelievable, so friendly. We got the vibe the whole town was keen to make this work. Throughout the day the local people were helpful and positive. The whole day was brilliant, and I thought Rotherham really embraced the event and really made a couple of outsiders welcome. As a town you should be proud of yourselves. Well done Rotherham and thank you.”

Another fan added: “Wow what an amazing event. Over 20,000 people visited Rotherham which was great for many businesses, pubs, hotels, cafes etc and putting Rotherham on the map. Would be awesome to see more big festival gigs in Clifton Park as it proved it’s a great place for music.”

A third fan commented: “It was absolutely amazing! Professionally done with a great atmosphere. Thank you! Proud that this is our doorstep and a massive positive for our town.”

CLIFTON PARK LIVE ALBUM!!!!!!

We have beautifully captured all of the emotions, energy and harmonious chaos from that iconic night in Clifton Park! Featuring the voices of 20,000, the full show is ours to keep forever on Vinyl, CD, DVD and all streaming services worldwide from… pic.twitter.com/j2gSSHCqat

— THE REYTONS (@TheReytons) September 9, 2024

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

In approving the contract with the band and organiser, Rotherham Council said that it represented "support for a local cultural phenomenon of national significance, and will widen access to local talent for Rotherham audiences, strengthening civic pride." Positive press coverage and support for the local visitor economy were also big reasons for approving the gig.

The Reytons have recently announced that the Rotherham event will feature on an upcoming live album and video relase, and announced another UK tour.

The Reytons website

Images: The Reytons / facebook

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News: Contractor selected for £60m Rotherham school rebuild

Public consultation is underway on a £60m state of the art refurbishment at Wales High School in Rotherham.

Rothbiz reported in 2022 that Wales High School was one of 61 schools across the country to receive state of the art rebuilds or refurbishments that will transform education for their pupils.

With funding from the Government's School Rebuilding Programme the main school building at Wales is set to be completely rebuilt into a state-of-the-art facility. Since the announcement was made, the school has been working with the Department for Education (DfE) to agree on the educational design of the project and the timeframe for delivery.

DfE has chosen BAM as their preferred contractor for the project. BAM, will shortly be submitting a planning application for the development and have begun asking for views on the proposed development before finalising the detailed design.

Sharing the designs, the school said: "The existing school will be replaced and refurbished with energy-efficient designs with high sustainability standards and will be net-zero in operation. The project will transform the learning environment, supporting teachers to deliver high-quality education, so that students gain the knowledge, skills and qualifications they need to succeed.

"The works includes providing new hard and soft sports areas. The new teaching accommodation includes general teaching and science classrooms, together with a new main kitchen and dining space."

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Building work is due to begin in 2025 and the new building is expected to be completed in summer 2027. Demolition of the redundant buildings will follow, with all building works anticipated to be complete in Autumn 2027.

The project has been carefully planned to ensure the school can remain fully operational throughout construction and ensure minimal impact on neighbours.

A public forum is being held at the site on September 26 2024 at 4:15 – 7:15 pm.

Previously in the borough, BAM Construct UK was awarded a £10.9m contract to upgrade Maltby Academy. It also built the Advanced Blade Casting Facility (ABCF) for Rolls-Royce and the NUclear AMRC, both on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP).

Last year, Rothbiz reported that Swinton Acadamy in the north of the borough had also been successful in the School Rebuilding Programme.

Wales High School website

Images: BAM

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News: Holtec selects South Yorkshire for Small Modular Reactor factory

South Yorkshire is set to become the new home of US nuclear energy company, Holtec’s planned new Small Modular Reactor (SMR) factory - a £1.5bn investment that is set to create hundreds of well-paid and highly-skilled jobs.

Earlier this week, the US’ largest nuclear components exporter signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for ‘Cooperation on Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Technology’ with The University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) on a visit which took in facilities on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham.

The MoU shows Holtec's desire to service the UK domestic market with R&D, jobs and a fully integrated supply chain. Holtec’s SMR factory targets 70% of materials, components, and services are procured within the UK, and particularly South Yorkshire, meaning significant supply chain opportunities.

After a process that involved 13 locations which were shortlisted down to four around the UK, Holtec Britain – who have been working at Sizewell B for over 15 years and in the UK for nearly 30 years – chose South Yorkshire as the location for its new SMR factory to serve the UK, Europe and the Middle East.

Holtec’s decision comes after Rolls-Royce SMR also chose South Yorkshire to become the home of its new multi-million pound facility earlier this year. Rolls-Royce SMR will manufacture and test prototype modules for SMRs in South Yorkshire further strengthening the region’s clean tech cluster.

Oliver Coppard, South Yorkshire’s Mayor, said: “In South Yorkshire, we’re building on hundreds of years of innovation and engineering heritage to create world leading facilities, skills and expertise today; assets that will power the clean energy transition in the UK and beyond. We are right at the cutting edge of the new nuclear, hydrogen and sustainable aviation sectors, and proud to be home to the largest clean tech sector in the UK.

"That’s why Holtec have chosen South Yorkshire as the home of their £1.5bn manufacturing facility, because they recognise we are the new home of the emerging clean energy sector in this country. Their decision to invest in South Yorkshire has the potential to support hundreds of high-paying jobs, while their SMR Learning Academy will help train the next generation of nuclear engineers and experts.

"I promised to deliver a clean energy transformation and this decision is just more evidence of the huge and increasingly rapid progress we’re making.”

Gareth Thomas, Director at Holtec Britain, added: “South Yorkshire overcame stiff competition from other areas of the UK to be our preferred location for our advanced SMR factory.

“Holtec Britain was impressed by the resounding interest in our new SMR factory across the UK and the strong support received by the local authorities during our engagements. However, after a rigorous process, South Yorkshire was finally selected as our preferred location.

"In addition to the technical, supply chain, training, and logistics criteria for the formal evaluation, we were also impressed by the history and pride of the people we met during our visit to South Yorkshire, which demonstrated the workforce really cares about the quality and reputation of their work. For Holtec, that translates to a workforce that can be trained and will remain committed to delivering the high-quality nuclear products that Holtec, and our customers, demand.

"Holtec has been part of the nuclear ecosystem in this country for many years and is absolutely committed to creating high-quality local jobs, supply chain opportunities and partnerships that will help South Yorkshire and the UK grow and prosper. Our new UK factory is central to that commitment. Holtec is working to finalise its factory business plan to support its Final Investment Decision, based on its UK and international order book.

“Holtec’s SMR-300 is a PWR reactor enabling the factory to also produce large naval reactor components to not only support the country’s energy security, but also its national security."

A location within South Yorkshire has yet to be announced. Holtec's website states that it will be a 20 Ha factory that would produce 2-4 reactors per year, valued at £1-2 billion each. Construction will generate around 3,600 jobs, and manufacturing will sustain up to 400 jobs annually.

Holtec Britain website
AMRC wesite

Images: Holtec / AMRC

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News: Rotherham Council set to spend a further £20m on active travel schemes

In the same week as contractors celebrated the completion of two transport schemes in Rotherham, the local council has begun contracting for two more projects.

The Broom Road / Wickersley Corridor Sustainable Transport Scheme has a contract price of up to £8m.

Here the project includes work at Stag roundabout, sustainable travel measures on Wickersley Road, the extension of the recently completed Broom Road cycleway, and an Active Travel Scheme in the Moorgate area.

Contract documents explain that work will include the provision of bilateral unidirectional cycleways and bus priority measures from the new Broom Road layout to Brecks Roundabout, as well as associated improvements to crossings and junctions.

At Stag Roundabout segregated cycle routes and controlled crossing facilities would be introduced on each arm of the roundabout. These facilities will connect into the new cycle routes that are proposed on the A6021 Wickersley Road arms of the junction whereas transitions onto the carriageway will be provided onto the northern and southern A6123 arms.

In the Moorgate area, the active travel scheme will include traffic calming measures on Broom Lane, Brunswick Road, Beaconsfield Road and Broom Valley Road to reduce traffic levels, speeds and manage on-street parking in areas that are served by Broom Road cycleways.

Esh Construction Ltd has been awarded the contract for stage 1 (Design and Pre-Construction) which is expected to be completed within 12 months, with an option to extend into stage 2 works for an estimated 18 months.

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A second contract, worth up to £12.2m, sets out the creation of a sustainable transport corridor incorporating Fitzwilliam Road and St Anns Roundabout at Eastwood, on the edge of Rotherham town centre.

The Fitzwilliam Road scheme will seek to introduce bus priority lanes and separated cycle lanes and St Anns roundabout is being redesigned to enhance pedestrian and cycle facilities.

Rothbiz reported back in 2020 on council ideas for filling in the underpass at St Anns with the creation of better, at grade, connections for pedestrians and cyclists.

The latest contract also includes improvements to the adjacent Eastwood and Herringthorpe neighbourhood.

Similarly, Galliford Try Construction Ltd has been awarded the contract for stage 1 (Design and Pre-Construction) which is expected to be completed within 12 months, with an option to extend into stage 2 works for an estimated 18 months.

Across the borough, £1.05m of development funding has recently been released by the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) to Rotherham Council to work up an improvement scheme at Ickles roundabout at Templeborough.

Funding is coming from the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlements (CRSTS), £570m from the government to the region to bring significant improvements to South Yorkshire’s transport system.

SYMCA's Active Travel Implementation Plan sets out how, by 2040, a fully connected network of walking and cycling routes will link the region, transforming communities and ensure that people have the means and the confidence to leave their cars at home, and choose to travel on foot or by bicycle.



Images: Google Maps

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News: Backer to the future

A planning application has been submitted that would see the redevelopment of the former Backer Electric building in Rotherham.

Rothbiz reported at the end of 2023 that the Eastwood company was acquired by Heatrod Elements at the same time as a move to new premises accross Rotherham to Dinnington.

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

The previous premises at Chesterton Road have a distinctive art deco look and the new proposals for the site include alterations and part-subdivision of the existing site into 19 individual commercial units, predominantly for individual storage.

With limited demolition at ground level, the plans, drawn up by Urbana planning consultants for applicant Mr K Khan, add: "Importantly, the shell of the existing building structure will be used and there will be numerous physical changes to the exterior of the building with new window and door openings provided."

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The building is currently part-used and part-vacant and has undergone a number of alterations approved in the 1980s. In 2004 and 2007 the site had an outline approval for a hotel/restaurant/hot food takeaway and petrol station. However, this was never implemented and the applications have expired.

The plans conclude: "It is clear from the above discussion that the development of the site is therefore asserted to be sustainable environmentally, socially, and economically. The proposals will yield benefits on these fronts through the transformation of a significantly underperforming site that currently does little to make a positive contribution to its locale, to one that will extend the ongoing revitalisation of its surroundings.

"Social sustainability will be derived from supporting the employment opportunities in Rotherham and beyond. The sustainable central location minimises the need for motorised travel and therefore also has considerable environmental sustainability credentials."

Work to update the adjacent dilapidated Peck House has taken place.

Images: Urbana

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News: Contractor celebrates completion of Rotherham transport schemes

Esh Construction has completed two key active travel projects in Rotherham that are designed to make it safer and more convenient for pedestrians and cyclists to travel into and around the town centre.

Known as Sheffield Road Cycleways and Maltby Bus Corridor and delivered on behalf of Rotherham Council, the £6.4m scheme will provide Rotherham’s residents with more opportunities to undertake journeys by bus, walking and cycling in line with the active travel initiative.

The Sheffield Road Cycleways project has delivered over 2km of new cycle routes on the A6178 Sheffield Road and Westgate between the town centre and the borough boundary at Tinsley. The route will provide a near seamless connection for cycling from beyond Meadowhall through to the Broom area.

Rothbiz reported how Rotherham Council was forced to explain the new road layout on Westgate and Sheffield Road which has introduced a single carriagway with cycle lanes that are not mandatory and instead indicate to drivers the distance they should leave when passing cyclists.

Maltby Bus Corridor has seen the installation of 2.8km of new bus lanes and new signalised junctions with pedestrian crossings along the 8-mile route from Rotherham to Maltby. The bus corridor will bypass areas of congestion on the A631 route into the town centre and enable faster and more reliable services, particularly those linking Maltby to Rotherham and onwards to Sheffield city centre, Magna and Meadowhall.

Esh’s Divisional Director, Steven Garrigan, said: “We are pleased to bring another two schemes to successful completion in collaboration with Rotherham Council, in line with the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority’s active travel targets.

“These types of projects require extensive logistical planning while working across online travel networks and commuter routes. Having already completed the Wellgate and Broom Road active travel project, we have created the foundations for better connectivity to the town centre and the surrounding areas.”

Councillor Robert Taylor, Cabinet Member for Transport, Jobs and the Local Economy at Rotherham Council, said: “It’s so important to consider the needs of all highways users. The Maltby Bus Corridor scheme improves journey times for bus users on the A631 corridor between Maltby and the Bramley Roundabout for the M18. The Sheffield Road Cycleways scheme gives cyclists new cycle tracks between the borough boundary and Westgate in the town centre, and improves conditions for pedestrians. Two exciting schemes completed to a high standard giving Rotherham residents improved transport options.”

As part of its Constructing Local strategy, Esh re-invested £1.3m in the South Yorkshire region through responsible procurement on the Sheffield Road Cycleways and Maltby Bus Corridor project.

Esh Construction also provided 479 hours of school engagement through its partnership with Better Learners Better Workers and RNN Academy. A total of 97 apprentice weeks were delivered and seven local residents were employed to work directly on the scheme.

Funding for the Sheffield Road Cycleways project and the Maltby Bus Corridor was secured via the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority with monies from the Government’s Transforming Cities Fund.

Eah Construction website

Images: ESH

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News: Fit Out UK given OK to fit out new Rotherham facility

Fit Out UK, a leading interior fit out and logistics service provider, has secured planning permission to redevelop a prominent vacant industrial property in Rotherham.

Established in 2000, the company operates throughout the UK with offices in London and Sheffield and serves an impressive client list featuring Lloyd’s Bank, PureGym, Sainsbury’s, Argos, Tesco and Westfield.

Taking on "Hellaby 90" - the former home of Eldon before its acquisition by nVent and relocation accross the borough to Woodhouse Link - Fit Out UK has secured permission for a for a phased development.

The first phase will see the construction of a new unit to the rear of the altered existing unit which will remain operational. The second phase will then comprise the demolition of the existing unit and the extension of the new unit to create one single, larger unit of 156,000 sq ft.

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Plans explain that the site is currently used by the applicant as a storage and distribution centre, however due to demand the current facilities have become inadequate and a larger centre is required.

Analysis by local commercial property agents, Knight Frank shows that the property was acquired for £4.85m in 2023.

Fit Out UK already has an 80,000 sq ft joinery, metal fabrication and powder coating facility plus 400,000 sq ft of warehousing space across facilities in London, Sheffield and Doncaster.

The application for a modern unit alongside the M18 was approved without going to the planning board with planning officers at Rotherham Council concluding that there would be no severe impact on the surrounding highway network as the the overall trip impact at M18 JN1 "is likely to be less than 30 two way trips and therefore will not have a material impact in this location."

A local labour agreement between the applicant and the council indicates that 40 jobs would be based at the redeveloped Rotherham site.

Fit Out UK website

Images: Fit Out UK

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News: New £3m South Yorkshire Innovation Programme to help business innovate and grow

Rotherham businesses can access opportunities to engage in and benefit from innovation-led growth, driving innovation led activities.

The South Yorkshire Innovation Programme (SYIP), a collaboration led by Sheffield Hallam University with the University of Sheffield and Barnsley Council, is backed by £3m via the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) has been co-designed and developed with each of the four South Yorkshire local authorities.

SYIP will provide opportunities for businesses to engage in and benefit from innovation-led growth, driving innovation led activities. It will build upon a successful track record of delivering innovation support to SMEs in the region.

The programme will provide access to high-quality and bespoke innovation support including academic consultancy, innovation audits, student projects and placements, access to university equipment and facilities, events and technical workshops.

Support will be available to organisations of all sizes across all sectors based in South Yorkshire, including charities and social enterprises. Further details on the launch of the programme and how organisations can access support will follow later this year.

The project is one of several partnerships between Sheffield’s universities, local authorities and SYMCA aimed at driving economic growth and inward investment into South Yorkshire.

Others include the Sheffield Innovation Spine, a long-term spatial and economic strategy to create and link the infrastructure required to grow knowledge-led businesses and the Innovation Network South Yorkshire which brings together academics, businesses and organisations at free networking events to encourage collaboration.

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South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard, said: “We are getting on with the job of building a bigger, better economy in South Yorkshire. But we can’t build a new future without new ideas.

“That’s why it’s vital we bring together our world-leading universities and local authorities to help our local businesses harness innovation. The South Yorkshire Innovation Programme will help our businesses to create the future here, right here.

“I’m determined to build a South Yorkshire that works together to spread wealth, opportunity and success to all our communities.”

Professor Rory Duncan, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Knowledge Exchange at Sheffield Hallam University, said: “At a time of rapid advancements across an ever-increasing range of sectors, the ability to innovate and harness new technology is more important than ever for businesses of all sizes.

“Sheffield Hallam is delighted to be leading this new programme fostering stronger partnerships between academia and business. This collaboration aims to translate cutting-edge research and knowledge into tangible solutions that address the unique challenges of our region’s businesses."

Professor Ashutosh Tiwari, Deputy Vice-President for Innovation at the University of Sheffield, said: “The University of Sheffield has a proven track record of partnering with local organisations to drive innovation and boost economic growth. This collaborative programme offers an exciting opportunity to build on our successes.

“We’re very much looking forward to working closely with some of South Yorkshire’s innovative organisations to help them adapt and thrive as the challenges they face continue to evolve. Together, we can turn our world-leading research into practical solutions to address the region’s specific needs, while strengthening South Yorkshire’s position as a hub for innovation.”

Images: University of Sheffield

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News: Further funding required for finishing Rotherham regeneration projects

Regeneration projects in Rotherham are set to receive over £2m in order to progress.

In Rotherham town centre, work is finally underway at Snail Yard, a temporary pocket park that will replace a demolished former Primark on the High Street.

9-13 High Street was a large retail unit occupying a prominent location that Rotherham Council acquired and demolished in 2020 using funds from a £1m Towns Fund Accelerator programme pot.

Rothbiz reported last year that delays and rising costs saw the council cut ties with the appointed contractor for Snail Yard and instead, bring the work in-house to get it completed. Galliford Try Infrastructure was appointed as contractor for the £400,000 landscaping works in February 2022.

Updated plans were approved at the end of 2023 and work finally got underway in June 2024.

Now the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) board has approved a further £350,000 to go towards the total pocket park project costs of £920,000.

The funding is from Rotherham's gainshare pot. Gainshare funding refers to the money committed to South Yorkshire through the Devolution Deal agreed by the MCA, South Yorkshire local authorities and government.

After demolition, Rotherham Council had set out to complete a pocket park by September 2021 before targeting the Women's Euros in July 2022.

Meeting papers reiterate that long term plans are being explored and include such schemes as a residential led redevelopment of the entire site.

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A £1.78m grant from the same gainshare pot has also been secured for a regeneration scheme at Templebrough.

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

Plans were approved last year for the land between Magna and Sheffield Road confirming the demolition of the former "Cent" Building and the construction of six new employment units along with two food and beverage units.

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

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

34 jobs are set to be created.

South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard, said: “I’m proud that we’re investing in every part of South Yorkshire to help all of our communities stay near and go far.

“There’s talent and opportunity right across our region and by investing in our people and places I’m determined to unlock South Yorkshire’s full potential.”

Images: Tom Austen

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News: Rotherham specialist precision engineering company secures investment in 50th year

Alpenbury Precision Engineering Limited, a specialist precision engineering business based in Rotherham, has secured an equity investment from UKSE.

Based at Parkgate, the firm was established in 1974, specialising in providing bespoke engineering solutions to a broad range of customers across a variety of sectors. It prides itself on its precision engineering expertise and commitment to quality, with a primary focus on the production of critical machined components and gears.

The comprehensive range of products is widely used in rolling mills, foundries, forges, rubber mills, cranes, agriculture and in the preservation of vintage and historical equipment.

The investment has facilitated the buy-out of a joint shareholder and provides the foundations for the next stage in the company’s continued evolution and growth, with Managing Director, Chris Robinson, becoming the majority owner and UKSE acquiring a minority stake.

Chris has worked at the company for 17 years, starting as a Works Manager, and originally became joint owner following the unfortunate loss of his former colleague and previous owner at Alpenbury.

2024 marks Alpenbury’s 50th anniversary, a significant milestone that underscores the company’s longstanding presence and contribution to the engineering sector across the region.

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The equity investment from UKSE - an organisation which focuses on helping businesses in former steel areas with investments, loans and premises - was initiated through an introduction by accountant Mike Smith who produced the financial forecasts. The company’s accountant, Mark Smallman at Brearley & Co Accountants, provided business planning and advisory services, whilst Alex Ross at Bell and Buxton completed the legal work.

Chris Robinson commented on the transaction: "We are excited about the future of Alpenbury and grateful for the support from UKSE.

“This investment not only secures our future aspirations but also strengthens our commitment to our valued customers and the local community by creating new opportunities and continuing Alpenbury’s legacy.”

Pete Newton, Regional Executive at UKSE, said: “We are delighted to be able to support Alpenbury at a pivotal moment in its history.

“For UKSE, the opportunity to assist in the preservation of the tacit knowledge and skills embedded within local industry through the creation of highly-skilled jobs encapsulates the key motivation behind our investments.

“Chris’ passion for the Company and his craft is clear to see and I look forward to working with him and the team moving forward.”

Alpenbury Precision Engineering website

Images: UKSE

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News: Historic Rotherham building sold

A historic building on Rotherham's heritage High Street has sold at auction.

Cathedral Court, 22-30 (even) High Street in Rotherham town centre extends over three floors.

The building was one of many that were renovated with retail space below and new housing above when the area was a key part of the £5m Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI) scheme which was supported by funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and Rotherham Council.

Remembered by many as the former Muntus department store, the ground floor was also previously used as SNAFU rock bar. It is currently home to Rotherham Visitor Centre and the Maker's Emporium which offers low cost retail space for talented artists, crafters and makers to sell their products and raise awareness of their brands. Space for a stand alone "pop up shop" was also created.

Listed as an investment opportunity with Allsop auctioneers, the property, which includes 18 flats, sold for £660,000.

It is not a listed building but is within the Rotherham town centre conservation area.

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Particulars show that the ground floor and basement are subject to a long lease for a term of 999 years from 17th December 2020 at a peppercorn rent.

In 2012 the freehold of the bar was sold by leading business agents Christie & Co. based on a guide price of £275,000. In a separate deal, the first, second and third floors of the historic building went to auction in the same year with local auctioneers Mark Jenkinson giving it a guide price of £120,000.

Rothbiz reported in 2020 that the Maker's Emporium, initially funded by the High Street Renewal Award and delivered in partnership between Rotherham Council and The Source Skills Academy, was under review.

Other buildings listed as being for sale in Rotherham town centre include the Old Town Hall, which has a guide price of £1.5m, the Bridge Inn pub at £295,000 for the freehold and the vacant 2-4 High Street, which is available for £125,000.

Images: Allsop

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News: Plans drafted for new banking hub in Rotherham

Plans are progressing to reintroduce community banking services in the Rotherham town of Dinnington.

Rothbiz reported in February that LINK, the UK’s Cash Access and ATM network, announced the addition of a new banking hub in the town. The announcement followed a request from former 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.

A planning application has now been submitted by Cash Access UK Limited for new signage at 31-33 Laughton Road.

The former Lloyds Pharmacy is sitauted opposite to the Aldi supermarket and markets area that is due to undergo an £11m regeneration project.

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To date, LINK has recommended over 100 banking hubs, including ones in Wath, 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.

Each Banking Hub has a counter operated by the Post Office where customers can access services such as paying in cash and cheques, withdrawing cash and paying bills.

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

Building work is underway on the 23,500 sq ft unit but no opening date has been given.

In Wath, a temporary banking hub has been created at Montgomery Hall on Church Street.

Cash Access website

Images: MJB Commercial Property

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News: Safe, welcoming, green, and with accessible services and facilities - £20m vision for Rotherham town centre

Councillors in Rotherham have been given an update on how £20m of government funding could be used to continue the regeneration of Rotherham town centre, despite doubts being raised whether the money will reach the borough.

After a consultation period, the key themes of safety and security, high streets, heritage and regeneration, and transport and connectivity are at the forefront of local priorities with a number of objectives and potential schemes being looked at.

Rothbiz reported last month that the town's MP, Sarah Champion, and leader of the Council, Cllr. Chris Read, had written to the government regarding regeneration funding awarded to Rotherham town centre under the previous government.

In 2023 Rotherham was selected as one of 55 towns to be given £20m endowment-style funds to invest in local people’s priorities. A government deadline of August 1 2024 was moved and a submission date remains unconfirmed.

The Rotherham Town Board, a private-sector chaired board that oversees government spending in the borough, has been working on a new 10-year vision and 3-year investment plan relating to the £20m fund. An update was recently presented to the council's Improving Places Select Commission.

Setting out a geographic area and broad investment themes, the government also published a policy toolkit, a list of interventions that provide the opportunity for Town Boards to take bespoke, ‘off-menu’ approaches.

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For Rotherham, one of the main areas of investment is around "feeling safe." The report states: "Investment will contribute to the establishment of a 'Rotherham Town Team' with dedicated, cross-organisation resources and powers to bolster enforcement, providing a welcoming and reassuring presence in the town centre.

"The town centre team will increase capacity for both preventative and responsive interventions such as building and coordinating local intelligence, dealing with street drinking, anti-social behaviour and signposting people to support and services."

Under "social interaction" funding is set to go to events, activities and campaigns to attract more people into the town centre, encourage them to stay and visit again.

Tackling the number of empty buildings is also listed as a priority, supporting work that is already underway where the council is undertaking acquisitions, with potential grant schemes and managed refurbishment projects.

A new focus for the town centre is around improving services and facilities with the report stating that: "The primary focus for this work will bring health to the High Street. Objectives will ensure the developing town centre community has access to good health facilities as well as giving those from around the Borough another reason to visit the town centre."

Improvements to public spaces links to both regeneration and safety so investment could follow in more high quality, well maintained public spaces.

Under transport and connectivity, interventions in the report include active travel schemes and improvements for gateways and routes to areas such as Clifton Park and the new mainline station zone towards Parkgate.

Images: RMBC

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News: Martek Marine in £12m deal

Innovative Rotherham company, Martek Marine, has undergone a £12m management buyout (MBO).

Based at Manvers, Martek Marine is a leading international distributor of premium mission and life-critical safety, monitoring and medical equipment to the maritime industry.

The company was acquired by historic marine business, James Fisher and Sons plc, in a deal worth up to £10m in 2019. Now with the backing of £8m from private equity investment manager, Foresight Group, the new ownership structure is expected to unlock growth.

Founded in 2000, Martek has supplied more than 30,000 pieces of equipment to major ship operators based around the world. Products include a range of portable and fixed gas detection systems, defibrillators and water testing solutions. Martek is an expert at interpreting the complex matrix of maritime regulations. Twice a winner of the prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise and a holder of the ISO 9001 international quality benchmark, Martek has a strong market reputation and a loyal customer base. The Company provides guidance on health and safety requirements and delivers frictionless global fulfillment.

Martek launched with three employees and £6,000 in start up capital in the smallest unit in the RiDO-run Century Business Centre. In the year ended 31 December 2023, Martek had 60 staff in the UK and Singapore and generated revenue of £11.6m and profit before tax of £1.4m.

Foresight, which is one of the most active investors into growing companies across the UK and Ireland, will be supporting CEO Karen Bedford and the management team at Martek to achieve its ambitions as a standalone business.

With a strong track record of supporting business growth, Foresight will help Martek capture opportunities and fulfil its potential. Experienced business leader Nick Alexander has been appointed as the Company’s new Chair.

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Nick Mettyear, Investment Director at Foresight Group, said: “Martek Marine demonstrates all the qualities we look for when investing in a business. The Company has a dynamic management team, sells excellent products and has a deep understanding of the complex regulatory environment in the sector. This enables Martek to deliver a market-leading service to its customers.

“We are pleased to be supporting Karen and the team who are driven, focused and have unrivalled knowledge of the sector. We look forward to working with the team to unlock the growth opportunities.”

Karen Bedford, Managing Director of Martek Marine, added: “In Foresight we have the perfect partner who shares our values and vision for the Company. Martek Marine sells innovative products, which offer sustainable solutions for ship safety, performance and crew welfare. We are excited to return to the agility of independent ownership and secure the backing of Foresight.

“We look forward to working with our new Chair, Nick Alexander, who has an excellent reputation and will play a pivotal role in the next phase of our journey. We now have a formidable team in place to achieve our growth aspirations.”

New Chair, Nick Alexander, added: "Martek Marine has pioneering solutions, a global client base, excellent regulatory understanding and a highly energised management team. The market provides considerable growth potential. I’m excited to work with Foresight again, taking on the role of Chair and working with the team to help realise their ambitions.”

James Fisher & Sons said that the disposal was part of its strategy to simplify its business portfolio. The total consideration comprises an initial payment of £10.6 m and an unconditional deferred element, of £1.5m.

Martek Marine website

Images: Martek Marine

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News: Arc Cinema Rotherham officially opens

With the newly opened cinema taking centre stage, Rotherham Council is hoping that Forge Island will become a central hub for family-friendly activities.

The Arc Cinema Rotherham had an official opening last week having hosted a number of advanced screenings. It is the first cinema operating in Rotherham town centre since 1990.

The centre piece of Rotherham’s Forge Island regeneration project, work commenced on building the new multimillion pound cinema in January and since that time The Arc Cinema Group has left no stone unturned in a bid to bring a luxury cinema experience to South Yorkshire.

The new facility, features eight screens, has combined contemporary design, whilst also giving a nod to the golden age of cinema houses. Each screen is equipped with luxury reclining seats, designed to give film lovers the ultimate viewing experience.

The cinema also features two state-of-the-art HYPERSENSE screens. The latest development in cinema technology, the two giant wall-to-wall cinema screens have been carefully designed to provide the ultimate viewing experience and feature state-of-the-art 4K laser projection as well as boasting Dolby Atmos® surround sound to create a truly immersive viewing experience.

To celebrate the opening of The Arc Cinema Rotherham, throughout September all films can be viewed for just five pounds every Friday and before 3pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

Laura Vickers is the general manager heading up a new 30-strong workforce at The Arc Cinema Rotherham. She said: “The opening of a new cinema in Rotherham is arguably one of the most eagerly anticipated events that the town has seen for many years. We’ve received a terrific amount of support from across the whole community.

“We believe that visiting the cinema is an experience which can and should be enjoyed by everyone and we’re looking forward to welcoming film lovers to our brand new cinema."

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Brian Gilligan, Director, Arc Cinema Group, added: “From the outset, our aim has been to create a place that belongs to the people of Rotherham, just as much as it belongs to us.

“Rotherham is an area with a large population that has been underserved by cinema facilities for a long time. We hope that the opening of our cinema, will not only create a location where film lovers can enjoy the latest blockbusters, but in time it will become an important part of the local community.”

The Arc Cinema group is a family-owned business which operates twelve cinemas across the UK and Republic of Ireland. Since its formation in 2014, the company has specialised in bringing cinema facilities to populations that are under-served. The company places emphasis upon playing an active role within the communities it serves by engaging with local good causes, schools and community groups.

Families can enjoy a day of free entertainment and activities at Forge Island on Saturday September 14. Activities include live music, street performers, art, face-painting and the chance to meet and greet some famous faces – from Minions to Paddington – to celebrate upcoming film releases this autumn, as well as special offers, balloons and giveaways throughout the day.

Rotherham Council Leader, Cllr Chris Read said: “Our vision was always to create a family friendly destination and with our fantastic new cinema, plus the Travelodge hotel now open, and the multi-million-pound investment into the public spaces and wider development complete, we couldn’t let the summer end without inviting people of all ages to mark this milestone.

"We look forward to welcoming everyone down to explore Forge Island, which has such historical significance for the town, as we celebrate the start of its new chapter as a place for people from Rotherham, and beyond, to visit and enjoy for years to come.”

The council added that: "It is hoped that Forge Island will become a central hub for family-friendly activities year-round and the team are exploring options for more activities later this year, to complement other events across the town."

Arc Cinema website Forge Island website

Images: Arc Cinema / facebook

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News: Manufacturing breakthrough for Magtec

Rotherham-based Magtec, a pioneer in electric vehicle drive systems, has successfully completed two industrial research projects, both matched-funded by the UK government and delivered through the Advanced Propulsion Centre UK (APC).

The strategic programmes focused on the production scale-up of Magtec’s class-leading traction motors and controllers with the aim of transforming manufacturing processes and product designs to achieve volumes of more than 5,000 units annually and meet rapidly growing demand for electrification of commercial vehicles.

Prior to this activity, the Templeborough firm's innovative electric drivetrain technologies were firmly established within the electric truck, bus and commercial vehicle sectors, but with their complex designs and niche-volume requirements, assembly was primarily a manual process.

In 2020, the company secured match-funding of more than £5m through the APC’s Collaborative Research & Development funding stream.

Working in a consortium, which included transport OEMs Dennis Eagle and Angel Trains, the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) and the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC), Magtec was able to embark on a three-year project to reinvent manufacturing processes and future-proof manufacturing capacity while guaranteeing high quality and traceability.

Using advanced digital manufacturing principles, Magtec established new intellectual property that made its products easier and faster to manufacture at scale. This involved the introduction of new pilot production equipment, designed to prove-out agile automation while allowing for rapid reconfiguration, meaning all motor variants can now flow through the same production line with minimal disruption. Additionally, the project helped Magtec establish a robust UK supply chain for electrification, providing better security of supply as forecast volumes ramp up.

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In 2022, Magtec went on to secure additional APC match-funding of £2m through the Automotive Transformation Fund’s Scale-up Readiness competition. With this support, Magtec was able to reapply its acquired lean and digital manufacturing expertise to support the industrialisation of its controller systems, employing automation best practices, redesigning products and further developing UK supply-chain opportunities, to build a roadmap for volume manufacture of both motors and controllers.

Andrew Gilligan, managing director of Magtec, said: “Through the support of the APC, we are now better able to service fleets and OEMs in the UK, Europe and the United States as they transition to electric vehicles. We’ve transformed our manufacturing capabilities while maintaining the exceptional durability and performance that makes our systems ideal for demanding commercial uses.”

Matt Shillito, senior project delivery lead for the APC, added: “Magtec’s high performance electric drive train technology is now excellently positioned to seize a growth market opportunity. As demand for electric vehicles increases both for first-build and re-power applications, so does the need for versatile and effective powertrain systems like those offered by Magtec.

“Making these systems efficient and affordable is essential to enable decarbonisation of the range of commercial vehicles currently in use, while still delivering customer priorities like drivability, range and efficiency. It is exciting to see a UK company and its local supply chain partners gearing up to deliver these systems to the automotive sector at scale.”

Magtec website

Images: Magtec

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