News: How historic former foundry in Rotherham could be transformed into a high quality hotel

A planning application has been submitted for the redevelopment of the remains of a former foundry on the edge of Rotherham town centre.

Rothbiz reported in 2022 that a scheme to repurpose the former Guest & Chrimes foundry as an National / International music venue had fallen flat. Despite £4.5m of government funding being on the table, the council was unable to reach an agreement with the landowner, Rotherham United Football Club.

Now the club's chairman, Tony Stewart, and vice-chairman, Richard Stewart, have submitted a planning application for a new hotel development on the prominent site which is alongside the AESSEAL New York Stadium.

Stewart Developments Ltd is seeking permission to convert and partly demolish the dilapidated existing Grade II listed building and link it to a new build property to create a new hotel.

The foundry use of the site ceased in 1990 and the building has been empty since 1999. The site was purchased by Rotherham Council for £2.6m from developers, Evans in 2010 and is now controlled by the football club which has a very long lease from the Council.

A severe fire at the former brass and iron foundry in 2018 meant that the front portion was subsequently demolished.

The site has been allocated for mixed use and whilst there is a preference for employment uses, it was identified that support would be given for proposals that are well integrated with adjoining uses, and which support the vitality and viability of the town centre. Feedback has already been sought from Historic England and Rotherham Council.

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Plans show that the 51,074 sq ft hotel would have 138 bedrooms and include a restaurant and bar.

Plans state that: "The proposed hotel use conforms with the mixed-use allocation of the site and would be sustainably located within Rotherham town centre and would help with the regeneration aspirations of the RMBC [Rotherham Council] for Rotherham town centre."

The largest northern range is set to be refurbished so that the hotel main entrance is located directly beneath the water tower. The lobby has been designed to lead to an impressive five storey atrium, with views up to the glass light box which is described as a "feature beacon." The brick water tower and iron tank would be sensitively restored before a crystalline lightbox is installed above which can be fully illuminated.

The northern range would also include a bar and restaurant which has the ability to extend outside onto the public realm during warmer months, whilst hotel kitchens, staff areas, delivery bays and stores lie further to the east.

The new build takes inspiration from the profile of the historic tap mechanism.

Plans, drawn up by CarneySweeney and stephenson hamilton risley STUDIO, explain: "The proposal includes the addition of a large new build element to the south of the northern range with a raised walkway connecting the two elements of the proposed hotel.

"The new build element will be ‘L’ shaped and consist of two wings. The vertical wing being four storeys in height and the horizontal wing would be three storeys. The new build will be clad in a brasslike cladding to reflect the historic industrial use of the Guest & Chrimes site."

The plans also include a new external public square with a water feature in the shape of the Guest & Chrimes Tap surrounded by seating as a meeting focal point.

Close to the River Don, the majority of the application site area falls within Flood Zone 2, however, part of the site, along the eastern boundary falls within Flood Zone 3.

A number of flood risk mitigation measures are in the plans. They include ensuring that the floor levels in the new building are raised above current levels. Only less vulnerable uses would be located within the retained building where the floor levels cannot be raised. Construction would utilise flood resistant materials and services would be placed as high as practicable to reduce impact of flooding. Flood defences have been discreetly incorporated into the design and surrounding landscape.

The plans only include seven car parking spaces but the applicants add that staff, guests and visitors of the hotel development will be able to utilise the existing Pay & Display public car park on the site.

If approved, it is expected that a total of 60 jobs will be created on site (32 full-time and 28 part-time jobs). Applicants add that "hotel guests will also increase expenditure in the Rotherham area, including shops and facilities in Rotherham town centre, which will in turn help to support existing jobs."

At present it has not been decided if the hotel will be operated under a brand, or if it will operate independently. A financial viability assessment provided for the developer demonstrates that the plans put forward with just the retention of one building is viable "if a higher quality hotel operator is targeted, and a higher quality development is proposed."

A heritage assessment has also been submitted detailing the status of the building and setting out the reasons for partial demolition. The retention of fire damaged blocks is seen as unviable with the plans concluding that: "Whilst it is evident the proposals will not result in total loss of historic fabric, it is at the RMBC’s discretion as to whether the merits of the scheme outweigh the degree of loss of the listed buildings within the Site. The proposed development that forms this planning application is considered the only viable opportunity available to deliver beneficial use."

The conclusion goes on: "This application represents the opportunity to regenerate the former Guest & Chrimes site into an exciting new leisure and hospitality development for Rotherham, its residents, and visitors.

"The sensitive refurbishment of the derelict and fire damaged grade II listed northern range will ensure this important building is not only preserved but will become a cherished heritage asset to be enjoyed by current and future generations. The skilfully crafted extension with its tap mechanism concept and brass inspired colour palette informs a unique piece of contemporary architecture conceived from the site’s rich history of industry and manufacturing.

"This application will enable the site to once again become thriving and successful, serving Rotherham and it’s neighbouring areas just as the original Guest & Chrimes complex did many years ago."

Images: Stewart Developments / stephenson hamilton risley STUDIO

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News: Metalysis increases Gen 1 research units by one third

Metalysis, the end-to-end manufacturer of solid-state metal and alloy powders and global leader in materials science, today announced the installation of three new Gen 1 research units - building on the capacity of the existing nine - so expanding Metalysis' first stage research capabilities by a third - in response to unprecedented demand from advanced industries such as hypersonics, defence, clean energy (nuclear fission and fusion) and space.

The company holds the worldwide exploitation rights to the FCC Cambridge process which sees specialist powder metals created in a simple, cost effective process with significant environmental benefits. With a Materials Discovery Centre on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham it also operates a site at Manvers.

Each Gen 1 can produce grammes of output per machine per run and is the first stage in the Metalysis product development process. The Gen 1s directly serve commercial clients’ advanced material development needs via producing low levels of output for proof of principle before the client’s requirements are elevated to Gen 2, then Gen 3, and potentially to Gen 4, which is capable of tens of tonnes of output per unit per year. The availability of different Gen’s for trial batches offers flexibility to customers, negating the requirement to place large minimum order quantities.

Each Gen unit contains a crucible of electrolyte (calcium chloride, more commonly known as rock salt) and traditionally a carbon anode, with variations in the anode possible dependent upon the off-gas being produced. The metal oxide acts as the cathode, and with heating of the rock salt between 650-950 degrees Celsius and a voltage applied, the oxygen is released, gravitating to the anode, leaving a metal sponge. This is then crushed, milled, and dried, giving a metal or metal alloy powder. The process is agnostic to oxide composition, meaning the Gen units are not constrained by product type.

The benefits of the Metalysis electrolysis process are that in contrast to traditional melting processes for metal alloy powder production, electrolysis uses much lower temperatures and less energy and is a single-stage process rather than multi-stage, such as titanium alloy production. Also, no hazardous chemicals are used during the Metalysis process. This gives substantial energy and yield savings and means that sustainability is built-in across the Metalysis production process.

The Metalysis process in contrast to melting is also highly adaptable, so bespoke materials can be produced as directed by specific customer demand.

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Demand is coming from the high entropy alloy sector and the growing commercial space sector.

High-entropy alloys (HEAs) are a new class of alloy that ushers in a revolution in metallurgy not seen since the Bronze Age. Traditionally, alloys are metals alloyed to one base metal. HEAs are an equal configuration of elements, which means new alloys can be constructed with the attributes of each metal spread throughout the new alloy – e.g, strength, ductility, fatigue, and corrosion, oxidation, and temperature resistance.

Nitesh Shah, CEO of Metalysis, said: “We are delighted to be expanding Metalysis’ development capabilities by increasing the number of our Gen 1 units by a third. This need for substantial expansion is led by our partners and potential partners – particularly in the hypersonics and space sectors – who have sourced Metalysis as their global partner for the development and commercial supply of advanced novel materials. As these innovative sectors grow, the need for novel advanced materials increases, and our Gen 1 units will allow us to work with partners on the required physical properties and chemical compositions of their advanced materials.

"Metalysis recently purchased a spheroidiser for in-house production of spherical powders and this expansion of our Gen 1s further expands our in-house capacity."

Rawmarsh and Consibrough MP John Healey recently visited Metalysis’ manufacturing centre in Wath. He said: "The company has an important part to play in the country’s critical metals sector through its production of metallic and intermetallic powders and alloys that can be used in a range of different products and sectors.

“I’m looking forward to hearing more about the company’s success in the future as it continues to expand in the years to come.”

Metalysis website

Images: Metalysis

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News: New investment aims to boost visitor numbers in Rotherham town centre

Rotherham Council's new budget for the next financial year includes proposals for two new initiatives around parking and safety that are designed to attract more visitors into Rotherham town centre.

Thanks to an additional £1.3 billion in government funding for councils, Rotherham will benefit from a £14m boost in 2025/26—one of the largest funding increases for local councils in the country. The council said that "While this extra funding is welcome, it comes against the backdrop of years of austerity, inflation, and growing pressures on local services."

One key investment in the budget for 2025/26 is £570,000 to launch a new "Street Safe Team" focused on increasing safety in town and village centres.

This uniformed team will target high footfall areas including Rotherham town centre, and the principal towns of Dinnington, Wath, Maltby and Swinton, using local intelligence to tackle issues and offer a reassuring and familiar point of contact for residents and visitors.

A paper to the council's cabinet adds: "Negative perceptions of the town centre are seen to have a significant impact on people choosing to spend time in the town centre and when they do, not fully enjoying the experience, which is improving because of the Council’s focus on regeneration.

"The new "Street Safe Team", funded by this investment, will have dedicated resources and the ability to deploy various powers to bolster enforcement. Alongside existing uniformed officers, they will provide a welcoming and reassuring presence in the town centres.

"A highly visible team, they will act as the eyes and ears of the Council and will be expected to identify and report issues where they are unable to intervene directly. The team will focus on making best use of intelligence data and information in order to target resources and problem solve Community Safety issues."

The team will deal with issues such as street drinking, anti-social behaviour, parking enforcement, as well as enforcement for issues such as littering and wider environmental issues.

With investment in a dedicated team, the aim is to reduce both actual and perceived crime and increase feelings of safety. Rothbiz reported in September that this issue was fedback through the consultation for a £20m Long Term Plan for Towns where the idea of a coordinated town centre team made it into the draft plan.

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£50,000 has also been budgeted by the Council to offer free parking for the first hour in Council-operated car parks in the town centre. This scheme aims to "support local businesses, boost footfall, and encourage residents to shop locally."

Free parking is already offered in the town centre at all Council Off-Street car parks on Saturdays and Sundays and on street after 6pm.

A price freeze is also expected at Drummond Street, Wellgate North, Wellgate Multi Storey, Douglas Street, Unity Place, Westgate, Clifton Hall, Forge Island and Scala, ahead of the major developments planned in future years. A small increase in parking charges is listed at Clifton Park where £33,000 is set to be spent improving the overflow car park which can also double as an event space.

The move comes as the authority continues to report that the ongoing economic impact on Rotherham town centre footfall continues to see a reduction in income from parking charges.

Across the borough, investment is being made to improve the council's business centres, extend the Employment Solutions programme, drive forward negotiations and bring the Bassingthorpe Farm site to delivery, and invest in flood protection for Catcliffe.

The Council is proposing a 3% Council Tax increase and budget proposals will be presented to Cabinet on February 10, before going to Full Council for final approval on March 5.

Images: RMBC

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News: New electric buses having to return to depot on Rotherham routes

Further delays to a new charging system at Rotherham bus station has led to an inefficient schedule where new electric buses have to return to the depot to charge up.

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

The installation of pantograph chargers at Rotherham Interchange, which underwent a £12m refurb five years ago, has still not taken place.

£61,950 is now having to be found to cover the costs incurred by bus operators caused by the delays.

Government funding was secured by the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) for the Zero Emission Bus Regional Areas (ZEBRA) scheme and the first fleet of 23 zero emission electric buses arrived in the region at the start of 2024.

The brand-new electric Yutong buses have since 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 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.

Partners have previously expressed frustration with delays at Northern Powergrid in upgrading the substation at Rotherham Interchange and now Stagecoach are set to receive funding from SYMCA.

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An update states: "SYMCA has been working with Arup, Swarco and Northern PowerGrid to deliver the pantograph charging infrastructure at RTI [Rotherham Interchange]. Unfortunately, delays to the implementation of a new substation at the interchange has meant that the pantographs are not yet in operation, and they are unlikely to be in operation until the end of this financial year (current forecast).

"Rather than reduce service levels and provide a poorer service for customers, including reputational risk for SYMCA, Stagecoach have implemented an inefficient vehicle schedule to allow charging at the depot.

"Stagecoach have provided details that without the pantograph chargers a number of buses have to be returned to depot. This requires additional staff time as a direct result of the delays to the SYMCA project."

SYMCA's Executive Director of Transport has approved the extra £61,950.

For the project overall, 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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News: Could a bowling alley be in the frame for Rotherham town centre?

Developers have pinned down their early-stage proposals for a striking mixed-use scheme on a parcel of land that Rotherham Council deemed to be of "low strategic value and limited potential for income."

If the plans don't end up in the gutter, it could see the introduction of a bowling alley, indoor golf, a spa and wellness centre, and student accommodation, to Rotherham town centre.

In July last year, Rotherham Council agreed to dispose of property - a car park that it bought in 2020 - which sits between the George Wright Boutique Hotel and the former Primark building on the High Street.

To be sold at a price set by the district valuer, the authority agreed to the direct approach from the owner of the hotel. A new lease with the hotel operator (A3 Hire Hotels which is part of Consort Hotels) was being agreed and the freehold of the car park was required to ensure that they were not at risk of losing the car park for use by its guests.

The land at Snail Hill was listed in the latest capital receipts at Rotherham Council, netting the authority £88,000.

The site comprises an irregular shaped parcel of land with a tarmac surface, currently used as a car park. Also included within the proposed disposal area was the building below the car park, which includes a plant room at ground floor level and a large open plan basement area.

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Now an initial planning enquiry has been made to the council, seen by Rothbiz, for a four storey mixed use building complete with a basement car park and leisure area.

Plans show a two-floor basement area of around 8,200 sq ft for a bowling alley and indoor golf centre, with a reception area and offices, plus a car park.

Plans for the ground floor show a spa and wellness centre taking up most of the 5,000 sq ft.

The upper floors show proposals for student accommodation - 14 ensuite rooms and two kitchen / lounge areas on each floor.

Apllicants are asking for pre-application advice and guidance from the local authority before moving ahead.

The land off Snail Hill was declared surplus to requirements by RIDO, the regeneration arm of Rotherham Council. A 2024 report said: "The site is surplus to the requirements of the Council and there is little benefit in holding this interest due to the low strategic value and limited potential for income generation.

"The site is to be sold directly to the owner of the adjacent George Wright Boutique Hotel at a price set by the District Valuer. The disposal of this asset will produce a capital receipt and a contribution towards the Council’s professional fees.

"The disposal will support the continuity of the existing George Wright Boutique Hotel, with the operator / tenant stating they will only renew the lease if the freehold of the car park is secured by the owner to protect their interest."

The George Wright Boutique Hotel is a stunning and unique hospitality venue. The Grade II listed "hidden gem" of a building reopened as as a hotel, bar and restaurant in 2018 following a £500,000 revamp led by Mark Mcgrail, owner of SME Environmental Holdings.

Last year work finally got underway at Snail Yard, a temporary pocket park that will replace the demolished former Primark. After demolition, Rotherham Council had set out to complete a pocket park by September 2021 before targeting the Women's Euros in July 2022.

Long term plans are being explored and include such schemes as a residential led redevelopment of the entire site.

Images: Google Maps / Ernest Wilson

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News: Richards to step down from board at listed Rotherham firm

David Richards MBE, co-founder and non-executive chairman of Rotherham-based software company, IntelliAM AI plc, will step down as chairman and as a director as part of a planned transition.

With offices in Dinnington, IntelliAM uses AI models to proactively increase operating efficiency of the existing assets of the company's manufacturing clients. Richards believes that the company is responsible for "the best AI tech in the manufacturing/productivity sector" and in 2024 it joined the Aquis Stock Exchange Growth Market, raising £5m in the process.

The listing followed on from an initial fundraising with venture capital funding and tech knowhow from Yorkshire AI Labs, where Richards is a managing partner having previously founded and led a series of software businesses during a 25-year career in Silicon Valley.

IntelliAM AI said that the decision aligns with the board's post-IPO succession plan, which envisaged the tenure as chairman lasting for 12 months following the successful public listing. David will remain in the role of chairman for the next six months and provide continuity during a planned transition period.

David Richards MBE, said: "As Co-Founder of Intelliam AI, I am immensely proud of what we have achieved since the company's inception and during our journey to becoming a listed entity. The decision to step down as Chairman has always been part of our strategic plan, enabling me to focus on my role as Managing Partner of Yorkshire AI Labs, which remains fully committed to supporting Intelliam AI as a 20% shareholder.

"My belief in the company's vision, strategy, and leadership team is unwavering, and I look forward to continuing to support its success through my ongoing involvement."

The company collects vast amounts of data from the client's machines and operational systems which is processed through the IntelliAM platform to provide actionable insights that encompass a broad range of areas, such as productivity, reliability and supply-chain optimisation, as well as energy efficiency and sustainability.

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The share placing enabled the completion of a £5m acquisition of 53 North, a Dinnington-based provider of a broad range of asset care consulting and management strategies for manufacturers, particularly in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, including McVities (Pladis), Mars, Diageo and PepsiCo.

Leveraging 53 North’s existing clients, the six months from the IPO (initial public offering) has been a busy time for the group. Since IPO it has doubled the number of clients using the IntelliAM platform.

An extension to an existing agreement was announced with a large global leader in beverage alcohol, along with a contract win with Hovis.

It has also signed a Letter of Intent with Sweden's SKF, the world's largest bearing and lubrication systems manufacturer.

The group was also named as a Lighthouse for AI and received £263,000 funding approval for a research project.

Tom Clayton, Chief Executive Officer at IntelliAM AI plc, said: "We are pleased with the strong progress made in this first half, as we continue to execute on our strategic goals. The successful completion of our IPO and acquisition of 53 Degrees North Engineering have significantly strengthened our foundation, and we are starting to see the benefits of aligning our consulting expertise with the IntelliAM platform.

"The momentum we are building with our AI-driven technology is particularly exciting, as it positions us to deliver greater value to our growing customer base while enhancing recurring revenue streams. With a robust pipeline of opportunities and a clear focus on innovation, we are well-placed to drive further growth and continue advancing our vision for the future of AI in manufacturing."

IntelliAM AI website

Images: Yorkshire AI labs

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News: Solar farm plans for Rotherham energy site

Another planning application has been submitted for a solar energy project on agricultural land close to an existing wind farm in Rotherham.

Rothbiz reported in 2015 on Banks Renewables' (now OnPath Energy) plans for a 5MW solar photo voltaic (PV) scheme close to its Penny Hill wind farm site at Ulley, which sits to the south east of Rotherham and west of the junction of the M1 and M18.

With OnPath also developing plans for a £60m, 49MW project on green belt land to the west of the Todwick Road Industrial Estate in Dinnington, another firm announced proposals for land at Ulley earlier this year.

Applicants Abei Energy hope to install solar panels on two parcels of land which lie north and south of Carr Lane, which would be known as Piper Lane Solar Farm.

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With an operational phase of 40 years, the proposed development would comprise the construction and operation of an approximate 31.2MW solar array, 11.97MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), and its associated infrastructure on a site of circa. 31ha.

The installation will include approximately 50,700 state-of-the-art polycrystalline solar photovoltaic (PV) modules, capable of generating enough clean energy to power approximately 11,500 homes. This has been reduced from initial proposals that showed 71,500 solar modules.

Applicants say that the plans will address national and local support for renewable energy generation projects whilst supporting farmers and landowners to diversify. The plans add that sheep grazing could continue, minimising the impact on existing land use.

Regarding the green belt site, the application, prepared by Arthian Ltd, states: "The proposal is therefore considered to be an exception, as the benefits outweigh any potential impact, especially considering the national target of 100% renewable energy generation by 2030 and amendments to planning policy in relation to renewable developments. The proposal includes a shared agricultural use for sheep grazing, which will maintain the existing land use. The Application Site will be restored into its existing condition upon decommissioning, and thus any potential impact on the Green Belt will only be temporary in nature."

Plans conclude: "The Proposed Development will contribute towards the transition to a low carbon economy and national and local net zero ambitions. The co-location of battery storage will also maximise energy generation and security of supply. Environmental benefits will also be released by way of positive BNG [biodiversity net gain] through proposed landscaping and habitat creation."

Abei Energy

Images: Abei Energy

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News: Recruitment starts at new food outlets in Rotherham

A number of job vacancies are being advertised at the outlets planning to open at a repurposed former car showroom in Rotherham.

Euro Garages Limited (EG) received planning permission for the site at Templeborough in 2023. "Riverside Way Services" is set to be operated by EG On The Move.

The plans see the existing 9,000 sq ft showroom being converted into a petrol station building with an ancillary retail store and three food-to-go units. A coffee shop is being constructed in a seperate building to the south of the petrol station, with its drive thru lane running along its southern side.

Now recruitment has started for the site at Ickles roundabout, which has been empty since Burrows moved out to Wickersley. Rothbiz revealed some of the new brands last year.

Chaiiwala, which is known for its authentic Indian chai and delicious street food, is currently looking for a manager, assistant manager and supervisor.

Famous throughout the world and with a cult following, the Chaiiwala menu includes drinks such as Karak Chaii and Chaii Latte and foods such as desi breakfasts, aloo tikki burger and butter chicken roll.

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Sbarro is recruiting for a store manager and team leader to serve a variety of pizza flavours including Sbarro’s traditional cheese and tomato, pepperoni and Firecracker Chicken pizza as well as a range of sides including garlic breadsticks, and a selection of drinks and desserts.

Greggs and Subway have also posted vacancies for staff at the new location.

EG On The Move is a leading UK petrol forecourt and convenience retailer, operating a vast network of stores that offer a diverse range of products and services.

More outlets are planned for the Templeborough area. Local development firm, Primesite, secured planning permission in 2023 for a vacant parcel of land between Riverside Way and the River Don. Plans showed that the drive thru would be occupied by American coffee company and coffeehouse chain, Starbucks.

Two proposed food and beverage units have been approved to sit in an area known as "Magna Plaza" along with flexible commercial spaces further along Sheffield Road.

EG On The Move website

Images: EG On The Move

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News: Two year delay expected as council issues CPO for Rotherham regeneration scheme

A Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) has been officially published for a £12m Rotherham development project - the last resort for the local council in its attempts to secure the property required so that it can go ahead with its plans.

The documents show which properties Rotherham Council has been unable to acquire so far, an issue that has caused long delays to the much-needed improvements around the markets in Dinnington.

Documents also show that the authority is talking to the Government about extending the spending on the project from 2026 to 2028.

£11m in funding for the project was allocated by the Government in March 2023 and the funding agreement was received in June 2023 when Rotherham Council's cabinet approved the start of the scheme. A further £1m in council funding was allocated to the project in July 2024.

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. Planning permission was secured in September 2024.

However, the authority continued to warn that "protracted negotiations" with the private landowners has slowed the scheme down and officers have been preparing to use a CPO at the site.

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.

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A council report explains: "The development site identified is partly within private sector ownership and while considerable progress has been made in acquiring the land required, the Council has yet to reach agreement on a number of plots.

"Gateley Hamer, the Council’s appointed surveyors have been in negotiation with landowners since funding was approved in August 2023 and on the Council’s behalf made offers to secure the land within the site boundary. Such negotiations will continue throughout the procedural stages of the CPO.

"Construction of the scheme is dependent on the acquisition of the remaining land."

In the 2023 Budget, the Government announced that Rotherham would receive £20m for regeneration for Wath and Dinnington. It came after earlier bids for funding for the schemes were turned down twice.

The council report adds: "The funding deadline of March 2026 remains a risk to delivery. The Council has been invited to profile spend to March 2028 in the December 2024 return to Cabinet. All endeavours to progress the scheme at pace are being taken, including this CPO which will expediate the acquisition of property where private sector owners are unwilling to sell.

"In addition to appointment of a contractor and continued design and where appropriate works on site. Dialogue with MHCLG colleagues and where required Ministers will continue around the potential March 2028 deadline."

The order includes the details of the owners or reputed owners of the seven properties required. The outstanding interests the Council is actively seeking to acquire include 56 Laughton Road where Frinton-on-Sea's Shelby Investments Limited are the owners, the derelict retail premises at 32A Laughton Road where the Mugglestone family are listed as owners, and the band hall which is in the ownership of a group of trustees.

Images: RMBC / AHR

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News: Burnt-out, disused, poorly maintained, aging and dated - why Dinnington needs £12m regen scheme

A Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) has been officially published for a £12m development project with Rotherham Council explaining the need for the powers to be utilised in Dinnington.

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

A CPO is considered as a last resort and 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.

The order sets out that: "The existing properties comprised within the scheme land include: a burnt-out former retail building, a disused market hall, an off-retail pitch and dated outdoor market site, and a shopping parade that separates the high street from the market square and bus station. Many of these structures are poorly maintained, aging and dated and form a layout which is in conflict with and undermines the effective functioning of Dinnington town centre as a commercial centre."

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The outdoor market area is described as poorly maintained and the subject of numerous fires and anti social behaviour and an escape route for those committing crimes in the neighbouring shops.

The indoor market has been unused since the Covid-19 pandemic when trading ceased.

A 1970s parade of terraced retail units fronting Laughton Road is described as a physical barrier that has been allowed to deteriorate under multiple private ownerships.

The burnt-out building at 32A Laughton Road has been derelict since an arson attack in April 2019 which caused significant damage to the building. The order states that: "No effort appears to have been made by the private sector owner to maintain nor bring forward reuse of the property. In its current condition it presents a potential danger to the public and detracts from the remainder of the high street (Laughton Road) and is an eyesore."

The document goes on to discuss the plans for the area, which were approved last year. It adds: "The Council’s sustainable approach to improving the area will be centred on repurposing underused brownfield land and derelict buildings alongside investment in public realm to increase footfall to sustainable levels and restore a sense of pride of place.

"The Council believes that this major capital investment in high quality place making and investment in local amenities will increase confidence in the area and provide an attractive offer to local people that incentivises visits to the town centre and draws in local trade.

"Dinnington is one of the Borough’s “Principal Settlements for Growth”; however, the positive investment and growth in housing and employment sites has not, thus far, reached the traditional town centre shopping area.

"To deliver transformational regeneration and diversify the local offer, drastic change is required to create a multi-use area that provides a retail, community, and leisure offer."

Images: RMBC

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News: Welcome Break opens £55m services in Rotherham

After a slight delay caused by the weather, the new multimillion pound motorway service area (MSA) on the M1 in Rotherham is now open.

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 Irish firm, Applegreen, for a new development at Junction 33 of the M1 at Catcliffe.

The first MSA opening in over 20 years for Welcome Break, sees the company investing €66m (£54.7m) in Rotherham.

Brands include Starbucks, KFC, Burger King, Waitrose, a standalone Starbucks Drive Thru, Pret a Manger, WHSmith, Chopstix, The Good Breakfast, and a convenient forecourt.

Welcome Break said in a statement: "Designed to look and feel just like a Yorkshire village, Rotherham is a completely new concept for our estate and one that makes stopping at Welcome Break a truly unique and memorable experience for our customers.

"Alongside top of the range facilities and dining options, the new service area has created approximately 230 new jobs – building our world class team, significantly boosting the local economy, and supporting the local community."

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Plans showed a main amenity building measuring 32,000 sq ft with 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. The site also includes 458 parking spaces, 28 EV charging points and dedicated HGV driver facilities.

Joe Barrett, CEO of Welcome Break posted about the opening on LinkedIn. He said: "Last week we opened Welcome Break’s £55 million state-of-the-art new Rotherham Motorway Service Area (MSA). It’s Welcome Break’s first new MSA in 20 years and showcases an entirely new concept for the brand.

"The new services area will create about 230 new jobs and more than 500 people worked on the construction phase of the project.

"It has been a really mammoth task to bring Welcome Break Rotherham to fruition, and I’d like to congratulate the entire Welcome Break team and all of its suppliers and contractors who put in such a huge effort to deliver a wonderful product for our customers."

Adrian Grimes, Commercial Director at Welcome Break, said: "Opening our 60th service area in Rotherham is a testament to our commitment to enhancing the journey experience for motorists across the UK. This new site will not only provide a variety of dining and retail options but also play a vital role in supporting the local economy through job creation. We are proud to contribute to the Rotherham community and look forward to serving travellers at this strategically important location."

Welcome Break website

Images: Welcome Break / LinkedIn

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News: Rotherham office scheme wins approval

A significant regeneration scheme on remaining land at the Waverley development in Rotherham has been granted planning approval as work continues at the retail scheme nearby.

Rothbiz reported last year on plans by Harworth Group plc, one of the UK's leading land and property regeneration companies, for a landmark office development within their Waverley development.

The listed company is transforming the former Orgreave coal mining site into Yorkshire’s largest ever mixed-use development that also includes the iconic Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP).

Between the AMP and the housing development is an area known as Highfield Commercial. Close to the AMRC Training Centre, it currently includes residential development, a public house, a primary school, the proposed Highwall Park, the under construction new retail led mixed use centre known as Olive Lane, and a hotel which is also under construction - albeit work here has stalled.

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Plans include earthworks that cover 3.89ha to create three serviced development platforms with detailed plans submitted for the fourth plot that shows a 18,500 sq ft, two storey office, complete with 72 car parking spaces and a new landscape proposal that would extend the Highwall Park planned nearby.

The application was approved without the need to go before the planning board.

Planners were impressed with the proposals for the offices, stating: "In design terms the proposed two storey office building is considered to be of a high quality design, which provides a key frontage to the road as well as forming a Landmark corner building.

"The materials are also considered to be of a high quality including stone, Corten steel cladding aluminium framed curtain walling. The high quality design would provide a positive contribution to the visual appearance of the locality."

The design of the building has been centred on the site's past and mining heritage, as well as the local steel and development industries.

At Olive Lane, contractors, Lindum, continue work on the new high street within Waverley which would incorporate retail, leisure, office, community uses, outdoor events and pop-up market stall spaces.

Tesco has signed up for the scheme with an opticians and pharmacy also interested in taking space alongside a medical centre and community building.

Waverley website

Images: Harworth / Stantec / Harris Partnership / Lindum

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News: Noise concerns over Rotherham wedding venue plans

Concerns have been raised over plans to convert a former equestrian centre near a Rotherham village into a wedding and events venue, with council officers proposing that operating hours should be restricted.

Plans were submitted in September for the redevelopment of Laughton Common Farm into a Conference and Event Venue.

Located within the Green Belt, the site between Thurcroft and Laughton Common "presents a real opportunity for sensitive regeneration" according to the applicant, Michael Holdsworth, and planning consultants, Urbana.

Considered to be previously developed due to its former use for leisure activities, proposals include the conversion of the existing agricultural and equestrian structures and the provision of 95 car parking spaces to establish a leisure and hospitality venue designed specifically for hosting various functions and events.

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The plans state: "The venue is proposed to accommodate a wide range of events across the 13,497 sq.ft of floorspace, including but not limited to, conferences, parties, and weddings. The site layout will largely maintain the existing arrangement, with the addition of several purpose-built structures that are designed to sensitively integrate with the surrounding landscape, reflecting the form and style of the agricultural structures, as existed on site previously."

If approved, the venue would provide 15 jobs.

For inside the venue, the plans show a reception area, stage and seating areas, a bridal suite, a kitchen and associated spaces. Plans for outside include landscaped areas around a pond and outdoor seating.

The applicant has previoulsy operated an events business for 15 years and estimates that 50 weddings per year would be hosted at the new space. Open only when the venue is booked, operators are asking for permission to open on weekdays between 9am and 10pm and on weekends between 11am and 11pm. It is estimated that this will likely average out over the year at 2-3 days of the week.

Rotherham Council's environmental health department has raised concerns with the plans. It states: "There is concern that this proposed venue will introduce a new noise source to the area as it was previously an equestrian centre with minimal footfall, and only during the daytime period.

"The site is located within a quiet rural location and the business therefore has the potential to cause disturbance during the evening period due to customers coming and going. Noise would include raised voices, increased traffic and car doors slamming within the car park and on Common Lane. It is therefore necessary to further limit operating hours and ensure an appropriate Noise Management Plan is in place to mitigate against noise."

A proposed condition is that the premises would only be open to customers between the hours of 9am and 10pm, Mondays to Sundays.

Neighbours have also raised concerns over potential traffic impacts.

Images: Google Maps

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News: Recruitment underway at new Lounge neighbourhood café-bar in Rotherham

Loungers plc has started recruitment for a new opening at the Forge Island leisure development in Rotherham town centre.

Forge Island is the town centre's new landmark leisure destination delivered by Rotherham Council in partnership with Muse. The £47m development includes an 8-screen boutique cinema operated by The Arc Cinema and a 69-roomed Travelodge Hotel but new food outlets are yet to open.

Rothbiz revealed last month that Loungers UK Limited had applied for a premises licence for a unit at Forge Island, indicating that it would operate under the Lounge brand.

Now approved, the application is for the sale of alcohol, for consumption on and off the premises, on every day of the week between 10am and midnight and for the provision of late-night refreshment on every day of the week between 11pm and 12.30am on the following day.

Lounge, which currently operates at The Glass Works in Barnsley and Fox Valley in Sheffield, has secured the premises licence for the 5,618 sq ft Unit 4 at Forge Island, which is the largest of the remaining units. The purpose-built restaurant building overlooks the new landscaped area alongside the River Don.

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A potential opening date has not yet been announced but recruitment has now started and the first roles that the company is advertising includes a general manager, head chef and sous chef.

The job advert for the manager role states: "This is an exciting opportunity to join our new opening and become part of one of the most successful restaurant groups in the UK.

"You'll be responsible for leading your team to deliver 14 great shifts, taking full ownership so your Lounge is an amazing and unique place to work and a great place to be for the local community. You'll be making sure every customer leaves happy. Which they tend to do."

Like other new sites, it is expected that nearly £1m will be invested into the local area and around 30 new jobs are created.

The Lounge brand is designed to create "a home from home, offering delicious food and drinks, all day, on your doorstep." It is described as a neighbourhood café-bar combining elements of a restaurant, British pub and coffee shop culture. The offer includes breakfasts, brunch, lunch, dinner and drinks with a wide range including full kid's, gluten-free and vegan menus.

AIM-listed Loungers plc, which also operates the Cosy Club bar and dining concept, and Brightside roadside dining, is currently undergoing a buyout by an American investment group which places its value at £350.5m. It expects to continue to open around 36 new sites per annum with plans to open at least 400 more.

Lounges website

Images: Loungers

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News: Rotherham accountancy firm at 40

Brearley & Co, an accountancy firm in Rotherham, has been recognised with a Salute to Business award at the recent Barnsley & Rotherham Business Awards.

This prestigious award honours businesses that have made significant contributions to the local economy and community over the past 40 years.

The Barnsley & Rotherham Business Awards, hosted by the Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber of Commerce in association with Barnsley College, took place at the end of 2024.

Brearley & Co was honoured for its long-standing commitment to providing exceptional financial services to businesses and individuals in the region.

The award was presented by Amy Garcia of BBC Look North, who praised Brearley & Co for its dedication to client service, community involvement, and financial expertise.

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“We are incredibly proud to receive this award,” said Mark Smallman, Managing Director at Brearley & Co “It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team over the past 40 years. We are grateful for the support of our clients and the community, and we look forward to continuing to serve Rotherham for many years to come.”

Established in 1984 by the firm’s founder, Giles Brearley, Brearley & Co have grown from a single room to five buildings at their head office at Swinton, Mexborough and now have offices in Dinnington, Doncaster and Chapeltown. It advises clients across a range of sectors, including care homes and corporations and also has a number of local community sponsorships including Dinnington Town FC, fundraising for Rotherham Rise (now called Hopian) and for Bluebell Wood Children’s hospice.

Brearley & Co website

Images: Brearley & Co /BR Chamber

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News: Rotherham United's £5m debt with ASD

In the latest accounts of Rotherham-based manufacturing firm, ASD Lighting PLC, Rotherham United Football Club is listed as a debtor owing £5.2m.

Both ASD Lighting PLC and Rotherham United have ASD Lighting Holding Limited as their parent company, connected by Tony Stewart, the founder of ASD Lighting and the man who saved the Millers in 2008. The businessman brought them out of administration and has overseen promotions, cup success and a move to a new stadium in town, at the same time as a period of sensible financial management, not something always shared by fellow league clubs.

Based on the Barbot Hall Industrial Estate, ASD Lighting has a reputation for innovation and quality and provides a range of products for domestic and commercial installations.

For the year ending June 30 2024, turnover was reported as £19.8m, down from £21.3m in the previous year. Sales to the UK were £17.9m, down from £19.8m in 2023 but in the rest of Europe, sales increased to £1.8m from £1.3m in 2023. Included in the £1.8m to Europe were sales of £1.1m to ASD Lighting Europe Ltd set up to distribute and partner with customers in Europe.

The financial results added: "Gross Profit is £7.0m (2023 £8.1m). Against rising material, utility and labour costs the gross profit margin remains strong at 35% (2023 38%). Administration costs at £7.6m remained the same at last year with increases in staff related costs being reduced by saving in other fixed costs.

"The year resulted in an operating loss (before interest and tax) of £0.6m compared to a profit of £0.5m last year. Profit after interest receivable and tax is £276k (£755k 2023)."

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As reported by Rothbiz in March 2024, ASD Lighting continued to provide £1m in sponsorship and advertising to the football club when the Millers posted a loss before tax of £1.1m for the 12 months to June 30 2023.

The latest accounts from ASD show that the £1m in sponsorship continued in 2024.

Documents also show that: "At 30 June 2024 included within debtors was £5,204,737 (2023: £929,150) due from Rotherham United Football Club (RUFC) Limited. The outstanding balance is repayable on demand."

Also Included in other debtors is an amount of £12,961,391 due from R U Estates Limited, a company of which Tony Stewart and son Richard are directors. This is thought to have been established when the AESSEAL New York Stadium was constructed and all parties share banking facilities with Barclays.

The debt is split between £1m due within one year and £11,913,944 due after more than one year. The loan from ASD to R U Estates is unsecured and bore interest at 2% above base rate per annum until January 2021 when it began to bear interest at 1.15% above base rate. It is repayable over nine years in instalments.

Rotherham United's accounts for the period are due to be published within the next few months.

ASD Lighting website

Images: ASD

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News: Another office to resi conversion planned in Rotherham

Vacant offices inside a prominent building in Rotherham town centre could be converted into flats, under newly submitted plans.

A planning application has been submitted for 16 - 20 College Street in All Saints Square, with Woods End Developments proposing to convert the upper floors into flats.

The plans, drawn up by Ropergate Architecture Ltd, explain that it is for the "proposed conversion of existing office space at Ground (part for access), First and Second Floor Level into 9no. self-contained apartments." Plans show that seven flats would be 1-bed, and two would be 2-bed flats. The existing retail space at ground floor is to be retained.

In September 2024 the Freehold for 16 - 20 College Street went to auction with Allsop as a shop investment with vacant offices above. The property was given a guide price of £215,000 and was sold following the auction.

The building includes vacant former solicitors offices at 2,199 sq ft which benefits from its own entrance onto All Saints Square and two now vacant commercial units on the ground floor at 5,273 and 1,400 sq ft.

16 - 20 College Street is known locally as Davy's Corner from when it was the location of a shop and dining rooms.

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Across the town centre, plans have been approved for a similar office to residential conversion close to Rotherham Town Hall.

The plans, from Century Grove Ltd, are for the proposed internal conversion from another solicitor's offices to 16 apartments across three floors at 34 - 46 Moorgate Street.

Following negotiations, the scheme was amended to adapt two apartments into studio flats and to change one 2 bed flat into a 1 bedroom flat.

The council's Envirnomental Health team said regarding the change of use that: "The area is mixed commercial/residential in nature. A site visit has also been undertaken and it was evident that noise levels in this area were relatively low."

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.

Images: Google Maps

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News: Doughnuts are good to go, but tacos, no

Operators of a doughnut shop in Rotherham have been denied the opportunity to convert it into a hot food takeaway with council planners concluding that it would "fail to promote a healthier community."

Approved as part of a wider regeneration scheme close to Mushroom Roundabout at Aldwarke, the seperate drive thru unit has been occupied by Dunkin’ Donuts on Sycamore Road.

Sheffield-based franchise specialists, QFM Group, applied last year to make changes at the unit, admitting that Dunkin' had not traded optimally since moving in.

However, Rotherham Council has refused the change of use application that would enable a hot food takeaway to operate in the unit instead.

The application explained: "The proposed development relates to an existing unit, which has a drive-through facility optimally located near the junction of a busy radial and orbital route. However, the brand currently operated from the unit (Dunkin') has not traded optimally in this format and location and so does not make full use of the facility.

"Current operations could easily transfer into a unit in a nearby retail and leisure building owned by the same operator. Similarly, a brand in that building (Taco Bell) would benefit from the drive-through facility to attract further custom and create economic growth. It serves relatively healthy food, (rice dishes, etc.), but it is hot food."

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Refusing the application, planners point to the proximity of High Greave Junior School, 500 metres away on foot, and the Hutton Park campus of Rotherham Aspire Pupil Referral Unit (PRU) at 650 metres. Rotherham Council has a supplementary planning document that restricts hot food takeaways within 800 metres of a school or college, unless it is in within a defined town or district centre.

Applicants argued that: "trade is unlikely in respect of a primary school because its pupils are accompanied to and from school by their parents or guardians and are not generally allowed to leave at lunchtime because they are too young. In the applicant’s view, Inspectors at examination tend to amend similar development plan policies to exclude primary schools. High Greave Junior School is a 500-metre walk away across two busy roads, one a dual carriageway and the Council concurs that its pupils are unlikely to be allowed to make that journey."

Planners acknowledge that there is already a Taco Bell on the site but concluded that the proposal "is in direct conflict with adopted Supplementary Planning Document SPD5 ‘Equal and Healthy Communities’ along with paragraph 97 of the NPPF [National Planning Policy Framework]" which was updated in 2024 and is now "significantly more critical" of takeaway applications.

National planning guidelines state: "Local planning authorities should refuse applications for hot food takeaways and fast food outlets: a) within walking distance of schools and other places where children and young people congregate, unless the location is within a designated town centre."

Images: Google Maps

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News: Rotherham expansion moves for industrial specialists

Two growing businesses have expanded into a popular Rotherham industrial estate.

Specialist hire company RVT Group, which offers tailored solutions for dust control, fume extraction, ventilation, noise barriers, water treatment, environmental monitoring and climate control, has enlarged its depot facilities after taking 35,000 sq ft of industrial space at Vector 31 in Waleswood.

The company, started in 1993, had outgrown its existing unit in Chesterfield, while existing tenant Preformed Windings, which manufacture coils for high-voltage motors and generators, has expanded at the popular industrial scheme.

Preformed Windings' current unit, Unit C, spans 19,000 sq ft, and the new unit, Unit J, adds an additional 11,000 sq ft. The 60% increase in manufacturing capacity is to meet the growing demand for high-voltage diamond coils.

Officially opening the new unit, Rother Valley MP, Jake Richards said that the new unit comes as part of a £3m capital investment programme.

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Agents Knight Frank secured the unit for RVT, which has sites across the UK including two offices in Dartford plus branches in Northampton, Chester and Scotland, and also negotiated the move for Preformed Windings, which has more than 50 years of experience of partnering major OEMs and rewind shops worldwide.

Harry Orwin-Allen, surveyor in the Knight Frank Sheffield office, said: “Vector 31 is a prime South Yorkshire location and offers occupiers high grade industrial and warehouse units built to modern specification. Both companies needed extra capacity in high quality accommodation, and Vector 31 fitted the bill.”

RVT Group has grown from a small family-run organisation to a medium-size enterprise, with a long-standing team of experts meaning it has become one of the industry leaders in health hazard control.

It supplies products to contractors all around the UK and supports major contractors including Skanska, Balfour Beatty, Morgan Sindall, Kier, Willmott Dixon, Network Rail.

Preformed Windings employs a team of 80 highly skilled experienced staff to support customers in designing, manufacturing, and shipping high-quality coils. Its expertise includes spanning winding, insulation, coil design, and manufacturing precision and excellence, and is renowned for being the fastest coil manufacturers globally, excelling in short lead times for critical repairs.

RVT website
Preformed Windings website

Images: Jake Richards / Facebook

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News: Rotherham mainline station could be platform for 1,800 new jobs

Plans for a new multimillion pound station on the mainline in Rotherham show that it would be surrounded by business, retail, community and housing offerings which could generate 1,800 new jobs.

Efforts to secure land at Forge Way, Parkgate for an integrated station on the mainline and a tram-train stop are being undertaken whilst a masterplan is being developed.

Rothbiz revealed in 2024 that a blueprint for the regeneration of land in the station vicinity includes the development of an Innovation Campus to the West of the core station area.

New details, published in documents designed to attract prospective tenants to the Forge Island development in Rotherham town centre, highlight that a regeneration project based around a multi-platform rail station could generate "approx. 1,800 new jobs and business opportunities, including new revenue streams."

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The Outline Business Case for Rotherham Mainline Station is being finalised, having been delayed. It is now anticipated to be submitted by February 2025 to South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) and May 2025 to the Department for Transport (DfT). To strengthen the business case, Rotherham Council said that a review was required to fully incorporate the wider economic benefits, as well as additional informal consultation with railway stakeholders in advance of Outline Business Case submission.

A station on the mainline would mean services to Leeds would be 30 minutes faster, 35 minutes faster to York and 40 minutes faster to Birmingham.

Documents state: "Situated within 5 minutes of the town centre a new mainline station offers the opportunity to re-establish direct mainline rail services to Rotherham with local connectivity offered by a new tram-train stop. Together this will radically improve the town’s connectivity, delivering social, economic, and environmental benefits.

"The mainline station at Rotherham was included in the recent “Network North” policy paper. The provision of a new station is not dependent on plans to improve rail connections between Sheffield and Leeds and indeed could form an early improvement for the wider corridor.

"The project aims to create a destination transport hub, with recreation amenity, retail and commercial space, new homes, and an environment suitable for a new “innovation campus”. This builds on the region’s Advanced Manufacturing and Technology specialisms anchored in Rotherham’s Advanced Manufacturing Park, and will offer accommodation for up to 1,800 new jobs.

"The site has been identified and early-stage land acquisition has begun. The current plan aims towards opening the new mainline station by Summer 2029."

Images: RMBC

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News: Rotherham reveals programme highlights for Children’s Capital of Culture 2025

A festival of stories, an open-air art gallery, and a retelling of the Magic Flute to create Rotherham's first opera are highlights of Rotherham’s landmark year as Children’s Capital of Culture in 2025.

The first season of the year-long programme will include large-scale events, workshops, classes and a few surprises along the way. Marking Rotherham’s tenure as the world’s first Capital of Culture, the year kicks off with Otherham Winter Festival, a free, world-class cultural experience in the heart of Rotherham town centre. February will see the return of youth music festival, Signals, while March will culminate in Roots: Rotherham Street Carnival, a parade filled with celebrations across the borough.

At a preview event before Christmas, leaders of the project took to the stage to make a series of announcements for 2025, including a new £1.12m investment from Arts Council England, adding to a £1m investment from South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority received earlier this year. There will also be a further commitment to employing and nurturing young creative talent in the borough.

Cllr. David Sheppard, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Social Inclusion and Neighbourhood Working at Rotherham Council, said: “This is a special moment for Rotherham and its young people. We have collaborated with children and young people from across the borough over the last five years, supporting and championing their talents and creativity and we couldn’t be prouder of the programme of events, festivals, activities, classes and experiences we’ve created together.”

Other festival year highlights announced included collaborations with the Royal Horticultural Society, National Gallery and Royal Ballet & Opera House, as well as Gallery Town, a reimagined outdoor art gallery from Flux Rotherham; House of Fun, a mischievous interruption at Wentworth Woodhouse’s historic mansion; a youth literature festival led by Grimm & Co; a touring film programme with Sheffield DocFest; a pop-up 3-day skate park, roller rink and parkour course; and a borough-wide urban sports celebration, which will include a baton relay across all 130+ schools in Rotherham.



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Grace Bower, 19 from Whiston, is one of the young people steering the festival year. She added: “There’ll be events all year round, designed by young people, like me, for the whole town to enjoy. I’m on the Youth Programming Panel, where young changemakers from across the borough collaborate and ensure our plans speak to the community. We’re buzzing to be shaping the future of Rotherham! 2025 isn’t just about one epic year - it’s about creating something that lasts and showing Rotherham’s young people that this town is full of possibilities. It’s about time we showed the world what Rotherham can do.”

Alongside the events and activities, the year will be supported by an extensive school Creative Learning programme, which will enable every child in the borough to take part. And this month, another six trainee spots are being opened up in the Children’s Capital of Culture employment programme, which gives young people aged 16-25 the chance to work in South Yorkshire’s creative industries, with more job opportunities for young people to be announced across the rest of 2025. Alumni of the traineeship programme have gone on to secure jobs at Netflix and Channel 4.

Rothbiz reported last year that £4.2m is set to be spent on the Children’s Capital of Culture Festival Programme. It is estimated that it will attract external funding in the region of £13.9m.

Rotherham announced its journey to become the world’s first Children’s Capital of Culture back in 2022. Since then, it has engaged over 260,000 people in youth-led activities, and employed 112 young people in creative industry traineeships.

Sarah Christie, Programme Manager for Children’s Capital of Culture, said at the event: “Children’s Capital of Culture is a reality because of Rotherham’s visionary children and young people, and a group of partners and funders who got behind their ambition.

“2025 is going to be packed full of colourful, creative events that celebrate Rotherham’s identity through the fresh ideas of our young people - but it’s not just a year-long festival. All our activities have the aim of developing children and young people’s skills, aspirations and future opportunities, improving their mental and physical health, and enabling them to feel prouder than ever of where they’re from – our wonderful borough of Rotherham.”

Rotherham Children’s Capital of Culture website

Images: Rotherham CCoC / James Mulkeen

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