News: Roadhouse gets ready to reopen in Rotherham

After near neighbours Rancheros Bar and Grill announced plans to reopen its Rotherham restaurant, the operators of the Roadhouse Bar & Bottles are set to do the same.

Rothbiz has previously reported on how both venues posted in 2024 that they had closed in the Stag area for the "forseeable future" "due to circumstances outside of our control."

Roadhouse went on to open another micropub in a former opticians on Laughton Road in Dinnington but the Stag venues have remained closed.

Last week, a post on social media from Rancheros Rodízio Bar & Grill announced that they were getting ready to open on July 15.

Now, the operators of the Roadhouse have confirmed plans to reopen.

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A post on Facebook reads: "So the rumours are true, and we can finally confirm we got the keys back!

"The man in the red jumper [Chris Roadhouse, owner of Roadhouse Bar & Bottles] would like to welcome you all back.

"We're aiming for the pumps to be pouring by Friday the 18th of July, but watch this space for more updates and some special vip nights.

"Pub crawl between Dinnington and the Stag, anyone?

"Hoooooooray Rotherham!"

A craft beer specialist, Roadhouse originally opened in 2021 in the former supermarket store room at Stag Roundabout. It has hosted art events and live music and also operates as a bottle shop offering beers, wines and spirits.

Having signed a lease in 2019, operators found themselves locked out just before Valentine's Day with notices of peaceable re-entry by the landlord on display at both premises.

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

London-based The Bampton Property Group Limited, secured planning permission at the end of 2023 to refurbish the building, including a new pitched roof, demolition of first floor to the bar, and the replacement of first floor windows to the front elevation. It does not appear that the work has been carried out.

Images: Roadhouse / facebbok / Google Maps

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News: Rotherham Gateway Station funding welcomed

The board at the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) has approved £11.35m to support the multimillion pound regeneration project around a new Rotherham Gateway Station.

As reported by Rothbiz earlier this month, the gainshare funding will enable the detailed design of the project and move it towards procurement.

South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard, said: “I’ve repeatedly said that significant investment is needed in our rail network - because if we want people to stay near and go far, we need better public transport.

“The £11.35 million investment into Rotherham Gateway Station is a vital step in delivering that future. It’s about more than just a new station - it’s about creating a gateway to opportunity, growth, and innovation.

“The new station will sit at the heart of a transformational regeneration project, supporting high-tech industries, new homes, and green public spaces. It will improve journey times and connectivity not just within South Yorkshire, but to key centres across the North, Midlands, and beyond.

“We do need more government support to complete our vision. That’s why Rotherham Gateway was included in Lord Blunkett’s Yorkshire’s Plan for Rail because it will help connect our people to the opportunities they deserve if we get it right - better jobs, better education, and a better quality of life. It’s one of the ways we’re building a world-class transport network in South Yorkshire that works for everyone.”

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The masterplan for the project was published last week setting out an employment-led phased approach with a new integrated station on the mainline and a tram-train stop on land at Forge Way, Parkgate that aims to transform the regional and national connectivity of Rotherham, catalysing a new Innovation Campus around the station.

The 20-year programme of transformation, includes more than 355,000 sq ft of advanced manufacturing and commercial space, around 250 new homes, and up to 132,000 sq ft of green spaces and public realm.

The business case for the Station and wider masterplan area highlights the potential to create 1,200 new jobs, underlining the significant economic impact the development is expected to bring to the region.

Cllr Chris Read, Leader of Rotherham Council, said: “Back in 2022 we set out proposals to return mainline intercity trains to Rotherham for the first time since the mid-1980s. It’s great now to be able to progress those plans further, confirming additional funding to move to the next stage of development and for site acquisitions. We’re also setting out proposals for opportunities for more jobs and homes in the area around the proposed station, including connectivity into the town centre and access to the tram-train network.

“This is a once in a generation opportunity for our economy and our community, which would put Rotherham residents with half an hour’s travel of the centre of Leeds and an hour from Birmingham, expanding the work and leisure opportunities for Rotherham people as well as access to our borough. We’re determined to forge ahead with securing the infrastructure our borough needs to create new opportunities for years to come.”

The project has also got the backing of the local business sector.

Carrie Sudbury, Chief Executive, Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber of Commerce, said: "This station would act as a catalyst to transform the borough through wider urban regeneration opportunities, creating a new landscape that will be attractive to new industries and delivering transformational social and economic benefits."

Lisa Pogson, Chair of the Rotherham Business Growth Board, added: "The proposed new station offers the opportunity to re-establish fast, direct rail services to business and leisure destinations lost in the 1980s. By integrating Rotherham Gateway into future northern rail timetables as they are developed, the project will also minimise disruption for existing passengers while delivering new, faster connections to key destinations."

Images: RMBC

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News: Council set to change track over live music venue

A regeneration project based around creating a live music venue in Rotherham town centre highlights the difficulties working with heritage buildings and public sector funding.

Support from the private sector is required if the project is to be realised.

Rothbiz reported in 2021 that the plan for the Guest & Chrimes site was to use £4.5m of the government's Town Deal funding to create a micro-brewery and fan zone at the former foundry which sits alongside Rotherham United's New York Stadium and further updates confirmed that a large music venue was in the plans.

However, later in 2022, the council confirmed that it was not able to reach an agreement with the football club and attention switched to another potential building and creating a live music venue in the former Empire Theatre on Ship Hill. In 2024 feasibility concerns with the Empire were such that attention moved to the another building, the remains of the Alma Tavern, a building now in council ownership.

But now it appears that similar feasibility issues have arisen with the Alma which is not a listed building (unlike the saved and re-opened Cutler's Arms next door) but is in severe disrepair following a fire and years of abandonment.

A council report confirms that £4.5m is not enough to bring the building back to life as a venue within the timeframe of the funding. It states: "Stage 2 designs have now been completed and the updated cost plan demonstrates a cost significantly in excess of the funding available. Therefore, while there are benefits of supporting music provision in the Town Centre, the costs of the project are proving prohibitive to the public sector.

"It is therefore proposed to seek private sector support for the project and the methodology for this is currently in review."

Government pathfinder funding is set to be moved away from the live music venue project to the health hub project reported by Rothbiz earlier this week.

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Plans for the Alma redevelopment were submitted to the council's planning department as part of pre-application discussions. The early plans explain that Chantry Brewery, the operators of the Cutlers and a music venue within its brewery at Parkgate, are the intended occupiers of a live music venue at the Alma.

Plans so far have looked at creating a music venue with a capacity of 500 - 600. Keeping the Alma's ornate facade and using it as an entrance and making use of the adjacent land, currently an MOT garage, were also assessed.

The preferred option in the sketchbook involves an L-shaped new building on land behind, and to the side of the Alma, creating a main entrance in the vacant pub, with the stage at the rear and the front of house (including bar and courtyard), back of house and a main standing area in between. Plans show seating and standing areas on the upper floor overlooking the stage, along with another bar and dressing rooms. External amenity space is shown at the back of the building.

In the time since the public sector looked at the historic buildings, redevelopment plans have been brought forward by the private sector.

At the Guest & Chrimes, a company connected to the owners of the football club has submitted a planning application to transform the historic former foundry into a high quality hotel.

At The Empire, renovation work is underway with possible uses including a multi-purpose community arts venue.

Alongside this, Rotherham Council set aside regeneration funding to undertake market testing and an options appraisal for the provision of a performing arts venue in Rotherham town centre as the current Civic Theatre building has challenges in terms of capacity, opportunity for growth and its general condition.

Images: RMBC / AHR

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News: Botham Accounting opens in South Yorkshire

Fast-growing advisory firm Botham Accounting has launched a new South Yorkshire office, led by Tim Baum-Dixon, former CEO of Kingswood Allotts. The office will support owner-managed businesses across Rotherham, Doncaster, Barnsley and surrounding areas with audit, tax and financial advisory services.

The move follows Botham’s recent London expansion and reflects wider growth – including its debt advisory arm, Botham Capital, which will also operate from South Yorkshire.


“I’m proud to be back supporting South Yorkshire businesses with strategic, hands-on advice,” said Tim Baum-Dixon.

“This expansion is a testament to the trust our clients place in us and the hard work of our incredible team,” said Andrew Botham, CEO of Botham Accounting. “Our whole team are excited about what the future holds and look forward to supporting even more businesses across the UK.”

Botham Accounting now has offices in Nottingham, London, and Sheffield. It said that the growth reflects its dedication to delivering more than just compliance – offering proactive advice that empowers clients to navigate challenges and seize new opportunities.

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Rothbiz reported in 2022 that Rotherham accountancy firm, Allotts, had been acquired by Kingswood Holdings Limited, a London Stock Exchange-listed firm registered in London and services circa 15,900 clients from a growing network of offices in the UK.

Tim Baum-Dixon FCA is a Chartered Accountant and experienced business advisor. He was previously Chief Executive of Kingswood Chartered Accountants (Kingswood Allotts), where he led firm-wide growth and restructuring. He is the Conservative Borough Councillor in Rotherham for Anston and Woodsetts and lives in South Anston with his wife and three daughters.

Botham Accounting

Images: Botham Accounting

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News: Date revealed for Rancheros reopening in Rotherham

Operators of a popular Rotherham restaurant that has been closed for over a year have confirmed when it will reopen.

Rothbiz reported earlier this month on Rancheros Bar and Grill reactivating its social media accounts to announce that it would be firing up the grill.

The operators of Rancheros, and near neighbours, Roadhouse Bar & Bottles both posted in 2024 that they had closed their venues in the Stag area "due to circumstances outside of our control."

Roadhouse went on to open another micropub in a former opticians on Laughton Road in Dinnington but the Stag venues have remained closed.

A post on social media from Rancheros Rodízio Bar & Grill reads: "We are happy to announce that we are now working everyday getting ourselves ready to open our doors on 15th July at 5pm.

"We can’t thank you enough for your love and support."

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Activity has been taking place over recent weeks at the restaurant and operators have confirmed that the reopening will be at the same Wickersley Road unit.

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

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

A new company, Rancheros Rodizio Ltd, with a new director, was incorporated recently with Companies House.

Images: Rancheros / Facebook / Google Maps

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News: Health hub set to fill Boots in Rotherham town centre

Rotherham Council is planning to introduce "Health on the High Street" in a bid to improve access to health services and increase footfall in the town centre.

The idea would also provide a long term use for a large retail unit that has been empty since 2022.

Creating a community hub for health provision as a way to reinvigorate town centres has been tried and tested across the country in areas such as Barnsley and Oldham.

In Rotherham, the council acquired the former Boots building in 2023 after the retailer closed as part of a 2020 acceleration of its Transformation Plan.

Close to the markets redevelopment, the proposal involves Abbey Pharmacy relocating from its current position in the first phase with the exploration of the development of a new health facility within the remainder of the building part of a second phase.

The idea was included in the initial £20m Long Term Plan for Towns (now The Plan for Neighbourhoods).

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A paper to Rotherham Council's cabinet explains: "Rotherham town centre is currently limited in its provision of health care services and the Council has been working in partnership with health service partners to consider how that provision may be increased. This project would see the first step in improving the provision of health services for the Town Centre and surrounding communities.

"In terms of phase 2, there have been no decisions on how the remainder of the building will be utilised, but it is envisaged that the building could be used by GPs, Health or Wellbeing operators. This is being reviewed and a feasibility study is being undertaken to deliver a connected and collaborative health provision in the Town Centre.

"The Council has been liaising with health providers over the last year. Providers recognise the benefit of a health provision in this location and are actively engaging with the feasibility process."

The government's Plan for Neighbourhoods exemplifies the approach taken in Barnsley. Evidence provided states that proximity to public transport has minimised missed appointments and has attracted an additional 55,000 visits to the town centre, supporting local businesses. It cites "improved health outcomes and economic growth, improving patient care and fostering a greater sense of community" amongst the positive outcomes of the facility.

With the £40m revamp of the markets underway, and as part of the lease, Rotherham Council would need to pay to relocate Abbey Pharmacy from Howard Street now, and potentially a second time, or work around them. Both options have been discounted due to the costs involved.

Following cabinet approval, the council will carry out feasability work and design development using money from the Pathfinder pot. In 2023, Rotherham Council was granted more flexibility over the £80m+ regeneration funding it has secured from the Government.

Potential costs for a Rotherham health hub have not been made public but council Health Select Commission papers show that the Phase One proposal to relocate the pharmacy is estimated to cost £1.3m with Phase Two estimated at £400,000 to work up plans.

Images: RMBC

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News: Rotherham Gateway Station masterplan published

Rotherham Council has published the masterplan for the proposed new multimillion pound mainline station in the borough showing how a transport improvement scheme can act as the catalyst for a much wider regeneration project supporting thousands of new jobs.

Ideas for a much simpler "parkway" style station have been superseded by plans for a new integrated station on the mainline and a tram-train stop on land at Forge Way, Parkgate that aims to transform the regional and national connectivity of Rotherham, catalysing a new Innovation Campus around the station.

The employment-led masterplan focuses on the opportunity the location offers to further develop the advanced manufacturing cluster within South Yorkshire as part of the UK’s first Investment Zone. Rothbiz has previously reported on estimates that a station surrounded by business, retail, community and housing offerings which could generate 1,800 new jobs.

A phased approach starts with the Station Quarter, on land which is currently Northfields Business Park, which features a station building with a potential business centre, a 150 space car park and bridges over the two lines. Phase 2 (years 5 - 15) involves the creation of an innovation campus on plots of land nearby, one currently owned by NetworK Rail and vacant, the other used by Stobart to support biomass energy production.

The campus of around 180,000 sq ft of commercial space "will renew the existing industrial character, turning its focus towards high-quality employment in the advanced manufacturing sector or commercial use." Buildings for F&B or retail use could also be included to extend the experience of the Station Quarter.

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Phase 3 (years 15 - 20) includes the potential to replace the original car park with a multi-storey car park to the north of the mainline. Masterplanners also add that successful regeneration could prompt the redevelopment of industrial space on Mangham Road / Greasbrough Road, which is currently dominated by MAG's car auction site, into the Northwest Quarter.

Phase 4 (year 20 and beyond) introduces the idea of new housing in the area. To the east of the Station Quarter, the masterplan encourages residential use and the development of a Living Quarter on the land which is currently the large Trade Centre UK car showroom. Residential blocks and townhouses, shown with green courtyards, total 205 flats and 37 houses.

Connections are also discussed in the proposals, including active travel links between the Station Quarter and the town centre. With routes for pedestrians and cyclists on Effingham Street and Rotherham Road, this could also open up sites for development such as around Bailey House and Erskine Road.

Station opening has been pencilled in for "late 2030" creating additional rail services and faster journey times to the adjacent centres of Sheffield, Doncaster and Leeds whilst adding direct and quicker connections to key markets in the North West, the Midlands and the North East, as well as ports and airports.

The masterplan shows that consultants estimate annual footfall at the station to be 0.609 million (access) and 0.584 million (egress).

The conclusion outlines the need for "substantial public sector led intervention" for a £100m+ project. Today, the board at the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) will be asked to set aside £11.35m to enable the detailed design of the project and move it towards procurement.

The SYMCA paper has the total costs of the project, based on estimates from Network Rail, at £133m, and could be as much as £166m for a four-platform station.

Rotherham Council is also utlising £10m from the Towns Fund to acquire land needed for the station. It is asking its cabinet to approve a further £2m for the acquisition of further land and property to facilitate the delivery of the station masterplan.

The masterplan concludes: "The ambitious Masterplan is purposefully designed to support Rotherham’s economic future, improving opportunities for all residents. A strong employment offer will precede the introduction of other uses in the long-term, including housing.

"Landing a station in Rotherham will bring forward better connectivity to the surrounding areas, activate the town centre, enhance mobility and generate value and placemaking through supported residential developments.

"A high quality public realm and creation of a greater premium on the quality of public spaces used by people has proven to benefit the built environment and uplift values.

"Early spending in infrastructure, local amenities and public spaces creates better places."

Images: RMBC

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News: Rotherham Council gives update on £16m sustainable transport corridor scheme

Rotherham Council has provided an update on an active travel scheme that will see £16.3m spent on bike lanes, bus lanes and a built up roundabout at Eastwood, on the edge of Rotherham town centre.

Rothbiz reported last year that consultation had begun on "Rotherham East network improvements" in the area along the A630 Fitzwilliam Road, at St. Ann Roundabout and the neighbourhoods of Eastwood and Herringthorpe.

The biggest change proposed is for St Anns roundabout, where the council is proposing to bring the crossings up to ground level and fill in the subways to make the space feel more welcoming.

Two options were put out to consultation - maintaining the layout but with new pathways and cycleways added to link the town centre and Eastwood replacing the subways, and a more substantial change involving closing St Ann's Road to motor traffic at its junction with St Leonard's Road and installing a bus gate at the junction.

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An update from Rotherham Council states: "We had previously proposed two options for St Ann’s Roundabout, whilst replacing the subways with signalised crossings was popular for both options, there was a clear preference for maintaining all arms of the roundabout open.

"Respondents also highlighted that increased greenery and street lighting in the area would be beneficial. We’re also exploring the opportunity to provide allotments for the local college’s lunch time gardening club.

"Consideration is also being given to improving access and egress into Eastwood Village from St Ann’s Roundabout.

"Designs are still not finalised, and we are exploring how to include as much community feedback as possible whilst still ensuring the design is compliant with best practice guidance."

The South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) is providing £16,348,500 through the City Regional Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS). 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.

For Fitzwilliam Road between St Ann’s Roundabout and Mushroom Roundabout the plan is to provide bus priority and separate cycleways.

A bus lane in the Rotherham-bound direction would make bus services faster and more reliable and the bus lane at Mushroom roundabout would be extended to Chesterton Road. Painted cycle lanes are set to be replaced with dedicated cycle tracks to separate cyclists from motor traffic and improve safety and new designated parking spaces are also included.

£4.6m of the funding will support community-driven solutions aimed at improving transport infrastructure and accessibility in the surrounding neighbourhoods.

Feedback has so far related to keeping Grosvenor Road open to traffic and businesses identified a need for customers and delivery vehicles to safely access and park.

More focus groups are planned and consultation remains open until August 1 2025.

Consultation website

Images: RMBC

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News: Restored Camellia House at Wentworth Woodhouse wins major European heritage award

Europe’s most prestigious cultural heritage awards has given a major accolade to Rotherham country house Wentworth Woodhouse’s restored Grade II* listed Camellia House, which is home to some of the oldest surviving camellias in the Western world.

The European Heritage Awards / Europa Nostra Awards has declared the project as one of its 30 outstanding winners from 24 countries across the Continent.

The Camellia House was the only project in the UK and one of only three winners outside of the EU Creative Europe Programme, which co-funds the awards.

The building had been derelict for 50 years before a sympathetic refurbishment by heritage architects Donald Insall Associates transformed it from a roofless ruin to a public tearoom and heritage venue in 2024.

Rothbiz reported how the building was no longer on Historic England's Heritage at Risk Register following the completion of a £5m restoration project.

Its nationally important camellia collection, described by horticulturists as a “library full of first editions”, was carefully tended throughout the construction process.

Europa Nostra is the most representative heritage civil society network in Europe. The awards identify and promote best practice in the conservation and enhancement of cultural heritage, stimulate an exchange of knowledge throughout Europe and increase public appreciation of Europe’s cultural heritage.

The Awards Jury, composed of 11 heritage experts from across Europe, said: “This restoration project removed The Camellia House from the Heritage At Risk register. The revival of a rare camellia collection and the integration of energy-efficient features demonstrate a balanced approach to horticultural, architectural and environmental heritage.

“By restoring cultural and social functions in an area affected by economic hardship, it contributes to regional regeneration through heritage.”

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Grade I listed Wentworth Woodhouse, built for the Marquesses of Rockingham in the 18th Century, sits in South Yorkshire, an area of social and economic deprivation.

The entire site was in a state of decay when it was bought by Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust (WWPT) in 2017 for £7m.

The Camellia House in its gardens is a historically significant building. Its north side dates from 1738 and was built as a tea room for Lady Rockingham, wife of the 1st Marquess.

It features an early 19th century orangery to the south, added to house the family’s growing collection of camellias which had recently begun to arrive from China. The rarity and age of the camellias which remain was only recently discovered.

The restoration was funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Historic England and other contributors.

The Preservation Trust’s brief for conservation architects Donald Insall Associates was to sympathetically repair the derelict Georgian building and incorporate sustainability and energy efficiency, all while protecting the historic camellias and ensuring they continue to thrive in their newly-renovated setting.

Traditional craftsmanship and heritage conservation methods were integrated with low-carbon upgrades: breathable insulation, a rainwater harvesting system, and underfloor heating powered by a ground-source heat pump. The project has been described as setting “a new benchmark for the standards of sustainable design which can be incorporated into heritage and listed buildings.”

Sarah McLeod OBE, CEO at WWPT, said: “We are bursting with pride to be heading to Brussels to receive this highly-respected European heritage award.

“An exceptional conservation team collaborated to take our Camellia House from a roofless wreck in danger of collapsing, back to its original grace and beauty - and vastly improved its sustainability and green credentials.

“The building, and the historically-important camellias which inhabit it, now have a long and lasting future. The Camellia House is now a thriving cafe and boosting income for the Trust.”

Dorian Proudfoot, Chief Executive of Donald Insall Associates, added: “Conservation is only successful if it enables a building or place's continued use and vitality. The story of the Camellia House, an important part of a wider transformation at Wentworth Woodhouse, is an example of long-term custodianship that not only revived what was an abandoned ruin, but was also a catalyst for lasting social impact.

“It is incredibly rewarding to see our client's vision to create an inclusive, world-class destination being recognised in Europe's most prestigious heritage award.”

Wentworth Woodhouse website

Images: WWPT / Donald Insall Associates / Simon Kennedy

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News: New park & ride opens in Rotherham

A new 289-space free-to-use Park and Ride for Rotherham Parkgate Tram Train passengers has been opened next to Parkgate Shopping Park, and includes 14 EV chargers, cycle racks, disabled access spaces, and parking for solo motorcycles, as part of a scheme to help improve walking, cycling and transport connections across South Yorkshire.

The £12.9m project has been led by South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA), working with Rotherham Council, Parkgate development site owners Stadium and contractor Tilbury Douglas. It is one of several projects funded by SYMCA through the UK Government’s £166 million Transforming Cities Fund settlement for South Yorkshire.

It follows the completion of a new link road in December as part of the same project, to make it easier for people to reach the shopping park and reduce traffic congestion on the A633 and A6123. It’s the latest in a series of transport investments in Rotherham, which includes the new electric buses introduced on service 22x funded through SYMCA’s Zero Emission Bus bid.

South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard, said: "South Yorkshire deserves nothing less than a world-class public transport network so our communities can access the jobs and opportunities they deserve; and that we can all stay near and go far.

“We’re investing serious money into South Yorkshire’s tram system, through projects like the new Rotherham Parkgate Park and Ride. We’ve put £12.9m into this project, alongside over £100m going into the renewal and development of our Supertram network to build a bigger and more connected system that puts people first.

“We won’t get there in one big step, it’s about steady and consistent progress so that we have a network that drives growth and opportunity for the whole of our region.”

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Cllr Chris Read, Leader of Rotherham Council, added: "The new Park and Ride is a real win for Rotherham – it’s about making everyday journeys easier, greener and more accessible for local people. Whether you're hopping on the Tram Train, cycling to the shops, or charging an EV, this investment helps us cut congestion, reduce emissions, and build a better-connected future for our town.

“By improving the travel options in the area, we not only make it easier for people to travel between Parkgate and the town centre – but also help to minimise air pollution and reduce reliance on cars.”

The project has received £11.5m of funding through the Transforming Cities Fund. The investment at Parkgate will ease pressure on the existing entrance and allow traffic to flow more freely in the Parkgate and Rawmarsh areas of Rotherham, reducing journey times for buses in the area.

Rothbiz reported last year how the completion date was pushed back as costs increased.

Mark Kanaris, Senior Operations Manager for Parkgate Shopping Park, said: “As one of the UK’s largest shopping parks, Parkgate attracts visitors from across South Yorkshire and beyond. Being a major employer in Rotherham, we share SYMCA’s ambition to improve journey times, ease congestion and make Parkgate even more accessible for everyone and we’re proud to have supported them in delivering this important infrastructure project.

“This investment will have a daily impact, benefitting the hundreds of people who work here and the thousands of visitors who enjoy our big name stores and restaurants each week. We’d like to congratulate everyone who has been involved in making this such a success.”

The land previously used as a park & ride car park at Parkgate Shopping has already been earmarked for development with plans approved for a 20,000 sq ft food store.

The Parkgate scheme is one of several infrastructure projects to be delivered over the next few years by SYMCA and its partners, including a new Tram Train station at Magna in Templeborough.

Images: SYMCA / Supertram

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News: S2S Group secures investment from Bailie Group to propel growth ambitions

The Rotherham-based S2S Group has received a £500k injection from investment firm Bailie Group.

S2S Group at Manvers is one of the leading players in electronics manufacturing, asset recovery and electronics recycling, specialising in the disposal and management of IT assets at the end of their lifecycle, offering a certified and eco-friendly IT Asset Disposal (ITAD) service.

The Baillie Group, a family-owned group of agencies and consultancies, invests in ideas, people, and properties with the goal of making a positive impact. It has offices in Leeds and Antrim.

The £500k deal sees Baillie Group acquire a 25% stake in S2S and is set to accelerate growth ambitions and develop S2S Group's market share in the defence sector, focusing on key target contracts.

The move builds on a recognition for a strong commitment to sustainable and secure recycling and reuse of end-of-life IT equipment, supporting clients across the defence, finance and education sectors. Significant growth in the last five years has included the acquisition of operations in London and Glasgow in 2023.

The investment from Bailie Group, which owns a portfolio of communications agencies and consultancies, is set enable S2S to accelerate its aims of achieving 21% growth this year, taking annual revenue to £5.8m.

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Grant Barton, CEO of S2S Group, said: “Partnering with Bailie Group is a major milestone for us. Their experience, network, and values align perfectly with our ambitions. With their support, we’re confident we can grow faster, innovate further, and deliver even greater value to our customers.

“After a strong 2024 and a sharpened focus on electronic and remote data‑wiping, particularly in the defence sector, this investment gives us the resources and know‑how to boost our positive impact on data security and create more value for both companies.”

Fergus Bailie, CEO of Bailie Group added: “Bailie Group’s mission is to improve lives by sharing knowledge, and this investment marks our first foray into safeguarding information through secure data disposal. S2S are operating in a critical area where security, sustainability and innovation come together, and we’re excited to support their vision for the future.

“Our commitment goes beyond financing; we’re bringing the expertise, energy and strategic guidance the team needs to scale and thrive. We believe S2S has tremendous growth potential, and by combining our strengths I’m confident we can expand their market share and drive their initiatives forward.”

In 2024, S2S processed a total of 217,329 redundant IT assets – 81% of which were scrapped through recycling and 19% resold, contributing to the circular economy.

S2S Group website

Images: S2S Group

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News: Industry and nature grow together at AESSEAL in Rotherham

Nature has moved in alongside industry on a Rotherham factory site which now operates without the use of any natural gas.

A one-kilometre Tree Walk now sits within the ten-acre grounds of the AESSEAL engineering base and will be open to schools for pre-booked trips.

The company, which has pledged to invest £29m by 2029 on environmental initiatives, has decommissioned the last of its natural gas-fired heating systems at its Templeborough site.

Last month AESSEAL invited its first official visitors to the walk, which was opened by Rotherham United chairman Tony Stewart and attended by 28 children from St Bede’s Catholic Primary School in Kimberworth, as well as representatives from the Millers, youth sports clubs, business and education, Rotherham Titans rugby club and Olympic Games silver medallist Peter Elliott.

The youngsters may have been unaware of the company’s wider commitment to ensuring their planet has a future but enjoyed a treasure hunt and witnessed the bug hotels, a pond, meadows and woodlands, a wide variety of trees, a hedgehog crossing and hives for 60,000 bees, which are all accompanied by interactive information and facts available by scanning QR codes.

Early doors visitors have included a kingfisher, a fox and her cubs, and a great tit, who recently hatched six chicks in a bird box installed on the trail, the development of which was tracked through a wildlife camera.

Thirty years ago, the site was little more than unused wetlands and fields of mud, with sparse shoots of grass – and that was after reclamation had prepared the site for industrial development.

The area needed business to create gainful employment, but industry tends to grab nature’s home. The make-up of the area, and the world in general, was changing. Someone had to set an example and look to the long-term future.

AESSEAL managing director and founder Chris Rea said that around 25 years ago William Hague – prior to becoming leader of the Conservative Party – was one of the company’s three board members and asked questions about what could be done with regard to the environment as the area was developed for industry.

The original suggestion was to build a pond within the developing site but, like the company, the project grew beyond recognition.

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The scene now is very different. AESSEAL’s Factory for the Future, which contains 175,000 sq ft.of new buildings, stands proudly on the land – and alongside it runs the walk.

What may have once been viewed as a contrast serves as a visible, tangible example of how industry and nature can grow together and live with each other to provide the planet with a chance of long-term survival.

Mr Rea said: “It's something that has been created over a long period, and we've just enhanced it and developed it and planted more and more trees and added more attractions like wildlife sculptures, the seal family, brass etching stations, wildlife and plant life boards, as well as providing a home for rescue hedgehogs and bees. Add to that a treasure hunt and we have a fun and educational amenity aimed at primary school children.”

Prior to its official opening staff have been using the facilities – including a picnic and meeting area – which have cost hundreds of thousands of pounds to create and develop. It’s a relaxing, peaceful place to sit and enjoy lunch or to take in the fresh air.

Mr Rea says: “Some people really love it and come out every day. We even have colleagues who come in the depths of winter and put warm clothes on and go and sit at one of the benches, play chess or have their flask of coffee. People like it.

“I think most companies fail to understand that the soft issues, how people feel, their mood, their morale and motivation is just as important as monetary matters. People want to work with nice people, they want to feel that the company they are with is doing more good than bad. The value of high levels of motivation is immeasurable but provides tangible results.”

Mr Rea hopes the company’s work will persuade others to follow its example and adds: “If you pursue excellence, there’s nothing excellent about destroying the environment. There’s nothing excellent about not being a good corporate citizen. There’s nothing excellent about not doing what you can do to continuously improve things. It’s just what we do.” Chris ensures the company is as good as his word.

Replacing old cladding and roofing with new materials has now resulted in the thermal energy balance being sufficient for the site to utilise as much power as possible from the building’s 3,000 solar panels and 2.2MW of batteries.

This means the gas supply will be decommissioned by the utility company in the next few months and there will not even be a supply left on the site.

AESSEAL website

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News: £11.35m coming down the track for Rotherham Gateway Station

Further funding could be signed off later this month for Rotherham Gateway Station - the multimillion pound regeneration project to get the borough back on the mainline.

The board at the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) is being asked to set aside £11.35m to enable the detailed design of the project and move it towards procurement.

The total costs of the project, based on estimates from Network Rail, is £133m, and could be as much as £166m for a four-platform station.

The project involves a new integrated station on the mainline and a tram-train stop on land at Forge Way, Parkgate and aims to transform the regional and national connectivity of Rotherham, catalysing a new Innovation Campus around the station.

SYMCA's own website describes Rotherham Gateway has having "the potential to offer the most significant growth and regeneration opportunity across the North of England."

Rotherham Council is leading on the project and so far £1m has been utilised from SYMCA's City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS) to produce an outline business case with £10m secured by the council through the Town Deal to prepare the Station Masterplan and acquire land necessary to facilitate delivery.

The new mainline station proposed for Parkgate is a Department for Transport (DfT) retained scheme, held back for further review or development before funding is released, so a business case for the project has been prepared in line with government guidance, including the requirements of the Treasury’s Green Book which has recently been updated to support place-based business cases.

The next stage involves the detailed design of the mainline station, the new tram-train stop and the station ‘floormat’ elements, and to ready the project for procurement. A SYMCA paper explains that this is the equivalent of a ‘Decision to Design’ within the Rail Network Enhancements Pipeline.

The paper adds: "This is estimated to cost around £11.35m - funding for this work would use an allocation provisionally included within the MCA’s City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement programme. By accessing the devolved funding for the next stage of design work the applicant aims to ensure the project can progress at pace and ensure that the significant benefits that will be delivered as a result of the Rotherham Gateway Station project can be realised at the earliest opportunity."

Station opening has been pencilled in for "late 2030" creating additional rail services and faster journey times to the adjacent centres of Sheffield, Doncaster and Leeds whilst adding direct and quicker connections to key markets in the North West, the Midlands and the North East, as well as ports and airports.

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The next stage of development work also includes the preparation of a full business case for the government.

The SYMCA report adds: "To the north of the town centre, plans have been developed to establish an exemplar development of high technology industry fit for the future economy that builds on the industrial legacy and supports a thriving local economy, creating employment opportunities for new and existing residents. This provides the opportunity to further develop the advanced manufacturing cluster within South Yorkshire as part of the UK’s first Investment Zone.

"At the heart of these plans is the proposal to radically enhance the connectivity of this site, not only within the borough and South Yorkshire, but to and from other centres of advanced manufacturing, international gateways and London with the development of a new Rotherham Gateway Station."

In addition to the specific facilities associated with the station project, it is envisaged that the whole area will support more than 355,000 sq ft of advanced manufacturing and commercial space and around 250 homes (in addition to the 2,500 planned on the adjacent Bassingthorpe Farm strategic site). There will also be around 100,000 sq ft allocated for green spaces and 32,000 sq ft of public realm.

Around 200 parking spaces have been included and it is not assumed that the new station will require any local highway mitigation over and above the access. Rotherham Council is already considering a scheme to improve the network in the area as part of the Bassingthorpe Farm residential development.

As for the remaining funding, the report notes that sources are being explored, including CRSTS2 (now renamed as Transport for City Regions) "but as yet none is confirmed and so the funding of this next phase including the acquisition of land will be entirely at risk."

Mainliine station costs are estimated at £72,322,000 (upped to £94,300,000 with risk and inflation) with the tram-train stop estimated at £27,714,000 (£39,604,000). Building a four platform station would cost an estimated £94,145,000 (or £127,859,000 with risk and inflation).

Plans for Northern Powerhouse Rail and a 10-year Infrastructure Strategy are expected from the government soon.

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News: Rotherham markets revamp costs rise again, reach £40m

The cost of completing a long-awaited revamp of the markets in Rotherham town centre has risen again and is now at £40.89m, nearly double original estimates.

Rotherham Council is asking South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) for a further £6.5m on top of the £3.9m already approved.

The "significant presence of RAAC and of asbestos" in the building, which opened in 1971, is being blamed.

The redevelopment of the Drummond Street site also includes a modern central library, a new community hub, improved public spaces, and links to the town centre and college. The renovations will build upon the existing mix of shops and services with the addition of a new food hub and dining area on the first floor. The outdoor market will become a flexible space which can be used for exhibitions and events when required. The second floor will host contemporary office spaces for charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups.

With £4m already spent on the project before a spade hit the ground, Henry Boot began a £2.1m enabling works contract at the end of 2023 and have since made progress on the construction which has a total contract price of £36m.

Second only to the £47m Forge Island development in terms of town centre investment, the revamp was originally scheduled to finish in December 2025 but this was pushed back to 2027. When government funding was originally confirmed, the estimated cost of the project was £22m.

Having secured government money (£8.9m) from the Future High Streets Fund in 2020 for the project, a funding gap of £9.8m was identified in 2022, largely due to the impact of inflation on the project delivery costs.

Now another funding gap has come to light.

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Papers to the SYMCA board state that costs have risen as further investigative works were carried out through the design development process and prior to the council entering into contract with Henry Boot.

The paper adds: "Further allowances for utility services needed to be made, as well as allowances to deal with the significant presence of RAAC and of asbestos within the structure of the building. This brings the revised total project costs to £40.9m. RMBC [Rotherham Council] have increased their contribution but the additional £6.5m requested from the MCA (bringing the total to £9.9m), is to be used to address the viability gap for the overall scheme."

Rotherham Council's plans involve keeping the indoor market building and refurbishing and reconfiguring the space alongside repairs to the roof.

RAAC is reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete, a lightweight form of concrete used in schools, colleges and other building construction from the 1950s until the mid-1990s. It has been recognised that the in-service performance is poor with cracking, excessive displacements and durability all being raised as concerns.

Without the additional funding, which is set to come from SYMCA's gainshare pot, the market would be made safe and not redeveloped. This was discounted in favour of redevelopment with the report adding: "There is a clear justification of the preferred option as being the only one likely to meet the strategic aims of the project and the alternatives likely to cause the footfall to fall further leading to the eventual closure of the market hall."

Gainshare funding refers to the money committed to South Yorkshire through the Devolution Deal agreed by the MCA, South Yorkshire local authorities and government.

A breakdown of the secured funding shows that £8,909,226 is coming from the government's Future High Street Fund, £13,865,012 from Rotherham Council's Town Investment Fund and £8,219,311 from Rotherham Council’s Capital Programme.

When asked last year about the rising costs of the redevelopment, Cllr. Chris Read said it would be "bizarre" to scrap the scheme and take away the opportunity to follow the likes of Barnsley, Sheffield and Doncaster and create a bustling hub in the town centre.

SYMCA's board is due to discuss the plans later this month.

Images: RMBC / Tom Austen

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News: Something sweet set for Forge Island

Signs are that the UK's number one dessert restaurant is opening in Rotherham town centre - at the Forge Island leisure scheme.

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

After a previous deal failed to materialise, Vetro Lounge opened in April with Sygnature Dish set to open its doors this summer.

Now the standalone unit, designed for a café on the main pedestrian route to Forge Island from town, looks to have finally found a tenant.

Heavenly Desserts, which is creating must-visit spots for both dessert and brunch lovers across the UK, has applied for new signage on the empty unit.

Promising not just dessert but an immersive experience, each of the operator's restaurants feature beautifully designed, unique interiors, perfect for every occasion. Expect elegant decor, warm hospitality, and signature handcrafted desserts and brunch items.

The menu features innovative desserts including signature dishes such as the Croffle and experimental dessert tapas inspired from all corners of the world.

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Since opening in 2008, the brand has been expanding through franchising and now has over 50+ locations in the UK. The closest branch currently is on Division Street in Sheffield city centre.

If plans are approved, Heavenly Desserts would transform the 1,500 sq unit that sits between Forge Island and Corporation Street.

Work is underway to improve the public realm on Corporation Street alongside Upper Millgate and the creation of new greenspace called Riverside Gardens.

The scheme will boast soft landscaped terraces, a riverside walk offering views of the River Don, natural play for children, new seating and improvements to footpaths and public spaces along Corporation Street, helping to make road crossings shorter. The work will also enable cyclists to travel in both directions on Corporation Street.

The unit was previously set to be occupied by the Thistle Group under its Caffé Noor brand.

Rothbiz reported that that company got into financial difficulties a year after they'd signed that pre-let agreement with Rotherham Council and were unable to bring its brands to Rotherham.

Heavenly Desserts website
Forge Island website

Images: Heavenly Desserts / Google Maps

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News: Pricecheck hits new heights with 11th consecutive year of growth

Rotherham-based Pricecheck has delivered its biggest day, week, month, quarter and year in the company’s history.

With its HQ at Beighton Link in Rotherham, Pricecheck is a fast-growing international wholesaler and distributor of Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG).

The company has reported highlights of its 2024/25 financial year which included ten consecutive days of £1m+ turnover, £3.3m turnover on the final day of the financial year and £179m in total revenue – a 17.9% increase on the previous year.

A spokesperson for Pricecheck said: "2024/25 marks our 11th consecutive year of growth. For our customers and brand partners, this momentum signals one thing: Pricecheck is investing in growth, building capacity, and ready to go further. Whether it’s breaking into new markets, streamlining fulfilment, or offering category-leading brands, we’re constantly evolving to help our partners thrive."

Momentum has continued into the new financial year with the signing of a distribution partnership with a company that serves approximately 4,400 cups of coffee or tea per second.

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A new deal has been signed with JDE Peet's (JDEP), the world's leading pure-play coffee and tea company.

From July, Pricecheck will become the distribution partner for a portfolio of iconic JDEP brands, including Kenco, L’OR, Douwe Egberts, Tassimo, Maxwell House, and Mellow Birds. The partnership will span key UK channels: wholesale, convenience, foodservice, office, and selected retail.

This strategic move is designed to strengthen JDEP’s reach and enhance service across vital out-of-home markets, helping to increase availability and improve customer experience. In 2024, JDEP’s generated total sales of EUR 8.8 billion.

Laura Hull, Channel Controller at JDEP, said: “The reach and service that Pricecheck brings to this partnership will now bolster support across vital out-of-home channels. We’re delighted to work with the energetic and growth-oriented team at Pricecheck, who treat our brands with high focus and dedication.”

Pricecheck originally moved into the premises at Beighton Link in 2016 and has since taken further space at Manvers, both in Rotherham. It has ambitious plans to increase turnover to £200m.

Pricecheck website

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News: Board back Barrel & Bean at Brecks

The planning board at Rotherham Council has voted to approve plans that will enable a craft ale and coffee house to open in a vacant commercial building.

Rothbiz reported in March on plans for "Barrel & Bean" on Wickersley Road, an idea that was brewing among eight friends who envisioned a local craft ale bar providing quality cask and keg ales in a relaxed setting.

The change of use application is to use the ground floor of a former dental training facility for the café/bar area with the lower ground floor at the rear as a storage and preparation area. The first floor area would remain as a separate flat.

27 letters were received regarding the application, 11 letters objecting and 16 in support. Nearby occupiers raised concerns over potential negative effects on adjacent businesses through noise and disturbance, parking and access.

The applicant, Anthony Marples, has stated that acoustic separation measures will be carried out to ensure minimal disruption to the residential accommodation above and no outdoor seating or live/amplified music is proposed.

The council's environmental health department has asked for conditions to limit the impact, adding: "Noise from vocals is extremely difficult to control especially in drinking establishments where alcohol is served until late evening."

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The applicant has agreed to the imposition of conditions to restrict the hours of use and hours of deliveries, and to exclude external drinking or seating areas. Soundproofing is also planned.

Opening hours would be Sundays to Wednesdays 9am until 9pm, Thursdays 9am until 9:30pm, Fridays and Saturdays 9am until 10:30pm.

Council planners said that the proposal would bring an empty unit back into use and provide services for the local community, adding: "It is considered that the proposal would provide a service to local residents by providing a community meeting space and many letters in support of the application as a community facility have been received from the general public in the local area."

Mr Marples told the planning board: "We are proposing the opening of a small microbar, specialising in real ale speciality beers, coffees, teas and cakes operating until 9pm / 10 pm daily. Focusing on real ales differentiates us from typical pub venues and attracts a clientele appreciative of quality beverages in a relaxed setting.

"The target demographic is the more mature generation that prioritises quiet conversation and an ealry closing time is central to our commitment to minimising disturbance.

“The Brecks currently lacks a dedicated, quiet and welcoming venue like this, and the presence of a well run microbar adds to the diversity and vibrancy of local amenities.”

“We understand that residents may have concerns about noise, disorder and parking, and the establishment is low noise by design."

The planning board voted unanimously to approve the application.

Images: Google Maps

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News: One hour free parking in Rotherham town centre

Rotherham Council has introduced one hour’s free parking in council-run car parks in Rotherham town centre.

The scheme aims to "support local businesses, boost footfall, and encourage residents to shop locally."

Rothbiz reported in January on proposals put forward for Rotherham Council's latest budget which included £50,000 for free parking.

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. The latest offer is now in place Monday to Friday. Anyone wishing to take advantage of the hour free parking must get a ticket from the machine.

Councillor John Williams, Cabinet Member for Transport, Jobs and the Local Economy, said: “Our introduction of one hour of free parking is another practical step to support our town centre businesses. Anyone needing to nip to the bank, market or into a shop can now do so without worrying about paying, so long as they display a ticket.

“The free parking initiative underlines our focus on delivering a vibrant, safe, and welcoming town centre experience for all.”

In February Rothbiz revealed that Rotherham Council had decided to offer unlimited free parking for patrons of all businesses at Forge Island, the £47m development in the town centre that includes an 8-screen boutique cinema, food outlets and a hotel.

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Also in the council's budget was £570,000 to launch a new "Street Safe Team" focused on increasing safety in town and village centres.

The uniformed team, made up of 10 staff, will target areas including Rotherham town centre, Dinnington, Wath, Maltby and Swinton, using local intelligence to tackle issues and offer a reassuring and familiar point of contact for residents and visitors.

The team will also be able to enforce local Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) to help tackle issues like anti-social behaviour, street drinking and substance misuse, working closely with partners including South Yorkshire Police.

This initiative aimed to provide a welcoming presence for visitors to the area. The team would undertake a broad range of duties which would include signposting or providing information to the public as well as identifying and addressing issues in relation to the general street scene, such as littering, by enhancing the existing enforcement presence. The service was also aimed at enhancing community safety and improving perceptions of safety in town centres. Cllr Lynda Marshall, Cabinet Member for Street Scene and Green Spaces, said: “Our residents have told us loud and clear that cleaner, safer streets matter to them — and we’re listening.

“This investment is not just about more boots on the ground, it’s about delivering real, visible improvements in our communities. From cracking down on fly tipping to creating a stronger presence in our town centres, we’re taking action that people will see and feel every day. This is about pride in place - and we’re proud to back that with this investment.”

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News: Rotherham waits on mainline station funding

The government is yet to confirm funding for Rotherham Gateway Station with the borough waiting on costed plans for Northern Powerhouse Rail and a 10-year Infrastructure Strategy.

The project involves a new integrated station on the mainline and a tram-train stop on land at Forge Way, Parkgate and aims to transform the regional and national connectivity of Rotherham, catalysing a new Innovation Campus around the station.

The scheme was described earlier this year as the number one project in the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority's (SYMCA's) submission to the spending review.

A number of other large transport projects were mentioned by chancellor Rachel Reeves and the Spending Review documents this week. In her speech she confirmed that an infrastructure strategy is being finalised and added that "in the coming weeks I will set out this government’s plans to take forward our ambitions for Northern Powerhouse Rail."

The previous Government's £96 billion Integrated Rail Plan for the North and Midlands scaled back ambitions for Northern Powerhouse Rail, with Rotherham and Sheffield both missed off plans.

In 2023, as it axed HS2 reaching the North, the then government's "Network North" plan included a new mainline station for Rotherham that would be added to the route between Sheffield and Leeds, giving the town its first direct service to London since the 1980s.

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The new mainline station proposed for Parkgate is a Department for Transport (DfT) retained scheme, held back for further review or development before funding is released, so a business case for the project has been prepared in line with government guidance, including the requirements of the Treasury’s Green Book which has been updated to support place-based business cases.

The Government's City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS) (now renamed as Transport for City Regions) was identified for much of the next stage of the project - the development of a full business case which is expected to cost £11.35m.

Last week, £1.5 billion was confirmed for South Yorkshire but only buses and trams have been mentioned so far, despite SYMCA describing Rotherham Gateway has having "the potential to offer the most significant growth and regeneration opportunity across the North of England."

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Responding to the Spending Review, South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard said: "We’ve not seen the whole picture today. Next week, we’ll hear about the government’s plans for infrastructure, and I’ll be looking for a response to the proposals we put forward through the White Rose Agreement’s Yorkshire’s Plan for Rail, and support for some of our key industrial strengths, including our steel and hydrogen sectors."

Yorkshire’s Plan for Rail is a phased plan to fix Yorkshire’s broken railways, published by Lord Blunkett last month. For Rotherham the plans reiterate the need for a new mainline station given that the borough is currently poorly connected to the rail network, with the town centre served via a loop off the main line, and only having two stopping trains an hour.

Carrie Sudbury, Chief Executive, Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber, said: "A successful local and regional economy is built upon its transport infrastructure. Returning Rotherham to the main line will vastly improve connectivity to centres such as Leeds, London, Manchester and Birmingham whilst at the same time reducing journey times.

"The plan rightly identified that a rail journey must be at least 20% faster compared with a car journey to make in attractive alternative. At present it takes almost the same amount of time to travel between Rotherham and Barnsley via train, as it does to travel between Doncaster and Peterborough. Clearly this needs to change.

"We encourage the Chancellor to prioritise investment in South Yorkshire’s rail infrastructure, which in turn will bring about significant benefits for the local and regional economy.”

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News: £400,000 for prominent Rotherham pub

The freehold of a public house in Rotherham has gone up for sale following a period of inactivity.

Occupying a prominent spot on Kimberworth's High Street, the large, imposing pub comes with restaurant dining to the rear and first floor function room.

According to CAMRA, the pub was acquired by national operator Stonegate and was extensively refurbished before reopening in August 2022. It closed before reopening again in 2024 alongside Maisha Spice, which specialised in Indian style cuisine. It is currently closed.

Stonegate's parent company, TDR Capital, had £2.6 billion of debts, even before it made a £250m shareholder contribution into the pub co last year. GMB Union had been warning that the financial sitaution at TDR could lead to Stonegate’s collapse that would put 4,400 pubs and thousands of jobs at risk.

Savills was appointed to help dispose of a portfolio of 20 pubs last year.

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The marketing for the Green Dragon states: "The property comprises a detached, two storey public house of brick elevations, partially rendered, set beneath a pitched tile covered roof. To the side and rear, there is a large single storey flat roof extension.

"Externally to the rear, there is a beer garden with a children’s play area. Beer patio to the side and single storey out building. To the front, there is car parking for approximately 20 vehicles.

"Overall, the property extends to 0.57 acres."

The property includes a public bar with a games area and open plan lounge with a dining area in the single storey extension. To the rear, there is a former restaurant, which provides an open plan dining room with bar servery. The restaurant has both separate external and internal access. The private living accommodation on the first floor provides two bedrooms, lounge, kitchen and a bathroom.

Unconditional offers over £400,000 plus VAT are being invited.

Whilst being up for sale, Stonegate is still advertising the pub as part of its Retail Partnership Tenancy scheme with operators expected to pay a reduced rent of £12,000 per annum. with the pub's forecasted annual turnover of £245,491.

Stonegate's ad says: "The Green Dragon occupies a prominent position on the main through road of Kimberworth. Benefitting from a good-sized car park and secure beer garden, the pub has historically been at the heart of the local community.

"Internally the décor is clean and well maintained throughout, and the pub has recently benefited from a full external redecoration and new signage scheme. The two function rooms can also cater for business meetings and private parties and the main bar area has a number of TV screens where you can keep up to date with all the major sporting events."

Stonegate website

Images: Savills

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