News: New openings at Rotherham development

A micro bar and an Indian restaurant have opened at a new urban shopping and leisure development in Rotherham.

2025 saw the opening of Olive Lane at the Waverley development which has seen a range of users take units alongside a new medical centre and community centre.

The Canary micro bar has created a warm, welcoming atmosphere at Unit C1, complete with outdoor benches.

Operators have stocked an incredible range of craft beers plus a top-tier selection of independent wines, cocktails, ciders, gins, and more.

Applicant, TBO Limited, has secured an alcohol licence with the operating hours of 9:00 - 23:30 on Monday to Thursday, 9:00 - 00:30 on Friday and Saturday and Sundays between 9:00 and 22:30.

The opening event on September 12 also included various street food trucks which are set to continue to park up at the new venue.

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Part of Harworth’s complete redevelopment of the former mining site, Olive Lane totals 11 retail units and a medical centre and will serve the current community of more than 2,500 residents and around 1,700 homes, expected to rise to 8,000 people and more than 3,000 homes by 2029.

Also opening recently is Karobar Indian restaurant.

Developed as a pub kitchen concept and currently operating at the Three Swords in Horsforth and The York in Sheffield, Karobar offers a modern twist on classic flavours, specializing in shareable small plates designed for social dining - Regional Indian Tapas features innovative bite-sized delights that showcase the diversity of Indian cuisine.

The Waverley site has become the flagship Karobar restaurant.

The website explains: "We've ignited our passion for modern Indian cuisine, centring our kitchen around the primal arts of the tandoor and the grill. Experience our signature "Regional Indian Tapas" with a smoky, flame-kissed twist. Expect succulent kebabs, perfectly charred vegetables, and tandoori breads, all crafted for sharing in our vibrant, social space. This is Karobar, fired up."

The new restaurant offers a brunch service from 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM and a dinner Service from 5:00 PM.

A Tesco store, vets, nursery and Wingers fast-food franchise have signed up for Olive Lane with a dental practice in the pipeline.

The Canary facebook page
Karobar website

Images: Canary / Karobar

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News: Funding boost for Connect to Work scheme

A grant funding agreement has been signed that will see £35.3m to help thousands of sick or disabled people into good, secure jobs in South Yorkshire.

A new £338m investment into the Connect to Work programme will deliver localised, tailored support to over 85,000 people who are sick, disabled or face complex barriers to work in 15 areas across England.

The scheme provides intensive, personalised help including individual coaching from employment specialists, job matching services, and ongoing support for both participants and employers to ensure sustainable employment outcomes.

In all around 300,000 people across all of England and Wales are set to benefit over the next five years. To access support, sick and disabled people and those facing complex barriers to work can self-refer or they can be referred through various routes including healthcare professionals, local authorities, and voluntary sector partners.

With 2.8 million people out of work due to ill-health – one of the highest rates in the G7 – it’s part of the Government’s plan to get Britain working again and deliver an 80% employment rate by overhauling jobcentres, tackling economic inactivity through local plans, and delivering a Youth Guarantee so every young person is either earning or learning.

Among those out of work, over one in four cite sickness as a barrier - more than double the 2012 figure of one in ten - highlighting the urgent need for tailored employment support that removes barriers faced by disabled people and those with health conditions.

Economic inactivity in Rotherham is higher (27%) than in South Yorkshire, statistical neighbours and the national average (21%). This is driven by higher economic inactivity among women, residents aged 50-64, and ethnic minorities.

Long-term sickness is the leading reason for inactivity. Rotherham has the highest rates of inactivity due to long-term sickness (35%) and retirement (14%) among comparator areas.

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Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall said: "For too long, millions of people have been denied the support they need to get back to health and back to work.

"It’s bad for their living standards, it’s bad for their families, and it’s bad for the economy.

"That’s why we’re taking decisive action by investing millions of pounds so sick or disabled people can overcome the barriers they face and move out of poverty and into good, secure jobs as part of our Plan for Change."

The five-year programme launched recently and Connect to Work in South Yorkshire is part of the Pathways to Work system, ensuring alignment and a coordinated one-system approach to employment support services on offer. Up to £35.3m has been secured, helping 9,950 participants across Sheffield, Rotherham, Barnsley, and Doncaster into work.

The South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority is the accountable body, working in partnership with the local councils. The authority has contracted organisations to deliver support - £7,413,744 with South Yorkshire Housing Association and 4,942,496 with The Shaw Trust.

South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard said: "I want South Yorkshire to be a place where we all thrive. Where poor health doesn’t hold us back. And work plays a huge part. It’s not just about wages - it’s about dignity, pride, and the security that comes from knowing you can support yourself and your family.

"Right now, more than 140,000 people across South Yorkshire aren’t in work. But many of those people desperately want to have a job, want to provide for their families, and contribute to the future of our communities. Which is why I’m proud that South Yorkshire is one of the areas across England and Wales delivering Connect to Work.

"It’s a programme designed to help those with disabilities, long-term health conditions, or from disadvantaged backgrounds, into good, secure jobs. And I’m even prouder that Connect to Work is part of the national Pathways to Work project, which we pioneered right here in South Yorkshire.

"South Yorkshire’s at the forefront of tackling these challenges nationally, and we’re increasingly a model for other places across the country."

Rotherham Employment Solutions website

Images: Opportunity Sheffield

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News: Plans in for Rotherham brownfield housing development

Detailed plans have been submitted for 120 houses on the site of a former bus depot in Rotherham.

Rothbiz reported in 2023 that Prospect Estates Ltd had submitted an outline application for new housing on the 3.9 hectare site at Masbrough in 2023. The plans were approved in February 2024.

Now a detailed application shows that Keepmoat, a leading UK home builder, is taking on the redevelopment of the former Midland Road bus depot that was demolished in 2023.

The application applies for the reserved matters of scale, layout, appearance and landscape for the erection of 120 residential dwellings with associated infrastructure and open space.

House types vary across the development and include 1, 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes, with a mix of 2 and 2.5 storey buildings and different types of dwellings: detached, semi detached, short terraces and quarter houses.

No affordable housing is included due to the site being brownfield and the developers able to use Vacant Building Credit where the development is equal in size or smaller than the demolished buildings onsite.

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A significant sum is expected from the applicant to support local education provision.

Vehicular access is shown from Midland Road (the main entrance to the previous depot) and on Union Street.

Two main areas of play space are shown, one behind the existing doctor's surgery and one on the corner of Kimberworth Road and Devonshire Street. Plans, drawn up by consultants at JRP, say they are located "as a high quality entry point of the site. This vision is driven by a desire to create spaces that are active focal point, not just for the benefit of new residents but the wider community."

A surface water attenuation tank forms part of the flood risk management strategy for the site.

The site was purchased by Prospect Estates, and buildings demolished, for £1,8m. Developer Gleeson had previously agreed terms for the site with planning permission for £3.2m but delays were caused when the applicant was involved in a legal challenge against Rotherham Council regarding the approval of outline planning permission. The challenge ultimately failed.

Across Rotherham, Keepmoat is currently building new homes on a brownfield site to create Moorgate Boulevard.

Keepmoat website

Images: Keepmoat

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News: E.ON looking to invest more than £500m across the Lower Don Valley

Plans have been submitted that show how E.ON's Don Valley heat network will bring low carbon heating to a key economic site in Rotherham.

Rothbiz reported last year on proposals to add around 11km to expand the 8km pipe network that is powered by E.ON’s Blackburn Meadows renewable energy plant which uses biomass to provide a source of heating to connected buildings.

Heat networks are a more efficient and more cost-effective way of providing heat to built-up areas by producing and distributing heat from a central source instead of individual boilers in each property.

Already providing heat to businesses, including IKEA UK, Forgemasters' and Ice Sheffield and Sheffield Arena, the plans show a route south of the current network extending from Sheffield Arena to take in Tinsley's industrial estates and Sheffield Business Park before crossing the Parkway to connect to the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham.

The pilot phase extension will see a Capital Expenditure Investment (CAPEX) of around £40m in Sheffield and Rotherham and the application adds: "E.ON’s ambition is to invest more than £500m across the Lower Don Valley to deliver at scale and pace to provide low carbon, cost effective heat to buildings within this area and the creation of new local jobs totalling circa. 2355 by 2036."

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There is likely to be some disruption on the local highway network during the construction phase due to the need to dig up sections of road to be able to install the pipe network. This will result in short term impacts such as lane closures, road closures and diversion of traffic.

The proposed pipe network also includes above-ground heat pipes that span two bridges, and one underpass between Sheffield and Rotherham.

For the Europa Link Underpass beneath the Parkway the proposal involves fully enclosing the pipework, concealing the exposed heat pipes and minimizing their visual impact.

From the Parkway, pipes would take the network down Poplar Way to the Morrisons roundabout, onto Highfield Spring and Brunel Way, stopping outside Rolls-Royce's Advanced Blade Casting facility with plans showing the potential for a "future expansion connection."

Blackburn Meadows generates 30MW of electrical energy and up to 25MW of thermal energy to power the equivalent of 69,0005 homes and businesses.

E.ON hopes to start construction on the pilot phase in 2027.

In 2023 Rotherham Energy Limited secured £25m to build a new Rotherham Energy Network eminating from the £150m biomass power station at Templeborough.

E.ON website

Images: E.ON

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News: £20m+ government funding to restore pride in Rotherham neighbourhoods

Rotherham is set to benefit from the funding behind the government’s new Pride in Place Strategy, launched this week to help build stronger communities, create thriving places and empower local people.

Maltby has been named as one of the areas that will receive £2m every year for a decade.

And building on the £20m Plan for neighbourhoods, Rotherham will also receive £1.5m to restore pride in place, support community cohesion, and stimulate local economic activity through visible, short-term, community-led improvements.

The Pride in Place programme is described as an unprecedented programme backed by record funding that lets local people call the shots on where and how money is spent in their communities, restoring local pride and helping them reclaim their streets.

Areas were selected as being "doubly disadvantaged" by both the highest deprivation levels and weakest social infrastructure. The additional places focus on smaller geographies, targeting hyper-local pockets of deprivation which have too often fallen through the cracks of national interventions.

Similar to the Neighbourhood boards being established to oversee where funding is spent, boards will need to genuinely engage their communities, so that community groups, local organisations and social clubs have been included in decisions.

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Interventions could include reviving high streets, restoring parks, and breathing new life into pubs, leisure centres and community halls.

Communities will also gain new powers to seize boarded-up shops, block nuisance businesses, and buy beloved local assets before they close – restoring pride and unity to every corner of the country.

The up to £5 billion package includes an additional £3.5 billion to roll out the Plan for neighbourhoods programme to 169 more areas, each receiving up to £20m over ten years. Separately, 95 areas receive a share of £150m capital funding to improve public spaces, parks and high streets.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: "For too long, people have watched their towns and streets decline – powerless to stop boarded-up shops and neglected parks. That ends now.

"We’re investing in the UK’s future, by backing the true patriots that build our communities up in neighbourhoods across every corner of the country. Because it’s people who bring pride, hope and life to our communities.

"This is a huge investment, but what matters most is who decides how it’s spent: the neighbours, volunteers and parents who know their communities best – the people with real skin in the game.

Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, Steve Reed added: “When people step out of their front doors, they know their communities are struggling. They see shuttered pubs, fading high streets and their local areas in decline.

“Yes, communities have been stretched – but they haven’t given up. They’re working hard to make things better, and we’re backing them.

“The Government is putting power into their hands so local people decide how best to restore pride in their neighbourhoods, not us in Westminster.

“That’s what real patriotism looks like: building up our communities and choosing renewal over division.”

Images: Beecroft Estates

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News: Businesses already showing interest in £12m Rotherham regeneration scheme

Current tenants and prospective new occupiers are already showing interest in a new multimillion pound regeneration scheme in a Rotherham town.

The revamp of DInnington market recently cleared a major hurdle with the Government’s Planning Inspector approving Rotherham Council’s bid to acquire key property in the area.

Rothbiz reported in July that all objections had been withdrawn just before a legal inquiry got underway into a compulsory purchase order (CPO) that would enable Rotherham Council to acquire the various land and property interests needed for the Government-funded project.

The plans include clearing derelict buildings, creating a new town square, and developing purpose-built commercial units to diversify the local offer.

The project, backed by £11m in Government funding, aims to improve the outdoor market, pedestrian routes, and public spaces - creating a healthier, safer, and more sustainable environment for residents, visitors, and businesses.

As well as improving the high street’s aesthetics and accessibility, the project will also create new opportunities for local businesses and the town centre including increased footfall and events.

The letter from the inspector exlains that: "an aspiration of the scheme is to retain the existing businesses, and four of the current businesses have indicated that they wish to return to the development, and will be accommodated. There has been no marketing to date but a further five new businesses have indicated that they wish to have premises within the new scheme which shows that there is already an appetite for the development.

"Some of the displaced occupiers do not wish to return to the scheme, for example the Colliery Band, but they have been helped to relocate to suitable premises elsewhere [in the old library on Laughton Road]."

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To carry out the plans, that were approved in 2024, the council needs to acquire acquire all outstanding interests in 32A Laughton Road, the indoor market at 34 Laughton Road, a parade of terraced retail units at 36 – 56 Laughton Road, the open area to the rear of Laughton Road which is used as the outdoor market with fixed market stalls, the colliery band building and two passageways at either end of the plot.

The inspector concluded: "It is evident that there needs to be a comprehensive redevelopment of the Order Land to regenerate not only the market area itself but also the wider town centre. The development needs to take place in this location as part of the town centre to provide the benefits to the wider retail area, remove the unsightly elements and provide the new town square.

"Whilst all of the objectors to the CPO have withdrawn their objections prior to the opening of the inquiry, the actual acquisition of all of the plots had not yet occurred, and the making of the CPO alongside the ongoing negotiations help to ensure that the scheme could be achieved within a reasonable timescale."

Work to appoint a contractor is expected to take place in the New Year before work starts on site.

The Government has confirmed that the spending on the project can be extended from 2026 to 2028.

Cllr. Chris Read, Leader of Rotherham Council, said: “It’s fantastic news that the CPO has been confirmed meaning work can progress on the redevelopment of Dinnington High Street. The work will make a huge impact on the local area, not just in terms of how it looks, but how it’s accessed and help and foster a renewed sense of pride in the town.

“We’ve all been frustrated about the length of time it’s taken to reach this stage - it was never going to be easy with some of the challenges we've faced in acquiring parts of the site. However, now that the CPO has been granted, we remain totally committed to forging ahead on delivering the improvements that residents and businesses have been waiting for.”

Rother Valley MP Jake Richards, spoke at the public inquiry and said: "It is vital that the project happens. Dinnington has never lost its character, and everyone pulls together but investment is desperately needed.

"Dinnington is a market town, and the scheme will reorientate and modernise the market place and bring better integration with the town centre. The aim is not just cosmetic, but the scheme offers a comprehensive approach and responds to the public interest."

Richards described the project as "a golden opportunity that will be a catalyst for local growth."

Images: RMBC / AHR / Google Maps

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News: Bodycote's Rotherham plant sets blueprint for global rollout

Bodycote has announced a significant milestone in its ambitious sustainability agenda; bucking the recent "green-hushing" trend and highlighting both the feasibility of 2030 decarbonisation targets and customer demand for greener practices.

Bodycote, the world’s leading provider of precision heat treatment and specialist thermal processing services, has announced that two of its UK facilities – which specialise in heat treating turbine blades for Rolls-Royce jet engines – are now operating with zero carbon emissions.

In what is believed to be a sector first, the Rotherham and Derby plants are now fully electric with 100% of the electricity covered by renewable energy sources. No fossil fuels are consumed in the plants, and the zero operational emission milestone has been achieved without the use of carbon offsetting. Bodycote, a FTSE 250 business, operates in a global heat treatment industry worth an estimated $25-30bn. Though energy intensive, the industry’s work is critical to the safety, durability and performance of products that define modern life.

Rothbiz reported on Bodycote's expansion on to the Advanced Manufacturong Park (AMP) in Rotherham back in 2018.

Without Bodycote’s services, an aircraft engine would not survive a single flight, car gearboxes would struggle to survive a week of use, and surgical tools or joint replacements would fail to meet essential safety standards.

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Jim Fairbairn, CEO of Bodycote said, “Our customers, many with ambitious 2030 targets, are looking for suppliers who can support their decarbonisation efforts. Recently, a customer with a 90% carbon reduction goal came to us because of the impact offered by our lower-carbon thermal processing. These are real demands, and the clock is ticking.

“For Bodycote, leading in this space is not only the right thing for the planet, but also the right thing for our global business. As well as the progress made in Derby and Rotherham, we are running pilot decarbonisation projects across Europe and North America.”

Supporting the UK Government’s Industrial Decarbonisation Strategy, Bodycote’s transition to zero emissions is achieved through investment in industrial heat electrification, energy-efficiency and renewable energy sourcing. A new closed circuit adiabatic cooling system was recently introduced at the Derby plant which is located alongside the Rolls Royce site. Replacing evaporative cooling towers, this innovative installation provides electricity consumption savings (as well as peak electrical load and associated carbon emissions) of 73% as well as a reduction in water use of over 85%, whilst also avoiding the need for chemical dosing and cleaning.

Larissa Lee-Favier, SVP Sustainability, Rolls-Royce, said, “We congratulate Bodycote on achieving heat treatment operations with zero emissions. We encourage all our partners and suppliers to take action to make the operations and activities they can influence sustainable. Bodycote’s achievement sets a strong and commendable example for the industry.”

As the first and only major heat treatment company with a near-term carbon reduction target verified by the Science Based Targets initiative, the business is committed to measurable progress. Its Derby and Rotherham plants now serve as blueprint sites for a global decarbonisation programme, with the next zero-emission site set to be announced in the coming months.

The transformation contributes to regional low-carbon manufacturing networks and the national goal of reducing carbon emissions. The Climate Change Committee, which reports to Parliament on the UK's progress to adapt to climate change every two years, has recently identified the electrification of industrial heat as a top priority for the UK to meet its future carbon targets.

Across more than 100 sites globally, the Bodycote group is deploying a programme of energy efficiency, electrification and on-site renewable energy projects to minimise energy use and carbon emissions. Innovations include on-site nitrogen gas generators and application of novel hydrogen electrolysers. The group has also started to source green methanol for use in its processing and is exploring ways to tackle emissions relating to the supply of process gases used in furnaces, which are traditionally road transported.

Brought together, these measures will enable the offering of low or zero emission heat treatment solutions to more customers in the future. With sustainability high on the executive agenda, the group has already made significant inroads. These include a 27% reduction in energy intensity and 29% reduction in associated carbon emissions (compared to 2019 levels), targeting a 46% reduction in operational emissions by 2030.

The transition to zero operational emissions has been achieved without increasing customer costs, extending lead times or reducing capacity. The most significant outcome is the measurable reduction in carbon emissions associated with outsourced processes for Bodycote customers. Outputs run for specific customer scenarios have shown the potential to reduce emissions by up to 60% for a comparable treatment approach.

Jim Fairbairn continues: “This achievement puts Derby and Rotherham on the map as centres of excellence for decarbonisation. When an energy-intensive industry like heat treatment can show real climate action, it demonstrates that a green future is within reach.”

Bodycote website

Images: Bodycote

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News: Heavenly Desserts confirmed for Rotherham, opening date announced

A new slice of indulgence is coming to Rotherham this autumn with luxury dessert restaurant Heavenly Desserts set to open its doors at Forge Island in the town centre.

Known for its indulgent waffles, artisan cheesecakes and signature croffles (a croissant-waffle hybrid) Heavenly Desserts is already a firm favourite with over 60 locations across the UK.

The Rotherham branch will offer a menu of handcrafted desserts, luxurious milkshakes, alcohol free mojitos and rich, barista-made coffees. Expect everything from cookie dough to crepes served in a modern, stylish setting perfect for date nights, celebrations, or a spontaneous treat-yourself moment.

Rothbiz revealed in June that the operator had applied for planning permission for new signage at the 1,500 sq ft unit that sits between Forge Island and Corporation Street.

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But it’s not just desserts - Heavenly Desserts will also serve a brunch menu for those after a taste of savoury as well as sweet.

Recruitment is underway for restaurant team members and the new Rotherham branch is expected to open on Saturday November 1.

Cllr. John Williams, Cabinet Member for Transport, Jobs and the Local Economy at Rotherham Council, said: "We’re thrilled to welcome Heavenly Desserts to Forge Island. It’s another fantastic addition that will help make this a destination for everyone - whether you’re here for a film, a meal, or just something sweet after a day out. It’s all part of creating a town centre that’s vibrant, welcoming, and full of life."

Daoud Tahir, Franchisee at Heavenly Desserts, added: “We’re really excited to bring Heavenly Desserts to Rotherham. Forge Island is a great development, and we’re excited to be part of the family there. Our sites in Sheffield and Manchester already get visitors from Rotherham. There’s lots of demand so we thought, why not bring it to your doorstep?”

Heavenly Desserts will join Arc Cinema, Travelodge, Sygnature Dish and Vetro Lounge at Forge Island, which is fast becoming a landmark leisure destination for Rotherham and the wider region following Rotherham Council’s £47m investment.

Work is also underway on major public realm regeneration project Riverside Gardens with a new ‘Street Safe’ team focused on increasing safety in town and village centres set to start in the autumn.

Heavenly Desserts website

Images: Heavenly Desserts / RMBC

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News: Rotherham manufacturer in expansion bid following contract win

An ambitious South Yorkshire manufacturing company that specialises in producing precision machined components for the renewables, defence and oil and gas industries, is planning to expand its current unit in Rotherham.

X-Cel Group is a global manufacturer of machined components. In June 2012, the firm moved its Gasket and Seal division to the prestigious Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham. The site also includes the group’s coating, assembly and pressure testing plant and a dedicated assembly cell for customer turn key products.

A planning application has been submitted to create additional flexible employment floorspace for X-Cel Superturn on the AMP. X-Cel Superturn specialises in the manufacture and supply of oil and gas customer products.

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The plans, drawn up by consultants at Stantec, explain: "The need for the proposed development follows the awarding of a significant new government contract which will future proof the applicant’s business, workforce and operational infrastructure for the foreseeable future.

"X-Cel Group now hold two manufacturing units on the AMP to a combined floorspace of over 50,000 sq ft. X-Cel Group are continuing to seek opportunities to increase their capabilities and resources."

The expansion of Unit 3 by neary 6,000 sq ft is expected to facilitate the creation of four new full time equivalent (FTE) jobs due to the machinery and equipment involved in the processes X-Cel Group undertakes. At present the firm currently employs 100 staff across the shop floor and office roles on day shifts and 14 staff on the afternoon/evening shift.

The plans conclude: "The expansion of Unit 3 will continue to assist in the economic development and regeneration of this area of the Borough and help the Council set a positive precedent demonstrating flexibility on the AMP to accommodate future growth within the businesses located there.

"The application is entirely consistent with national and local planning policy together with the area’s Enterprise Zone designation and its requirements."

X-Cel Group website

Images: X-Cel Group

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News: AESSEAL Rotherham factory "a temple of innovation"

AESSEAL’s Factory for the Future in Rotherham has been officially opened by the former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who described the multimillion pound investment as "a temple of innovation."

Mr Sunak said the country could learn from the success of AESSEAL.

AESSEAL is the fourth largest global manufacturer of mechanical seals and equipment and the latest project has expanded its operations at the global headquarters in Templeborough.

Opening in 2023, the project includes the refurbishment and “greening” of existing plant as well as a state-of-the-art, 60,000 sq ft extension that has almost doubled the site capacity. It brings the firm’s total investment in Rotherham to over £61m and it is hoped that the global showcase for sustainable manufacturing will lead to an additional £20m of investment in the Rotherham area over the next five to ten years.

Sunak told more than 200 guests at the Mill Close headquarters ceremony that it was not just about founder and managing director Chris Rea building a “world leading company”, but how he had gone about it.

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The Conservative MP for Richmond and Northallerton said: “He has done it in a way that is consistent with how he is. He is a deeply principled man who is committed to making the world a better place than he found it.

"All of you have been part of this extraordinary story of what makes this company special."

Mr Sunak said its growth was a success story the country could learn from, and added: "It is successful because the company defines reliability. You can trust AESSEAL – signed, sealed and delivered. This is a temple of innovation."

AESSEAL was formed with just five employees in 1979, and now serves more than 100 countries with almost 2,000 staff.

The new building reflects AESSEAL’s commitment to creating quality local jobs and ensuring a sustainable future for both the company and the surrounding community. The building is entirely heated by electricity powered by photovoltaics. This has contributed to AESSEAL as a business achieving net zero carbon.

Chris Rea said the building was called the Factory for the Future, not the Factory of the Future, because it represented something that was always evolving and not static.

He pointed to the unoccupied space in the factory and said: "What upsets me most in the world? Pretty close is not having enough customers, but what really upsets me more is not being able to give great service to the customers we have. We built this so our customers could fill it. We have facilities we could close down and fill tomorrow but that is not our style. We make tasks redundant but we never make people redundant. If you have space and you have great people and great customers, you will fill it."

AESSEAL website

Images: AESSEAL

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News: Rotherham town centre store closes following national retailer's administration

The administrators of a struggling national retail chain has announced the closure of all stores having been unable to find a buyer.

Interpath were appointed joint administrators to G.R. & M.M. Blackledge plc, trading as Bodycare, on September 5.

Founded in 1970 on a market stall in Lancashire, Bodycare is a high street retailer of branded health and beauty products, as well as fragrances and bathroom consumables. The Company traded from 147 stores across the UK and employed circa 1,500 people.

The Rotherham Bodycare store within the Interchange in the town centre has now closed. It follows the town cetre closure of Boots and Superdrug in recent years with health and beauty products now covered by the discount chains, the market and Tesco.

Interpath said: "In common with a number of other bricks and mortar retailers, the Company has faced a number of challenges in recent years which have negatively impacted its financial position. This included rising costs, including rent and people costs, a delayed transition to its online retail platform, and the cost-of-living crisis impacting its customer base."

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The joint administrators had been liaising with a number of parties who had expressed interest in the business, including interest in the Bodycare brand. Stores closed whilst discussions remained ongoing, but now administrators confirm that a sale of the stores is now unlikely and have annouced the closure of the remaining stores, including Rotherham.

A statement from Interpath said: "Given the shortage of stock and significant costs associated with operating stores, it is no longer viable to continue to trade the business.

"Regrettably, all 444 members of staff at these locations will be made redundant upon the closing of their respective stores. The administrators will continue to provide all support to those impacted, including supporting them with claims to the Redundancy Payments Service."

Nick Holloway, managing director at Interpath and joint administrator, said: “We understand this has been a difficult period and so we want to further express our sincere thanks to Bodycare’s staff who, since day one of the administration, have maintained the strong standards of presentation and customer service that Bodycare was renowned for.

“We will continue to explore options for the Company’s assets, including the Bodycare brand, and will provide further updates in due course.”

Images: Google Maps

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News: Three cheers! Rotherham operator planning third venue

A popular bar operator with two sites already in Rotherham is planning to open in a third unit.

The move marks a massive turnaround from being locked out of the original premises by previous landlords.

Rothbiz reported in June that Roadhouse Bar & Bottles was preparing to reopen its premises at Stag roundabout. In 2024 they had closed for the "forseeable future" "due to circumstances outside of our control."

A planning application has now been submitted that would enable the operators to take on an empty retail unit just next door.

Formerly the Paws to Hooves pet shop before it relocated to Wickersley, the application is for a change of use with the Roadhouse operator hoping to use the 1,387 sq ft of space to create a wine and cocktail bar with a function room on the first floor.

Currently the unit includes a sales area and store to ground floor level and at first floor level there is a further storage, kitchenette and WC facilities.

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A bar and tables would be installed downstairs with toilets for customers upstairs along with a function room.

Plans also show a proposal for a retractable canopy to the side in the seating area already used by patrons of the Roadhouse.

It is thought that the two venues would operate separately but share the outside seating area.

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

Operators found themselves locked out just before Valentine's Day in 2024 with notices of peaceable re-entry by the landlord on display at both the Roadhouse and Rancheros 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.

A second Roadhouse micropub opened in a former opticians in Dinnington in 2024.

Roadhouse Facebook page

Images: SMC Chartered surveyors

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News: ASB reduction in Rotherham town centre following police action

A hotspot initiative is having an effect on bringing down anti-social behaviour (ASB) rates in Rotherham town centre, according to South Yorkshire Police.

The initiative implements problem solving work and dedicated patrols in areas highlighted as experiencing higher levels of ASB.

The initiative is coordinated by South Yorkshire Police's Grip Team, which is funded by the Home Office, and sees intelligence led activity in hotspot areas.

In Spring 2024, Rotherham Central Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) received rising reports of ASB in and around the town's interchange.

These incidents of ASB were affecting people visiting Rotherham and causing a noticeable demand on the NPT.

Through dedicated work between the NPT and the Grip Team, alongside partners, a reduction in incidents of ASB has been achieved.

In the last quarter of 2024/25, ASB incidents decreased by 70% when compared to the same period of the three years before.

Rotherham Central NPT Sergeant Robert Greensmith, said: "Our initial response was to identify those linked to several of the reported incidents. Through CCTV enquiries and visiting local schools, we identified the perpetrators and served Acceptable Behaviour Contracts and ASB warnings.

"We have also worked with local partners to implement tactics to disrupt ASB such as playing classical music, locking toilets known to be used by drug users and closing a platform which was not in use and had been identified as more likely to attract ASB.

"Visibility of officers acts a deterrent so we have implemented increase patrols in the area. Regular meetings and walkabouts have been established with Rotherham Council and has been essential to handling this issue.

"Although it is fantastic to see these results, we will not rest on our laurels. We will continue to work proactively to target anti-social behaviour as we know just how much it affects local communities. Please continue to report any issues or concerns to you have to us."

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During the summer, a day of action took place providing problem-solving solutions to address issues highlighted by communities in Rotherham town centre.

Collaborating with colleagues from Rotherham Council, this dedicated operation utilises a joint-working approach to tackle criminality and ASB within the town centre.

A range of activity took place, including high-visibility patrols and an intelligence-led warrant.

Police constables and police community support officers from our Central NPT spent the afternoon patrolling the town centre with a specialist drugs dog - completing nine stop and searches during the day.

The day of action also gave officers a chance to engage with over 100 town centre visitors, as well as a large number of shops and local businesses.

Rotherham Superintendent Sarah Gilmour said: "This day of action will be a regular fixture in the town centre and reaffirms our commitment to making Rotherham a place people are proud to call home.

"We are aware of concerns and perceptions about criminality and anti-social behaviour in the town centre and this initiative aims to not only tackle any issues but also provides us with an opportunity to engage with the local community.

"For us to best understand how you think the town centre can be improved, we need to hear from you. We know how important it is to be out and about in Rotherham listening and engaging with local people."

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News: Plans in for empty Rotherham town centre building

A planning application has been submitted that would enable a prominent empty building in Rotherham town centre to be brought back into use.

The corner building at the foot of the regenerated High Street has been up for sale for £100,000.

Totaling nearly 11,000 sq ft, the building was previously home to Eastwood Domestics in the 2,500 sq ft High Street unit which sits alongside the 4,000 sq ft former Dorothy Perkins and Burton unit. The second floor has its own entrance and was the home of Central Snooker Club, a club with an 80 year history.

Plans show the ground floor split into two units. The larger unit looks set to be used as a convenience store with a smaller unit, with a new entrance fronting High Street, acting as a lobby for a coffee shop and cultural centre on the first floor.

The application is for the installation of a new entrance door on the front elevation and a change of use of the first floor from Commercial (Class E) to Sui Generis (a use that does not fall within any particular use class).

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The plans, from Huseyin Esendemir and drawn up by Architechnica LTD, state: "The proposal seeks to create a self-contained unit on the first floor, enabling its independent use from the ground floor commercial premises. This change of use is necessary to make the first-floor space viable for a new purpose, specifically Turkish Cultural Centre/coffee shop.

"The installation of a new, separate entrance door on the front elevation is required to provide independent access for the first-floor unit, ensuring there is no conflict between the users of the ground floor and the first floor. This development will have the significant benefit of bringing a currently disused and at-risk building back into a productive use, which will enhance the vitality of the High Street and improve its overall appearance within the conservation area."

The building is not listed but was on Rotherham Civic Society's local list which compiled properties of architectural or historic interest. The society stated that: "No.2 High Street had been purchased by Montague Burton Ltd in 1926 with a view to expanding its presence in Rotherham. Following discussions with the Rotherham Corporation it became apparent that, due to the highway authority's plans to ease the College Street / High Street corner, Nos. 4 & 6 would need to be acquired in order to provide a site of sufficient size for Burton's new premises.

"In December 1929 the company's proposals for the new store were approved and the old property was demolished. The new building, designed by Harry Wilson, Architect, of Roundhay in Leeds was completed in 1931."

A number of uses have been recorded since then including Hart's wallpaper shop, Peter Lord's shoe shop and a ballroom / dance hall above.

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News: New licensing guidance aims to make Rotherham’s venues safer

Rotherham Council’s Cabinet has approved a new licensing policy.

The new licensing policy will shape how pubs, clubs, and entertainment venues operate across the borough for the next five years - with a strong focus on improving safety.

Shaped by feedback from residents, it introduces a wide range of guidance for licensed premises. Among the most significant changes are measures designed to tackle harassment, spiking, and vulnerability in the night-time economy.

At the heart of the new policy is a commitment to improving safety for all - especially women and vulnerable people.

As well as taking proactive steps to prevent harassment, assault, and spiking incidents, venues will now be advised to appoint a named “Women’s Safety Champion” to lead on safeguarding efforts, and staff must undergo training on how to respond to unacceptable behaviour.

The Council is also encouraging operators to take part in national campaigns such as Ask for Angela and WAVE (Welfare and Vulnerability Engagement), which help staff identify and support people who may be at risk.

Other steps include creating safe spaces within venues, improving lighting and signage, and ensuring there are clear routes for both staff and customers to report concerns. The policy also asks venues to make sure mobile phone charging stations, safe transport options, and recuperation rooms are available.

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The new policy also sets out tougher expectations for how venues manage security and protect the public. Licensed premises will be advised to ensure trained door supervisors are in place, with a recommended mix of male and female staff, particularly where customer searches are carried out.

The policy also addresses drug misuse and drink spiking, asking venues to carry out regular checks, train staff in awareness, and provide welfare support. Measures such as drink covers, safe spaces, and medical assistance will be part of a broader effort to reduce harm and support vulnerable individuals.

Cllr John Williams, Cabinet Member for Transport, Jobs and the Local Economy, said: “This new licensing policy marks a real step forward for Rotherham. We want to create a safer, more respectful environment for everyone who enjoys our town’s nightlife.

“We’ve listened carefully to the concerns raised during consultation, and we’ve responded with clear, practical measures that will make a genuine difference. This policy is about creating a night-time economy that works for everyone - where people feel safe, respected, and supported.”

The Council says it will work closely with responsible businesses to help them meet the new standards and encourages all operators to engage with the training and support available.

Efforts to enhance safety of Rotherham’s nightlife are part of Rotherham Council’s ongoing commitment to enhancing safety and cleanliness across the borough, including the introduction of a new ‘Street Safe Team’ focused on increasing safety in town and village centres, as well as a new team dedicated to roadside cleansing, with a focus on popular routes and key gateways.

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News: MTL delivers on defence contract

Rotherham-based MTL Advanced, one of the UK’s largest contract manufacturing businesses, has formally handed over the first fully British-manufactured Mission Module for the Boxer Mechanised Infantry Vehicle (MIV) programme to KNDS UK.

The firm, which operates a 387,000 sq ft facility at Brinsworth, was chosen in 2022 to supply armoured steel for the production of the MoD Boxer Armoured Vehicle Programme under a £-multi-million, multi-year contract. A year later it added to its current contract to supply armoured steel kits of parts for over 450 Drive Modules to KNDS’s fabrication line in Stockport.

The milestone marks a significant achievement for UK land defence manufacturing and represents the culmination of over two years of close collaboration between the two companies.

The handover ceremony took place at MTL Advanced’s Brinsworth headquarters in Rotherham, and was attended by KNDS Directors Tom Winney and Roland Hoegerle alongside the Secretary of State for Defence and local Rotherham MP Rt Hon John Healey.

This Mission Module is the first to be built entirely in the UK, from raw plate material through to final fabrication, and is part of MTL’s base order with KNDS for over 100 modules, a number expected to grow in the coming years. The order forms part of more than £40m in contracts awarded by KNDS to MTL Advanced to support the UK’s Boxer MIV programme.

Karl Stewart, General Manager at MTL Advanced, said: “This is an incredibly proud moment for MTL Advanced, our people, and the UK defence manufacturing sector. Delivering the first fully UK-built Mission Module demonstrates the strength of our partnership with KNDS and our capability to deliver world-class defence solutions. Our team has worked tirelessly to transfer the specialist knowledge from Germany to the UK, ensuring we can meet the highest standards required for this vital programme.”

MTL Advanced has been a key supplier to the Boxer programme for over 18 years, working with both KNDS (formerly KMW) and Rheinmetall. The company was the first UK business to qualify to the German Bundeswehr TL standards for processing armoured steel.

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The first mission module handover ceremony was followed by a tour of MTL’s facility which included a visit of the company’s award-winning Training Academy where 15-20 new apprentices start their engineering career every year. First Year Apprentices were given the chance to showcase some of their work to the Secretary of State for Defence and esteemed guests from KNDS.

Over 100 apprentices have now come through the doors of MTL's in-house Academy since it opened its doors in 2015 and the company’s home-grown talent has played a critical role in the company’s recent growth and success.

With now over 440 employees and annual sales expected to exceed £64m in 2025, MTL Advanced is recognised globally as a market leader in the processing of armoured steels and complex fabrications. The business has invested more than £15m in additional factory space and state-of-the-art equipment over the past two years, with further investments planned for late 2025.

John Healey MP, Defence Secretary, said: “It was great to speak with the brilliant apprentices at MTL Advanced and to hear how important local home-grown talent has been to the success of the business and the delivery of the UK’s innovative Boxer MIV programme. “In this new era for defence, we are proud to be backing British industry, British innovators and British jobs. Our Defence Industrial Strategy will help keep us safe and make defence an engine for growth in every region and nation of the UK.”

The Mission Module will now be integrated into the Boxer vehicles for the British Army, marking another step in bringing advanced armoured vehicle production fully back to the UK.

MTL Advanced website

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News: O&P Construction delivers YOR4Good site initiative

Local contractor O&P Construction has supported a Rotherham community group as part of their social value commitment.

O&P created an accessible allotment space on behalf of Reach Day Services, which offers daytime support and activities for adults with learning disabilities, autism, or complex needs.

O&P partnered with Reach Day Services, Rotherham Road Allotment Society and Maltby Town Council on the YOR4Good initiative, which included installing a self-composting toilet and handwashing facility with solar lighting; a portacabin to be used as a social area and workshop; a new water connection and grey water recycling and a generator for power and lighting – all of which created a more accessible site and will allow Reach Day Services to offer activities that were previously not possible to provide.

YOR4Good is a community fund developed to support economic regeneration in the area covered by YORhub’s frameworks. It is funded by cash and/or benefit in kind donations from the contractors of our YORcivil and YORbuild frameworks, when they are delivering construction projects through YORhub.

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Bob Mitchell, Construction Director, O&P Construction Services Ltd said, "We are proud to have supported this local community project via the YOR4Good Fund to make a real difference in the community in which we are working. The provision of these facilities will ensure that the Rotherham Road Allotments become a community venue that can welcome more people with different characteristics and offer activities and opportunities that were previously impossible to provide."

Philip Henderson, YOR4Good Panel Chair and YORbuild Framework Programme Manager, adde: "We are also proud that YOR4Good was the first social value initiative of its kind in the country, and we are delighted to support the Reach Day Services Allotment Project & Rotherham Road Allotment Society with this fantastic initiative."

In Rotherham, Wath-based O&P Construction has been appointed as the main contractor for the Thrybergh Country Park redevelopment project having recently completed the extension at at Waverley academy.

O&P Construction website
YORHUb website

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News: Masterplan signed off for 2,000 home development in Rotherham greenbelt

A proposed 2,000 home development on former greenbelt land in Rotherham has reached an important step in the planning process.

The vision is to create a "well-connected 21st century garden community" at Bassingthorpe Farm

A Bassingthorpe Farm Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) has been signed off by the Council's cabinet. It provides detailed guidance to developers when preparing planning applications, to help bring forward development of the site in a way that meets the Council’s objectives.

As part of the Local Plan core strategy that was adopted in 2014, the 215 hectare area close to Rotherham town centre was controversially removed from the Green Belt and designated as a Strategic Allocation and the main location for new housing, employment and retail growth.

Around 57 hectares (26%) of the site is under Rotherham Council's ownership and the Council has been leading on the proposals for a number of years, working collaboratively with major landowner, Fitzwilliam (Wentworth) Estates (FWE), on how to bring forward the project.

The allocation was for around 2,400 new homes, a primary school, a local centre, employment land and commercial opportunities. Work has been carried out to detail just where development platforms, new roads, the school and flood preventing reservoirs could be located.

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The cabinet report explains: "The vision for Bassingthorpe Farm is to create a well-connected 21st century garden community and an integral part of Rotherham. It should offer excellent walkable neighbourhoods and convenient links with adjacent communities, a transformed town centre and new mainline station. A quality landscape setting supports healthy active lifestyles as well as comprehensive bio-diversity gains as part of integrated green and blue infrastructure.

"The heart of Bassingthorpe should include vibrant local shops and facilities with job opportunities and a neighbourhood park. New distinctive neighbourhoods will provide a mix of quality homes, including affordable housing that meets local needs, helping, transforming Rotherham’s housing offer with more compact character areas in key locations and overall of a scale to sustain a critical mass of neighbourhood facilities Bassingthorpe will foster inclusive, diverse communities. Long term stewardship underpins the community’s sustainability, from the management of its greenspaces to the genuine involvement of local people."

The latest technical work suggests up to approximately 2,000 homes can be achieved which is lower than the anticipated number of homes in previous masterplan drafts.

Regarding employment uses, the framework plan shows proposed employment uses on a dedicated site to the eastern edge of the allocation area. Development here could be integrated with the existing employment area at Mangham Road and would benefit from access from Greasbrough Road. Land to the west of Carr Hill, to the north of the recycling centre is also proposed for employment uses.

Cllr John Williams, Cabinet Member for Transport, Jobs and the Local Economy at Rotherham Council, explained the timeframes for the development. He said: "In adopting this report, there isn't going to be any works happening tomorrow, next week or next month. Nothing is going to immediately happen. This is a planning technical excercise setting out that clear guidance and information to any potential future developer to then bring forward the development."

Cllr. Chris Read, leader of Rotherham Council added: "If, and when, housing proposals are brought forward, we want those to be good quality proposals. We want that to be a sustainable neighbourhood where people want to live, to have good public transport access, homes that people want to live in and a community that fits within our wider Rotherham community. That's the purpose of trying to put some planning rules araound it and we've welcomed the feedback we've had from the public and we've tried to respond to those issues, priorities and concerns."

Viability issues have hampered progress so far. It was in November 2016 when the authority approved plans to search for a "Promotion Partner" that would bring skills and funding to facilitate the delivery of the site.

In 2018, the authority was considering utilising a "Bare Trust" to pool its land together with that of other landowners in order to progress development.

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News: Why is The Stag pub in Rotherham closed?

The popular pub in Rotherham has been closed for most of September.

Originally called the Stags Head Inn and dating back to about 1736, the pub is in the area of the town known as Stag.

The pub held a closing party on September 5 and work has been going on since at the Wickersley Road venue.

Recently operating under the Stonegate Group, the closure is part of a move to the Craft Union chain.

Stonegate Group has been selling off pubs with Rothbiz reporting in June that the freehold of the Green Dragon was available for £400,000.

The group is the UK’s largest pub operator and its 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.

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Craft Union Pub Company is a brand and division of Stonegate Group. It is an operator led managed format offering self-employment opportunities for landlords and managers to earn 20% of net revenue with costs business rates, utilities and sports channels covered.

The format aims to create community pubs and has been a success with the Craft Union estate growing to around 650 pubs across the UK having only formed in April 2015.

In Rotherham, Craft Union pubs can be found in Rawmarsh - Earl Grey and Horse & Jockey, in Rotherham town centre - The Plough, with the Park at Clifton and The Travellers Inn at Bramley.

Social media posts show that the team from the Alma in Conisbrough, another Craft Union pub, are taking over operations at the Stag.

An opening date is set for September 26.

According to its entry on the South Yorkshire Local Heritage List, in June 1924, most of the land and the Stag Inn were sold to Mappins Brewery of Masbrough. As well as the Inn, this entailed barns, stables, cow house, cattle sheds and outbuildings and fields totalling thirty three acres.

Mappins rebuilt the Stag Inn in 1934.

At Bramley, The Travellers Inn is currently under offer.

Craft Union website

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News: Cepac to press on with £53m Rotherham expansion

Cepac, one of the UK’s leading innovators of performance packaging, has announced a £53m investment that will expand its key operations in Rotherham

The "Rotherham 2" project will see investment in infrastructure, equipment and new jobs.

Founded in 1999, Cepac has established one of the largest and most technologically advanced corrugated packaging plants in the world at Manvers. Part of the HSA group, it also has operations in Darlington, Doncaster and Rawcliffe.

Rothbiz reported in 2023 that the firm had acquired an 11 acre parcel of land for expansion alongside its head office at Brookfields Park. In the same year, planning permission was secured regarding the method of demolishing a vacant contact centre nearby. Capita House, a 135,938 sq ft building was set to be demolished and replaced by a 204,000 sq ft high grade warehouse / logistics unit.

Cepac is about to start the first phase of the project that will see the company grow its range and output of corrugated cardboard packaging solutions.

The investment will see the building of new factory space with state-of-the-art new equipment, further growing its reputation as one of the most innovative corrugated packaging solutions providers in the UK.

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Steve Moss, Group Managing Director at Cepac, said: “To expand our range for our growing customer base, we are investing in a series of innovative technologies for the project.

"In phase one, we are allocating roughly half of the total investment sum to modifying the existing layout and capability of the existing site. We are completing the phased upgrade of the existing corrugated board making machine and then adding several new, high-speed converting lines and increasing our despatching & warehousing capability in-line with this current, and future investments. The new machines and despatching area will be accommodated by the addition of around 60,000 sq ft of factory space at the existing plant. The new despatch and warehousing area will ultimately link the existing and new factories.”

The project will see a factory extension for the existing site immediately, creating new factory space in 2026 and 2027.

New machinery will be able to produce up to 240 million sqm of board per annum with several new converting lines for printing, die-cutting and folding & gluing of boxes.

The first phase also includes the recruitment of new operators for the expanded production capabilities.

Further investment in renewable energy is also planned. In 2022 the comapny invested £1.45m in solar panels that provides around 25% of the site's electricity requirements focusing on domestic hot water.

Moss added: “We are excited to get this multi-phase project underway. Off the back of several years of growth within the company and picking up significant accolades at industry award events, this next phase of investment will help maintain our growth trajectory and support our position as one of the country’s most innovative producers of next generation print and packaging for customers across the UK. It will also sustain and create vital employment in the region, which is great for the local economy and local communities.”

Cepac website

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News: Contractors join charity effort for SEND school transformation in Rotherham

A major pro bono project has begun to redevelop Hilltop School in Rotherham – a special educational needs school supporting 180 children with complex needs.

The £3m transformation, delivered in partnership with Yorkshire Children’s Charity through its Great Yorkshire Build initiative, will replace temporary, cramped buildings with modern, purpose-built facilities designed for pupils’ complex learning and accessibility needs.

Works will include a full site reconfiguration to improve access, three new classrooms, a rebound therapy room, and the creation of modern, inspiring learning environments.

The scheme brings together more than 50 Yorkshire-based construction firms, working collaboratively to deliver the project with a DIY SOS-style effort that sets a benchmark for social value within the construction sector.

Henry Boot is the main contractor with services delivered free of charge, including preliminaries and site management. The Sheffield firm has also received huge support and discounts from its supply chain, resulting in costs to the charity being a fraction of what they would be on the open market.

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It also sets a national example of how the construction sector can unite to address critical gaps in education infrastructure.

Yorkshire Children's Charity believes every child deserves the best possible education, and that well-designed, high-quality school facilities are essential to achieving this.

Charlotte Farrington, CEO of Yorkshire Children’s Charity, said: “Every child deserves access to education by right, not a privilege fought for by desperate families. Thanks to the incredible Yorkshire construction community, this will soon be a reality for children at Hilltop.”

Kirstie, a parent at Hilltop School, added: “It’s going to benefit so many kids, they’re asking for the most basic things…daylight, windows, running water. Children shouldn’t have to ask for it, it’s their human right to have these things.”

This work would not be possible with the dedication and care of the inspirational contractors and subcontractors who have committed to this project: GMI; Bowmer and Kirkland, SES Engineering Services, Severfield, Henry Boot Construction, Pierre Angulaire, Cartwright Pickard, McLaren Property, Stainforth, Rex Procter and Partners, BAM Construction, Richard Boothroyd & Associates, Triton Construction.

The Great Yorkshire Build initiative is focused on transforming the outdated and inadequate buildings often found in SLD, SILC (Specialist Inclusive Learning Centres) and SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disability) schools across the region.

Yorkshire Children’s Charity website

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News: £83m Rotherham regeneration projects can be pushed back to 2028

Multimillion pound regeneration projects in Rotherham will have more time to be completed after the Government granted more flexibilities over how the money can be spent.

Partners in the borough will also find it easier to cancel projects, move funding to different, or even new, projects, and change governance arrangements.

Rothbiz reported in 2023 that the previous government had entered Rotherham into the Simplification Pathfinder Pilot, a simplified approach to funding delivery, after the National Audit Office (NAO) warned of delays around spending Levelling Up funding pots.

Now the new government has consolidated a number of funding schemes in a bid to accelerate project delivery and improve value for money.

In 2021, Rotherham secured £31.6m from the Town Deal to revamp areas of Rotherham town centre as well as Templeborough, Eastwood and the site of the proposed mainline station at Parkgate. In the same year, £12.6m was secured from the Future High Streets Fund.

From the Levelling Up Fund, Rotherham was successful in securing £19.5m for the town centre and £19.9m for a number of connected projects around the leisure industry. £20m was then secured in 2023 for a new mixed-use development in Wath town centre, as well as delivering significant improvements to Dinnington High Street and market.

The pots have now been combined into the "Local Regeneration Fund" with single, annual allocations based on streamlined monitoring and reduced reporting frequency.

One of the main flexibilities is that all funding is now due to be spent by the end of March 2028.

The Future High Streets Fund was initially due to be spent by March 2024, with other funds then due to be spent by March 2026. In Rotherham this includes projects that have suffered delays due to rising costs, difficulties securing contractors and legal issues.

The revamp of Rotherham Market, which is using money from the Future High Street Fund, was originally scheduled to finish in December 2025 but this was pushed back to 2027 with total costs now at £40.89m. At Riverside Gardens, another Future High Street Fund project, a contractor has recently started work. Changes have also been made to projects at Rother Valley and Thrybergh Country parks but construction work is underway.

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With the council unable to acquire the properties required to deliver the Dinnington scheme, a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) was issued earlier this year which meant that the spending on the project was extended from 2026 to 2028.

Many schemes have completed in the borough backed by the funds. This includes Skills Street at Gulliver's Valley, work to transform heritage buildings at Maltby Grammar School, and the acquisition and demolition of burnt out buidings in the town centre.

Another flexibility is that the government no longer requires local authorities to seek approval for any changes. As long as it still meets conditions around value for money and contributes to one or more Government Missions, changes could include amendments to the scope of existing projects, the cancellation of existing projects and the creation of new projects.

An update from the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG) said: "After listening to feedback from local government, on the need for less bureaucratic micromanagement and more local control, we have now announced the consolidation of MHCLG’s Levelling Up Fund, Town Deals and Simplification Pathfinders Pilot Fund together into a single funding pot. This reform will increase flexibility to adapt schemes to local needs and focus on delivery.

"We are giving local authorities greater ability to make decisions locally about moving funding between projects in their funding portfolio. Local authorities should consider how they can use this increased flexibility to invest more effectively, whether that is pooling funding in the same area, redeploying funding to different priorities or making changes to existing projects to expedite delivery and maximise their impact.  

"It is our expectation that projects already underway will be completed, for the benefit of local residents. In the small number of cases where projects are no longer viable, we expect that councils will use the funding available to invest in the area that originally stood to benefit, so local residents can feel the improvements to their everyday lives that they have been promised. We strongly encourage local authorities to consult with key stakeholders, including MPs in their local areas on any proposed changes and in particular changes to the location or projects and/or intended beneficiaries."

Rothbiz has previously reported on changes made in Rotherham to funded schemes. Aspects have been removed from projects, such as a proposed new bridge over the River Don to the football stadium and the live music venue project has looked at a number of heritage properties in the town centre. A new project to introduce "Health on the High Street" in a bid to improve access to health services and increase footfall in the town centre was added to the mix earlier this year.

Not included in the funds is the Plan for Neighbourhoods that will guide a £20m investment into the town over the next ten years.

Images: RMBC / AHR / Maltby Learning Trust

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