News: Bumpy ride continues for Rotherham-based bike retailer

The company that saved British bicycle designer and retailer Planet X Limited, has itself appointed liquidators, three years later.

In 2023, Planet X Limited was sold in a pre-pack deal to Winlong Garments Limited, a company funded by Baaj Capital LLP. The move saw all 33 employees transfer to the purchaser as part of the sale.

Founded in Sheffield and laterly operating from Aldwarke, Rotherham, the business has been designing and building road, gravel and mountain bikes for over 30 years, under brands including Planet X, Holdsworth, On-One and Titus. In addition, the company sells a range of clothing and accessories via its online store. In 2020, Planet X’s employees acquired the business from its founders and set up an Employee Owned Trust (EOT).

Earlier this month Winlong Garments Limited announced that it is to be wound up voluntarily with Jeremy Bleazard of XL Business Solutions appointed as liquidator.

The Planet X online store continues to trade, operated by Retail online Ltd, a Chesterfield-based business incorporated in August.

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Rothbiz reported in 2023 that a relative boom period during COVID, as people rushed to buy bikes, was followed by a slump in sales that led to cashflow problems at Planet X.

Revenue grew to £19.1m with a gross profit margin of 28% during 2021 but customer demand in 2022 and 2023 reduced, following the end of COVID-19 national lockdowns and reduced consumer confidence generally. In August 2022, the business experienced cash flow pressure and administrators, Interpath Advisory were brought in and organised a £535,000 pre-pack sale of the business.

One of the largest Planet X creditors was Santander who funded the company through a term loan and a trade loan with a total indebtedness of £6.26m. In the end, only £309,831 of the bank's debt was realised leading to a large shortfall.

Unsecured claims totaled £736,595 and a first and final dividend to unsecured creditors of 6.11p in the £ was agreed last year.

Planet X website

Images: Planet X

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News: Rotherham-based bed retailer win national business award

Rotherham's MattressOnline has been named as Online Bed Retailer of the Year at a prestigious industry awards.

The Aldwarke company has an emphasis on technology and has established itself as a pioneering force in the e-commerce landscape as the first mattress retailer to bring next day delivery to the mainstream. It also operates a number of bricks and mortar stores.

The firm's success was recognised at the recent 2026 Bed Federation (NBF) Industry Awards.

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The judges described the category as "exceptionally close" and said: "MattressOnline clinched the title after another year of growth and development, while retaining the agile and collaborative approach at the heart of its operation.

"It saw healthy year-on-year increases in orders, units sold and revenue. It launched 68 new products, 73% made by NBF-approved members, while maintaining a 4.8 Trustpilot rating. Sustainability remains central, with more than 164,000 mattresses saved from landfill since 2015.

"Its community impact was another highlight, delivering almost 1,800 items to over 400 South Yorkshire families through its support for Baby Basics and tackling bed poverty."

MattressOnline CEO, Steve Adams added: "Winning Online Retailer of the Year at the National Bed Federation Awards is a huge moment for everyone at MattressOnline. It recognises the hard work of our entire team who put helping people find the best night’s sleep at the heart of everything they do.

“Buying a mattress is a big decision - and our job is to make that journey simple and reassuring. To, once again, be named Online Retailer of the Year by the NBF, the voice of our industry, tells us we're getting that right. We're very proud, and we're even more determined to keep doing the right thing for our customers - both here in our home of South Yorkshire and to the wider UK."

Mattress Online website

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News: Rotherham development site brought to market

Keyland Developments has launched to market a site in Rotherham with planning consent in place for 333,000 sq ft of employment space.

Rothbiz reported in 2024 on the sister-company of Yorkshire Water securing outline planning permission for the transformation of a plot of unused land at Aldwarke into a new industrial park, which they say would be big enough to create over 800 new jobs.

Proposals are for B2/B8 industrial and distribution accommodation over 15 units ranging from 4,000 to 75,000 sq ft. The new development has an estimated GVA of £28m.

Close to the site of the proposed new mainline station at Parkgate, the 24.4 acre site opposite to the steelworks on Aldwarke Lane is partially developed and is currently occupied by engineered earth mounds and hard standing areas - previously used for drying sewage sludge. It sits next to the Waste Water Treatment Works and River Don.

Joe Boothman, Land & Development Manager at Keyland Developments, said: "Having secured outline planning consent with our proposals for a scheme that exceeds current policy requirements for biodiversity net gain, we are looking forward to securing a purchaser with an aligning commitment to sustainable development in order to revitalise the land.

"The new development will have a positive economic impact with significant job creation and the ability to support growing local businesses with new space requirements, as well as attracting those looking to relocate and bring new investment into the area."

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Dan Walker, Director at GV & Co, added: "The small to mid-size industrial market in South Yorkshire is presently strong with good demand from occupiers seeking space under 100,000 sq ft. This site with its frontage to Aldwarke Lane and proximity to the motorway network and Rotherham Town Centre presents an excellent opportunity for a new industrial/logistics and warehousing development to capitalise on demand."

The land was opencast until 1983, with underground workings ending in 1957 and was allocated for employment use in Rotherham's local plan.

An indicative proposed masterplan shows units ranging from 4,000 sq ft to 75,000 sq ft and designs show a 30% split for B2 and 70% for B8.

The plans, drawn up by Sheppard Planning and KPP Architects, stated that, when fully operational, the development could generate between 402 jobs and 859 jobs.

The site may be included in the emerging plans for the Don Valley Corridor, which stretches from Sheffield City Centre through the Lower Don Valley to the steelworks site at Aldwarke.

Keyland Developments website

Images: Keyland Developments

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News: Speciality Steel UK nationalisation - what happens now?

The Government's work towards the public acquisition of Speciality Steel UK (SSUK) is expected to take between four and six months, but Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds wants it to be resolved as quickly as possible.

The Government took the step as it found that the private sector proposal from the preferred bidder "could not provide the long-term stability, certainty and value for money that workers, communities and taxpayers deserve."

Reynolds told the House of Commons: "That bidder subsequently requested Government support to make its purchase of Speciality Steel UK possible. However, following extensive engagement between the bidder and its advisers, and having done all the due diligence and given the case the consideration that taxpayers would expect, the Government have decided that they cannot provide support on the proposed terms."

He added that the Government had "serious concerns about the proposed financing of it."

The company’s sites support over 1,300 jobs in Rotherham, Stocksbridge, Brinsworth and Wednesbury.

The public acquisition move means that a liquidation process has been postponed, giving the state a strategic control over the future of a business that it believes has a unique place in the UK’s steel ecosystem due to its specialist steelmaking capabilities.

The government will work with local leaders, industry experts, private investors, workers and other partners to consider what is best for the strategically important locations. Taking between four and six months, the work will look at "future industrial use, regeneration opportunities and the role that specialist manufacturing capabilities could play in supporting growth and our national resilience."

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The future of speciality steel production will be high on the agenda and the assessment will include the consideration of products, customers and markets if the business is to be run profitably.

The Business Secretary explained: "The work we can now do will have to look at the capacities, the potential for new investment that might be required, the product lines, where the customers are and so forth.

"The key issue — I am not sure if this has ever been put on the record in Hansard before — is homologation. That is the assets of these sites and the accreditations they have for such a speciality set of products. Those assets are incredibly valuable. Not many parts of the world can produce to the standard that we are talking about. We now have a process — I want that to be as short as possible — where we can assess that."

Reynolds also discussed the potential costs involved - from running the business in public ownership, and from the remediation and regeneration of the sites. He said: "If this were a matter of public ownership, we would have to pay off the creditors, reach an accommodation with them, acquire the assets, and then inject some working capital over a period of between one and three years. I would expect the cost of that to be about £350 million, and I would expect something comparable were the option to be regeneration and remediation."

The government already has the powers following its previous work on British Steel in Scunthorpe. The Steel Industry (Nationalisation) Act 2026 gives the government powers to bring critical steel manufacturing companies into public ownership when it is in the public interest.

Labour’s 2024 election manifesto pledged £2.5 billion to rebuild and modernise the UK steel industry, a commitment now being channelled through the National Wealth Fund. This is on top of £500m that was granted to Tata in Port Talbot under the previous Government.

The Business Secretary was also critical of the way the business was run as Liberty Steel. He told the house that the business only produced when the customer effectively supplied working capital. Reynolds called this "a highly irregular position, but one reflective of the opaque and byzantine financing arrangements under the previous owners. I believe the opportunity exists to operate a successful business in this space. There is nothing ideological about this; my ideal is for the business to be run in the private sector."

Many of the workers at SSUK have been furloughed and the plants have not been operating for several years.

Reynolds concluded: "I want to speak directly to the workers of Speciality Steel UK, who have been stuck on furlough, unable to do the jobs of which they are so rightly proud, through no fault of their own. I know that they feel ignored and let down by previous Governments, but as Business Secretary, I will not duck these difficult decisions, and neither will this Government. I will do all that I can to secure a bright future for you, your communities and your families."

Following the announcement, Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said that the government needs "to get on and nationalise the company.”

Images: SSUK

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News: Rotherham reacts to Government's plan to nationalise steel firm

The Government's plan to work towards the public acquisition of Speciality Steel UK (SSUK) has been welcomed in South Yorkshire.

Chancellor of the Exchequer and Rawmarsh and Conisbrough MP, John Healey, said: "UK steel is vital for our economy and security. We produce some of the best steel in the world in South Yorkshire and it supports thousands of good jobs. Since the 2013 national steel summit in Rotherham, as a local MP, I’ve worked with steel company directors, trade union leaders and MPs of all parties to level the playing field for UK still firms.

"The company’s sites support over 1,300 jobs in Rotherham, Stocksbridge, Brinsworth and Wednesbury and have a proud steelmaking history, including the use of electric arc furnace technology. The sites could play a vital in role supporting the Government’s modern Industrial Strategy, having produced specialist steel for sectors, including aerospace, defence and advanced manufacturing.

"The Government’s work towards the public acquisition of SSUK will include considering a sustainable long-term future for SSUK as a speciality steelmaker, as well as opportunities for regeneration.

"The Government is delivering the UK’s first ever Steel Strategy, setting out a long-term plan to rebuild the sector, attract investment and position the UK as a world leader in clean, modern steel production.

"This includes taking bold action across the business environment: tackling electricity prices and carbon leakage, increasing the use of UK-made steel in government-supported offshore wind projects, and making it easier for firms to invest and grow in future-facing, decarbonised technologies.

"The Government is backing the transformation of the sector with up to £2.5 billion of support, alongside reforms to improve competitiveness, drive demand for UK-made steel and support decarbonisation."

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Sarah Champion, MP for Rotherham, said: "It is of course deeply disappointing that Speciality Steel UK remains in administration. I thank the Government for seeing the potential in this key industry. However, Rotherham steel workers deserve clarity about what the future holds and are, I know, keen to return to work as soon as possible.’

"The cycle of failed ownership has held Specialty Steel back for far too long. I’m relieved the Secretary of State recognises this is a business with huge potential as a world leader in specialist steel products, with a strong track record and a skilled, experienced workforce.

"I welcome the Government’s announcement that it will work with the Official Receiver, myself, local leaders and the South Yorkshire Mayor towards public acquisition, while assessing all options for the company’s future.

"Whatever ownership model is ultimately decided, Speciality Steel needs leadership with the vision and commitment necessary to enable the business to fulfil its potential.

“The Labour Government has demonstrated its commitment to the UK steel industry since its very first days in office. From its resolute action to safeguard raw steel production in Scunthorpe, to its landmark Steel Strategy, which sets out unprecedented backing for the industry, Labour has shown time and time again that it is on the side of British steel businesses.

"I am proud to see that same commitment and focus given to safeguarding Speciality Steels UK, to protecting jobs in Rotherham and to continuing our long history of steel manufacture into a prosperous, successful future."

"I will be following discussions closely and will always speak up for Rotherham steel workers."

Cllr Chris Read, Leader of Rotherham Council, said: “The Government’s intention to intervene, developing a plan to bring South Yorkshire’s steel sites into public ownership reflects the seriousness with which the government is taking the task of ensuring Rotherham steel production has a bright future.

“Workers in Rotherham and across South Yorkshire have shown remarkable resilience through a prolonged period of uncertainty. They deserve a sustainable plan that gives them confidence in the future, protects our industrial heritage and preserves the sovereign capabilities that are so important to the UK economy. That is the case that our South Yorkshire team, including Mayor Oliver Coppard and our colleagues in Sheffield, have been making to government over many months. 200 years of steel production in Parkgate will not come to an end.

“We have long argued that the capabilities, skills and infrastructure contained within these sites are of national importance. At a time of growing uncertainty around global supply chains and economic security, maintaining the UK’s ability to produce high-quality specialist steel is more important than ever.

“We will continue to work with Government, industry and local partners to secure the best possible long-term outcome for our communities and our steel industry.”

Images: SSUK

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News: Government announces plans to acquire Rotherham steelworks

The Government has announced that it will work towards the public acquisition of Speciality Steel UK (SSUK).

Last August, a judge approved an application from creditors to place SSUK, previously part of Liberty Steel and GFG Alliance, into compulsory liquidation. Teneo Financial Advisory Limited were brought in as Special Managers whilst a formal sale process takes place.

The company’s sites support over 1,300 jobs in Rotherham, Stocksbridge, Brinsworth and Wednesbury and have a proud steelmaking history, including the use of electric arc furnace technology at Aldwarke in Rotherham. It has produced products including aircraft landing gear, helicopter rotors, missiles, munitions and artillery casings.

The government committed £50m to keep the sites open throughout the bidding process. Multiple companies came forward with the government confident a buyer could be found.

In April, the official receiver announced a period of exclusivity with a preferred bidder, with The Financial Times reporting that Blastr was the preferred bidder.

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However, the Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds gave an update this week stating that, "after detailed due diligence and extensive discussions, the Government has now concluded the proposal on the table could not provide the long-term stability, certainty and value for money that workers, communities and taxpayers deserve."

Following on from intervention on British Steel, the Government will now develop a proposal for the public acquisition of SSUK, protecting jobs and securing the time needed to assess the best long-term future for these sites.

All future decisions and spending commitments will be subject to due diligence and funded from existing Government budgets.

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: "We do not intervene in private companies lightly. But nor can we simply stand aside and allow the future of this company and over 1,300 jobs to be decided by default.

"Working towards public acquisition will keep options open while we work with local leaders, workers, industry and investors to determine the best long-term future for these sites, which could play a vital role in the future of the growth-driving sectors in our Industrial Strategy, including defence and advanced manufacturing.

"I am determined that we take the time to properly assess the opportunities available here and make decisions that support growth, jobs and Britain’s industrial future."

The Government's plan to work towards the public acquisition of Speciality Steel UK (SSUK) has been welcomed in Rotherham.

Rothbiz looks at what happens next with plans to acquire the Rotherham steelworks.

Images: SSUK

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News: Talks continue over Speciality Steel sale

Talks remain underway with the preferred bidder for Speciality Steel UK (SSUK), the Minister of State for Industry has confirmed.

Last August, a judge approved an application from creditors to place SSUK, previously part of Liberty Steel and GFG Alliance, into compulsory liquidation. Teneo Financial Advisory Limited were brought in as Special Managers whilst a formal sale process takes place.

The government committed £50m to keep the sites in Rotherham and Stocksbridge open throughout the bidding process. Multiple companies came forward with the government confident a buyer can be found.

In April, the official receiver announced a period of exclusivity with a preferred bidder. Marking the next stage of a future sale agreement, the announcement said that talks were "expected to last approximately five weeks, during which the preferred bidder will progress their bid."

Rotherham MP, Sarah Champion has received confirmation from Chris McDonald MP that those talks remain underway. Champion added: "He made very clear that he does not want the works to close and he is keen for the site to start production at the earliest possible time."

The Financial Times is reporting that Blastr is the preferred bidder.

The steel industry has been a hot topic in Westminster this month with a recent debate on the Steel Industry (Nationalisation) Bill where Sarah Champion used the opportunity to highlight the importance of steel to Rotherham.

The MP said: "Rotherham is a steel town. It has seen the consequences of past Governments’ neglect up close. Speciality Steel, which is based in Rotherham—and Stocksbridge—should be a crown jewel in our economy, but it has been allowed to lurch from crisis to crisis, choked of investment and left at the mercy of unscrupulous ownership, unfair competition and a lack of vision. The plants currently stand still, shuttered amid the fallout of Liberty’s collapse. The workers are furloughed and uncertain about what their futures hold.

"My concern is not limited to Speciality Steel. Steel in Rotherham is at the centre of our local economy, and the crisis has had a substantial impact up and down the supply chain. The Minister’s ambition for steel’s renaissance could also be a rebirth for local businesses and local communities, but that requires investment, foresight and commitment. The Government’s steel strategy sets out a strategic vision for the industry and, crucially, delivers real and profound change for the sector as a whole. With £2.5 billion of investment in the sector and an ambitious but achievable target of 50% of the steel used in Britain to be produced here, the strategy is a blueprint for a revitalised domestic steel industry; it is one that has been roundly welcomed by the sector."

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In the same debate Chris McDonald MP, said: "That business [SSUK] shows the power of a productive Government intervention, working carefully with industry, because the Government have underwritten the costs of the official receiver to allow a proper sale of the business. The official receiver is in exclusive discussions with a potential buyer, and there was a high level of interest in the business from the market.

"As we look forward to the potential sale of the business, we can see the vital role that the Government have played in recognising that steel undertakings are complex, that it can be difficult and can take time to assess them, and that they require high levels of working capital. That contrasts significantly with Governments in the past, who allowed steel companies to close simply by not allowing that process to continue."

In a subsequent debate on steel tariffs, the minister said: "We all understand the position with Speciality Steel UK in Stocksbridge and Rotherham. That business is going through administration, and it was impossible for it to compete in the UK while there was an influx of subsidised steel.

"This Government have decided that we want to have a full aerospace supply chain, including our own speciality steels production. That is a different choice from the one that the previous Government made when they were approached by industry, offering to co-invest in that site and keep it open. They rebuffed all those responses, because their view was, “Leave it to the market, let the steel plants close.” We are making a different choice."

Images: SSUK

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News: Infrared workout studio coming to Rotherham

A new concept gym looks set to strengthen a Rotherham regeneration scheme.

A prominent brownfield site at Eastwood was transformed by a scheme centred around new food retail units. The vacant site at Mushroom Roundabout was previously home to a D.C. Cook car dealership but was empty since 2008 following demolition. QFM has pioneered the scheme which is currently home to Taco Bell and KFC. A Toby Carvery pub also operates on the site.

A gym was previously on site above the food outlets but closed during COVID.

Now QFM is hoping to reintroduce a gym at the site following the relocation of Taco Bell to the purpose-built drive thru unit.

J.I.M - Joy In Movement is the UK’s first fully automated infrared fitness studio. A new concept involves "30-minute, low-impact classes in 40° heat, set to fresh DJ-produced beats, designed to help people sculpt, stretch, strengthen, and feel good in their bodies."

The Australian firm opened its first studio in 2023 and now has 35 studios. It signed a franchise deal to expand to the UK and is targeting ten studios in the next 12 months, with 100 the target over the next five years.

QFM brought the franchise to Sheffield earlier this year and is rolling it out across the UK. It offers 100+ classes per week and is open 365 days a year - designed to fit real life.

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The Joy In Movement mission is to create a fun, non-intimidating, group training experience that leverages technology and infrared heat for more results - in less time.

The state of the art infrared technology helps create a detoxifying sweat that stimulates blood circulation, improves flexibility, and accelerates weight loss. Each J.I.M. class offers short and effective workouts that incorporate aspects of popular and effective exercise methods, such as Pilates, Yoga and Functional Training.

The business model has been successful because it is a member only, subscription-based model that aims to maintain 150 members in a small studio, with a studio manager and no staff.

An application for signage has been submitted and recruitment is underway for a studio manager for the Rotherham location.

Joy In Movement website

Images: Joy In Movement

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News: Preferred bidder for former Liberty steelworks in Rotherham

A sale is moving closer for Speciality Steel UK (SSUK), with the official receiver confirming a preferred bidder for the company.

Last August, a judge approved an application from creditors to place SSUK, previously part of Liberty Steel and GFG Alliance, into compulsory liquidation. Teneo Financial Advisory Limited have been brought in as Special Managers whilst a formal sale process takes place.

The government has committed £50m to date to keep the sites in Rotherham and Stocksbridge open whilst the bidding process takes place. Multiple companies came forward with the government confident a buyer can be found.

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An update from the official receiver on what it calls "a major step towards a sale," states: "A period of exclusivity has been agreed with a preferred bidder, marking the next stage of a future sale agreement.

"This is expected to last approximately five weeks, during which the preferred bidder will progress their bid.

"SSUK was wound up in August 2025, with the Official Receiver administering the liquidation, including activity at the steelworks.

"Employees have been informed.

"The Official Receiver will look to complete the sale at the earliest opportunity."

The Times reported in January on a shortlist of bidders obtained from "sources familiar with the situation."

Five potential new owners were listed by the paper including: 7 Steel; Aperam; Arabian Gulf Steel Industries; EIG Global Trust; and Evore Steel.

Sky News reported in February that Blastr was another name on the shortlist.

The Financial Times is reporting that Blastr is the preferred bidder.

Charlotte Brumpton-Childs, GMB National Secretary, said: "This is welcome news and we look forward to engaging with the interested parties on behalf of our members.

"Any sale of SSUK must include due diligence which guarantees ongoing operations and stability of the sites.

"GMB members have been at the sharp end of years of uncertainty at this point - his needs to be a deal that secures the long-term future steelmaking in South Yorkshire."

Images: Google Maps

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News: Events centre plan for former Rotherham offices

A vacant business centre on a massive steelworks site in Rotherham is being brought back into use.

Built for British Steel in the 1970s and later used as an enterprise data centre and office accommodation, the 41,138 sq ft building on Aldwarke Lane was previously home to Capgemini, a French multinational professional services and business consulting corporation, that relocated its Rotherham office to Sheffield in 2018.

Part of Aldwarke Business Centre first came back into use in 2023 as the home of Unity Boxing - a community interest company that has developed a space for local communities to engage in boxing.

Now work is underway to create function space and a conference suite in another part of the site.

Plans from Aldwarke Developments Ltd were approved in 2023 for a change of use enabling 10,700 sq ft of floor space at first floor level in the eastern part of the building to go from office use to a mixed use comprising of office use during the day and function room during other times.

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In approving the plans Rotherham Council planners said that: "Whilst the proposed use does not strictly accord with the local plan policies [for industrial use], the building has a history of use as an office and the extended use into the evening as a function room is not considered to have any impact on the daytime viability of the site. As such it is considered to be acceptable in principle."

A planner's report confirmed that "the conference suite is to be used entirely as a private event hire venue for assembly and leisure purposes. The space will be available to hire for people to host parties and celebrations."

Given that public transport options in the area don't exist and there are only 75 parking spaces, the council's highways team had originally raised concerns. But having heard that the use is expected to be limited entirely to evenings and weekends – i.e., non-peak hours, highways officers concluded that there should not be any adverse impact on the highway.

The planning permission came with a condition that functions could only take place between 6pm and midnight Monday to Friday, and noon to midnight on Saturday and Sunday.

With work now underway to the exterior, Aldwarke Developments Ltd has recently had plans approved for changes to the entrance of the car park at the prominent site.

Images: Google Maps / CPR

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News: Plans progress for takeaway expansion after Rotherham Council loses appeal

Operators of a doughnut shop in Rotherham are progressing plans to convert it into a hot food takeaway after it successfully secured planning permission on appeal. Rotherham Council planners earlier concluded that it would "fail to promote a healthier community."

Rothbiz reported last year on proposed changes to a wider regeneration scheme close to Mushroom Roundabout at Aldwarke, where the seperate drive thru unit has been occupied by Dunkin’ Donuts on Sycamore Road.

Sheffield-based franchise specialists, QFM Group, applied in 2024 to make changes at the unit, admitting that Dunkin' had not traded optimally since moving in.

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

Refusing the application, planners pointed to the proximity of High Greave Junior School, 500 metres away on foot, and the Hutton Park campus of Rotherham Aspire Pupil Referral Unit (PRU) at 650 metres.

Rotherham Council has a supplementary planning document that restricts hot food takeaways within 800 metres of a school or college, unless it is in within a defined town or district centre. Planners acknowledged that there is already a Taco Bell on the site but concluded that the proposal was in direct conflict with its adopted planning policies.

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An appeal followed and last year an inspector overturned the decision, stating that the site "is not an unacceptable location for the proposal with regards to promoting a healthier community."

The inspector's decision explains that the national planning framework "states that local planning authorities should refuse applications for hot food takeaways and fast food outlets within walking distance of schools and other places where children and young people congregate, unless the location is within a designated town centre; or in locations where there is evidence that a concentration of such uses is having an adverse impact on local health, pollution or anti-social-behaviour."

The inspector recognised that the policies of both nearby schools prohibit pupils from leaving the school premises during the school day without express permission and that there is already easy access to a number of existing fast-food takeaways in the immediate area.

The inspector added: "Whilst I note that there are already a number of hot food takeaways in the local area the Council has not provided any substantive evidence that there is an over concentration of such uses or that they are having an adverse impact on health, pollution or anti-social behaviour in this locality.

"Although it does not provide hot food, the existing restaurant currently provides goods which are high in sugar and therefore do not provide a significantly more healthy alternative to the proposal. Moreover, as there are already a range of fast-food takeaways in the immediate area, the anticipated occupation of one additional unit would not, in my view undermine the overarching aims of the SPD [the council's planning framework] with regards to the creation of a healthier community."

Plans have now been submitted for new Taco Bell signage at the current Dunkin Donuts unit.

Images: Taco Bell / Google Maps

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News: Report reveals bidders for Rotherham speciality steel site

A six strong shortlist of suitors for Speciality Steels UK (SSUK) features in a report by a national newspaper - the five potential new owners known so far are from overseas.

In August, a judge approved an application from creditors to place SSUK, previously part of Liberty Steel and GFG Alliance, into compulsory liquidation. Teneo Financial Advisory Limited have been brought in as Special Managers whilst a formal sale process takes place.

The government has committed £50m to date to keep the sites in Rotherham and Stocksbridge open whilst the bidding process takes place. Multiple companies came forward with the governmment confident a buyer can be found.

The Times has now published the shortlist obtained from "sources familiar with the situation."

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Only five potential new owners are listed by the paper including:

- 7 Steel
- Aperam
- Arabian Gulf Steel Industries
- EIG Global Trust
- Evore Steel

7 Steel is operated by Sev.en Global Investments, a Czech-based investment group that invests across a range of sectors, particularly in steel production, power generation, and mining of various natural resources. It acquired Celsa Steel UK last year.

Luxembourg-listed Aperam is a global player in stainless, electrical and specialty steel and recycling, with customers in over 40 countries. It's European production utilises facilities in Belgium and France.

Based in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Arabian Gulf Steel Industries describes itself as a forerunner in the region's steel manufacturing and operate the first carbon-neutral and net-zero steel plant in the country.

EIG Global Trust is a transformative private investment business that uses collateralized digital assets it calls stablecoin (think bitcoin and the use of blockchain), backed by $5 trillion in gold reserves. Based in the USA, the firm has regulatory approvals for 70+ central banks and thousands of commercial banks where they "actively facilitate bank tailored turn-key digital asset solutions and offers world class resources for project management."

Evore is Canadian steel manufacturing and distribution company that says that its "cutting-edge manufacturing processes and dedication to precision" sets it apart in the sector.

None of the companies, the government or its special managers, have commented on the reports.

Images: Speciality Steel UK

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News: Steel production could move from Scunthorpe to Rotherham

An electric arc furnace at a Rotherham steelworks could be used to take on production if a blast furnace in Scunthorpe is mothballed, according to reports in a national newspaper.

With the Official Receiver taking over Speciality Steels UK (SSUK), the government has committed £50m to date to keep the sites in Rotherham and Stocksbridge open.

In August, a judge approved an application from creditors to place SSUK, previously part of Liberty Steel and GFG Alliance, into compulsory liquidation. Teneo Financial Advisory Limited have been brought in as Special Managers whilst a formal sale process takes place.

The move followed on from the Steel Industry (Special Measures) Act 2025 which was passed quickly to enable the government to step in to save British Steel in Scunthorpe.

The Times understands that a proposal is being discussed within government to merge British Steel with part of Speciality Steel UK (SSUK) as one of several options being considered.

The report states: "The merger option is said to be favoured by Jon Bolton, co-chairman of the government’s Steel Council, which was launched by the government in January. Under this approach, SSUK’s electric arc furnace in Rotherham, which will require significant investment to get back up and running, would be used to feed the downstream operations of British Steel, according to senior industry sources.

"This would allow the two blast furnaces at Scunthorpe to be switched off, reducing losses that are said to be costing taxpayers more than £1 million a day. But it would leave the UK as the only country in the G7 without virgin steelmaking capabilities."

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The Rotherham site includes two electric arc furnaces (EAFs). The first casts at Aldwarke were produced in 1964. The N-Furnace, which was installed in 1993, is the larger of the two EAFs and was mothballed in 2015 at the height of the global steel crisis. Liberty reignited the N-Furnace in 2018 and the 800,000-tonne-a-year capacity furnace turns scrap metal into specialised steels for uses such as vehicle gearboxes or aircraft landing gear.

Liberty developed a "Greensteel" plan that aimed to take EAF melting capacity at Rotherham to 2 million tonnes per annum quickly and cost effectively, and with significantly lower emissions compared with coal-based blast furnaces.

An update from Rotherham MP Sarah Champion confirmed that the administration process is being extended to make sure the best bids are received from potential future owners. Multiple companies are interested with the governmment confident a buyer can be found.

Champion said: "The Government’s intention is still to keep the Rotherham and Stockbridge sites together, but it is not closed to considering alternatives. The Minister [for Industry, Chris McDonald MP] was clear that no option would be accepted unless the Administrator was convinced it led to a secure future for both locations. When I pushed him, the Minister confirmed the strategic importance of Rotherham, not least as it does have capacity to expand - which is very useful as we scale up our demand for British steel.

"I really do understand how stressful this process is for staff and those in the supply chain. All I can say to give reassurance is; the Government has committed £50 million to date to keep the sites open and it is committed to investing the time to finding the right buyer. You have my word that I will keep in close contact with the Government on this to make sure of the best outcome."

Images: Richard Doxsey / SSUK

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News: Government involvement in future of Speciality Steels "not envisaged"

The government has ruled out taking a stake in South Yorkshire's speciality steel business and remains confident a buyer can be found.

In August, a judge approved an application from creditors to place Speciality Steels UK (SSUK), previously part of Liberty Steel and GFG Alliance, into compulsory liquidation. With the Official Receiver taking over, and the Government covering costs with Teneo Financial Advisory Limited as Special Managers, a formal sale process recently got underway.

An update from Minister for Industry, Chris McDonald, shared by Rotherham MP, Sarah Champion, states: "The Government is providing financial assistance to enable the Official Receiver to fulfil its statutory duties and identify a suitable buyer capable of operating a sustainable steelmaking business.

"The Official Receiver is currently inviting indicative offers from interested parties. From early November, these offers will enter a due diligence phase. Over the coming weeks, the focus will be on evaluating the proposals received, determining the optimal strategy, and preparing for the next stage of the sales process. Final bids will be formally requested to structure the concluding transaction discussions.

"As part of this wider process, we do not envisage any direct Government involvement in the business, including taking a stake, as you suggested in your letter. We want the steel sector to thrive, and the best way to achieve that is through commercially run businesses with private investment."

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The minister recently met with local politicians to tour the sites in Rotherham and Stocksbridge.

Cllr Chris Read, Leader of Rotherham Council, described the visit as "a welcome sign that this government recognises the strategic importance of our steel industry - not just to our local economy in Rotherham, but to the UK’s national resilience and industrial future."

Read added: “Steel production in Parkgate has stood at the heart of Rotherham’s identity for two hundred years. These are not just jobs. They are livelihoods, communities, and a proud legacy of British manufacturing excellence.

“The closure of these sites would not only be a devastating blow to our borough and South Yorkshire — but it would also leave a hole in the UK’s sovereign capability to produce the high-grade steels essential for defence, aerospace, and clean energy.

“We presented a united South Yorkshire team, calling for a sustainable solution that protects skilled jobs, secures strategic capabilities, and supports long-term growth across South Yorkshire. It is heartening that there is strong commercial interest in continuing steel production on the site, and we will continue to urge the government to do everything in its power to ensure that this is realised.”

Chris McDonald added: "I met with workers, Trade Union representatives, and local authorities, including the South Yorkshire Mayor, Oliver Coppard. It was clear from these conversations how deeply the steel industry is woven into the fabric of the local community. The business clearly has a unique capability in the UK, a highly capable workforce and there is a strong market for its products. Whilst it is for the Official Receiver to run the process, I remain confident that a buyer for this business will be found.

"I fully recognise the uncertainty this situation brings for employees and their families. I want to reaffirm the Government's commitment to securing a strong and sustainable future for steelmaking in the UK, particularly in South Yorkshire, where I hope to see a buyer emerge who can run a successful and enduring business."

Council reports have revealed that the Speciality Steel operations in Rotherham had the borough's biggest bill for business rates - £2.8m a year. Liquidation has presented a financial challenge to the Council through the need to write off £4.2m of business rates debt, spanning across the final quarter of 2023/24 through to 21st August 2025. Due to the way business rates are retained, the Council is only directly impacted by 49% of this debt.

Images: Sheffield Council

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News: Major Chinese car brands open showrooms in Rotherham

Two prominent Chinese auto manufacturers have opened at established car dealerships in Rotherham.

At Parkgate, Evans Halshaw has recently added BYD vehicles as part of a growing partnership between the dealer and the Shenzhen brand.

Taking over the current Evans Halshaw Ford dealership on Aldwarke Road, the site offers both new and used BYD cars, plus a selection of used cars of all makes and models. In addition to BYD aftersales, the site will remain a Ford Authorised Repairer, with the current team staying in place for servicing, MOTs, and repairs.

With another new outlet in Chesterfield, Evans Halshaw now has five BYD dealerships, showcasing the Atto 2 compact SUV, the plug-in hybrid SEAL U DM-i, and the Dolphin Surf city car.

The brand sold over 11,271 cars in September 2025, representing a substantial rise of 880% compared to the same month last year. The UK is the largest international market for BYD outside of China.

Rob Miller, group vice president of multi brand, said: “We are thrilled to be expanding our BYD network with the opening of these two new dealerships in Chesterfield and Rotherham.

“This marks an exciting step forward in the growing partnership between Evans Halshaw and BYD.

“Together, we’re committed to delivering exceptional service and bringing innovative electric and hybrid vehicles to more customers across the UK.”

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At the historic "Mushroom Garage" at Aldwarke, Geely has joined the Stoneacre family.

The Hangzhou-based manufacturer is one of the world’s most innovative automotive brands and has launched in the UK with Stoneacre's Goole, Hull, and Rotherham dealerships being among the first in the country to showcase the new vehicles such as the fully electric SUV - the Geely EX5.

Part of the Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, Geely’s global family includes Volvo Cars, Polestar, Lotus, Lynk & Co, ZEEKR, and LEVC (the makers of London’s famous electric taxis).

A spokesperson for Stoneacre, said: "At Stoneacre, we’re passionate about giving our customers more choice, more innovation, and more excitement behind the wheel. Partnering with Geely reinforces our reputation as one of the UK’s most diverse and forward-thinking motor groups.

"With over 100 franchise outlets nationwide, Stoneacre is proud to welcome Geely into our expanding electric and hybrid line-up. From Goole, Hull, and Rotherham, we’ll be giving drivers their first taste of this revolutionary new brand."

It remains to be seen if the Renault car on top of the prominent showroom is replaced.

Evans Halshaw website
Stonacre website

Images: Evans Halshaw

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News: Speciality Steel set for formal sale

The Government has approved the recommendation from the Official Receiver of Liberty Speciality Steels UK (SSUK) in South Yorkshire to proceed with a formal sales process.

In August, a judge approved an application from creditors to place the business, previously part of Liberty Steel and GFG Alliance, into compulsory liquidation.

Rothbiz reported last month on the previous Minister for Industry confirming that multiple companies were interested with former bosses saying that they would continue to advance a bid for the firm.

Rotherham MP, Sarah Champion has shared an update from the new Minister for Industry, Chris McDonald, which said that he was optimistic that a suitable buyer could be found.

The government has provided the Official Receiver with a letter of comfort and a letter of indemnity which effectivley covers costs. Teneo Financial Advisory Limited were appointed as Special Managers.

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Chris McDonald MP, said: "The Government has now approved the Official Receiver's recommendation to proceed with a formal sales process, which will begin immediately. The Government is providing financial support to enable the Official Receiver to fulfil his statutory duties, and I am optimistic that a suitable buyer can be identified.

"As previously stated by my predecessor, I want to reassure you that no immediate changes to the workforce are planned. In his letter to staff, the OR noted that, at the end of the current liquidation process, all SSUK employment will be terminated, whether a buyer is found and a sale takes place, or a sale is unsuccessful resulting in closure of sites. Depending on the terms of any sale, a successful buyer has the option to then contract with staff who worked at SSUK.

"The current consultation period for redundancies runs until 31 October and was prescribed as soon as the Official Receiver took over the running of the sites in August. Now that a sales process is planned, we understand that this redundancy period will be extended in due course.

"Trade unions, alongside local and national government leaders, have a vital role in engaging with potential buyers, both to support employees and to showcase the skills and dedication of the workforce. My department continues to work closely with local stakeholders, including the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority and Local Authorities, whose collaboration with us, the Department for Education, and the Department for Work and Pensions spans employment, skills, investor engagement, and market intelligence, ensuring we are prepared for all potential outcomes related to SSUK.

"With the sales process now underway, I encourage potential investors to engage directly with the Special Managers along with the South Yorkshire Mayor and regional authorities, to explore future opportunities for the region. I fully recognise the uncertainty this situation brings for employees and their families, and I want to reaffirm the Government's commitment to a strong and sustainable future for steelmaking in the UK."

Images: Google Maps

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News: "Multiple companies" interested in Speciality Steel business

Multiple companies are interested and have come forward regarding the operations of Liberty Speciality Steels UK, the Minister for Industry has confirmed.

A Parliamentary debate took place this week over the insolvency of the company following the approval by a judge of an application from creditors to place the business, previously part of Liberty Steel and GFG Alliance, into compulsory liquidation.

Speaking during the debate, Minister for Industry, Sarah Jones said: "We believe that this viable industry is languishing unnecessarily. The Government will provide the right support through interventions such as our energy reduction measures, and work with the official receiver.

"Multiple companies are interested and coming forward, and we need to establish how viable those offers are and what the best situation is. Of course, the official receiver must think of the best outcome for the creditors, but we take a close interest in that.

"I very much believe that the steelmaking sites in Rotherham, Stocksbridge, Brinsworth and Wednesbury have a future. I am keen to see them return to production, but that has to be achieved through private investment by an owner who can invest in the workforce and in the future of the business so that they put it on a long-term, sustainable footing. We know that the business environment has not been good enough for the UK’s steel industry, which is why we have already made substantial changes to secure a stronger future for it."

Liberty bosses said after the judge's decision that it would "continue to advance its bid for the business in collaboration with prospective debt and equity partners."

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Parliamentary documents also show that the Department for Business and Trade has provided the Official Receiver with a letter of comfort and a letter of indemnity which effectivley covers costs.

The Official Receiver will now carry out the proper performance and duties expected as the official receiver and liquidator of the company. This includes overseeing the winding-down of the company’s business and affairs and distributing assets of the company in the ordinary course as the official receiver's duties as liquidator.

But the governmnent is also covering the cost of investigating the cause of failure and identifying any asset recoveries against the company, current/former directors of the company, and any other parties.

The update added that: "it is not possible at this stage to accurately quantify the value of the overall funding requirement with relation to the letter of comfort and letter of indemnity" but costs are expected to be reported to Parliament when they are more accurately known.

Jones added: "The company has faced severe financial and operational difficulties since 2021. Liberty Speciality Steels had failed to file accounts for over six years — a failure that has led to a separate prosecution by Companies House of its parent company. I am sure that the official receiver will want to gain a better understanding of the company’s business and the conduct of its directors leading up to the liquidation. I also inform the House that the director of the company is currently under investigation by the Serious Fraud Office for suspected fraud, fraudulent trading and money laundering.

"In the case of Liberty Steel, the lack of transparency, the legal and financial risks and the complete absence of reliable corporate information meant we had no credible route to act before insolvency.

"The official receiver will look at what is true and what is not, because there have not been any accounts published for many years. They will establish what has happened. The Secretary of State has written to the Insolvency Service today to ask it to take special account of the Serious Fraud Office investigation, and to pass over any information it uncovers to the Serious Fraud Office, so that it can do its work."

The Rotherham site includes two electric arc furnaces (EAFs). The first casts at Aldwarke were produced in 1964. The N-Furnace, which was installed in 1993, is the larger of the two EAFs and was mothballed in 2015 at the height of the global steel crisis. Liberty reignited the N-Furnace in 2018 and the 800,000-tonne-a-year capacity furnace turns scrap metal into specialised steels for uses such as vehicle gearboxes or aircraft landing gear.

The UK company was hit by the collapse of Greensill, a specialist in invoice financing that operated with less regulation than the traditional banks. In its current state, Aldwarke is producing only minimal volumes of steel and with many employees still on furlough. "We want to turn that around," the minister added.

Images: Google Maps / Liberty Steel

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News: Further reaction to Liberty Steel liquidation

Last week a judge approved an application from creditors to place Speciality Steel UK Ltd (SSUK) into compulsory liquidation.

An Official Receiver has been appointed as liquidator with Teneo Financial Advisory Limited appointed as Special Managers of the company, previously part of Liberty Steel and the GFG Aliiance, to assist the Official Receiver with the liquidation.

The court heard that the Department for Business and Trade had been preparing in the event of an Official Receiver being appointed, and was prepared to take control of SSUK’s affairs.

The company has operations in Rotherham and Sheffield. South Yorkshire's Mayor, Oliver Coppard, said that the news was "difficult, but offers the opportunity for clarity and a path forward. There is and will continue to be a period of uncertainty for workers at Liberty’s two sites in South Yorkshire.

"So I welcome the positive comments from the Secretary of State for Business in the wake of the Court’s decision.

"I now want to see swift progress from government to safeguard the unique steel making capabilities we have here in our region. I will be seeking a conversation with Ministers as a matter of urgency and will do everything I can to make sure that workers at Liberty Steel and the steel industry that is so integral to our identity, have the brightest possible future."

Secretary of State for Business, Jonathan Reynolds, has described the steelworks and its workers as important strategic assets for the UK, and wants them to have a strong future as part of the UK's overall steel strategy.

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Liberty employs around 1,450 people within the Speciality business and provides a wide range of specialist steel products.

Speciality Steels provides vital steelmaking capacity in aerospace, defence and power generation. The steel made by Liberty Speciality Steels can be found in vessels including aircraft carriers, military aircraft components and defence systems, landing gear, controls and in components for oil and gas, power generation, rail and beyond.

UK Steel Director General, Gareth Stace, said: “UK Steel welcomes the Government’s recognition of the importance of the Liberty Speciality Steel assets and hopes that a new owner is found quickly and can inject the investment and working capital required to return production volumes to previous levels.

“The assets produce high quality, specialist steels that serve high value markets. The low production levels of recent years have left significant holes in the domestic supply chain that have been filled by imports. We hope to see these holes quickly filled by UK-made steel.

“The Government must continue to push on trade defence and reducing the burden of energy costs so that the Speciality Steels business, and the rest of the UK steel ecosystem, is sustainable, and steel workers will in future be spared from the limbo state that the employees in South Yorkshire have endured.”

Community General Secretary Roy Rickhuss CBE said: “This is an extremely worrying time for our members at Liberty Steel, but the Government’s intervention must mark a turning point to deliver certainty for these strategically important businesses.

“Crucially, jobs must be protected throughout any restructuring and transition to new ownership. Steelworkers at Liberty Steel are highly-skilled and hugely experienced; they are quite frankly irreplaceable and will be critical to delivering future success for the businesses.

“As a first priority wages must be paid and the outstanding twelve months of pensions contributions must be secured. Resolving pay and pensions is urgent and we are closely monitoring the situation, but in talks with senior officials we have received firm assurances that both matters are in hand.

“We welcome the Government’s intervention which is yet another demonstration of our Labour Government’s commitment to delivering for steelworkers and our vital foundation industry. However, in taking control of the business the Government has assumed responsibility for our livelihoods and our communities, and we will of course be holding them to account.”

Sheffield City Council Leader, Cllr Tom Hunt, said: "This will be a difficult period of uncertainty for the workers at Liberty Steel and we appreciate that the news yesterday will have caused concern.

"The Government have agreed to step in to safeguard jobs in the short-term. We hope this brings assurance for those who work there, as well as for those who live in the areas around Liberty Steel’s sites and rely on the steelworks for their own businesses.

"The steel industry is a big part of Sheffield’s past, present and future. We continue to work proactively with all stakeholders to safeguard the future of Liberty Steel, and the industry as a whole in Sheffield and South Yorkshire. We are committed to work alongside the Mayor of South Yorkshire Oliver Coppard and Cllr Chris Read and our colleagues at Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council to ensure a viable path forward can be found for Liberty Steel and its dedicated staff."

Liberty Steel website

Images: Google Maps

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News: Liberty boss calls judge's liquidation decision "irrational"

Liberty Steel has called a High Court decision to send its speciality steel business into compulsory liquidation "irrational" and says it put forward plans to create a "sustainable operational platform."

Rothbiz reported this week that a judge has approved an application from creditors to place the business, ehich has operations in Rotherham and Stocksbridge, into compulsory liquidation.

Official Receiver, Gareth Allen, has been appointed as liquidator with Teneo Financial Advisory Limited appointed as Special Managers of the company to assist the Official Receiver with the liquidation.

Jeffrey Kabel, LIBERTY Steel Group’s Chief Transformation Officer, said: “The decision to push Speciality Steel U.K. into compulsory liquidation, especially when we have support from the world’s largest asset manager to resume operations and facilitate creditor recovery is irrational.

"The plan that GFG presented to the court would have secured new investment in the UK steel industry, protecting jobs and establishing a sustainable operational platform under a new governance structure with independent oversight.

"Instead, liquidation will now impose prolonged uncertainty and significant costs on UK taxpayers for settlements and related expenses, despite the availability of a commercial solution.

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"LIBERTY has pursued all options to make its SSUK viable, including efficiency improvements, reorganisations, customer support, several attempts to find a buyer for the business and intensive negotiations with creditors to restructure debt liabilities. LIBERTY’s shareholder has invested nearly £200mn, recognising the vital role steel plays in supplying the UK’s strategic defence, aerospace and energy industries.

"GFG will now continue to advance its bid for the business in collaboration with prospective debt and equity partners and will present its plan to the official receiver. GFG continues to believe it has the ideas, management expertise and commitment to lead SSUK into the future and attract major investment. GFG’s other significant business interests in the UK remain unaffected.

"Despite many challenges facing the group and the difficult market conditions, GFG has invested over £2 billion into the UK economy since 2013, ensuring the survival of many GFG businesses despite operating losses and safeguarding thousands of jobs that would otherwise have been lost.”

Liberty's plan is reported to have been a pre-pack administration deal which would have seen creditors lose out.

MP for Penistone & Stocksbridge Marie Tidball, said: "I know that steelworkers and other employees will have a number of queries about what happens next, and I will continue to work closely with Community Union around ongoing job security.

"From day one, I have advocated for the importance of the Speciality Steel UK sites as part of South Yorkshire's Steel Corridor, and the need to secure their future.

"It is reassuring to hear that the Secretary of State for Business, Jonathan Reynolds, has described our steelworks and its workers as important strategic assets for the UK, and wants them to have a strong future as part of the UK's overall steel strategy.

"It is positive to hear that that the Government has already received approaches from "independent third parties who have expressed an interest in returning some or all of the sites to steel making," according to a letter from the Department for Business and Trade entered in court.

"I want to thank all our local steelworkers and their families for all their hard work and patience throughout this difficult process."

Liberty Steel website

Images: Liberty Steel

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News: Speciality Steel in administration, "government committed to not letting it fail"

The latest from the High Court indicates that Liberty Steel's owners are losing its battle to keep hold of its Speciality Steel business.

Earlier this week a judge adjourned a case regarding a winding-up order regarding Speciality Steel UK Ltd (SSUK), which has operations in Rotherham and Stocksbridge.

The judge in the case asked for more information on what would happen under two scenarios - if SSUK was wound up, and if a pre-pack administration was to take place. The second scenario is likely to be opposed by creditors.

But now a different judge has approved an application from creditors to place the steel business into compulsory liquidation.

A winding up petition is issued to the courts by those seeking to recover money that they are owed. The judge agreed with the creditors and a winding-up order was made on August 21.

The court heard that the Department for Business and Trade has been preparing in the event of an Official Receiver being appointed, and was prepared to take control of SSUK’s affairs.

The Guardian reported the judge's decision, quoting Mr Justice Mellor as stating that: “It is quite clear that there are special managers lined up who have the support of the government. I consider by far the preferable approach is to make a winding-up order.”

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Official Receiver, Gareth Jonathan Allen, has been appointed as liquidator. Teneo Financial Advisory Limited has been appointed as Special Managers of the company to assist the Official Receiver with the liquidation.

The Official Receiver will wind-up the company in accordance with his statutory duties. He also has a duty to inquire into the cause of the company’s failure and conduct of current and former directors. 

Creditors and subcontractors are being urged to get in touch.

The UK company was hit by the collapse of Greensill, a specialist in invoice financing that operated with less regulation than the traditional banks.

Court documents from February regarding Greensill creditors and SSUK show that the Liberty company has a debt with them of approximately £289m. The debts owed to Greensill creditors in respect of the activities of the GFG Group amount, in broad terms, to some US$4 billion.

Sarah Champion, MP for Rotherham, said: "All I can say is; I’ve been in conversation with the Government for months about the future of this strategic and profitable business, and they are committed to not letting it fail. You have my word that I will do all in my power to make sure that is the case."

Charlotte Brumpton-Childs, GMB National Officer, said: “This is another tragedy for UK steel - and the people of South Yorkshire - this time brought on by years of chronic mismanagement by the owners.

“But this represents an opportunity for the Government to take decisive action, as it did with British steel, to protect this vital UK industry.”

Cllr. Chris Read, leader of Rotherham Council, said on Threads: "The end of a long rollercoaster period of Liberty ownership brings uncertainty but also the opportunity of fresh beginnings with more solid plans. Glad the government has heeded our urging and taken over operational costs while those plans take shape."

Liberty Steel website

Images: Google Maps

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