News: Rotherham cinema to host Reytons album launch

The Reytons are set to celebrate the launch of their latest album with home town fans in Rotherham this weekend, reports Visit Rotherham.

A Love Letter to a Broken Town is the fourth studio album by the indie rock band who describe it as being "for the community, the roots and the towns that made us..."

Visit Rotherham reported first that The Reytons are planning to pop up at Arc Cinema on Forge Island, the £47m landmark leisure destination in Rotherham town centre.

For a band who release their music entirely on their own terms with no major label backing or corporate support, and in typical Reytons style, press interviews for the album were carried out by the lads themselves in Rotherham town centre.

Buying a sofa set and coffee table from the British Heart Foundation, lead singer, Jonny, interviewed the rest of the band at the foot of the High Street to talk about the album, and Rotherham and towns like it.

Promo photos and videos for new songs off the album also feature Rotherham prominently - Jukebox is set in the beautiful town centre pub, The Cutler's Arms, and Busker's Paradise centres on the cyclical journey of a £5 note as it travels through shops and pubs in South Yorkshire. The artwork for Hello Are You Today? features a phone box on the High Street.

Advertisement
The Meet & Greet Event is taking place on Saturday August 8 (9:00am - 5:00pm) and Sunday August 9 (11:00am - 6:00pm) at Arc Cinema on Forge Island in Rotherham town centre.

Through The Reytons website, fans need to pick a time slot to attend a private cinema screening, followed by a Q&A, Meet & Greet and other entertainment.

A small £2 charge for the tickets will be donated to local charities.

The band are releasing a limited edition pop up record featuring an illustration of the town inspired by Roald Dahl. £5 from every record sold will go directly to Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice in Rotherham.

Jonny Yerrell said in the latest video interview: "This town is important to me, you know, I grew up here. I've got so many fond memories, whether it's just walking through the town with my nan, going to McDonald's parties as a kid. I mean I once turned the Christmas lights on stood on the on the roof around the corner. I've done so much in this town, I've had so many questionable nights walking up and down these streets on a night out.

"Even recently again with individuals deciding to do things to try and put Rotherham down every time, but this album to us, when you pick it up, when you look through the books, even through through the dirt you see the diamonds do you know what I mean? There's something beautiful about this place and we know it and we want other people to see it.

"When you're looking around, the architecture in this town is incredible, and the council are definitely definitely improving it in terms of there's a lot of money being spent down at the bottom on Forge Island, which is where we're going to be this weekend. You can come down to the cinema, there's a lot of things that we want you to see because Rotherham does get a lot of shade."

The Reytons website

Images: The Reytons/ YouTube

Read more...

News: Footfall up in Rotherham town centre

The number of visitors to Rotherham town centre is above 14 million a year, but is not yet back to pre-COVID levels.

Rothbiz reported in April that Rotherham town centre had attracted a million more visits since 2024, according to the leader of the council.

Now the authority has published the latest annual footfall figures.

In its Statement of Accounts, Rotherham Council said that there were 14.1m visitors to the town centre in 2025/26, an increase of 850,000 from 2023/24.

Revitalising the town centre is a central part of the council's 2025 - 2030 plan, called "Forging Ahead." Long term measures of success include an increase in footfall in the town centre, a decrease in the percentage of vacant units in the town centre and an increase in the proportion of people optimistic about the future of Rotherham town centre.

Although the progress of the plan is monitored, and updates provided to councillors, the data behind these measures is not published.



When data was made public, it showed that yearly footfall figures for Rotherham town centre have been in decline since 2012. From just over 26 million in that year, reducing by ten million to 16 million in 2019, even before the COVID pandemic.

Advertisement
The way footfall is measured varies. Commercial property agents at nearby Parkgate Shopping promote that the popular retail destination attracts eight million visitors per year. Agents for Meadowhall say that the Sheffield shopping centre has 24 million visitors a year. Barnsley town centre attracted a footfall of more than nine million in 2024-25 according to Barnsley Council.

On the ground, Rothbiz recently reported on a "perfect storm" described by local retailers who said that "a massive dip in footfall over the years, not least due to huge retailers leaving for out of town retail parks, has taken its toll."

In Rotherham, the local authority points to the opening of Forge Island in 2024. The £47m development includes an 8-screen boutique cinema operated by The Arc Cinema, a 69-roomed Travelodge Hotel as well as food outlets.

Investment is also being made in events and a dedicated council team designed to make Rotherham’s high streets safer and more welcoming.

Vibrant Town Centres is one of four "gamechangers" in the new plan from the Rotherham Partnership. The vision is for partners to work together to diversify the offer in town centre in order to increase the number of return visits from residents and those outside of the borough.

The plan mentions the continued efforts to create more housing in the town centre, supporting businesses and community organisations to fill previously empty units and revitalise streets, and a collective effort to support residents to buy local.

On using culture and events, the plan states: "An engaging and exciting programme of events will draw people into our town centres, making them vibrant hubs for our communities and places where people come together. In Rotherham town centre, this sense of surprise and discovery will drive a renaissance in the visitor and nighttime economy."

The plan adds: "Across our town centres, including Dinnington, Maltby, Rotherham, Swinton and Wath, we will support the regeneration of our high streets with a focus on improving footfall, business support and making public spaces more pleasant and welcoming.

"We are redefining how we measure success - moving beyond traditional metrics of retail and spending, to also prioritise the social, wellbeing and community value which town centres can deliver."

Images: Flux Rotherham / BTG Eddisons

Read more...

News: New Forge Island restaurant confirmed by Rotherham Council

Rotherham Council has confirmed the new food outlet signing up at Forge Island, promising bold flavours and a fresh dining experience.

Rothbiz reported last week that work had begun on a new branch of Smoke & Pepper in Rotherham town centre.

Delivered by Rotherham Council in partnership with Muse, the £47m Forge Island development in Rotherham town centre includes an 8-screen boutique cinema operated by The Arc Cinema, a 69-roomed Travelodge Hotel. Food outlets include Vetro Lounge and Heavenly Desserts.

Smoke & Pepper, known for its contemporary street food-inspired menu, is planning to open in July at Unit 1, a 2,500 sq ft unit next door to Arc Cinema.

Its menu is set to include smoked meats, loaded dishes and indulgent comfort food, designed to appeal to a wide range of tastes.

The venture marks an exciting addition for owner Daoud Tahir, who already runs Forge Island’s dessert parlour, Heavenly Desserts.

Daoud said: “We’re excited to be bringing Smoke & Pepper to Forge Island. The development has become a key destination in the town centre, and we’re proud to be part of that journey.

“We believe our menu offers something new to Forge Island, with bold flavours and a unique dining experience that we’re confident will be a real hit with visitors.”

Advertisement
Cllr Chris Read, Leader of Rotherham Council, added: “It’s fantastic to see Forge Island continuing to attract new and exciting businesses like Smoke and Pepper.

“The addition of another restaurant, particularly one offering something different, only strengthens Forge Island’s overall offer. We’re delighted to welcome this new venture and wish them every success when they open later this summer.”

Envisioned as a catalytic regeneration development, the council has faced challenges. The authority agreed to fund the scheme itself when the funding available its delivery partner, Muse, "significantly reduced" due to the volatility of the financial markets.

In 2024, Rothbiz reported on the liquidation of a company connected to the restaurant operator that the council had signed up in a pre-let agreement to open a number of brands at Forge Island. The leader of the council said that it was a "challenging business situation" for the operator.

At the start of 2026, Rothbiz reported on difficulties faced by the council with the scheme. A council report on parking issues also referenced the difficulty the authority was having in attracting businesses to the site and letting the units.

Rothbiz reported last month that Sygnature Dish, an independent restaurant set up by local entrepreneurs had closed within a year of opening at Forge Island.

With the cinema, hotel and first food outlets open, Rotherham Council's leader, Chris Read, said that there had been a million more visits in the town centre across the two years since 2024.

Forge Island website

Images: Smoke & Pepper / Tom Austen

Read more...

News: Riverside Gardens takes shape in Rotherham town centre

A transformational project is taking shape to create new public space near to Forge Island in Rotherham town centre.

A Rotherham Council scheme that has secured external government funding, work got underway last year on Riverside Gardens alongside improvements on Corporation Street.

Planning permission was approved in 2023 for a scheme using a mixture of soft and hard landscaping to create a gateway on an area extending from the demolished Riverside Precinct, covering the old abattoir site behind Market Street and passing the Old Market, Keppel Wharf and Westgate Chambers residential developments.

C R Reynolds is leading on the work which has a total budget of £8,425,749 in the council's capital programme. G & F Formwork Ltd has been on site recently creating the complex retaining walls as part of the design.

Advertisement
Cllr. John Williams, Cabinet Member for Transport, Jobs and the Local Economy at Rotherham Council, said: "This is a big regeneration scheme that’s going to transform what was a previously underused area right beside the River Don, and we’re going to provide a new public garden and open space for visitors, shoppers, and residents to enjoy right here in the town centre.

"It’s a really exciting project. So what you’re going to see here is a brand new riverside walkway giving you new views overlooking the River Don and over to Forge Island. Throughout the site there’s going to be new planting, new seating, there’s going to be a children’s play area right at the top as well.

"The Riverside Gardens project is really important because regeneration isn’t just about big new buildings and infrastructure, it’s about improving and creating new public spaces for people to use and enjoy. So this new riverside walkway and public gardens is going to be here for visitors, for shoppers, for workers, for people who live and use the town centre to come and enjoy the new riverside views, to have better links to Forge Island and the rest of the town centre. And it’s just a really exciting example of the transformation that’s taking place across Rotherham town centre."

The 2017 town centre masterplan had the old abattoir site earmarked for a residential development in excess of 60 apartments. Housing plans here were also included in the 2020 hybrid planning application for Forge Island with developers including outline plans for later phases such as 50 riverside residential units on the abattoir site on the opposite side of the River Don to the cinema and hotel.

Images: Tom Austen

Read more...

News: Smoke & Pepper to open new Rotherham restaurant

A fast-growing food brand is opening a new store in Rotherham, according to Visit Rotherham, promising a modern, vibrant, and flavour-driven restaurant.

What started in Leyton in 2022 as a burger joint has now turned into a raved-about restaurant. Smoke & Pepper has crafted a unique dining experience that seamlessly blends the allure of an Instagrammable restaurant with the convenience of fast-food dining.

Visit Rotherham reports that the brand has begun work on its new Rotherham location at Forge Island.

Delivered by Rotherham Council in partnership with Muse, the £47m Forge Island development in Rotherham town centre includes an 8-screen boutique cinema operated by The Arc Cinema, a 69-roomed Travelodge Hotel. Food outlets include Vetro Lounge and Heavenly Desserts.

The menu includes top chef-quality burgers and succulent flame grilled chicken, famous flavourful loaded fries and crispy fried wings and tenders tossed in signature sauces. Smoke & Pepper is also known for bringing the thickest shakes in town, thirst quenching mojitos and freshly baked divine milk cakes.

Advertisement
The business is fast growing thanks to its franchise model. It has 16 stores currently trading with more in the pipeline.

Heavenly Desserts franchisee, Daoud Tahir, who recently picked up an award for his work on the Rotherham location, recently announced that he was looking to add a Smoke & Pepper franchise.

Smoke & Pepper is working on Unit 1 at Forge Island, a 2,500 sq ft unit next door to Arc Cinema.

Recruitment is underway with the restaurant currently looking for General Team Members and Back of House Kitchen Staff.

Social media posts for the brand explain: "Food is at the heart of Smoke & Pepper. Our menu centres on comfort food favourites such as smash burgers, grilled chicken, loaded fries, smoked meats and signature in house sauces, all built around carefully sourced ingredients and strong operational discipline.

"The Smoke & Pepper experience is about more than food. Our restaurants are designed to feel distinctive and engaging, so customers feel they have been somewhere, not just eaten somewhere.

"From design and music to service and flow, we focus on creating an environment people want to spend time in and return to. Every customer who chooses Smoke & Pepper is a privilege. They could have gone anywhere, and that choice is never taken lightly. We celebrate that trust by delivering great food, strong service and an experience that feels reliable, enjoyable and worth repeating."

Rothbiz reported last month that Sygnature Dish, an independent restaurant set up by local entrepreneurs had closed within a year of opening at Forge Island.

Smoke & Pepper website
Forge Island website

Images: Tom Austen

Read more...

News: Independent restaurant closes at Rotherham's flagship Forge Island

Whilst other tenants are trading well, an independent restaurant set up by local entrepreneurs has closed within a year of opening at Forge Island in Rotherham.

Sygnature Dish opened last summer, bringing steak and seafood to the town centre's new landmark leisure destination.

Delivered by Rotherham Council in partnership with Muse, the £47m development includes an 8-screen boutique cinema operated by The Arc Cinema, a 69-roomed Travelodge Hotel.

Sygnature Dish joined the Vetro Lounge at Forge Island and was followed by Heavenly Desserts.

Dalu and Sibbs Sikhosana, the enterprising siblings behind Sygnature Dish, were first involved in Sub Sahara, an authentic family-run African shop and butchery in Rotherham town centre.

Judith Badger, Executive Director of Corporate Services at Rotherham Council, said: “We’re sorry to see Sygnature Dish close and we recognise that any business closure is particularly difficult for the staff involved. We’d like to thank them for being part of Forge Island.

“The hospitality sector is facing challenges across the country, and unfortunately Sygnature Dish has faced difficulties linked to its own operating model as well as wider market conditions. Despite this Forge Island as a destination continues to record strong footfall and a growing customer base amongst Rotherham residents and from further afield.

“Forge Island remains a vibrant and popular place to visit, with Arc Cinema, Travelodge, Vetro Lounge and Heavenly Desserts all trading well and attracting customers throughout the week. Feedback from visitors continues to be very positive, and we’re pleased with the momentum across the site.

“Importantly, the site was always designed to evolve. With that in mind, we’re looking forward to announcing a new operator who will open at the Forge Island later this year. Discussions are progressing and we hope to share news soon.

“In the meantime, we’d encourage residents to continue supporting the fantastic businesses already at Forge Island.”

Advertisement
At the start of the year, Rothbiz reported on difficulties faced by the council with the scheme.

"Operational issues" meant that a car parking system was delayed and the authority's Parking Services staff were drafted in to ensure the site was being used appropriately after the council received a number of complaints about parking availability and the "heavy usage by non-genuine customers."

An ANPR system is now in place with parking concessions extended to customers of all businesses located within the Forge Island development providing four hours of free parking.

The council report also referenced the difficulty the council was having in attracting businesses to the site and letting the units.

In 2024, Rothbiz reported on the liquidation of a company connected to the restaurant operator that the council had signed up in a pre-let agreement to open a number of brands at Forge Island. The leader of the council said that it was a "challenging business situation" for the operator.

Work began on site in November 2022 after Rotherham Council agreed to fund the Forge Island regeneration scheme itself when the the funding available its delivery partner, Muse, "significantly reduced" due to the volatility of the financial markets.

The council's project budget also includes a contribution towards the fit out of the units.

According to Rotherham Council's leader, Chris Read, there has been a million more visits in the town centre across the two years since Forge Island opened in 2024.

Forge Island website

Images: Sygnature Dish

Read more...

News: Rotherham Council set to acquire more town centre properties

Rotherham Council is set to acquire further property in the town centre - in the area designated for the new Leisure and Cultural Quarter.

With the council leading on the £47m development of Forge Island as a vital catalyst project for the town centre, the authority has been snapping up properties in the Corporation Street area.

The Rotherham Town Investment Plan of 2021 picked out "a cluster of underused buildings which will provide leisure and residential uses on a smaller scale catering for independent providers and contributing to a 24-hour presence in the town centre."

Acquisitions include the Riverside Precinct, the former Mecca Bingo building, the building vacated by Wilko, and the burnt-out buildings on the opposite side of Corporation Street. All but the grade II listed Mecca building have been demolished.

Now, with work underway on the new Riverside Gardens and street scene improvements, the council has published a decision approving the acquisition of property interests at Corporation Street.

Advertisement
The properties have not been named but minutes from Rotherham's Town Deal board from 2025 show that the council had an offer accepted on the Ring Shop and make reference to 22 Corporation Street.

Rothbiz reported in 2023 that The Ring Shop on Corporation Street, also known as Smith Brothers, was closing after 127 years at the centre of Rotherham.

The council's negotiations to acquire The Ring Shop property at 26 - 28 Corporation Street were slowed by it going through probate due to the sad death of the owner, Anthony Swann in 2022.

Vacant buildings on Corporation Street have long been a target for investment after Rotherham was named on the list of successful "town deals" which saw £31.6m from the Government used to revamp areas of Rotherham town centre as well as Templeborough and Eastwood.

The vacant bank buildings stick out whilst the improvements go on around them. Rotherham Council acquired Lloyds at 32-34 Corporation Street back in 2006 under previous regeneration plans and in the case of the former NatWest Bank next door, private sector owners have not brought forward a suitable scheme and turned down a bid from the council to buy the building.

The Council had hoped the private sector owner would lead on the scheme and was prepared to sell the former Lloyds bank for just £1 in 2022.

A council report states: "The preferred option is to acquire all properties by agreement.

"Consideration has been given to entering into partnership arrangements with landowners rather than taking full control of the land. In progressing negotiations this approach will be considered on a project-by-project basis, however in many cases, and as understood through early consultation, landowners do not always wish to bring forward schemes fitting with masterplan ambitions, or development is not in the core business of the landowners.

"Do nothing is not a recommended option, considering the Council’s ambitious plans for economic growth and regeneration in the Borough.

"Acquisition of each property could be brought forward on an individual basis, however, considering the quantity of land and property for acquisition and the timeframe it is considered that seeking approvals on a site-by-site basis would introduce a significant risk to the programme, in terms of readiness for timely acquisitions and delivery of the programme."

The cost of acquiring the properties has not been disclosed.

Images: Google Maps / RMBC

Read more...

News: Forging ahead: a million more visits in Rotherham town centre

Rotherham town centre has attracted a million more visits since 2024, according to the leader of the council.

Following the opening of Forge Island in summer 2024, Muse reported that footfall across Rotherham town centre during 2024 was 10% higher than the previous year.

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

2024 also included the massive homecoming gig for The Reytons which drew a crowd of approximately 20,000 fans to Clifton Park on the edge of the town centre.

With an apparent continued increase in footfall, the council leader has also pointed to the impact of local authority initiatives.

Rothbiz reported last month that free parking in council-run car parks in Rotherham town centre would continue aiming to "support local businesses, boost footfall, and encourage residents to shop locally."

The council's budget also includes over £500,000 to continue to put on a range of events where audiences for town centre events have increased by 13% year-on-year from 2021 to 2025.

In addition, December saw the launch of a dedicated council team designed to make Rotherham’s high streets safer and more welcoming. The £570,000 investment provides extra eyes and ears on the ground, tackling anti-social behaviour and supporting residents, businesses and visitors on the town centre and other towns in the borough.

Advertisement
Speaking at a recent meeting of the full council, Cllr. Chris Read, leader of Rotherham Council, said: "None of these things are separate elements. If you look at the town centre, what people perhaps don't realise, is that over the last two years, footfall in the town centre is up by a million visits - a million more visits over the course of those years.

"That's in part of course because of the regeneration activity that has taken place. That's in part because of the council events. That's in part because we have put the resources in place in to the Street Safe team to make it a better and safer environment."

Revitalising the town centre is a central part of the council's 2025 - 2030 plan, called "Forging Ahead." Long term measures of success include an increase in footfall in the town centre, a decrease in the percentage of vacant units in the town centre and an increase in the proportion of people optimistic about the future of Rotherham town centre.

Although the progress of the plan is monitored, and updates provided to councillors, the data behind these measures has yet to be published.

When data was made public, it showed that yearly footfall figures for Rotherham town centre have been in decline since 2012. From just over 26 million in that year, reducing by ten million to 16 million in 2019, even before the pandemic.

The way footfall is measured varies. Commercial property agents at nearby Parkgate Shopping promote that the popular retail destination attracts eight million visitors per year. Agents for Meadowhall say that the Sheffield shopping centre has 24 million visitors a year.

The authority's efforts to boost footfall are set to continue with new budgets including £304,000 to introduce three new Business Support Officers "to engage with businesses in the town centre areas, helping them to flourish" and a further £666,655 for the Shop Unit Business Grant Project that has been oversubscribed. £60,000 has been allocated for Rotherham Town Centre Markets, which is currently undergoing a revamp as part of a £40m regeneration scheme.

Another regeneration initiative designed to boost footfall is Rotherham Council's role in bringing more housing into the town centre.

Private sector developers and investors have also progressed housing plans with the conversion of a number of buildings. Privately funded regeneration schemes have also taken place in the lesiure sector - another key target for generating footfall. The opening of the Empire Theatre following a £1.8m restoration scheme being a prime example.

Images: RMBC / Muse

Read more...

News: New parking system at Forge Island includes four hours free

Users of the Forge Island leisure development in Rotherham town centre will now be able to park for free for up to four hours.

Forge Island is Rotherham town centre's landmark leisure destination delivered by Rotherham Council in partnership with Muse. The £47m development includes an 8-screen boutique cinema operated by The Arc Cinema and a 69-roomed Travelodge Hotel and food outlets - Vetro Lounge, Sygnature Dish and Heavenly Desserts.

Rothbiz reported last month on a council decision regarding a hybrid, ticketless parking system to introduce new concessionary free parking and new parking charges. An original tariff for the 340 space car park has never been implemented due to "operational issues."

The chosen option introduces concessions for all other businesses as part of the Forge Island development alongside the current free parking for cinema and hotel users.

From this week, the authority is implementing parking fees of up to 1 hour for free with up to 2 hours costing £2.50, up to 4 hours would be £5, and up to 24 hours would be £8.

Additionally, parking concessions have been extended to customers of all businesses located within the Forge Island development providing four hours of free parking.

Guests at the Travelodge are still entitled to free overnight parking between 4pm and 10am.

Advertisement
An update from the Council states: "Enter your registration number on the devices in the business you're visiting. Our automated number plate recognition system will take care of the rest!

"You can of course park for longer than four hours - but just the first four hours are free. If you stay longer, you'll need to pay for the remainder of your visit.

"If you’re not visiting Forge Island businesses, you can still park for up to an hour for free, but longer stays will incur a charge. You will need to pay at a pay station before returning to your vehicle."

In making the decision, the authority explained that it had experienced difficulties in attracting businesses to Forge Island and in letting the units, and had received complaints from the tenants in respect of the car park.

In October 2025, the council's Parking Services staff were drafted in to ensure the site was used appropriately following "heavy usage by non-genuine customers," given the proximity to Riverside House, the police station and the AESSEAL New York Stadium.

Forge Island website

Images: Muse / Google Maps

Read more...

News: Further free parking for Forge Island as Rotherham Council faces difficulties with flagship site

A council briefing has laid bare the difficulties that the authority is facing with its Forge Island regeneration scheme.

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

Since the first openings in 2024, footfall across Rotherham town centre was 10% higher than the previous year but a report regarding the parking charges at the transformed site of the former Tesco supermarket shows that Rotherham Council is having difficulty attracting businesses and facing complaints from the current tenants.

In February 2025, Rothbiz reported on a free concessionary parking offer for users of the businesses on Forge Island but the tariff for the 340 space car park has never been implemented due to "operational issues."

In October, Parking Services staff were drafted in to ensure the site is used appropriately after the council received a number of complaints about parking availability at Forge Island.

Now a decision has been made regarding a hybrid, ticketless system that will introduce new concessionary free parking and new parking charges.

The hotel and cinema have parking concessions written into their leases, the other businesses do not. A 3.5 hours concession for customers of the cinema is already in place, as is free parking for hotel guests between 16:00 and 10:00. The report states that: "[Restaurant unit tenant] Vetro Lounge are now requesting a concession for their customers on a regular basis and are worried the introduction of parking charges will impact their trading."

Advertisement
The authority has had to weigh up issues such as potential higher parking fees that could deter visitors and impact the trading of the businesses, with the problem of "heavy usage by non-genuine customers," given the proximity to Riverside House, the police station and the AESSEAL New York Stadium.

The report states: "The purpose of the car park, whilst it is there to support wider parking within the town centre, its "main" purpose is to support the footfall and the generation of trade / customers for the tenants located on Forge Island."

Continuing the current free parking situation has been ruled out due to "genuine customers complaining to the cinema and hotel that they were unable to find a parking space, which jeopardised rental income from these businesses."

Also ruled out was an option to keep concessions for cinema and hotel users, but not offer any to users of other businesses. Instead, charges would be brought in to try to maintain sufficient parking capacity for genuine customers of Forge Island.

However, the report adds: "Adjacent destinations such as Parkgate and Meadowhall offers free parking to its visitors / customers and therefore parking charges at Forge Island are likely to influence customer choice.

"Giving concessions to all customers of Forge Island will impact the income received from the car park and the business plan for the site, but charging all customers to use the site will potentially put customers off visiting the site and using the food outlets.

"Given the difficulty we are having in attracting businesses to site, letting the units and the current volume of complaints from the tenants in respect of the car park and management of the car park it is recommended that the other outlets are given a concession equal to that of the cinema."

The chosen option introduces concessions for all other businesses as part of the Forge Island development alongside the current free parking for cinema and hotel users.

This was expected to match the same concession of 3.5 hours, which the council says "would allow visitors to visit both the cinema and other outlets without the need to pay for parking. If they exceeded the allotted concession they would need to pay the balance of the parking charge, which would be their choice."

Fees would also be introduced for people wishing to park in Forge Island but not use any Forge Island businesses.

A 30 minute drop off period has been in operation. Free parking is already offered in the town centre at all Council Off-Street car parks on Saturdays and Sundays, but that is not mentioned in the Forge Island report.

The Council is justifying the fees as it expects that the higher rates would send "significant numbers" of employees of the Council back to New York Stadium car park as they are willing to pay the day rate of £5 there. Charging on weekends has been suggested to deter use of the car park by people attending football matches at the stadium.

A decision dated December 24 2025 states that the authority will implement parking fees of up to 1 hour for free with up to 2 hours costing £2.50, up to 4 hours would be £5, and up to 24 hours would be £8.

Additionally, parking concessions will be extended to customers of all businesses located within the Forge Island development and that those concessions provide for 4 hours of free parking.

The council will review the charges after 12 months.

To facilitate the new system, ANPR cameras would be used and tablets will be installed within the businesses in order for users to enter their car registration number and validate their parking. Validated free parking will be offered to vehicles displaying a valid blue badge.

Forge Island website

Images: Muse

Read more...

News: Opening date for Heavenly Desserts in Rotherham

Heavenly Desserts has announced the date for the grand opening of its newest restaurant in Rotherham.

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.

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 in Rotherham town centre.

Opening to the public on Saturday, November 8, guests are promised an unforgettable launch experience, with a tempting Buy One, Get One Free (BOGOF) offer on waffles, crepes, and cookie dough available all weekend to celebrate in true Heavenly style.

The restaurant will provide a premium setting where guests can unwind, connect, and indulge in beautifully crafted desserts and brunch dishes. With chic interiors and a vibrant atmosphere, Heavenly Desserts Rotherham is set to become a top destination for every occasion - from celebrations and date nights to spontaneous treat-yourself moments.

Advertisement
The menu features indulgent waffles, artisan cheesecakes, and Heavenly Desserts’ signature croffles, alongside handcrafted milkshakes, alcohol-free mojitos, and rich, barista-made coffees. The brunch menu will also cater to those after savoury as well as sweet delights.

Franchise partner, Daoud Tahir, said: “We’re so excited to bring Heavenly Desserts to the people of Rotherham, right in the heart of the centre at Forge Island! It’s the perfect spot to enjoy our signature treats, and we can’t wait to welcome you in to celebrate, indulge, and make sweet memories with us.”

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

Work is also underway on major public realm regeneration project around Corporation Street and Riverside Gardens.

Heavenly Desserts website

Images: Heavenly Desserts

Read more...

News: Council staff warned about parking at Forge Island

Staff at Rotherham Council have been reminded that the car parking at Forge Island is for users of the cinema, food outlets and hotel, following a number of complaints.

Forge Island is the £47m regeneration scheme in the town centre delivered by Rotherham Council in partnership with Muse.

Near to the authority's Riverside House offices, the development includes a 340 space car park, operated by the council, that was created on the main site with the new buildings on a podium above.

The initial parking strategy offered free parking for hotel customers between the hours of 4pm and 10am. In addition, those customers using the cinema were offered concessionary free parking for a period of up to 3.5 hours. A 30-minute concession period for drop-offs was also introduced.

In February Rothbiz revealed that the authority had decided to offer unlimited free parking for patrons of all businesses at the new leisure destination that includes an 8-screen Arc cinema, food outlets and a Travelodge.

However, since the development was completed, and the hotel and cinema opened in 2024, the exit barrier to the car park has rarely been in operation.

Advertisement
An update to all council staff, shared by independent counillor, Michael Bennett-Sylvester, reads: "We've received a number of complaints about parking availability at Forge Island. Please remember that parking at Forge Island is currently only for customers using the site. This is essential to support the new businesses and ensure a positive experience for their customers.

"From Monday 6 October, Parking Services staff will be present at Forge Island to ensure the site is used appropriately. If you've been parking there, please make alternative arrangements going forward.

"Nearby Council car parks available for staff use include:

• The Statutes
• Westgate
• Drummond Street"

Rotherham Council admitted that the initial parking strategy was confusing for customers.

With the approved changes, it was expected that customers of Forge Island businesses would need to validate free, unlimited parking through receipts.

The car park currently uses an Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system, which registers number plates upon entry.

In June the authority introduced one hour’s free parking in council-run car parks in Rotherham town centre, including Forge Island. The £50,000 a year move aims to "support local businesses, boost footfall, and encourage residents to shop locally."

Images: Google Maps / Vetro Lounge / facebook

Read more...

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.

Advertisement
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

Read more...

News: How does Rotherham compare to other "left behind" UK towns and cities?

Not great.

A pack of government data regarding Rotherham has been published that will help guide the borough on how a £20m investment will be made over the next ten years.

The data, which covers key issues such as vacant property, crime rates and footfall, shows that there is still much to do, even to match the national averages.

£20m earmarked for Rotherham by the previous Government has been confirmed and given a wider remit focusing on neighbourhood renewal and improving social capital.

Consultation is seen as key to how the money is spent as the programme aims to empower local people to take ownership for driving the renewal of their neighbourhood. The £1.5 billion programme sets out to invest in 75 areas over the next decade – "a long-term strategy to fix the foundations of those places most left behind."

Rothbiz reported last month on the early findings of the public consultation in Rotherham.

Money will be spent inside the boundary chosen by Government, known as a "Built Up Area." It is based on data provided by the Office for National Statistics and is the area of a town characterised by urban features such as town centres, major infrastructure and larger populations.

Rotherham's built up area is focused on the town centre but extends out to neighbourhoods including Kimberworth Park and Wingfield to the North, Eastwood and East Dene in the East, Canklow and Broom in the South, and Templeborough and Blackburn in the West.

Advertisement
Vacancy rates have always been an issue, especially in Rotheham which lies in close proximity to the popular Meadowhall and Parkgate shopping centres. The data pack has the commercial vacancy rate in the Rotherham built up area at June 2025 as 19.1%, nearly double the England average of 10.4%.

Out of the built up areas receiving government cash (where data is recorded), Rotherham's vacancy rate is the fifth highest behind Grimsby (22.6%), Dewsbury (21.1%), Hartlepool (19.7%) and Accrington (19.6%).

Data is from the Local Data Company (LDC) and Green Street so may not be comparable to Rotherham Council data which showed a 25% vacancy rate for September 2019 and 31% at the height of lockdown in September 2020.

Whilst new businesses have taken up units in Rotherham, and traders have relocated and expanded, regeneration schemes are also having an impact, not least with Rotherham Council acquiring properties to knock them down for redevelopment - the vacated Primark and Wilko buildings being the prime examples.

The data pack includes a stat for footfall that is based on anonymised and aggregated mobile network data by Virgin Media O2 to work out the average daily number of outbound journeys (not including journeys to home) within the built up areas over the period April 2022 - March 2023.

Essentially it estimates the people leaving the built up area during the course of the day. Rotherham has the 2nd highest figure of the 75 "left behind" areas indicating that those that live in the area often travel out of the area, be it for work or otherwise.

Allthough the area does include popular industrial estates such as Templeborough, Eastwood and Aldwarke, the data, albeit from 2011, does show the close link to Sheffield when it comes to employment.

20,737 workers living in the Rotherham built up area also worked there but 9,197 traveled to Sheffield from Rotherham. Comparatively 21,165 from Barnsley stayed in Barnsley for work and 2,091 worked in Sheffield. For Doncaster 27,959 stayed in the area for work with 1,506 working in Sheffield.

Both Parkgate Shopping and Meadowhall are outside the boundary of the built up area. According to 2019 customer survey data, 25% of Meadowhall's total visitors came from Rotherham.

Completed regeneration efforts have prompted green shoots in the town centre. Rothbiz reported in April that footfall across Rotherham town centre during 2024 was 10% higher than the previous year with developers, Muse, pointing to the impact of the opening of the Forge Island leisure scheme in attracting visitors.

Preceptions around crime and people saying that they don't feel safe is also a key issue.

The main indicator here is recorded crime rate per 1,000 population (2022). Again, Rotherham's built up area figure (131) is way above the England average of 76.7.

For crime rates, Rotherham is ranked 13th out of the 70 areas where data is available. Interestingly, given many people's perceptions, both Barnsley (146) and Doncaster (142.8) built up areas, that will also both receive £20m, have higher recorded crime rates per 1,000 population than Rotherham.

On a positive note, the stats in which Rotherham comes out well include gigabit broadband coverage and those around housing affordability and access to services.

Images: BRH / Muse

Read more...

News: New Rotherham restaurant opens at Forge Island

Sygnature Dish has opened in Rotherham, bringing steak and seafood to Forge Island.

Rothbiz reported in March that an independent restaurant from local entrepreneurs would be the second food operator at the town centre's new landmark leisure destination.

Delivered by Rotherham Council in partnership with Muse, the £47m development includes an 8-screen boutique cinema operated by The Arc Cinema, a 69-roomed Travelodge Hotel.

Loungers plc, the West Country-based café/bar group, opened Vetro Lounge in April as the first food venue on Forge Island.

Sygnature Dish has taken Unit 3 - a 2,580 sq ft unit adjacent to the hotel, opposite the cinema and across from Vetro Lounge.

Dalu and Sibbs Sikhosana are the enterprising siblings behind Sygnature Dish and are well known from Sub Sahara, an authentic family-run African shop and butchery in Rotherham town centre. Sub Sahara was established in August 2023 by owners who have a combined experience of retail and hospitality industry of over 30 years.

Advertisement
The new website for Sygnature Dish explains: "Specialising in high-quality, expertly cooked steaks and freshly sourced seafood, Sygnature Dish will serve lunch and dinner alongside a selection of cocktails plus local and international beers. Diners will be able to indulge in the finest cuts of T-bone, sirloin and rib-eye steaks, along with beef ribs and burgers.

"There’ll be a range of seafood on the menu too, including salmon, grilled/fried calamari, mussels, prawns and the fish of the day.

"The menu will also feature chicken, pasta, vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options to suit all tastes and if you want to sample more than one dish, you’ll be able to create your own platter.

"Whether it’s a special occasion, a pre/post-cinema outing or a casual meal with family and friends, Sygnature Dish will provide a warm and stylish setting for every guest to enjoy top-quality food."

The full menu is set to be available from Friday July 24.

The modern interior has been created for the restaurant by Tailored Kollektiv.

Rothbiz revealed in June that Heavenly Desserts was planning to take a unit at Forge Island.

Sygnature Dish website
Forge Island website

Images: Sygnature Dish

Read more...

News: Something sweet set for Forge Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Heavenly Desserts website
Forge Island website

Images: Heavenly Desserts / Google Maps

Read more...

News: One hour free parking in Rotherham town centre

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

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

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

Free parking is already offered in the town centre at all Council Off-Street car parks on Saturdays and Sundays and on street after 6pm. The latest offer is now in place Monday to Friday. Anyone wishing to take advantage of the hour free parking must get a ticket from the machine.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Images: RMBC

Read more...

News: Get ready to raise your glass - Vetro Lounge opens in Rotherham next week

Loungers plc, the West Country-based café/bar group, is opening Vetro Lounge in Rotherham town centre on Wednesday April 30, creating around 30 jobs for local people.

Rothbiz revealed at the end of 2024 that Loungers UK Limited had applied for a premises licence for a unit at Forge Island, indicating that it would operate under the Lounge brand.

Loungers has transformed the site at Forge Island - heavily patterned wallpapers, tiling and stripped wooden floors now feature alongside oversized vintage sofas, upholstered lounge chairs, eclectic artwork and statement wall and pendant lighting, creating a variety of cosy and elegant drinking and dining areas to choose from.

A real home-from-home, Vetro Lounge will cater for all tastes throughout the day with a varied and innovative all-day menu. Whether it is a coffee with friends, a long lazy brunch with family or a relaxed dinner and drinks, Vetro Lounge is the perfect place to relax and unwind in good company.

Advertisement
John English, Head of Community at Loungers, says: “We can’t wait to open the doors of Vetro Lounge next week. Our Lounges strive to put community at the heart of hospitality and our teams always go the extra mile to make a difference. They are actively encouraged to connect with their communities by working with local groups, charities, organisations, and businesses that are at the heart of the fabric of local life. We are very much looking forward to welcoming local residents to Vetro Lounge.”

Starting as the mean to continue, Vetro Lounge has partnered with local charity The Team Ted Foundation and will donate 50p from every burger and 20p from each coffee sold in the first month of trading to the cause.

The all-day menu will feature everything from breakfast, tapas and salads to burgers and buttermilk fried chicken, with those following a vegan or gluten-free diet, well catered for with their very own menus.

Particular attention will be paid to families with a selection of games, books, colouring pencils and pads on offer. A full menu, high chairs and baby-changing facilities are also available for Little Loungers.

Vetro means glass in Italian. Rotherham has a long history of glassmaking. Glass packaging manufacturer Beatson Clark has been making glass bottles and jars in Rotherham since 1751. The Glassworks Cone at Catcliffe is the oldest surviving structure of its type in Western Europe and one of only four to remain in the UK.

Lounge, which currently operates at The Glass Works in Barnsley and Fox Valley in Sheffield, is operated by Loungers plc. The AIM-listed firm, which also operates the Cosy Club bar and dining concept, and Brightside roadside dining, is currently undergoing a buyout by an American investment group which places its value at £350.5m.

The company is opening within the 5,618 sq ft Unit 4 at Forge Island, which is the largest of the remaining units. Work continues on the next outlet, Sygnature Dish, which is set to bring steak and seafood to Rotherham town centre.

Vetro Lounge website

Images: Loungers

Read more...

News: Work set to start on delayed Rotherham riverside revamp

Work on Riverside Gardens, a new public space on the opposite side of the River Don to Forge Island, will begin later this month, Rotherham Council has confirmed.

It had been hoped that the £4.1m project, which will include accessible routes from Market Street and Domine Lane, would be completed in time for the opening of Forge Island in 2024 but it has been hit by delays caused by rising costs during a lengthy procurement process.

Planning permission was approved in 2023 for a scheme using a mixture of soft and hard landscaping to create a gateway on an area extending from the demolished Riverside Precinct, covering the old abattoir site behind Market Street and passing the Old Market, Keppel Wharf and Westgate Chambers residential developments.

To address rising costs, the local authority combined the work together with other planned public realm improvements in the area on Corporation Street and Upper Millgate.

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

As a result of the work, the Riverside car park at the back of Corporation Street will permanently close on Monday April 28. Alternative nearby parking can be found at Forge Island and in the Scala car park at the bottom of Corporation Street.

Last year, Rotherham Council agreed to appoint C R Reynolds with the first stage of a two-stage design and build contract for the delivery of works. The second stage was previously given a contract price of £6.2m. The Humberside company has previously worked on the repair of nearby Centenary Way.

Cllr. Robert Taylor, Cabinet Member for Transport, Jobs and the Local Economy, said: “It’s an exciting time for the town centre and fantastic that we’re ready to forge ahead and start work on Riverside Gardens. The project will help create a clear, accessible and vibrant route between the town centre and Forge Island.

“The project will also provide a green space for residents and visitors to relax in, with connections to the river and nature for families to enjoy. I look forward to seeing the project develop and would like to encourage all our residents to visit Forge Island as we prepare to welcome two new restaurants soon.”

Riverside Gardens was previously given a 12-month schedule.

Forge Island is home to Arc Cinema and Travelodge Hotel, with new restaurants – Vetro Lounge and Sygnature Dish – both set to open this spring. Vetro Lounge’s grand opening will take place on Wednesday April 30.

Images: RMBC

Read more...

News: Footfall figures up following first Forge Island openings

Footfall across Rotherham town centre during 2024 was 10% higher than the previous year and developers, Muse, point to the impact of the opening of the Forge Island leisure scheme in attracting visitors.

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

Expected to be a catalyst for further investment and regeneration, the cinema and hotel opened last summer.

Formerly Rotherham Forge & Rolling Mills, before home to a supermarket, Muse say that Forge Island now has a "sustainable and long-term future as a dynamic place for the community and visitors."

Acquired by Rotherham Council, the most recent use was a temporary bus station and a COVID testing site. Developers say that they wanted to re-imagine the place and re-establish its economic and cultural importance within the town centre.

A case study from Muse said: "Whilst still developing as a destination, we are already seeing a positive impact on the community and the local economy.

"A brand-new eight screen cinema has opened, bringing film back to the town centre for the first time in 30 years. This is much more significant than simply a new place to watch a Hollywood block-buster.

"Hundreds of people descended on Forge Island to enjoy opening day, with screenings regularly sold out since it opened its doors. In fact, Forge Island was the best performing cinema in the Arc chain during December 2024."

Advertisement
The cinema anchors a growing evening and night-time economy in the town centre with Vetro Lounge and Sygnature Dish set to open in adjacent units within months.

The aim is for more money to be spent in the town, fewer people travelling outside Rotherham for entertainment, and new customers drawn from across the region. Already, footfall across Rotherham town centre during 2024 has been 10% higher than the previous year.

The update from Muse added: "The opportunity at Forge Island was to create a long-term sustainable future for Rotherham’s industrial past. A place which could drive a modern economy, create jobs, and curate a destination for communities and visitors to spend their precious leisure time.

"It’s a plan which aligns with the wider vision for Rotherham town centre, with investments in attractive outdoor spaces, revitalised markets, and high-quality riverside and urban living.

"By working in partnership with the local authority, we have delivered in a way which creates something new and exciting for the community – a place to meet friends and recharge during evenings and weekends. It has brought families back into the town centre and underpinned a new energy and vibrancy which will permeate Rotherham’s future."

With funding for the project coming from Rotherham Council, the authority ensured that social value was high on the agenda through partners, Muse and lead contractor, Bowmer & Kirkland.

As a project, Forge Island saw 83 local people employed with 278 weeks of apprentice training and 69 hours of career and education support. £1,890,775 was spent with the local supply chain meaning that overall, the development created a social and local economic value of £4,361,703.

Forge Island website

Images: Muse

Read more...