News: Guest & Chrimes hotel plans approved despite heritage concerns

A planning application has been approved by Rotherham Council for a long-awaited redevelopment of a former foundry on the edge of the town centre, despite concerns from Historic England over the demolition involved.

Only earlier this week, Rothbiz revealed that the government's statutory adviser on the historic environment had raised objections regarding the removal of two of the buildings at the fire-damaged former Guest & Chrimes foundry.

Now the application, and connected plans regarding listed building consent, have been approved, without the need to go before the authority's planning board.

Planners conclude that the benefits of the proposal, which they say "represents a significant opportunity to regenerate a long-vacant and historically important site within Rotherham town centre," outweighs the significant harm to the listed building.

The authority is also concerned that, without redevelopment, it may need to take back the property it leased to the football club and carry out costly urgent repairs itself.

A planning application was submitted in January for a new hotel development on the prominent site which is alongside Rotherham United's AESSEAL New York Stadium. Stewart Developments Ltd sought permission to convert and partly demolish the dilapidated existing Grade II listed building and link it to a new build property to create a new hotel.

The foundry use of the site ceased in 1990 and the building has been empty since 1999. A severe fire at the former brass and iron foundry in 2018 meant that the front portion was subsequently demolished.

Plans show that the 51,074 sq ft hotel would have 138 bedrooms and include a restaurant and bar. The largest northern range is set to be refurbished so that the hotel main entrance is located directly beneath the water tower. A new L-shaped building is set to replace the other two remaining wings as the retention of fire damaged blocks is seen as unviable.

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Historic England are not convinced that the applicant has provided the clear and convincing justification for the level of harm to this Grade II Listed Building and have requested that any decision to approve be referred to the Secretary of State.

A Rotherham Council planning report concludes: "Historic England’s comments are fully noted. However, the site in question is highly problematic from the perspective of potential redevelopment.

"The site falls within Flood Zone 2 and has been vacant for 26 years. The buildings have experienced substantial fire damage, and is currently in a very poor state of repair.

"Whilst urgent works have been considered by the Local Authority, these are unlikely to prevent the ongoing deterioration of the building and a scenario of serving a Repairs Notice is more likely. Due to the costs involved, this is likely to involve the Local Authority having to take back the lease of the building from the current lessee (the applicant), back to the Council, who are the freeholder, then fully repairing the building. This is a highly complex process and a huge financial burden for the Local Authority to take on. Any repairs to the building would ultimately require consideration of a future use of the building."

Applicants say that the proposed hotel development and the demolition of two wings "is considered the only viable opportunity available to deliver beneficial use."

As the site is designated for mixed use, it could accommodate some form of leisure or education use but the planning report shows that this is not viable due to the high costs of refurbishing the buildings and flood proofing the site. Office use is also not considered viable due the demand for office accommodation in Rotherham being low.

As a hotel, it is expected that a total of 60 jobs will be created on site (32 full-time and 28 part-time jobs).

The planner's report concludes: "The run-down state of the buildings creates a poor image for the town and the wider area. As such, the redevelopment of the site into a hotel with a high-quality design, along with the conversion of the most architecturally significant wing, would greatly enhance the immediate surroundings of the site as well as the image of the town from prominent transport nodes.

"The hotel use would provide an additional benefit to the borough helping to develop the town's visitor economy, within a sustainable location along with the increase in employment within the borough. As such, it is considered that the proposed hotel would provide substantial public benefits to the town centre in addition to preserving the most iconic elements of the listed building.

"While Historic England object to the proposals, the local planning authority is satisfied that the viability evidence provided by the applicant, site constraints, and public benefit of bringing this building back into use, provide clear and convincing justification for the proposed works."

The approval comes with a number of conditions. For example, following Historic England's concerns over justifying the demolition, the applicants will need to submit demonstrative proof that a hotel operator and appropriate developer has been secured before any demolition on the site takes place.

If the decision is referred to the Secretary of State, they could decide not to intervene or appoint an inspector to hold an inquiry or hearing. The inspector will then make a recommendation, and the Secretary of State will make the final decision.

Images: Stewart Developments / stephenson hamilton risley STUDIO

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News: Historic England objects to Rotherham hotel development

Historic England continues to raise objections with proposals to redevelop the remains of a former foundry on the edge of Rotherham town centre.

Applicants say that the only viable way forward would involve some demolition.

Last month Rothbiz revealed that the government's statutory adviser on the historic environment had asked for further information regarding the removal of two of the buildings at the fire-damaged former Guest & Chrimes foundry.

Historic England say that the proposed loss of two out of three wings of the building "would cause a very high level of harm to the significance of the listed building."

A planning application was submitted in January for a new hotel development on the prominent site which is alongside Rotherham United's AESSEAL New York Stadium. Stewart Developments Ltd is seeking permission to convert and partly demolish the dilapidated existing Grade II listed building and link it to a new build property to create a new hotel.

The foundry use of the site ceased in 1990 and the building has been empty since 1999. A severe fire at the former brass and iron foundry in 2018 meant that the front portion was subsequently demolished.

The building remains Grade II listed and Historic England says that its significance largely lies with the ability to read the rapid expansion of a highly successful 19th century metal and brassworks in Rotherham, adding: "In spite of the loss of the more architecturally elaborate office block, we are able to read this story of expansion through the functional architecture of the remaining buildings."

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Plans show that the 51,074 sq ft hotel would have 138 bedrooms and include a restaurant and bar. The largest northern range is set to be refurbished so that the hotel main entrance is located directly beneath the water tower. A new L-shaped building is set to replace the other two remaining wings as the retention of fire damaged blocks is seen as unviable.

A structural report concluded that the wings planned for demolition "are not beyond repair and could be sensitively restored, should resources allow."

Applicants however say that the proposed hotel development and the demolition of two wings "is considered the only viable opportunity available to deliver beneficial use."

Alexander Harrison, Inspector of Historic Buildings and Areas at Historic England, said: "It is important to understand fully whether or not retention, repair and conversion of these buildings could be viable. The viability assessments provided are based on estimates and not on accurate and robust condition surveys and costings for the reuse of the existing buildings. Therefore we cannot be certain from the information provided that retention is unviable, and that demolition has been proved necessary. The required clear and convincing justification is not considered to have been demonstrated by the additional information supplied by the applicant."

Consultants, White Land Strategies, looked at the options assessed for the redevelopment of the site in a bid to find a viable proposal that is deliverable, and where conservation is maximised / balanced. Included options ranged from having all three buildings retained, two buildings retained and one building retained.

Historic England wants to see these appraisals with the inspector adding that "the applicant has not demonstrated that a less harmful configuration of hotel use would be unviable."

On the benefits outweighing any harm, the inspector concludes: "It is not clear whether the applicant has been in discussion with any hotel operators and whether those operators have shown an interest in taking the site forward. Similarly it has not been demonstrated that thorough market research has been conducted to understand whether there is a demand and a viable business case for a mid-range hotel in Rotherham."

Images: Stewart Developments / stephenson hamilton risley STUDIO

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News: Historic England question Guest & Chrimes redevelopment plans

Historic England has raised issues with proposals to redevelop the remains of a former foundry on the edge of Rotherham town centre.

The government's statutory adviser on the historic environment has asked for further information regarding the removal of two of the buildings at the fire-damaged former Guest & Chrimes foundry.

Rothbiz reported in January on a planning application for a new hotel development on the prominent site which is alongside Rotherham United's AESSEAL New York Stadium. Stewart Developments Ltd is seeking permission to convert and partly demolish the dilapidated existing Grade II listed building and link it to a new build property to create a new hotel.

Further documents have now been submitted including a rebuttal to the points made by Historic Enlgand in relation to viability and an expert opinion on the structural report included in the application.

The foundry use of the site ceased in 1990 and the building has been empty since 1999. A severe fire at the former brass and iron foundry in 2018 meant that the front portion was subsequently demolished.

Plans show that the 51,074 sq ft hotel would have 138 bedrooms and include a restaurant and bar. The largest northern range is set to be refurbished so that the hotel main entrance is located directly beneath the water tower. A new L-shaped building is set to replace the other two remaining wings as the retention of fire damaged blocks is seen as unviable.

Applicants say that the proposed hotel development and the demolition of two wings "is considered the only viable opportunity available to deliver beneficial use."

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A report from consultants, White Land Strategies, sets out the options assessed for redevelopment of the site in a bid to find a viable proposal that is deliverable, and where conservation is maximised / balanced. Included options ranged from having all three buildings retained, two buildings retained and one building retained.

It is explained that the site being in flood zone 2 limits potential uses and that residential use was restricted due to the flood risk.

Office / business use was discounted due to relatively slow take up / demand and the only interest coming from businesses looking for smaller offices (under 2,000 sq ft) in the area. In addition, the site does not lend itself to a single occupier with larger footprint buildings which require car parking on site. Options for employment use all resulted in negative land values.

For the hotel use, the report explains that a Premier Inn type operator is envisaged - Premier Inn being a recognised higher quality, more mid range offer. If only a budget Travelodge type operator could be attracted to the site, this would mean that a "likely additional demolition of blocks would be necessary to introduce new build structures that would be cheaper to construct."

Various options around build costs and the use of conservation materials and expenditure dedicated to the Listed Building heritage costs were also carried out. Options which resulted in only 89 rooms were discounted as this would "impact on demand from higher end occupiers" where 130 - 150 room hotels are expected.

A second opinion on the structural report from Capstone Consulting concludes: "[The] report does give a good summary of the current condition of the wings along with sensible recommendations, and it is worth emphasising it is not a report recommending demolition of any of the rear wings on structural grounds. This is consistent with the logic of retaining the north wing in the current application, as all three are of similar construction, and arguably relatively similar condition. These buildings, though weathered and damaged in places, are not beyond repair and could be sensitively restored, should resources allow."

It will be up to Rotherham Council's discretion as to whether the merits of the scheme outweigh the degree of loss of the listed buildings within the site.

Images: Stewart Developments / stephenson hamilton risley STUDIO

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News: Council set to change track over live music venue

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Images: RMBC / AHR

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Images: Stewart Developments / stephenson hamilton risley STUDIO

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News: Rethink for Rotherham riverside residential regeneration scheme

Plans have evolved for a key regeneration project that aims to bring more houses to Rotherham town centre.

At Westgate and Sheffield Road, a bridge over to the football stadium is no longer in the plans and the condition of the river wall is presenting a problem.

As part of the £31.6m Town Deal programme, government funding is being used to continue the development of a Riverside Residential Quarter. Following on from Council-led projects in the area such as Westgate Riverside and Millfold Rise, masterplanning has been undertaken for up to 279 high quality residential units, to include a mix of apartments and houses.

Rotherham Council has purchased further properties and plots of land for housing in the area. The authority has acquired all land and properties owned by Satnam Urban Regeneration Ltd which includes the 200 space Westgate Car Park and the two pubs including the derelict Alma Tavern, which has been under the threat of demolition.

Council documents show that £4.1m was set aside to purchase the land and properties.

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Satnam Urban Regeneration Ltd has been a significant landowner in the area but had been unable to realise development including a proposed food store on the Royal Mail site that was turned down in 2009.

Regarding the prominent sorting office site, Royal Mail has previously asked that the re-provision / relocation of its operations would be required prior to redevelopment. Royal Mail have now engaged with the council and are in negotiations.

Council documents also show that a potential footbridge has been removed from the scheme now that work on regenerating the former Guest & Chrimes site was no longer proceeding as part of the Town Deal.

Despite £4.5m being set aside for a scheme to repurpose the former foundry as an National / International music venue, the council was unable to reach an agreement with the landowner, Rotherham United Football Club. It is now looking at other sites within the town centre.

To progress the riverside residential project, Esh Construction Ltd has recently been awarded a contract for the enabling works. Project officers had been looking at the river wall which is "in poor shape" with sheet piling needed to steady it prior to work on a Riverside Walk.

A council report on the £483,842.47 contract states: "As part of Rotherham’s continued diversification of and investment in the town centre this scheme contributes to the delivery of a new residential quarter in the town centre. This contract will facilitate the progression of the Riverside Residential Quarter through the development of an engineering design solution and delivery strategy for a new riverside walk and realignment and infrastructure works to Water Lane."

Esh, who have also been awarded the council contract for the scheme to connect the cycle route created through Templeborough to the town centre along Sheffield Road and Westgate, have the option to progress to stage 2 works in the riverside area which has an estimated 10 months programme in the region of £5.2m.

Images: Google Maps/ RMBC

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News: Guest & Chrimes no longer in line for live music venue

The dilapidated Guest & Chrimes building on the edge of Rotherham town centre could have been reborn as an National / International music venue under Council-led plans, but the project has fallen flat.

Despite £4.5m being set aside for the scheme, the authority was not able to reach an agreement with the landowner, Rotherham United Football Club. It is now looking at other sites within the town centre.

Empty since 1999, the Guest & Chrimes site was purchased by Rotherham Council for £2.6m from developers, Evans in 2010 and is now controlled by the football club which has a very long lease from the Council.

Rothbiz reported last year that the plan for the Grade-II listed site was to use £4.5m of Town Deal funding to create a micro-brewery and fan zone at the former foundry which sits alongside Rotherham United's New York Stadium. Further updates confirmed that a large music venue was in the plans.

Council minutes confirm that in the summer, the Council was not "able to reach an agreement with the landowner, therefore we are not to proceed with that building, but have looked at alternatives, which are now progressing."

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The project team had carried out work for a year to develop a business case which was submitted to the Government in August. The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities has been asked if the money for the Guest & Chrimes project can be moved to another site.

The development of a new building and new public spaces on the Guest & Chrimes site would have seen 16,000 sq ft of new commercial space created alongside 0.26 hectares of new public realm.

The historic frontage was demolished following a fire but plans would have saved the landmark water tower and addressed the existing building. Described as an ambitious project for Rotherham, the plan was for a National / International venue with a capacity of up to 800, to include a festival area. Used as a fan zone on matchdays, this would have included a micro-brewery and a coffee bar by day and music / entertainment in the evening.

Previous plans have been hampered by high costs and the Grade-II listing. Costs were rising but a scheme was developed that Historic England said it would support. However, by May, the team working on the project reported on a stumbling block: "the landowner is now no longer supportive of the scheme, but his [presumably Tony Stewart, chairman of Rotherham United] counter proposal does not fit with Town Deal funding."

Council minutes add that there is an alternative project for the building and that "it has been suggested to the Guest & Chrimes landowner that the site could potentially be included in the second masterplan if we can come to an agreement. Interim works on the site to make it look better, change the hoardings, add lighting etc., could be carried out if funding can be found."

Images: RMBC

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News: Council's cabinet confirms £70m Rotherham regen projects

Regeneration projects backed by over £70m of funding have taken another step forward after Rotherham Council's cabinet agreed to the implementation of all projects within the Town Deal and Levelling Up Fund programmes.

Areas in the town centre, Eastwood, Templeborough and Parkgate are in line for an economic boost backed by the Government's Town Deal and Levelling Up Fund.

The Government has also awarded £19.9m from the Levelling Up Fund for a number of connected projects in the leisure industry.

Simon Moss, assistant director for planning, regeneration and transportation at Rotherham Council, explained to councillors: "The Town Deal essentially builds on the principle of the town centre masterplan which identified the need to diversify the offer for the town centre - more leisure activities, transforming town centres into more local centres and providing opportunities to go and do things - and of course, more housing.

"That means that the basics around providing more jobs and good transport links are as important as ever and the Town Deal and town centre Levelling Up projects are all pulling together to support those aims. It enables us to go a bit further and faster, with a proactive role in bringing sites forward.

"The leisure economy bid will help us to deliver projects across the borough, working with partners to develop those assets that we've got in the leisure economy."

In the town centre a mix of funding is set to be used to continue the development of a Riverside Residential Quarter. Masterplanning is underway for up to 279 high quality residential units, to include a mix of apartments and houses.

Money will be used for the acquisition of land owned by the private sector, the creation of a new Riverside Walk, bridge and general infrastructure around the Sheffield Road and Westgate area.

At the historic Guest & Chrimes site, the latest plans, revealed by Rothbiz, are to use £4.5m to turn this eyesore into a new leisure and cultural venue focussed on live music which would also be a fan zone on matchdays.

Funding is also being used to capitalise on the Forge Island development and extend the Leisure & Cultural Quarter with vacant buildings on Corporation Street a target for investment.

For example, the private sector is involved with the redevelopment of the former Lloyds and NatWest Bank buildings and the Council is looking to acquire the burnt out buildings at 3-7 Corporation Street using a CPO.

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Moving away from the town centre, around £6.5m from the Town Deal is set to be used to create a new "heart" of the Templeborough business zone by "bringing forward underutilised sites and creating new opportunities for businesses within accessible and pleasant public realm."

At the other side of town, plans are to create an accessible pedestrian route between Eastwood and Parkgate. Currently there are two bridges crossing the railway line and the canal, both with stepped access. This is a popular route but difficult to navigate.

Also at Parkgate, funding is set to work up proposals for a new mainline station in spite of the Government's omission in its recent rail plans. Rotherham Council and the private sector led Town Deal board are working on the business case focussing on the benefits of the station and the regeneration opportunities around it.

The leisure economy projects include investment at Magna, Wentworth Woodhouse, Thrybergh and Rother Valley Country Parks, and skills focused projects at Gulliver's Valley and Maltby Academy.

Business cases have been worked up and will be submitted to the Government with the implementation of projects subject to the Council’s assurance framework and capital programme monitoring.

The Council has also confirmed that it would enter the next round of the Levelling Up Fund with another bid focused on Dinnington and Wath town centres.

Rotherham Council's Strategic Director for Regeneration & Environment, Paul Woodcock, said: "The schemes have got a really good geographical spread. A good mix of council schemes that we lead on, but also a mix of ones where we are working with the private and other sectors in order to bring those forward."

Images: RMBC

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News: Early stage plans for live music venue at Guest & Chrimes site

Regenerating the historic Guest & Chrimes site in Rotherham has always been a tough gig, and now new concepts are being talked about in hushed tones.

Partners are working in harmony to finely tune ideas that would give music fans something to cheer at the derelict site. Topping the bill is a potentially unique venue with a capacity of up to 800, including a festival area.

Rothbiz reported last year that the plan for the Grade-II listed site was to use £4.5m of Town Deal funding to create a micro-brewery and fan zone at the former foundry which sits alongside Rotherham United's New York Stadium.

Described by those working on the proposals as a special site, previous plans have been hampered by high costs and the Grade-II listing.

With the backing of the Towns Fund, the development of a new building and new public spaces on the site could see 16,000 sq ft of new commercial space created alongside 0.26 hectares of new public realm.

The historic frontage was demolished following a fire but new plans would save the landmark water tower and address the existing building.

Consultants brought in to work up the scheme are talking with a brewery and venue operator, and the football club, who are said to be "on board with the plans."

Council minutes explain that the proposals include looking at the existing building (the tower being Grade II listed) as a venue with a capacity of up to 800, to include a festival area. Used as a fan zone on matchdays, this could include a micro-brewery and a coffee bar by day and music / entertainment in the evening.

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Simon Moss, assistant director for planning, regeneration and transportation at Rotherham Council, updated councillors on the site at the end of 2021. He said: "It has been a long-standing challenge, I think it is fair to say. The Guest & Chrimes building is a really interesting site, a huge amount of affection I think, and pride, in the heritage of the building, with good reason. But challenges, for sure, about what's the right kind of use for that site sitting in between the football club and the council offices. Challenges around how you address the heritage challenges whilst also trying to design a viable scheme.

"There's some very early concept images following the Towns Fund based around a fan zone which will be complementary to the football club and complementary to the town centre in terms of that leisure economy. Also thinking about potential music venue space and different options that could come together to try and make a development viable on that site."

Levelling Up Funding has also been secured for the area to deliver a riverside walk and improved public realm alongside new housing developments and a new bridge [potentially a Bailey bridge] to link Sheffield Road to the Guest & Chrimes site.

Empty since 1999, the site was purchased by Rotherham Council for £2.6m from developers, Evans in 2010 and is now controlled by the football club which has a very long lease from the Council.

English Heritage (now Historic England) "strongly objected" to 2012 plans to demolish the former factory and an application to "de-list" the Guest & Chrimes building was submitted in 2019.

The firm manufactured sluice valves, fire hydrants and water meters, and following a very large order from Spain, the company moved to the present site in 1857. The significance of the complex was deemed greater than previously thought, given the importance of brass manufacturing to Rotherham.

Towns Fund schemes are set to be completed in 2024.

Images: RMBC / Google Maps

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News: When will Forge Island and other Rotherham regen schemes be finished?

There are a number of regeneration schemes underway or planned for Rotherham town centre, but when are they likely to be completed?

Following the adoption of the town centre masterplan in 2017, which focuses on residential and leisure uses rather than traditional retail, work has begun on transformative schemes such as Forge Island and residential developments on Council land.

In addition, the area is also set to benefit from over £60m of external and council funding.

Forge Island
Forge Island is a Council-owned site which sits between the River Don and South Yorkshire Navigation Canal. Led by Muse Developments, it will host a new leisure scheme with an 8-screen boutique style cinema, modern hotel, food and drink outlets and car parking.

Major hotel brand, Travelodge, recently exchanged a long-term deal to become an anchor tenant. This followed the news earlier in the year that boutique cinema operator, The Arc, had agreed to open its seventh site at the scheme.

The demolition of buildings to make way for the scheme, public realm improvements and flood alleviation work marks the progress of the scheme to date. It is set to be completed in 2024.

Simon Moss, assistant director for planning, regeneration and transportation at Rotherham Council, recently updated councillors on the progress. He said: "Forge Island is probably the most transformative scheme in the town centre. We call it a catalytic scheme - a catalyst for regeneration.

"You do get the sense that it is starting to pay back in terms of hope and confidence post-pandemic, and our position in terms of economic recovery. It does feel that it is generating quite a lot of interest and investment from public sector and private sector as well."

Main construction on Forge Island is scheduled to start in Autumn 2022.

The council is keen to capitalise on the catalyst of Forge Island and Rothbiz has reported previously on the targeting of vacant buildings on Corporation Street such as the former bank buildings and the burnt-out former nightclub where a CPO is still being examined by the council. Mixed use residential schemes are proposed and a feasability study into a potential site for a new theatre is also underway.

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Markets
Having secured a significant funding boost, the £8.9m markets redevelopment (cgi, below) is expected to start spring 2022.

Moss added: "The library and markets development is one of the biggest schemes. Funded through the Future High Streets Fund, it is going to be a landmark project for the town centre. It brings together a new space for learning and culture - a new flexible space shared with the markets together with a new library and community hub.

"I think it is really great that the college [RCAT] is so close by. Co-location with the library and college will be a really strong element in terms of joint footfall."

A planning application is imminent with plans for improved entrances to the market, a new internal layout, reducing underused space, and linkages to new, attractive public spaces. Completion at the markets has been pencilled in for 2024.

Guest & Chrimes
At Guest & Chrimes, Rothbiz reported in July that the plan was to use £4.5m of Town Deal funding to create a micro-brewery and fan zone at the former foundry which sits alongside Rotherham United's New York Stadium.

Saving the landmark water tower, the development of a new building and new public spaces on the site could see 16,000 sq ft of new commercial space created alongside 0.26 hectares of new public realm.

Moss added: "It has been a long-standing challenge, I think it is fair to say. The Guest & Chrimes building is a really interesting site, a huge amount of affection I think, and pride, in the heritage of the building, with good reason. But challenges, for sure, about what's the right kind of use for that site sitting in between the football club and the council offices. Challenges around how you address the heritage challenges whilst also trying to design a viable scheme.

"We are starting to look at that. There's some very early concept images following the Towns Fund based around a fan zone which will be complimentary to the football club and complementary to the town centre in terms of that leisure economy. Also thinking about potential music venue space and different options that could come together to try and make a development viable on that site."

Towns Fund schemes are set to be completed in 2024.

Housing
For the residential projects, Rotherham Council are attempting to kickstart housebuilding in the town centre with contractor Willmott Dixon working on behalf of the Council to deliver 171 homes on authority land as part of a £31.5m contract for the "Trilogy Collection" of schemes.

The £13m site Westgate Riverside development in Sheffield Road consists of two apartment blocks containing 44 homes and 28 two and three-storey semi-detached and terraced houses. It is due to be completed in July 2022.

The Millfold House development, which is valued at £10m, will feature one apartment block consisting of 31 apartments and 14 back-to-back houses. Called Millfold Rise, it is due to complete in September 2022.

The third development, on the site of the former Henley's garage on Wellgate (pictured), consists of two apartment blocks containing 34 homes and 20 two and three-storey terraced houses, with a value of £8.5m. Wellgate Place is due to be completed in February 2022.

Looking ahead, Rotherham Council has identified a Riverside Residential Quarter on underdeveloped land around Westgate and Sheffield Road. Masterplanning is underway for up to 279 high quality residential units, to include a mix of apartments and houses. Utilising a mix of funding, work here could be complete in 2024 - 25.

On the Riverside Quarter, Moss added: "Town Deal funding is in place to help bring these sites forward, Levelling Up Funding has been secured to deliver public realm, including a new bridge [potentially a Bailey bridge] and riverside walk. Discussions are underway with key landowners.

"Bringing more people into the town centre is a fundamental part of the strategy, so that it becomes part of a local community in its own right and the sustainability that comes with that."

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News: Fan zone plans for Guest & Chrimes

Football fans and visitors to Rotherham town centre will have more to cheer if new plans for a micro-brewery and fan zone can be realised at a rejuvenated Guest & Chrimes site.

Rothbiz reported last month that the historic site was in line for a funding boost as the borough had been selected by the Government to receive £31.6m to revamp areas of Rotherham town centre as well as Templeborough and Eastwood.

It was outlined that the site, which suffered a fire in 2018, was set to provide attractive public spaces and leisure facilities.

Now further details of the proposals show that £4.5m has been earmarked from the Towns Fund pot for the saving of the landmark water tower, the development of a new building, and new public spaces on the site. 16,000 sq ft of new commercial space would be created alongside 0.26 hectares of new public realm.

The aim is to create an "enhanced townscape that is more attractive and more accessible to residents, businesses and visitors" and help build an "improved arts, cultural and heritage offer that is more visible and easier for residents/visitors to access."

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Investment plans state: "New developments have brought life to the area with the arrival of Rotherham United’s New York Stadium and Riverside House, home to Rotherham Borough Council and currently the Central Library. However, the vacant and semi-derelict buildings at the former Guest and Chrimes factory, which is of significant historical importance to Rotherham, being Grade II listed, remain present and unused. An options appraisal has been completed and a solution which celebrates and retains the building’s heritage, and its surrounding uses has been identified.

"This is a longstanding vacant heritage building complex, desperately in need of regeneration. The new solution has now been developed in partnership with Rotherham United Football Club, creating complimentary leisure uses and outstanding public realm. The key heritage feature of the building is retained and incorporated into a vibrant new leisure-based scheme.

"The project comprises the development of a new building and public realm, providing space for the expansion of successful local businesses into the town centre. There is demand for this space as evidenced by consultation with local businesses, including a micro-brewery, football club fan-zone."

A recent council bid to the Levelling Up Fund includes the provision of a new pedestrian bridge across the river between the new residential development on Sheffield Road and Guest & Chrimes and New York Stadium.

Rothbiz reported in 2019 that Historic England had received an application to remove the building from the listed buildings register. The historic frontage was demolished following the fire.

The new project aims to secure the refurbishment of the landmark water tower and the completion of a "light-box" landmark feature.

Empty since 1999, the site was purchased by Rotherham Council for £2.6m from developers, Evans in 2010 and is now controlled by the football club which has a very long lease from the Council. English Heritage (now Historic England) "strongly objected" to 2012 plans to demolish the former factory.

The company established a manufacturing operation near to Rotherham's Market Place in 1843 with the Chrimes brothers, Peter and Edward, setting up a brass foundry where they invented and produced the high-pressure loose valve screw-down tap.

The firm rapidly expanded into sluice valves, fire hydrants and water meters and John Guest joined the firm in 1847. Following a very large order from Spain, the company moved to the present site in 1857.

The new project wants to tell the international story about Guest & Chrimes through branding and public art to raise ambitions and aspiration of young people. Public realm space would include "interactive New York style Fire Hydrant water features for children’s play - reflecting the product that was designed and manufactured here. This will help to maximise the natural assets of the river and canal."

The plans give an indicative completion date for the project of 2024.



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News: Bid for further funding for Rotherham town centre regeneration

Rotherham Council is hoping to use the Government's Levelling Up Fund to complement and add value to the investment from the £12.6m Future High Street Fund award and the £31.6m secured via the Towns Fund.

The authority has submitted three bids to the Government's £4 billion competitive fund that will invest in infrastructure that improves everyday life across the UK.

The town centre bid aims to continue the regeneration focusing on two key areas, the Riverside Residential Quarter (an £18.7m project) and the Leisure and Culture Quarter (a £19.5m project).

The Riverside masterplan focuses on the creation of a new mixed-use community, bringing footfall and activity 24 hours a day. This includes a major drive to repopulate this area and to address longstanding vacant buildings. The first phase of the residential project is being delivered bringing 171 new homes into the town centre.

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If successful, £11m from the Levelling Up Fund will provide a new pedestrian bridge across the river between the new residential development and Guest & Chrimes and New York Stadium, the route of this bridge will culminate in new public realm at the end of Water Lane close to where new housing is being built on the site of the former Sheffield Road swimming baths. A Riverside Walk will also be developed to open up the River to the new residents and people walking into the town.

A land assembly strategy would also see the Council taking ownership of further sites within the town centre to continue its regeneration.

The Town Investment Plan, which helped to secure £31.6m from the Government's Towns Fund includes a project to regenerate the Guest & Chrimes heritage site to provide attractive public spaces and leisure facilities.

In the Culture and Leisure Quarter plans for the diversification of the town centre’s offer focus around bringing in new leisure and cultural uses. Forge Island is the first phase in the delivery of this new offer and a longstanding regeneration ambition.

If successful, £8.5m from the Levelling Up Fund will contribute to this by supporting enabling works such as the completion of flood defences in the form of the Canal Barrier, and continuing the River Walk, creating a key pedestrian gateway to the development.

The developments are linked by the road and river to the east and west of the sites. Money will be used to create a Riverside Walk along the length of the river. Additionally, highway and public realm improvements will improve the quality and safety of the environment for pedestrians and cyclists along Corporation Street.

Rotherham MP Sarah Champion said: "The Levelling Up Fund is an opportunity to bring investment into our town and support our local communities. RMBC staff have produced a strong bid and I know that they have worked incredibly hard developing the bid at very short notice.

"I hope that the bid will be successful and that this money will be put to good use improving our communities and developing the local economy."

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News: First look at latest Rotherham regen projects

The Rotherham Town Deal Board has released new cgi images of how some of the proposed multimillion projects could look.

Rothbiz reported this week that the borough had been selected by the Government to recieve £31.6m to revamp areas of Rotherham town centre as well as Templeborough and Eastwood.

The Town Investment Plan focuses on a number of schemes deliverable within five years. These include creating a Riverside Residential Quarter and better access to enjoy the waterfront; regenerating the Guest & Chrimes heritage site (cgi, top) to provide attractive public spaces and leisure facilities.

Proposals outlined last year stated that, building on current Rotherham Council residential developments in the area, "a number of other residential sites along Sheffield Road and also the Guest & Chrimes site across the river" could be brought forward.

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It added: "The full development of this area will take many years but ideas at present formed through Town Deal include supporting the delivery of 350 new homes, community facilities which could also include local shopping and also a bridge over the River Don linking Sheffield Road to Guest & Chrimes."

This funding will also enable work to go ahead to create attractive public spaces and transform derelict heritage buildings on High Street and Corporation Street - creating a gateway from the Minster Gardens across to the new Forge Island leisure development (cgi below).

At Eastwood, potential interventions include new family housing on underused land on York Road, on the site of the closed Netherfield Court care home and on Erskine Road. Some existing residential properties in the area could be refurbished and transformed (cgi, below).

Other potential interventions around improving connectivity at Eastwood include replacing the two bridges over the rail line and canal to better connect Parkgate's retail centre, and tram-train stop, with Eastwood Village. At St Ann's, filling in the underpass is proposed with the creation of better, at grade, connections for pedestrians and cyclists.

Money is also set to help create a new heart for the business community in Templeborough by making under-used sites productive again, improving travel connections and creating new spaces for hospitality and meetings.

Through this investment the Council will also be able to support development of a new mainline station for Rotherham, which is expected to be in the Parkgate area.

The Council’s Cabinet Member for Jobs and the Local Economy, Cllr Denise Lelliott, said: “A huge amount of hard work has gone in to securing this investment over the past 18 months and I’m really pleased to see that effort rewarded with funding which will complement other schemes already underway to regenerate our town and create jobs.

“It is testament to the quality and vision of those plans that Rotherham’s bid has not only been successful, but secured a higher-level investment than many other places.

“We’re excited to now begin working with our partners and stakeholders to deliver these projects, which form a central plank of our plans to build a better borough for all of Rotherham’s residents.”

Rotherham Council brought in consultants, ARUP and WYG, to work on the bid and Rotherham Town Deal Board, which is private sector chaired and brings together the public and private sectors, produced a "locally-owned" Town Investment Plan which was submitted at the end of January 2021 to the government to assess for investment from the £3.6bn fund.

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News: No deal: Rotherham's regeneration bid not on the list

A Rotherham bid for millions to support the regeneration of the town centre is not on the latest list of successful "town deals" announced by the Government.

It is unclear if there will be any more rounds of the Town Deal Fund.

At the end of 2020, Rotherham Council and its partners on the Towns Deal Board had a draft bid with around £47.5m of projects for the Towns Fund Programme. Rothbiz detailed some of the aspects of the bid which focused on the town centre as well as Templeborough and Eastwood.

The borough's bid was not one of 45 Town Deals across England announced in the Budget 2021 this week.

The board had agreed to submit a Rotherham bid by the end of January 2021, in the final cohort. With seven towns securing deals in October, all but one of the latest 45 successful bids were submitted in 2020 - Morley's successful bid was submitted in January 2021.

The Towns Fund was heralded by the Government as a £3.6 billion pot in 2019. Now councils and city regions are being asked to compete for regeneration funding via the Levelling Up Fund and UK Community Renewal Fund.

The Government said last week that: "The Levelling Up Fund will supersede existing local growth funding streams, such as the Local Growth Fund, Pinch Points Fund, and future rounds of the Towns Fund."

In the prospectuses released with the budget, Rotherham is in the highest priority list and will receive some initial money to work on more bids.

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Bids for Town Deal funds were invited of up to £25m, or up £50m in special circumstances. The focus of Rotherham's investment was on increased economic growth through regeneration, improved transport, better broadband connectivity, skills and culture.

Projects being looked at in the bid included the redevelopment of the remaining Guest & Chrimes site, investment around a potential Mainline Station, redeveloping the site of the Sorting Office and a focus on Corporation Street.

A review of the process of how the Government selected the 101 areas to be invited for Town Deal funding was carried out by the National Audit Office as the Government did not publish the basis on which they selected the towns. It showed that Rotherham was a "high priority" area and ranked seventh highest in the total score given by the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government across seven assessment criteria that were intended to capture each town's level of need and growth potential.

A report by the Public Accounts Committee went further and said that it was "not convinced by the rationales for selecting some towns and not others", finding the justification offered by ministers for selecting individual towns to be "vague and based on sweeping assumptions" and raised concerns over the decisions being politically motivated.

Rotherham did receive a £1m grant as part of the Government's Town Deal Accelerator which aimed to bring forward relevant projects ahead of the main Town Deal. Using the money, the authority has acquired the former Primark unit and is demolition the vacant building to create a pocket park before potential using it for new town centre housing.

Last year, Rotherham Council was also partially successful in securing Government money via the Future High Streets Fund (FHSF) but the £12.6m offer was less than the £18m bid. The Council is topping up the scheme from its own capital budget

The pot is set to be used for the redevelopment of Markets, the creation of high-quality Riverside Gardens linking the Forge Island redevelopment with the town centre, further public realm works, and the Grimm & Co redevelopment at Talbot Lane.

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News: Club provides update on Guest & Chrimes

Rotherham United have made positive progress with the Guest & Chrimes site, but are unable to say anything further.

It comes after Historic England confirmed that an application had been received to remove the fire-damaged building from the listed buildings register.

Sitting alongside the club's £20m stadium, the Grade II listed property on the edge of Rotherham town centre suffered a fire in July 2018. Following structural surveys, the historic frontage facing the River Don has been completely demolished.

Speaking at a fans forum, Paul Douglas, chief operating officer of Rotherham United was asked about the Guest & Chrimes building. He said: "I can definitely say we have made progress in the last 12 months, or I can say Tony [Stewart, Millers chairman] has.

"Unfortunately I can't say what progress, or how quickly anything will happen but certainly it has moved along in a very positive way."

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Rotherham United working with Historic England and Rotherham Council on proposals. It was previously estimated that investment of £8.8m would be needed just to bring the property up to a marketable condition and there has been little interest from developers in doing so.

The club has been in ongoing talks with investors regarding a trampoline centre, and have put forward a number of propositions.

Also at the forum, Douglas was asked about remaining empty retail units at the stadium.

With the office space in the main stand fully let, Douglas explained: "The one down on the far side is now very near to completion having been let out to a company.

"Tony has always felt that these spaces are a key part of the club's financial plan.

"There would be a large capital needed to get these empty spaces converted into bars and we are yet to be convinced on whether we can make that viable."

Rotherham United posted increased turnover and profit for the financial year that covered the team's last season in The Championship. Turnover was £14m for 18/19, up from £10m in the previous season. Profit before tax was £2.74m, up from a £500,000 loss the previous year.

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News: Bid to "de-list" Guest & Chrimes

Historic England has confirmed that an application has been received to remove Rotherham's Guest & Chrimes building from the listed buildings register.

The Grade II listed property on the edge of Rotherham town centre suffered a fire in July last year. Following structural surveys, the historic frontage facing the River Don has been completely demolished.

Progress on regeneration has been slow with Rotherham United working with Historic England and Rotherham Council on proposals. It was previously estimated that investment of £8.8m would be needed just to bring the property up to a marketable condition and there has been little interest from developers in doing so.

Not being a listed building would remove a number of restrictions to redevelopment.

Empty since 1999, the site was purchased by Rotherham Council for £2.6m from developers, Evans in 2010 and is now controlled by the football club which has a very long lease from the Council. English Heritage (now Historic England) "strongly objected" to 2012 plans to demolish the former factory.

In correspondence with Rotherham Civic Society, seen by Rothbiz, Historic England gave an update on the building and the "frank and pragmatic discussions" held with the owners.

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It reads: "We have invested a considerable amount of time and effort into working with the owners of Guest and Chrimes to try and find a solution for the building over the last 5-6 years.

"It may be necessary to lose some elements of the building in order to retain the most significant parts. This was difficult for us as clearly we are usually trying to retain as much of the historic building as possible, however we were conscious that the economic context for Guest and Chrimes is different to buildings in say Leeds, or even Sheffield.

"Our focus was on retaining the front elevation on to Don Street along with the northern-most wing and water tower, with elements of new-build and interpretation of the history of the building. Whilst we appreciate the front-range is the more architecturally elaborate, we still feel that the rear ranges are very important in understanding how the building functioned historically. They are recognisable metal trades buildings and therefore distinctive to Rotherham and South Yorkshire."

With the front range now gone, Historic England confirmed that its Listing Team had received an application to assess Guest and Chrimes for delisting and is undertaking a full assessment.

A listing can only be removed from the list if it is deemed to no longer hold special architectural or historic interest. An application for de-listing may be made because new evidence is available about the lack of special architectural or historic interest of the building, or a material change of circumstances, for example fire damage.

The significance of the complex was deemed greater than previously thought, given the importance of brass manufacturing to Rotherham. Guest & Chrimes established a manufacturing operation near to Rotherham's Market Place in 1843 with the Chrimes brothers, Peter and Edward, setting up a brass foundry where they invented and produced the high-pressure loose valve screw-down tap.

The firm rapidly expanded into sluice valves, fire hydrants and water meters and John Guest joined the firm in 1847. Following a very large order from Spain, the company moved to the present site in 1857.

The town centre masterplan outlined an aim for the site to create a focus for recreation and sporting activity in the town. The club has been in ongoing talks with investors regarding a trampoline centre, and have put forward a number of propositions.

The correspondence adds that Historic England "would wish to work with the owners to try and agree a design for any new build on the site so that it reflects the previous buildings. This is something we were involved in prior to the fire and we would hope to continue."

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News: Slow progress on Guest & Chrimes

Rotherham United chairman, Tony Stewart has admitted that progress has been on slow on the proposed redevelopment of the former Guest & Chrimes site where a recent fire led to part of the Grade II listed building being demolished.

Rothbiz reported on the fire at the former factory on the edge of Rotherham town centre in July. Following recent structural surveys, the historic frontage facing the River Don has been completely demolished.

Opened in 1857, the history of the works is of national and international significance due to the role of the Guest & Chrimes business in pioneering the design and manufacture of brass valves and screw-down taps across the world. The firm once employed thousands.

The large premises are on Don Street between Rotherham Council's Riverside House and Rotherham United's New York Stadium.

Empty since 1999, the site was purchased by Rotherham Council for £2.6m from developers, Evans in 2010 and is now controlled by the football club which has a very long lease from the Council.

The town centre masterplan outlined an aim for Guest & Chrimes to create a focus for recreation and sporting activity in the town. The club has been in ongoing talks with investors regarding a trampoline centre, as well as discussions with Historic England (formerly English Heritage) over the reuse of the site.

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Tony Stewart, chairman of Rotherham United (pictured), told a recent fan's forum: "We're monitoring it closely with English Heritage and the council. There have been two or three propositions that we've put forward. I think we've had 15 or so meetings with English Heritage, the progress is slow, but it's progress."

The masterplan stated that Historic England will be positive and flexible if the "right" conservation approach is taken.

Details such as the water tower, front range (now demolished), waterside entrance (now demolished) and general layout of the buildings are highlighted but the masterplan concluded: "As many of these features as possible should be retained or incorporated, but it is recognised by all that change and some demolition will be necessary to deliver a viable and deliverable scheme."

Consultants for the club, Gleeds, estimated that it would take an investment of £8.8m just to bring the current property up to a marketable condition and said that there had been little interest from developers in doing so.

Don Street, which passes between the building and the River Don, is used by fans accessing the family stand and away stand at the AESSEAL New York Stadium.

The section of the Trans Pennine Trail which runs along the river has recently been reopened.

Also at the fan's forum, Steve Coakley, commercial director at the Championship club was asked about the remaining units inside the £20m stadium that hosted its first game in 2012.

Coakley said: "Once something happens with Guest and Chrimes, I think the value of those corner units will be significantly more. It acts as a bit of a barrier to the town centre. There have been opportunities in the past but they haven't been right."

Current tenants include the club's own community sports trust and the Mears construction academy.

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