News: Redevelopment plans put forward for Rotherham pub

A prominent public house in Rotherham could be about to be brought back to life following a period of inactivity.

Newly submitted plans include a restaurant and a convenience store.

Occupying a prime spot on Kimberworth's High Street, The Green Dragon is a large, imposing pub that comes with restaurant dining to the rear and first floor function room.

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

Currently closed, Rothbiz reported last year that the freehold of the pub had gone up for sale for £400,000.

A change of use planning application from Harbham Odedra shows that the ground floor would change from a pub to a restaurant with the retention of first-floor residential accommodation. The proposals also include the removal of existing outbuildings, and the construction of a single-storey retail extension.

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The proposed retail unit, to the right of the existing entrance fronting High Street, would have an approximate gross internal area of 3,200 sq ft and is designed as a "One Stop–type convenience store."

The plans, drawn up by Dan's Architectural Services, state: "The design approach seeks to retain and enhance the existing building while introducing a modest and well-considered extension that responds positively to the character of the surrounding area. The proposal represents an efficient and sustainable reuse of an existing community building, without resulting in overdevelopment of the site.

"The proposal ensures the continued active use of a long-established community building, avoiding vacancy and decline. The restaurant will continue to provide a welcoming social environment for residents and families, function and meeting spaces for private and community events, a family-friendly venue that supports inclusive social interaction.

"The convenience retail unit will provide an important local service, particularly for residents with limited mobility or without access to private vehicles.

"The application seeks permission for the loss of a former public house use that has been vacant for a prolonged period and is demonstrably no longer viable. The premises have been actively marketed for continued licensed use by specialist hospitality agents at a realistic rental level, with no viable operator interest forthcoming."

Images: Savills

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News: Padel plans in for Rotherham golf club

A set of plans have been served up for new outdoor padel courts at a Rotherham golf course.

Rothbiz reported earlier this year on early stage plans for new padel courts at The Grange Golf Club in Kimberworth.

The course was laid out in the 1970's on former coal workings where the freehold ownership passed to the Council. The course and clubhouse was let to Grange Park Golf Club Limited in 2005.

In 2023 local businessman Peter Eyre was approached to look at assisting the company who had debts of £500,000 and were in the process of appointing an administrator.

Top Play, which shares directors with Pocket Sports Bars Ltd and other Eyre family businesses, has been looking at diversifying the business after it was clear that just relying on golf course income and operating as an event venue was no longer sustainable.

Seperate plans for the club were recently submitted and involve a significant refurbishment programme of the existing club house, and the conversion of former agricultural buildings so that they can be used as holiday guest houses.

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Now Top Play has submitted an application for the installation and provision of three flexi Padel Courts with associated enclosures and lighting and areas of soft landscaping.

Padel is a form of tennis that originated in Mexico in 1969, grew across South America before making it to Spain. The sport is now rapidly expanding across Europe.

The LTA says that since 2020 the number of padel courts in Britain grew from 50 to over 800, while annual participation rose from 15,000 in 2019 to 400,000 players in 2025.

If approved, the courts would be located next to the club house on land which has previously been used as an outdoor event space and the siting of a large marquee.

The site is in the green belt and the plans add: "Following a rigorous consultation with the golf course management the proposed Padel Court location and setting it was agreed this is the preferred area, albeit untidy and requiring maintenance and has no significant environmental impact with the surrounding green belt, nature, conservation or agricultural interests."

The proposed opening hours would be Monday to Friday 8am - 9pm. and Saturdays and Sundays 8am - 9 pm and a padel court setup could add three new staff members at the course.

Rothbiz reported last week on approved plans from Top Play that show how nine padel courts could be created in a vacant building at Hellaby in Rotherham.

Grange Park Golf Club website

Images: Top Play

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News: Club house revamp and holiday lets planned at Rotherham golf club

A set of plans for significant upgrades to a Rotherham golf club are being driven forward by new operators.

A refurbishment programme of the existing club house, and the conversion of former agricultural buildings so that they can be used as holiday guest houses, are proposed for Grange Park Golf Club at Kimberworth.

Rothbiz reported last year on new investors coming on board at the former municipal course.

The course was laid out in the 1970's on former coal workings where the freehold ownership passed to the Council. The course and clubhouse was let to Grange Park Golf Club Limited in 2005.

In 2023 local businessman Peter Eyre was approached to look at assisting the company who had debts of £500,000 and were in the process of appointing an administrator.

Top Play, which shares directors with Pocket Sports Bars Ltd and other Eyre family businesses, has been looking at diversifying the business after it was clear that just relying on golf course income and operating as an event venue was no longer sustainable.

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Plans explain that the golf club has recently undertaken a full internal refurbishment of the current ballroom area but further works are proposed. A single-story infill entrance extension would create a new contemporary entrance and meeting area, whilst increasing the existing external decked and seating area along the western elevation would expand the hospitality facilities to the rear overlooking the 18th green.

Plans state: "The refurbishment programme is to improve the whole club facilities and enhance the current golf facility [and] the additional club event venue facility. The company has proposed plans to invest in the upgrading and refurbishment of the main building, bar areas and existing dining provisions, kitchens, toilets, changing facilities. The existing club currently has a restrictive catering food offering for golfers due to the facilities on site.

"This proposal would provide an essential addition to the current entrance and provide a new principal area for members and vastly improve the sporting and recreation demand at the venue. The adjacent building facades [are] to be upgraded to a contemporary and softening design with a timber profiled panelling system mixed with a combination of green wall effect.

"We are proposing a contemporary external area to expand the viewing and seating of the golf club, taking full advantage of the fantastic views to the western side of the golf club."

For two existing storage barns, the plan is to fully refurbish and upgrade the buildings to high standards to create holiday lets - three separate 2-bed, two storey units in one barn and two self contained 2-bed apartments in the other.

Planners will need to assess whether the proposed change of use of the former agricultural buildings represents suitable development within the greenbelt.

The plans also include resurfacing the existing car park and driveway.

Plans conclude: "The whole club house has been thoroughly neglected over the years and the proposed business plan is to create a sustainable business focusing on new membership, and continued events which at the moment is gaining momentum due to the internal upgrading and promotions being carried out for the club and with these essential new a upgraded additions will ensure the longevity of the club and social hub for the surrounding area.

"Our proposals for the Change of use of these buildings will be an crucial enhancement to the existing Golf club amenities to contribute to future growth plan for the club.

"Our proposals will be an essential element of ensuring the longevity of the Golf club and venue securing the future for the existing team of staff and provide new opportunities to expand the personnel as the profile of the club improves and increases."

Grange Park Golf Club website

Images: Grange Park Golf Club

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News: Selective licensing set to be extended across Rotherham

A scheme designed to improve housing conditions, crackdown on anti-social behaviour and protect tenants and communities from poor property management is set to be considered by Rotherham Council.

Selective licencing began in Rotherham in 2015 for properties in Eastwood, Masbrough, Dinnington and Maltby. It was later expanded to Parkgate and Thurcroft. The aim is to tackle the low housing demand and significant and persistent levels of antisocial behaviour related to the private rented sector.

The five year designations require landlords in specific areas of Rotherham to apply for a licence before renting out properties, funding proactive inspections and helping ensure homes meet essential safety and management standards.

The Council’s Cabinet will be asked to consider the introduction of new Selective Licensing designations later this month and, if approved, the new scheme will be introduced next year and run until 2031, covering areas including Rotherham town centre, Eastwood, Clifton, Boston Castle, Masbrough, Kimberworth, Thurcroft, Dinnington, Brinsworth, and Parkgate - all identified as having poor property conditions or high levels of deprivation.

The previous designation in Maltby is not proposed to be renewed after significant improvements were seen in the area during the 2020-25 period.

The cabinet paper explains: "Both previous schemes have delivered significant improvements to the condition and management of private sector rented properties in the designated areas. However, the latest information available from the 2020 to 2025 scheme also demonstrates that landlord behaviours in the majority of cases have not changed sufficiently to achieve the desired goal.

"The lack of a behavioural change in both landlord and tenants in all areas, in some cases over 2 periods of Selective Licensing shows that many landlords are still not proactively managing their tenancies, only becoming involved when the Council highlights issues. Some use this continuing non-compliance to illustrate previous schemes have failed. However, it is likely that without the 2020-25 proactive Scheme, 1,470 households would still be living in hazardous or poor living conditions."

Despite the first scheme which ran from 2015 to 2020, the second 2020-25 scheme saw over 2,300 properties inspected, requiring landlords to address more than 8,000 hazards. 13% of properties (1 in 7) were found to have the most serious Category 1 hazards. 155 Emergency Prohibition Notices were issued in circumstances where properties were unsafe for habitation.

More than 2,000 cases of anti-social behaviour and nuisance were addressed, and £40m worth of illegal cannabis grows were seized. 15 successful prosecutions were undertaken, while a further 23 cases are ongoing.

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The boundaries of proposed designations have been reduced so as not to cover areas unnecessarily. The overall Standard Licence Fee, made up from a Part 1 and Part 2 charge will be marginally reduced to £975, while landlords with a track record of providing good quality properties will be entitled to significant discounts on fees.

The council will also offer training opportunities to assist landlords and is setting out area plans to help bring further improvements to affected areas.

For 2020 – 2025 the licence fee income to the council was £1,161,093 with the total scheme cost of £1,294,898 for administration and maintenance. The estimated cost of the maintenance element is £2,968,163 over the next five years.

Cllr Linda Beresford, Cabinet Member for Housing at Rotherham Council, said: “The simple truth is that in some parts of the borough, too many private tenants are living in unsafe and poorly maintained properties. Dangerous electrical connections, damaged walls and ceilings, even on one occasion a property with everything including the toilet in just one room - no one should have to live like that. Poor housing has knock on effects for people’s health and the state of the wider community. There are honourable exceptions, but too often landlords in these areas have been too slow to step up and meet their responsibilities.

“We’ve listened carefully to feedback from landlords and residents, particularly around concerns about cost - both to landlords and the potential impact on tenants.

“So our plans include significant discounts for proven responsible landlords. The worst case scenario for tenants living in these properties, even if the full cost is passed on to them, is an increase in rents of less than £1 per week. But the flip side of this is that the costs of the scheme will fall disproportionately on those who try to opt out of their legal responsibilities.

“We also heard from residents who felt we had not got the boundaries quite right, so we’ve looked closely and made changes as a result.

“In the end though we won’t resile from our obligations to tenants and communities who are left at the sharp end of poor housing. Ultimately this is about working together to create safer, healthier communities.”

RMBC website

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News: £400,000 for prominent Rotherham pub

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Overall, the property extends to 0.57 acres."

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

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

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

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

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

Stonegate website

Images: Savills

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News: New investor chips in at Rotherham golf club

Rotherham Council has approved the signing of a new lease for a former municipal golf course in the borough, and is set to get back over £250,000 in rent and business rates.

Grange Park Golf Club at Kimberworth was laid out in the 1970's on former coal workings where the freehold ownership passed to the Council. The course and clubhouse was let to Grange Park Golf Club Limited in 2005.

The leases have both expired with the tenant having the right to renewal.

A report to Rotherham Council explains: "Grange Park Golf Club Limited has accrued have [sic] significant arrears of rent and business rates totalling more than £250,000 and it is unlikely these monies will be recoverable from the existing business / tenant. Jacob’s collection agency is engaged to manage / recover the rent arrears.

"The leases to Grange Park Golf Club Limited have both expired and the company is holding over in occupation pursuant to those leases. The company has a right to renewal leases and entered into negotiation with the Council as it was unwilling to grant a renewal lease or leases without the arrears being settled."

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With the Council holding out for the money, the company has approached the Council and advised that it has secured an investor to invest in the business.

The report adds that: "This investment will see a significant refurbishment and upgrade to the current facilities. They have provided details of the proposed investment and a programme of when they propose to carry out the works.

"Part of the investment proposal is that all historic / legacy rent and other arrears are cleared in return for the grant of a single new lease on the site to the investor’s company, Top Play Limited."

Top Play shares directors with Pocket Sports Bars Ltd and other Eyre family businesses.

The only other option that the Council considered was to take back the property and put it on the market. This was discounted due to the sums involved in bringing it up to standard, no rent arrears being recovered and no guarantee of a new tenant being found.

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The agreement for the new lease is on the basis that the historic debts are settled at the point the new lease terms are agreed, failure to do so and the lease will not be agreed.

Grange Park Golf Club website

Images: Grange Park Golf Club / Facebook

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News: What's happening with The Steel Man sculpture?

A new challenge has begun for the "Man of Steel" - the proposed landmark sculpture in Rotherham, overlooking Sheffield's Lower Don Valley.

More than a decade ago, designs for a 32 metre stainless steel sculpture were created that was set to stand on a former landfill site overlooking the M1 between Rotherham and Sheffield. Plans were originally approved conditionally in 2012 for the art installation based on work by local sculptor Steve Mehdi.

With slow progress being made since plans were resubmitted in 2015 alongside proposals for an Interpretation Hub forming part of the project in 2017, an update shows that work is still being carried out with a new 4.5 metre replica model of the sculpture now under construction.

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The update reads: "We are delighted to announce the beginning of a new era as we push forward with our plans to bring the Steel Man to life. Last year we began working with an international collaboration of design engineers to develop the fabrication design of the Steel Man. We then reached out to Outokumpu, one of our biggest sponsors, to supply all the stainless steel required to build a new 4.5 metre model of the sculpture. This is now being built by another of our sponsors, NEC Ltd in Bradwell, Derbyshire. The build will take 3-4 months and we can’t wait to let you know when its ready!"

A not-for-profit charitable company, Yorkshire Icon Limited, has been pioneering the plans. It has reviously said that £4.2m is required to deliver the new landmark for Yorkshire, with a number of high profile companies backing the programme with materials, expertise and financial contributions.

A previous update said: "Funding an ambitious project of this scale has always been a huge challenge, and the impact of Brexit and COVID 19, along with other local economic challenges, has disrupted our plans and delayed progress. The team has worked hard to push through these challenges, and they recognise many hurdles still remain. Traditional funding routes under the current climate remain beyond our grasp. So, to harness the support we already have, we are preparing a global crowd funding campaign starting this Year. More about it will be announced in the coming months."

Originally conceived as a scaled up stainless cast version of Mehdi's sculpture, the Man of Steel has been radically redesigned, and will be fabricated from precision engineered stainless steel panels supplied from Outokumpu Stainless Distribution (UK), from Sheffield.

In addition, a 20 metre observation tower, supporting the 20 metre stainless steel sculpture is set to include a viewing deck, which will provide "elevated panoramic views across the region and interpretive technology which will focus on the heritage of steel and coal, as well as promoting the new technology sector helping to transform the region's future."

When plans were submitted, The Heritage Lottery Fund were committed to financially supporting the building of a £1m Interpretation Hub. Plans showed that the building would be sited to the west of the existing vehicular access onto Meadowbank Road at the bottom of the hill, with The Steel Man sculpture at the top of the hill. Plans showed areas for exhibitions, learning and activities associated with sculpture along with a canteen, staff room, shop and outdoor play space.

A full scale replica heart was gifted to the town and is on display in Rotherham town centre. A similar sculpture was reproduced to help raise funds for the British Heart Foundation. With space to engrave 150,000 names, the Heart of Steel at Meadowhall shopping centre is eventually due to be included inside the 32-metre Steel Man.

The Steel Man website

Images: Yorkshire Icon Ltd: / NEC Ltd / Axis Architecture

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News: Landfill operators "breach planning conditions" at Rotherham tip site

Rotherham Council has served a planning enforcement notice against the operators of the Droppingwell Tip - an appeal has been subsequently lodged.

When landfilling operations ceased at the Kimberworth site, the planning permission and environmental permit allowing landfilling activity in January 1978 remained in place. The EA granted a permit variation from Grange Landfill Ltd in 2016 which allows for 150,000 tonnes of inert waste to be imported, and 55,000 tonnes of waste for restoration, each year.

The permit variation imposed a range of conditions that must be complied with, before any deposit of waste will be allowed.

The site currently remains pre-operational.

Investigating "every avenue" to stop the tip from reopening, Rotherham Council has now gone back to the 1958 planning approval and say that in preparing the tip for reopening, the operators have breached a condition regarding the amount of land "out of cultivation."

The 1957 plans include a condition that, for a third phase, "tipping operations shall be so arranged that not more than 5 acres of the land referred to shall be out of cultivation at any one period." This was to protect agricultural use and the ammenity of the area.

The permit to repoen the tip requires preparation works including the creation of bunds around containment cells and planning documents say that the bunds have been erected in a rectangle approximately 215m long x 110m wide and 10m high.

Rotherham Council planners say that even though the bunds have been covered in topsoil, they cannot be classed as being in cultivation. When added to the land used for the tipping waste, roads, storage area, compound, lagoon, ditches and top soil heap, the works carried out exceed the 5 acre limit for land out of cultivation.

When issuing the enforcement notice in March, planners measured some 7.42 acres out of cultivation and gave operators three months to revert the land back so that no more than 5 acres was out of cultivation.

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Instead, Grange Landfill has employed agents to appeal the enforcement notice and a planning inspector will now judge the case.

Agents argue that the 1958 permission does not clarify what is meant by the word "cultivation" and say that the topsoil applied to parts of the constructed bunds has been grass seeded and "are considered by the Appellant to be not out of cultivation." The same is argued for the the base of Cell 1 which has not been stripped of topsoil and remains grassed until tipping can start.

Compared to Rotherham Council's assesment of 7.42 acres, Grange Landfill contends that the area out of cultivation comprises 3.27 acres.

At the same time as the planning appeal goes ahead, Rotherham Council has launched a call for evidence relating to the accessway at Droppingwell Tip.

The access road to the tip is on land owned by the Council, with the owner of the tip, Grange Landfill Ltd, claiming a right of access over the land. Grange Landfill Ltd have provided information to support their claim and the Council is asking the public for any information they may have.

Rotherham Council’s Assistant Director of Legal Services Phillip Horsfield said: “The Council is inviting anyone with additional information on the use of the accessway to provide this to the Council. A legal assessment of any additional information will then take place to ensure that all information has been taken into account when considering these complex legal issues.”

The call for evidence will remain open for two months, up until the June 12.

Images: Google Maps

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News: Rotherham pub set for demolition after reuse plans withdrawn

A problem pub in Rotherham which had its licence suspended looks set to be flattened after plans for demolition were recently approved.

Rothbiz reported last year on The Haynook in Kimberworth Park where Rotherham Council's licensing sub-committee took action.

The Designated Premises Supervisor of the pub was ordered to be removed from the Premises Licence which was also suspended for three months. Violent disorder, drug dealing and drug use had been connected to the premises which also had a reported lack of effective management control and an "apparent obstructive/dismissive demeanour demonstrated by the Designated Premises Supervisor."

With the pub vacated, a planning application was submitted to convert it into a 6,000 sq ft children's nursery with outside space.

In the face of some opposition, the plans were withdrawn and the owners went on to submit plans to knock the building down.



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Plans explain that the building is in a poor state, with a dated appearance in need of extensive renovations if it is to be reused. The roof is in desperate need of refurbishment, along with windows and doors. The majority of these openings have been boarded up with metal sheeting to prevent intruders.

The planning application for demolition from Blue Support Services Ltd was approved without going to Rotherham Council's planning board.

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The site is expected to be left "safe and level" prior to another redevelopment bid being submitted. A condition is included stating that the site should be left cleared following demolition.

Agents, CBRE were instructed by the Ei Group (the company formerly known as Enterprise Inns plc) to dispose of The Haynook in November 2020 and four bids were submitted for the property.

Highlighting the problems for the pub industry, CBRE confirmed that none of the bids were from a pub operator, they were all for other uses. The current owner purchased the building in November 2021 for £300,000.

Images: Minibugs / Blue Sky Architects

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News: Council considering vote of no confidence in Environment Agency

Rotherham Council is set to discuss whether to put forward a vote of no confidence in the Environment Agency (EA) over its handling of the controversial reopening of Droppingwell tip.

When landfilling operations ceased at the Kimberworth site, the planning permission and environmental permit allowing landfilling activity in January 1978 remained in place. The EA granted a permit variation in 2016 which allows for 150,000 tonnes of inert waste to be imported, and 55,000 tonnes of waste for restoration, each year.

The permit variation imposed a range of conditions that must be complied with, before any deposit of waste will be allowed. These include groundwater and landfill gas monitoring requirements, the construction of engineered bunds and a system to collect and treat surface water.

The last update from EA in July 2022 was that the site was "pre-operational" whilst permit holders, Grange Landfill Ltd, installed engineered infrastructure to meet the requirements of the Landfill Directive to ensure that the proposed landfill activity at this site will not impact on the local environment.

The necessary engineering works for the first waste cell on Grange Landfill were almost complete in July, and the EA said that it expected the submission of a validation report sometime during August 2022.

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Numerorus issues have been raised by the community regarding the operations. Opponents say that "works carry on, without the proper level of scrutiny and regulation of the Environment agency. This has led to dozens of complaints that have been escalated to stage 2 and several are now sitting with the office of the parliamentary ombudsmen."

At full council next week, local councillors, Ian Jones and Rob Elliott have put forward a motion regarding the EA.

Councillors are being asked to vote on whether the council believes that: "Due to the ineffective nature of the Environment Agencies regulation, its inability to take any kind of enforcement action, the members of the public in Rotherham West and this council no longer have any confidence in the Environment Agency."

It adds: "Mirroring the thoughts and wishes of the residents of Droppingwell, Blackburn and Kimberworth, this council should pass a motion of No Confidence in the Environment Agencies [sic] handling of the site.

"That the Chief Executive be required to write to the head of the Environment Agency and the Government minister impressing on them the need for a full, open and transparent public enquiry into the re-permitting and ongoing lack of regulation of the site."

The Council has previously said that it had exhausted all options in regard to how it could prevent the activity that was going on at Droppingwell Tip. The Government has also confirmed that it will not intervene in the planning issue at Droppingwell and use powers to revoke or discontinue the planning permission and to fund any compensation claims.

Images: Google Maps

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News: Nursery plan for Rotherham problem pub

A problem pub in Rotherham which had its licence suspended looks set for a new lease of life under recently submitted plans.

Rothbiz reported last year on The Haynook in Kimberworth Park where Rotherham Council's licensing sub-committee took action.

The Designated Premises Supervisor of the pub was ordered to be removed from the Premises Licence which was also suspended for three months. Violent disorder, drug dealing and drug use had been connected to the premises which also had a reported lack of effective management control and an "apparent obstructive/dismissive demeanour demonstrated by the Designated Premises Supervisor."

Now a planning application has been submitted to convert the pub into a 6,000 sq ft children's nursery with outside space.

The plans are from Minibugs Nurseries Limited, which has four nurseries across the UK, the closest being Sheffield.

The building is vacant and is in a poor state, with a dated appearance in need of extensive renovations. The roof is in desperate need of refurbishment, along with windows and doors. The majority of these openings have been boarded up with metal sheeting to prevent intruders.

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The plans, drawn up by consultants at Blue Sky Architects, state: "The redevelopment of this site will create a modern facility that provides a stimulating and nurturing Early Years environment for children, including suitable space segregation for our different age groupings equipped for their development needs.

"The design of this nursery aims to provide modern facilities and a stimulating and nurturing Early Years environment for children between the ages of three months and five years. It is important for children to develop in a place where they can learn, play and grow.

"Children will be able to enjoy outdoor learning and play every day in the fantastic outdoor play and activity areas. Minibugs encourages free-flow play and for their children to enjoy being creative and adventurous both indoors and outdoors."

The plans also include staff parking, a dropoff/pick up point within the site’s curtilage and landscaping to screen the child play areas.

If approved, the proposals could create 20 full time and 20 part time jobs.

Minibugs website

Images: Minibugs / Blue Sky Architects

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News: Update on Droppingwell tip

The Environment Agency (EA) and Rotherham Council have provided updates on the controversial tip reopening at Droppingwell where the operator has not yet completed works to prepare the site for full operation and to fulfil the requirements of the Environmental Permit.

When landfilling operations ceased at the Kimberworth site, the planning permission and environmental permit allowing landfilling activity in January 1978 remained in place. The EA granted a permit variation in 2016 which allows for 150,000 tonnes of inert waste to be imported, and 55,000 tonnes of waste for restoration, each year.

On site works have been temporarily paused by the operator, Grange Landfill Limited, due to priorities elsewhere, and plant has been removed from site. The operator has not yet confirmed as to when works may recommence at Grange Landfill, but the Environment Agency anticipates that the operator will recommence activities on site early in 2022.

An update from the EA reads: "Once all engineering works to comply with the permit conditions are complete the operator will submit a validation report to the Environment Agency. If we are satisfied that all conditions have been met to the required standard, the Operator will be given permission to operate the landfill site.

"Please note that no waste disposal activities will commence until our Regulatory Specialists are fully satisfied that the landfill infrastructure has been engineered to the relevant standards."

Opponents, including residents, users of nearby football and golf facilities, the council, and the local MP, have raised concerns regarding traffic, noise and other impacts on the local area which has changed since the original plans were approved in the 1950s.

A council report shows that the authority served a Planning Contravention Notice (PCN) to Grange Landfill Limited in September 2021, keen to find out how they intend to comply with the conditions attached to the 1958 planning permission, specifically to condition 3 which stated that "tipping operations shall be so arranged that not more than 5 acres of the land referred to shall be out of cultivation at any one period."

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Local residents were concerned that Condition 3 was being breached during the preparation of the site for the new tipping operations.

However, the report adds that "the Council does not have any evidence to suggest that there has been a breach of planning control at this time but that this would not prevent enforcement action in the future should there be a breach of the conditions and it was deemed expedient to do so."

The position follows on from the Government confirming that it will not intervene in the planning issue at Droppingwell and use powers to revoke or discontinue the planning permission and to fund any compensation claims.

As well as planning issues, the report provides an update on the access road to the Grange Landfill site which is on land owned by the Council. Risks have been raised by visitors to Millmoor Juniors Football Club and the Council continues to keep its legal position under review.

On public rights of way situated across the Grange Landfill site, the Secretary of State has been asked to make a decision regarding a number of claimed rights of way.

Images: Google Maps

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News: Government washes its hands of Droppingwell tip planning permission

Despite original plans being approved in the 1950s, the Government has confirmed that it will not intervene in the planning issue around a controversial tip reopening in Rotherham.

When landfilling operations ceased at the Droppingwell site, the planning permission and environmental permit allowing landfilling activity in January 1978 remained in place. The EA granted a permit variation in 2016 which allows for 150,000 tonnes of inert waste to be imported, and 55,000 tonnes of waste for restoration, each year.

The operator, Grange Landfill Limited, is working under the conditions of the environmental permit, to install engineered infrastructure to meet the requirements of the permit to ensure that the proposed landfill activity at this site will not impact on the local environment. This includes the importation of inert waste for use in construction, which is legally allowed under the terms of the Permit.

It is thought that the conditions of the Environmental Permit have not yet been met, and full landfilling operations are not able to commence.

Opponents, including residents, users of nearby football and golf facilities, the council, and the local MP, have raised concerns regarding traffic, noise and other impacts on the local area which has changed since the original plans were approved in the 1950s.

The Council has looked in detail at the contents of the 1958 planning permission and considered all of the information provided to a public inquiry in 1992 and determined that legally relevant planning permission is in place.

An update to councillors states that the Council has now had a response from the Government regarding revoking planning permission at the site.

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The update reads: "The Council last wrote to the Secretary of State on 26th February 2021, to ask them to use their powers under the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, to revoke or discontinue the planning permission and to fund any compensation claims from the Government purse. Whilst additional information has been requested by, and provided to, the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government in March 2021.

"A response was received from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) on 14th July 2021. MHCLG conclude that they: “…do not consider it would be expedient for the Secretary of State to exercise his powers to revoke planning permission or to discontinue use of land in this case.”"

The authority had already ruled out using Section 102 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 in terms of the potential for making a discontinuance order on the site. Any discontinuance would be subject to compensation and the Council calculated this to be potentially in excess of £20m.

A statement from the Council on the issue explains: "The Council does not have the financial resources to pay at that level of cost. In addition, the Council is unlikely to be able to justify the proportionality of spending such a large amount of local public money on a single planning issue without contravention of our value for money and financial fiduciary requirements."

Any Order made by the Council would not take effect unless it was confirmed by the Secretary of State, either without modification or subject to such modifications as the Secretary of State determines.

Section 104 of the Act gives the same power directly to the Secretary of State should they consider it expedient to use it. The Council decided that the best way forward in terms of the site is for the Secretary of State to intervene, and to use their powers to revoke or discontinue the Planning permission.

The response this month seems to rule out any Government intervention.

The update to councillors also highlights temporary traffic regulation orders to try and prohibit large vehicles in the area, issues over the access road, public rights of way, site security and the ongoing monitoring of the area. The Council also admitted that, despite the authority's stance on the issues, 30 lorry loads of waste were carried to the tip from contractors working on council-backed housing schemes.

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News: First Rotherham residents experience Full Fibre benefits as CityFibre project progresses

Rotherham’s Full Fibre network rollout has reached another milestone, with the first residents now connected.

CityFibre is investing £29m to bring the fastest and most reliable digital connectivity to the town. Construction work began in July 2020 and, once complete, the network will be within reach of almost every home and property in Rotherham.

The network is now completed in parts of Kimberworth, Bradgate and Deepdale, with the first customers now live and able to access gigabit-capable internet services. The first ISP to offer services on Rotherham’s CityFibre network is purebroadband.

Adam Roebuck, the first resident to sign-up for purebroadband’s gigabit-speed broadband, said: “I’ve probably got the fastest broadband in Rotherham and I love it. When I first heard CityFibre were building a new broadband network across the city, I couldn’t wait. I registered my interest on the CityFibre website and even sent a few emails just to ask about when it might be coming.

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“I’m over the moon with the speed and reliability of the service as my previous 4Mbps connection struggled to manage multiple devices, especially at peak times. I went with the 200Mbps upload and download service and even with all nine of my devices connected I have never dropped under 190Mbps!”

Natalie Ward, City Manager at CityFibre, added: “I was so pleased for Adam when I heard he was going to be our first customer in Rotherham. He immediately recognised how transformational a Full Fibre connection can be and so it’s fantastic that he is now reaping the benefits.

“People just can’t believe how much faster it is, both for downloading and uploading, and what they are set to gain from the increased reliability.”

As progress continues, CityFibre is committed to keeping local businesses and residents fully up to date on plans for each community, as well as highlighting the benefits that access to full fibre will bring to all.

CityFibre website

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News: Inside the ropes with Pete Cowen

If Pete Cowen's golf academy was somewhere in America and not in Rotherham, the top coach is sure it would be a mecca for fans of the game.

Cowen is recognised as one of the world's elite teaching professionals and is based at his own academy at Kimberworth. He has coached the likes of Darren Clarke, Lee Westwood, Paul McGinley, David Howell, Henrik Stenson and Danny Willett.

On his new YouTube channel with Worldwide Golf, the coach discusses a number of issues, including working with Rory McIlroy and the rise of big drivers like Bryson DeChambeau. Cowen also talks about the impact of the Covid pandemic on his business in Rotherham.

Cowen has invested millions into the facility over the years and it now includes a driving range and bays, apitching facility, mini golf putting course and a clubhouse and pro shop. Professionals are employed, teaching members of the public and working to get juniors playing golf.

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Cowen said in the video: "Over the last year I think, in total, we've been shut down for almost seven and a half months so we've lost a lot of revenue.

"People have been frustrated with not being able to come to work so what we've been able to do is revamp the range, put new targets, redone the synthetic green, done the short game area. The lads have worked pretty hard trying to get it ready to open."

The globe-trotting coach also set up operations in Dubai and is unique in having a performance-based fee structure for the professionals that he works with. If they finish in the top 10, he gets a percentage of the winnings. If they don't finish in the top 10, he doesn't get paid.

On his setup in Rotherham and the talent in South Yorkshire, Cowen said that he doesn't think the local community or the North of England recognises just how big the likes of Willett, Westwood and Matt Fitzpatrick are in the world of golf.

He added: "They know who Westwood is and Willett is but they are not really big fans, so it has an affect but not a massive affect like it would be if we were in America say, and all those players were brought up from one particular town. All of a sudden it would be a golfing mecca of America.

"Not so much here. When I'm here behind the bar serving a pint, people ask me: "Does Pete Cowen come here very often?!"

Pete Cowen Golf Academy website

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News: Steps Residential Care sold to national group

Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co, has announced the sale of Steps Residential Care in Rotherham to Accrington-based healthcare provider, National Care Group (NCG).

Established in 1999, Steps Residential Care is a CQC registered care home in Kimberworth for people who require nursing or personal care for learning disabilities and physical disabilities. It employs 58 staff members and caters for a maximum of 26 service users. The business comprises a total of 26 single bedrooms spread across five adjacent properties which each have a dining room, a lounge, a modern kitchen with a breakfast and lounge area, and outdoor space.

Steps Residential Care was previously owned by Mrs Anna Brown, who decided to sell to pursue a well-earned retirement. Mrs Brown said: "Having spent a significant amount of my life dedicated to developing the services, individuals we support and staff, I felt the time was right to hand over the baton.

"I spent a long time looking for an organisation which, I felt, most closely mirrored the ethos and standards I have worked by but could take the organisation into the next chapter. When NCG approached me, I was pleased and comforted that Steps would be in safe hands to carry on the good work achieved over the last 22 years. I have found the NCG management and support teams attentive and professional, and I look forward to seeing Steps continue to thrive."

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The business has been purchased by NCG, an established provider of support services to vulnerable adults throughout the UK.

David Rowe-Bewick, Group Finance Director at NCG, said: "The acquisition of Steps Residential Care strengthens our presence in South Yorkshire and is an obvious fit with our own organisation as we look to extend our support services to an ever-increasing number of vulnerable people. As we look to the future, we remain focused on further expansion both from acquisitions and organic growth."

Julie Kitson, Director at Christie & Co, who handled the sale, added: "I am very pleased to have been instructed by Steps to help Anna and her family retire, and to assist NCG in their expansion plans. This deal demonstrates the appetite out there for care acquisitions."

Steps was sold off an asking price of £2.5m. Allied Irish Bank (GB) funded the acquisition. Avison Young provided both loan security advice and building condition surveys.

Images: Avison Young

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News: Clean Air Zone plans pushed back

With a changing situation brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic, plans to address air pollution in the region are being delayed.

Rothbiz reported in 2017 that Rotherham (alongside Sheffield and Doncaster) is one of 38 English local authorities with one or more roads forecast persistently to exceed NO2 legal limits based on initial modelling. The local authorities have been charged with coming up with local plans for reducing air pollution or risk the Government imposing schemes to charge users of congested roads like the Parkway.

Rotherham and Sheffield Council have been working together on coming up with measures to deliver air quality improvements as quickly as possible. The Sheffield authority has now said that it further reviews of its proposed measures are required as the coronavirus pandemic has created a current situation that is "dramatically different" to the one in which the proposals were originally developed.

Proposals showed that Sheffield will need to introduce a Category C (CAZ C) charging zone in order to achieve legal compliance by 2021. Outlined in 2018, Rotherham's proposed measures included a 50mph speed limit on the Parkway, the introduction of modern buses and a HGV ban on the northbound Upper Wortley Road and Wortley Road towards the M1 junction.

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Sheffield Council said in a statement: "Our current direction from Government to implement a Clean Air Zone was based on options we submitted in December 2018 which set out proposals for the most appropriate measures at that time. Further analysis and significant consultation on this plan were undertaken in summer 2019. However, the situation has changed significantly and unexpectedly due to the global Covid-19 pandemic and we have seen drop in air pollution of up to 33% in January to August of this year compared to the same period in 2019.

"We recognise that many businesses and jobs are under unprecedented stress arising from the economic impacts of the pandemic. At the same time, following on from the lockdown required to control the spread of the virus, there have been a number of changes to travel behaviour which has led to improvements in air quality. The current situation is dramatically different to the one in which our proposals were originally developed.

"In finalising our clean air plans we will review the possible impacts of COVID-19 on businesses, transport, and air quality. This will help us decide if the same action is needed, or if changes can be made to be successful in reducing air pollution for the long term.

"We will only make a decision on the final Clean Air Plans when we have a better understanding of the impact of COVID-19. We are also confirming that it will include considering alternative approaches to charging non-compliant vehicles within the city centre as part of its contribution to the Clean Air Zone review.

"We will continue to work with Government’s Joint Air Quality Unit to develop the final plans and agree when it will be delivered."

The M1 remains a major cause of air pollution for Sheffield and Rotherham but responsibility falls to Highways England rather than the local authorities. Press reports indicate that 60mph speed limits may be introduced on the M1 in the Sheffield city region.

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News: EA provides update on Rotherham tip reopening

Grange Landfill Limited is due to start preparation works this week relating to its permit to dump waste on Droppingwell, Rotherham, according to the Environment Agency (EA).

When landfilling operations ceased at the site, the planning permission and environmental permit allowing landfilling activity in January 1978 remained in place. The EA granted a permit variation in 2016 which allows for 150,000 tonnes of inert waste to be imported, and 55,000 tonnes of waste for restoration, each year.

The operator, Grange Landfill Limited, is required under the conditions of the environmental permit, to install engineered infrastructure to meet the requirements of the permit to ensure that the proposed landfill activity at this site will not impact on the local environment.

Opponents, who gathered on site this morning, have raised concerns regarding traffic, noise and other impacts on the local area which has changed since the original plans were approved in the 1950s.

Sarah Champion, MP for Rotherham, raised the issue in Parliament after EA said that Grange Landfill had met all pre-operational conditions.

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The latest update from EA states: "We advised in June 2019 that Grange Landfill Limited, would within 18 months, commence work to prepare the site before any installation work or major engineering infrastructure work commences.

"We have now received further notification from Grange Landfill Limited of their intention to commence the preparatory works on 4 September 2019. Initially these works will involve installing haul roads around the site and constructing a site office and secure compound. Further works to engineer a surface water system and an impermeable clay barrier to protect groundwater will follow.

"It is likely that staff, plant and machinery will be on site from 4 September 2019.

"No waste disposal activities are to commence until our Officers are fully satisfied that the landfill infrastructure has been engineered to the relevant standards. Grange Landfill Limited have not yet indicated a timescale for the completion of all preparatory works."

Local Cllr. Maggi Clark, said: "It is deeply disappointing that the Environmental Agency has allowed it to progress this far, when there are still many outstanding concerns."

Images: Rotherham Labour / twitter

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News: Latest on Rotherham tip reopening

Grange Landfill has met all pre-operational conditions for their permit to dump waste on Droppingwell, Rotherham and the Environment Agency (EA) is waiting on an intention to commence operations on site.

When landfilling operations ceased at the site, the planning permission and environmental permit allowing landfilling activity in January 1978 remained in place. The Environment Agency said it has been obliged to consider any proposal to resume landfilling and to allow the resumption of landfilling if the operator could demonstrate that the new activity complied with current landfill regulations and environmental standards.

The permit variation granted in March 2016 allows for 150,000 tonnes of inert waste to be imported, and 55,000 tonnes of waste for restoration, each year.

All pre-operational conditions have now been fulfilled by the operator and agreed with the EA's technical specialist. Construction of both the surface water management system and landfill infrastructure is now expected.

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EA also confirmed that it has received notification that the operator will, within the next 18 months, commence work to prepare the site before any installation work or major engineering infrastructure work commences. Initially this will involve repairs to security fencing, constructing a site office, compound and installing haul roads around the site.

Concerns had been raised about the environment, previous activity on the site, as well as the impact on local residents and amenities such as nearby facilities for Millmoor Juniors Football Club and the Peter Cowen Golf Academy.

Concerns have also been raised regarding the people behind the permit application but the EA has carried out its Fit and Proper Person assessments appropriately and in accordance with the designated criteria and consider Grange Landfill Limited is a competent operator.

Cllr. Maggi Clark, who represents the area, said: "The agreement of the permit is deeply disappointing for us. It is unthinkable that this beauty spot will be torn up and turned into a tip. On behalf of all residents I urge the Environment Agency to rethink it's position."

Cllr. Emma Hoddinott, Cabinet Member for Waste at Rotherham Council, added: "Though the beginning of tipping is not imminent, this granting of the permit is one step towards that. The council will look at all avenues to stop this tip going forward, but ultimately the Environment Agency needs to look at it's handling of this permit."

Environment Agency website

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News: Former Rotherham school set to be demolished by Council

Rotherham Council is continuing with its plans to demolish a former infant school and won't be offering up the building for other uses.

The authority applied earlier this year for approvals for the method of demolition at Kimberworth Infant School.

The plans were approved but the issue has been raised with members and officers at recent Council meetings by residents who say that the community has not been consulted over the proposals.

The Kimberworth Road site was formerly a secondary school, but most recently has been used by the Council and NHS after a replacement school, Winterhill School, was constructed nearby. The £2.9m children's services centre, known as Kimberworth Place, was completed in 2011. Services include physiotherapy, mental health, a short break facility and Learning Disability Services.

Kimberworth Community Primary School is also on the site.

It was explained this week that the Council has not designated part of the site as surplus to requirements but has proposed demolition to reduce the costs and utilise the land. The Council still has plans for the land on which the building sits.

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Cllr. Denise Lelliott, Cabinet Member for Jobs and the Local Economy at Rotherham Council, explained: "This building hasn't been declared surplus and is not subject to the asset transfer rules. Because we are retaining the land it is still part of the estate."

Asset transfer principles and details have been established by the Council to enable the transfer of Council held land and property assets to the community in an efficient and sustainable way, for the benefit of the community as a whole. But it only applies to assets that have been deemed surplus.

Residents say that the building would make an ideal community hub.

Paul Woodcock, assistant director for Planning, Regeneration and Transportation at Rotherham Council, added: "If it is deemed surplus - the land, the building or both - then it would go through the procedure of proposed asset transfer, potential sale, consultation etc. Whilst the building is no longer required, mainly because of the dilapidation and its cost, the Council hasn't declared the site surplus so wish to retain that for its own use.

"The Council has taken the decision to demolish the building to then utilise the land."

In the short term the cleared site is set to be used as car parking. Longer term uses are not yet known. The local plan has the site earmarked for community use.

Kimberworth Comprehensive opened in 1914 as Kimberworth Road Higher Standard School. When Kimberworth Council Infant School, which opened 1880, closed in 1923, pupils transferred to Kimberworth Road School. Kimberworth St. Mark's Infant School, which opened 1888, moved to Kimberworth Road Council Infants School in 1913.

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