News: Rotherham restaurant rebrands as sports bar & grill

A popular Rotherham restaurant that closed suddenly in May has rebooted its social media and online presence, hinting that a new future is about to kick off at the venue.

Rothbiz reported that "heartbroken" operators at The Big Smoke were closing the restaurant on the edge of Rotherham town centre in the face of rising costs.

Now The Big Smoke Facebook page has been rebranded as The Press Box - a new sports bar in Rotherham that is set to open in August.

The move makes sense given the family operators were also involved in the Sport Box in Rotherham town centre that has recently changed hands again.

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A new website explains: "Rotherham just got its game-changer.

"Fourteen screens showing multiple sports at once, so you’ll never miss the action. Proper sports bar atmosphere with sports bar food, cold beer, and cocktails that will keep you coming back.

"But we’ve gone further than just screens and good grub. Golf simulator featuring world-class courses for when you want to test your swing. Two 22-foot shuffleboards perfect for group competitions. Three traditional dart boards plus one interactive lane. A fussball table. Pool tables for serious matches and friendly rivalries. The Press Box has everything you need for mate dates and competitive sessions that settle debates once and for all."

The venue promises to be the destination for big sporting events, from "Masters tournaments with prize competitions to Super Bowl parties with corn dogs."

With a 4,600 sq ft ground floor, The Big Smoke opened during COVID in 2020 "dedicated to the majesty of meats," taking on the former Florence Nightingale pub at Moorgate, which was previously turned into a restaurant and operated as Modern China.

A post regarding the closure, which was with immediate effect, said: "Due to rising costs and mounting financial pressures, we’ve found ourselves in an impossible position.

"Since April 1st, our overheads and supplier costs have soared, driven by changes brought in by a government that feels completely out of touch with the realities of small, independent businesses like ours. We’ve done everything we can, but the numbers just don’t add up anymore."

The Press Box Rotherham website

Images: Press Box / Google Maps

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News: Rotherham restaurant closes with immediate effect

A Rotherham restaurant that opened during the COVID-19 pandemic has closed with immediate effect.

A post on social media said the the operators were "heartbroken" to close its doors in the face of rising costs.

Rothbiz reported in 2020 on plans for The Big Smoke taking on the former Florence Nightingale pub at Moorgate, which was previously turned into a restaurant and operated as Modern China.

With a 4,600 sq ft ground floor, the transformed restaurant "dedicated to the majesty of meats" offered a menu featuring a range of burgers with names such as "The Italian Stallion" and "The Big Daddy." Seven types of steaks were joined by ribs, chicken, brisket and "The Yorkshire Sarnie."

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A post on Facebook from The Big Smoke this week reads: "This is something we never imagined we’d have to write

"After almost five incredible years, we are heartbroken to announce that The Big Smoke Restaurant has closed its doors with immediate effect. We’ve poured our hearts and souls into this place. As a family-run business, The Big Smoke has been more than just a restaurant, it’s been our dream, our passion, and our home. But sadly, due to rising costs and mounting financial pressures, we’ve found ourselves in an impossible position.

Since April 1st, our overheads and supplier costs have soared, driven by changes brought in by a government that feels completely out of touch with the realities of small, independent businesses like ours. We’ve done everything we can, but the numbers just don’t add up anymore.

To every single one of you who walked through our doors, shared a meal, brought your loved ones, celebrated milestones, or simply showed up to support us, thank you. Your kindness, loyalty, and love meant more than you’ll ever know. We’ve made memories that will stay with us for a lifetime, and we’re so proud of what we built with you by our side.

If there’s one thing we ask as we say goodbye, it’s this: please continue to support your local businesses. They are the heart of your community, and right now, they need you more than ever."

Big Smoke website

Images: Big Smoke

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News: £26m allocated for new Rotherham cycle schemes

The latest schemes aimed at improving options for public transport, walking, wheeling and cycling in Rotherham will cost around £26m, according to the latest update from transport bosses at Rotherham Council.

Consultation for a scheme in the Eastwood area began in October with the proposals for the installation of new bus lanes and cycle lanes to create a sustainable transport corridor incorporating Fitzwilliam Road and St Ann's Roundabout.

Last month, consultation began on a similar scheme for the Moorgate and Broom area which is also set to address issues at Stag roundabout.

Matthew Reynolds, Head of Transportation Infrastructure Service at Rotherham Council, recently updated elected members on the new projects, saying that £16m had been allocated for the Eastwood scheme and around £10m allocated for the Moorgate and Broom Network Improvements.

The funding is coming from the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlements (CRSTS), £570m from the government to the region to bring significant improvements to South Yorkshire’s transport system.

For the Eastwood scheme, the biggest change proposed is for St Ann's Roundabout, where the council is proposing to bring the crossings up to ground level and fill in the subways to make the space feel more welcoming. For Fitzwilliam Road the plan is to provide bus priority and separate cycleways.

A bus lane in the Rotherham-bound direction would make bus services faster and more reliable and the bus lane at Mushroom roundabout would be extended to Chesterton Road. Painted cycle lanes are set to be replaced with dedicated cycle tracks to separate cyclists from motor traffic and improve safety and new designated parking spaces are also included.

£4.6m has been set aside for additional ideas proposed by the community for improvements in the neighbourhoods - streetlighting, road resurfacing, new crossings, addressing parking issues around the local schools.

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The Broom Road / Wickersley Corridor Sustainable Transport Scheme includes work at Stag roundabout, sustainable travel measures on Wickersley Road, the extension of the recently completed Broom Road cycleway, and an Active Travel Scheme in the Moorgate area.

A segregated footway and cycle route is planned from the existing scheme at Clifton Roundabout, through to Brecks roundabout.

Matthew Reynolds explained that the cycle scheme at Eastwood was a very difficult scheme. He said: "It is probably going to be more difficult to deliver than any other scheme we have on the books at the moment."

The council confirmed that there are issues at St Ann's Roundabout such as the subways and for bus operators. There are also some "considerable implications" in the area such as utilities in the middle of the roundabout and that run down Fitzwilliam Road. Flooding and disruption during the works were also being taken into account.

Reynolds added: "We are working really closely with the community, as much as we can, to understand what the concerns are and how we can improve the project. We are at the absolute first stage of feasability - there is plenty of time to shape it and plenty of time to work with people. Ultimately, we want to do that because we want something that everybody understands and buys into, and can see the bigger picture as to why we are doing these kind of schemes."

The funding deadline for the £16m project is March 2027 and Galliford Try Construction Ltd is working on the scheme.

For the other scheme, Reynolds discussed the issues with the zebra crossings at the Stag roundabout adding that: "It is an opportunity to bring improvements to the Stag - we can do some public realm work for example, bring some planting and greening, benches - that neighbourhood focus on the shops and amenities that are there."

The completion deadline in the current programme for the £10m project is January 2027. Esh Councstruction has signed up to deliver the scheme.

Reynolds added: "Again we are at the very early stages of consultation and engagement so we want to hear everyone's views on this."

RMBC consultation website

Images: RMBC / Google Maps

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News: Rotherham Council starts consultation on new £8m active travel scheme

Local residents and road users can have their say on Rotherham Council's proposals for the Moorgate and Broom area.

The £8m scheme is also set to address issues at Stag roundabout.

Consultation for a similar £12m scheme in the Eastwood area began last month after Rothbiz revealed that the hope is for bus lanes and cycle lanes to create a sustainable transport corridor incorporating Fitzwilliam Road and St Ann's Roundabout.

The Broom Road / Wickersley Corridor Sustainable Transport Scheme includes work at Stag roundabout, sustainable travel measures on Wickersley Road, the extension of the recently completed Broom Road cycleway, and an Active Travel Scheme in the Moorgate area.

Consultation documents confirm proposals for separate cycleways and bus priority measures on Broom Road and Wickersley Road between Clifton Roundabout and East Bawtry Road, as well as improvements to crossings and junctions. The council say that this will make bus journeys quicker and more reliable, make walking safer and provide a safe route for those cycling.

A segregated footway and cycle route is planned throughout from the existing scheme to Brecks roundabout.

The segregated routes will continue through Stag roundabout where signalised crossing points will be introduced and design alignment should promote a reduction in vehicle speeds.

The consultation states: "We are responding to requests for new controlled crossing facilities on each arm of the roundabout. to make it easier for pedestrians to cross this roundabout. We will also provide a new cycle route around the roundabout."

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The council is also looking to introduce solutions identified by the community that have raised issues such as traffic levels, speeds and on-street parking in areas.

Funding is comimg from the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS) and the authority added that: "to deliver the scheme we must meet the requirements set out in the funding to improve safe and accessible walking, wheeling, cycling and public transport access."

Rothbiz reported in September that Esh Councstruction has signed up to deliver the scheme.

Cllr. Taiba Yasseen raised the issue of active travel schemes at a recent full council meeting. The ward member for Boston Castle said that there was "no evidence of benefit — particularly in deprived areas that bear the disruption and negative impact while gaining no advantage."

Yasseen added that the claims made by the council of a modal shift (road users switching from using the car) were "a myth" and called on the council to "stop imposing infrastructure onto the most deprived communities without working with them."

In reply, Cllr. Robert Taylor, Cabinet Member for Transport, Jobs and the Local Economy, said: "I am going to disagree with you and say that you are wrong. There are national studies in places where schemes were far more embedded than in Rotherham that showed this. It was not fair to judge Wellgate for example that had not up and running for 12 months.

"There was an extensive consultation process and the communities were being engaged with. The fact that residents are coming to meetings and asking questions showed that information was getting through.

"Nothing is being imposed, we are talking about potential infrastructure changes. I urge members and residents to get involved with the consultation."

RMBC consultation website

Images: Google Maps / RMBC

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News: Council criticised over Carlton Park

Rotherham Council has been criticised for using a hotel to provide homeless accommodation without consulting locals.

Rothbiz reported last month that Rotherham MP, Sarah Champion had been made aware of "increasing issues with crime, drug use and anti-social behaviour in the Moorgate area and seemingly associated with the Carlton Park Hotel."

The issue was raised at a recent meeting of the full council following a residents meeting.

Witness reports were heard at both meetings and included “violent crime, burglaries, trespassing on private property, prostitution, sex in public, urinating in public, begging”, and “open drug use."

Boston Castle Ward member, Cllr. Taiba Yasseen said that there were serious safeguarding risks given the hotel's location close to Oakwood School and Thomas Rotherham College.

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Cllr. Chris Read, leader of Rotherham Council told councillors: "I think that the council has a legal, and moral, obligation to house people who are homeless. And we have that at a time when homelessness in our country is higher than it's ever been. Now I am deeply regretful that we live in a time when we simply don't have enough temporary accommodation, including some hotel places elsewhere, to house the number of people who need those services.

"As you know, we have made a commitment to bring to an end rough sleeping in this borough, and I take that very seriously. The other thing that I'd say is that I don't think it is helpful at a time when each of those people receive support as an individual, receives an allocated worker, for people to be making comments which could be seen to generalise or stigmatise people who are homeless in our borough.

"I wish that we didn't have to put people in the Carlton Park Hotel and I'm hopeful that in the weeks ahead, we will be able to move to a situation where that will at least reduce, if not come down to zero altogether, and I'm absolutely conscientious and aware of the concerns, and strength of feeling, that have been raised by residents, but in the end, the council also has a moral and legal obligation to those people that need to have roofs over their head because the only other alternative is that we put them out on the streets."

Sarah Champion MP said: "Despite the problems residents have experienced being foreseeable, little seems to have been done in advance to prevent them. I'm deeply shocked, and genuinely surprised the Council chose to do this without any consultation with the local community.

"I strongly believe that the Council should desist from using the hotel for this purpose and have written to them again urging them to cease doing so."

In reply, Andrew Bramidge, Interim Strategic Director of Regeneration and Environment at Rotherham Council, said: "The Council has legal responsibilities to place homeless households in emergency accommodation, including in hotels, when no other accommodation is available. Officers maintain regular communications with hotel management including through visits. Any reported issues are followed up and in cases where occupancy agreements are breached the Council reserves the right to end duties to accommodate."

Images: Google Maps

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News: Constituents' crime concerns at Carlton Park

Concerns are being raised about the goings on at a longstanding Rotherham hotel.

Local MP, Sarah Champion says that she has been made aware of "increasing issues with crime, drug use and anti-social behaviour in the Moorgate area and seemingly associated with the Carlton Park Hotel."

Since opening its doors in 1981, Carlton Park has hosted eberything from family events, party nights and visiting football teams. A change of ownership in 2019 saw Red Admiral Vintage pledge to embark on an extensive refurbishmnet but the hotel was closed during the COVID pandemic and has never fully reopened.

The MP believes that the issues are concerning, particularly given the close proximity of Thomas Rotherham College and Oakwood High School.

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In a letter to Rotherham Council and South Yorkshire Police, Sarah Champion says: "Residents have contacted me reporting an increase in anti-social behaviour, drug activity and drinking in the area. Residents are concerned that this is linked to the Carlton Park Hotel.

"Residents understand that the hotel is not open to paying guests, but that people arrive and leave at all hours, many of whom appear to be under the influence of drink or drugs.

"Constituents have suggested that the building may be being used as a bail hostel or halfway house."

Authorities are being asked regarding the use of the hotel and the operations at the building.

DJ Hotels & Resorts Ltd had been operating the site but Barton Huxley Management Ltd, a London-registed asset management firm, is currently responsible for the business rates for the premises.

The hotel continues to take bookings and its website states that: "While we are working hard to restore facilities please bear with us while our pool & dining options are closed.

Some recent online reviews seem to back up residents' claims.

One reviewer said last month: "No way can I recommend this hotel to stay in. It’s shabby and run down. I was confronted by a drunk man who was just outside reception. He appeared to be living in the hotel and was aggressive and had wet himself. After confronting us he wandered back inside."

Images: Google Maps

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News: Cash injection will help Rotherham firm to meet growing demand

A Rotherham firm that helps employers to reduce work-related ill health has secured a £125,000 loan from NPIF – Mercia Debt Finance, which is managed by Mercia and is part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund.

The funding will enable Workplace Scientifics to invest in new equipment and meet the growing demand for its occupational hygiene services. The company – which advises on ways to mitigate workplace hazards such as noise, vibration, hazardous substances and chemicals – was founded in 2020 by entrepreneurs Dave Lombardi and Thomas Wood, who have a background in the industry.

They set out to deliver services in a different way, offering ongoing support to help employers improve safety, in addition to providing one-off assessments. Based in the Moorgate area of Rotherham, the company now employs a team of eight and serves a growing list of clients including Masonite, Magnet, Howmet Airspace, Severfield and Phillips 66. The funding will enable it to create three new jobs over the next six months and provide additional working capital to take on new contracts.

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Thomas Wood believes companies are increasingly seeing the value in taking a pro-active approach to health at work. “Authorities are taking a tougher stance on worker health protection. Breaching the rules can cost millions, but perhaps more importantly, attitudes are changing. Organisations are taking worker health more seriously and understanding their moral duties to create safer working environments,” he explains.

“As occupational hygiene practitioners, we not only help employers to identify hazards that might otherwise go unnoticed, but also situations where they are taking unnecessary precautions, which can be wasteful and costly. For example, we visited one business where the workers had worn disposable ear defenders for years, which was uncomfortable and created lots of plastic waste. We were able to find ways to reduce the factory noise to a level where hearing protection was no longer required. Each company is different and it is about having the right measures in place.”

Recommended reading: Boosting Your Business: Innovative Funding Options for SMEs

Andy Tyas of Mercia said: “Employers increasingly recognise the value of good working practices in safeguarding their reputation and the health of their workforce, and reducing absence and staff turnover. Dave and Thomas are passionate about delivering a high-quality, expert service. The business has gained rapid traction since its launch and its services are in growing demand. This funding will help them to invest in new equipment and expand the team to support its continued growth.”

Keira Shepperson, Director at British Business Bank: “There is an increasing number of entrepreneurs creating proactive solutions, and this business has identified a niche segment in the market to improve occupational safety. The loan will unlock the team’s capability to provide more of its expertise, making a valuable contribution to improving health and safety in the workplace.”

Julia Wilkinson of Funding Round provided fundraising advice to the company.

Workplace Scientifics website
Mercia NPIF website

Images: Mercia

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News: Rotherham transport investments detailed

Over £50m of investment in Rotherham transport schemes has been detailed by the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA).

Rothbiz revealed in August that a number of transport projects in Rotherham had secured funding from a Government settlement with South Yorkshire.

The City Region Sustainable Transport Settlements (CRSTS) investment is on its way and £570m will bring significant improvements to South Yorkshire’s transport system, enabling people to make public transport and walking and cycling their first choice for travel.

Rotherham projects include:

Roundabout improvements - £22.38m
At the roundabouts at Ickles (£7.5m), St Anne's (£5m), Worrygoose (£4.88m) and Stag (£5m), new junctions are proposed with bus priority and improved pedestrian and cycle crossings. The aim is to deliver "bus passenger journey time savings, improved bus journey reliability, better walking & cycling journey ambiance and mode shift."

Fitzwilliam Road - £6.6m
Also at Eastwood, widening and improvements are planned for Fitzwilliam Road between St Anne’s Roundabout and Mushroom Roundabout to provide an inbound bus lane and separate cycleways.

Active Travel / Cycle schemes - £6.4m
Active Travel neighbourhoods are to be developed in Eastwood, Herringthorpe (£3.5m) and Moorgate (£1.4m) with the provision of measures to manage traffic volumes, traffic speeds and parking. More cycleways are proposed for Broom (£1.5m).

Wickersley Road - £2m
On Wickersley Road, a new bus lane and cycleways are set to be created along 2km of existing highway space as part of a Sustainable Travel corridor.

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Mainline Station - £1m
The SYMCA is being allowed to only spend up to £1m from the pot between now and 2027 to "develop the Outline Business Case (OBC) for an integrated mainline and tram-train station." £7m is being held back due to uncertainties regarding the timing of the full station scheme that emerged following the publication of the Government’s Integrated Rail Plan and the ongoing HS2 Leeds Area Study.

Waverley Station - £1m
At Waverley, a contribution from the CRSTS is for business case development work up to 2026. Work has been underway for a number of years through the Restoring Your Railway "Ideas Fund" for a new railway station on the Sheffield to Lincoln line at Waverley serving the new community and the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP).

Local and Neighbourhood Transport Complementary Programme - £6m
Each local authority is to recieve funds for a broad range of the smaller scale interventions required to complement the CRSTS scheme allocations and provide efficiency and effectiveness across the network upon which the regional strategic objectives and investments can be delivered. Also delivering localised investments within communities to open up the network to all users and encourage sustainable access to leisure, facilities and employment.

A number of projects are on standby including the mainline station, 1km of bus lane along the A633 Warren Vale, the provision of cycleways in Hellaby and creating active travel neighbourhoods in Maltby and Brecks.

Business cases are in development for the schemes with the funding to be spent between now and 2027. The settlement consolidates funding from previous allocations of the Highways Maintenance Block, Potholes Fund and Integrated Transport Block.

Images: Google Maps

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News: Rotherham transport schemes in line for funding

A number of transport projects in Rotherham have secured funding from a Government settlement with South Yorkshire.

The Government has confirmed a delivery plan behind the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority’s (SYMCA's) allocation for transformative investment in the region’s transport network.

The City Region Sustainable Transport Settlements (CRSTS) investment is on its way and £570m will bring significant improvements to South Yorkshire’s transport system, enabling people to make public transport and walking and cycling their first choice for travel.

The plans will:

- Improve the buses network – giving buses priority on roads, provide better vehicles, stations and stops. It includes significant investment in electric buses and installing charging infrastructure at stations and on streets and depots across South Yorkshire to move towards a zero-emission fleet
- Deliver better active travel routes, so people can leave their cars at home for short journeys, by building more than 600 miles of new cycle lanes across the region
- Invest in tram, securing the first phase of investment in the renewal of Supertram
- Build and improve stations and platforms at the region’s rail stations
- Ease congestion, build new junctions and repair potholes on South Yorkshire’s roads.

The biggest projects (over £50m) are for the renewal of the Supertram network and Gateway East - a propsed railway station at Doncaster Sheffield Airport, which itself faces an uncertain future.

For Rotherham this includes projects such as a new station at Waverley, the creation of Active Travel neighbourhoods and replacing a number of roundabouts to improve pedestrian and cycle crossing.

One major scheme to miss out is a £30m new station on the mainline in Rotherham which is not being fully funded from the settlement.

In addition, South Yorkshire has already failed to secure government money for its ambitions plans for transforming bus services in the region.

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At Waverley, a contribution from the CRSTS is for business case development work up to 2026. Work has been underway for a number of years through the Restoring Your Railway "Ideas Fund" for a new railway station on the Sheffield to Lincoln line at Waverley serving the new community and the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP).

Active Travel neighbourhoods are to be developed in Eastwood, Herringthorpe and Moorgate with the provision of measures to manage traffic volumes, traffic speeds and parking. More cycleways are proposed for Broom.

Also at Eastwood, widening and improvements are planned for Fitzwilliam Road between St Anne’s Roundabout and Mushroom Roundabout to provide an inbound bus lane and separate cycleways.

On Wickersley Road, a new bus lane and cycleways are set to be created along 2km of existing highway space.

At the roundabouts at Ickles, St Anne's, Worrygoose and Stag, new junctions are proposed with bus priority and improved pedestrian and cycle crossings. The aim is to deliver "bus passenger journey time savings, improved bus journey reliability, better walking & cycling journey ambiance and mode shift."

There is some "overprogramming" of the settlement for the possibility of some projects not progressing or needing CRSTS funds. A number of projects are on standby including 1km of bus lane along the A633 Warren Vale, the provision of cycleways in Hellaby and creating active travel neighbourhoods in Maltby and Brecks.

To be spent between now and 2027, the settlement consolidates funding from previous allocations of the Highways Maintenance Block, Potholes Fund and Integrated Transport Block. The SYMCA is expected to make a contribution of at least 15-20% of the funding granted for capital enhancements.

£5.375m is also available to work up the schemes to deliver as capital projects and the region will now work with the Government to agree the final schemes and outcomes.

Images: SYMCA

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News: £6m price tag for Swinden House site

The price of the former Swinden Technology Centre (STC) in Rotherham has be disclosed a year and a half since the sale was confirmed.

Rothbiz revealed in 2020 that a deal had been struck to enable Keepmoat Homes to progress its own plans for 197 homes at the Moorgate site.

Tata Steel considered that it was no longer a suitable home for its R&D arm and announced in 2014 a relocation to Warwick University. 60 staff moved to premises at Meadowhall Business Park in 2019.

Land agents at Harris Lamb have now confirmed that it has sold the 16-acre site to Keepmoat for almost £6m. The purchase of the site from Tata Steel was completed in October 2021.

Keepmoat Homes has already begun building 172 new homes and converting the Listed buildings to 27 apartments. THe development has been named: "Moorgate Boulevard."

The new scheme has been carefully designed to incorporate the key features of the site, and will include renovating the original gate house, and retaining the tree lined approaches and the original Victorian landscaping features and design.

The new development will see Keepmoat deliver over £70m of new investment to the area over the next three years , providing almost 200 high quality new homes, of which eight will be for affordable housing.

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Chris Jones, Director, said: “Opportunities such as this site , with its original Victorian layout and fully walled and original landscaped features, rarely come to market – particularly for residential housing, and we are delighted to have overseen this sale after many months of liaison.

“All parties involved including Keepmoat Homes, Tata UK Ltd, the Local Planning Authority and many associated consultants have played a large part in making this site what will clearly be a huge success.

“It is clear from the interest from the general public throughout the consultation and planning process, that demand to purchase and live in this unique location is significant, and we look forward to seeing the completed residential scheme come to fruition.”

Ben Hindley, Head of Land and Partnerships for Keepmoat Homes, said: “We are thrilled to have secured this very special site, and look forward to developing it and creating a superb collection of homes and apartments for the people of Rotherham.

“We place a great deal of importance of respecting the heritage of a site, and once complete, this site will provide both high quality housing and a lasting tribute to the Centre’s history.”

United Steels acquired the site in 1946 and in addition to research laboratories, it also includes Swinden House, the former home of Rotherham solicitor Thomas Badger, plus playing fields, tennis courts and orchards. The Grade II listed building, previously known as "Red House" was completed in around 1880. The stable block, walled garden and the lodge are also protected.

From 1948, Swinden Technology Centre had a major influence on products for most manufacturing processes , particularly in the growing aviation industry and – at the time – new jet engines.

Keepmoat Homes website

Images: Keepmoat

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News: Allotts accountants acquired

Rotherham accountancy firm, Allotts, has been acquired by Kingswood, an international fully integrated wealth management group.

Set up in 1998, Allotts Financial Services Limited provides independent financial advice to over 400 active clients and currently employs three advisers, with five support staff covering clients primarily in South Yorkshire.

Listed on the London Stock Exchange, Kingswood Holdings Limited is registered in London and services circa 15,900 clients from a growing network of offices in the UK.

Following regulatory approval, the business will be acquired for total cash consideration of up to £2.5m, payable over a two year period, £1.25m will be paid at closing and the balance paid on a deferred basis, some of which is subject to the achievement of pre-agreed performance targets. Funding is set to come from a recent share issue.

In the year ended 31 March 2021, Allotts, which is based in Moorgate, generated revenue of £791k and profit before tax of £355k.

The transaction boosts Kingswood's UK client facing advisory team to 83 people and increases UK funds under advice/management to £6.5bn billion from circa 16,640 active clients.

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David Lawrence, UK CEO at Kingswood, commented: "I am delighted to be welcoming the AFS team to Kingswood. Allott's has a great reputation for serving clients over many years and is a great addition to Kingswood's existing footprint in the wider Sheffield region. After this acquisition is concluded we will have 13 advisers meeting their client financial advice and investment needs.

"We remain committed to perpetuating our stated growth strategy within the UK and internationally. This is our second acquisition of 2022 and we continue to have a strong pipeline of high-quality UK opportunities under negotiation, five of which are in exclusive due diligence as we continue to grow our financial planning and investment management reach across the UK."

Neil Highfield, speaking on behalf of AFS commented: "I feel this is an important and positive step forward for Allotts Financial Services. Kingswood share our own values & beliefs around providing an excellent service to clients and they will hugely benefit from their large support network and expertise in the financial services industry."

Allotts website
Kingswood website

Images: Google Maps

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News: Work begins on 170 new homes at Swinden Technology Centre site in Rotherham

Construction has started on the transformational development of 170 new homes at the former Swinden Technology Centre in Rotherham.

Housing developer, Keepmoat Homes is delivering the regeneration scheme in partnership with Rotherham Council. The plans include the conversion of Lodge House, Swinden House, Sitwell House, and the former Stable Building into high quality apartments. Two – four-bedroom houses will also be delivered onto the site, and a proportion of the homes will be available for affordable housing with Auxesia Homes. The top ten national homebuilder has also confirmed the development will preserve any mature trees at the site.

As part of their commitment to the local community, Keepmoat Homes has pledged to support local people and help generate opportunities in training and employment through the use of sub-contractors, work placements and educational visits to the site, which will be delivered throughout the lifetime of the project.

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Daniel Crew, Regional Managing Director at Keepmoat Homes, said: “We are very excited to have started work on our Moorgate Boulevard development in Rotherham, in partnership with Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council and Auxesia Homes. We have a strong track record of delivering new houses across the country, particularly on brownfield land such as this and strive to ensure the heritage at the site is preserved.

“This development means more to us than just delivering quality homes to the area. Being our first site in Rotherham for over a decade, we’re driven to make a big impact to the local community and deliver real value to real people, whether that’s through training and career opportunities or supporting local community groups. We are confident that the development will benefit not only the area, but the lives of those who choose to live there.”

Keepmoat Homes completed the purchase of the site from Tata Steel in October 2021 for an undisclosed sum. Harris Lamb acted as agents on their behalf.

Work at the development is expected to take four years to complete, with the first homes becoming available to purchase late Summer 2022.

Auxesia Homes has exchanged contracts to acquire the eight affordable homes, comprising three shared ownership properties and five affordable rental units.

Keepmoat Homes website
Auxesia Homes website

Images: Keepmoat

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News: Elevation give jobseekers a lift with charity drive

Following the creation of a new CSR policy, Elevation Recruitment Group recently held a workwear clothing drive on behalf of The Suit Works charity, at their Rotherham office.

The Suit Works are an independent charity based in Sheffield that provide jobseekers with styling session and interview appropriate clothing, a capsule wardrobe for the first month of their employment and interview preparation with informal tips, skills, and training, covering aspects such as body language, grooming and dealing with nerves.

Throughout August and into September, the team reached out to candidates, clients, friends and family to ask for smart clothing and accessory donations.

The clothing drive was an opportunity to collect as many workwear items as possible to support The Suit Works in their aim to help unemployed people of all ages, who want to work, but do not have the funds or means to purchase appropriate clothing for interviews.

For many, including their own employees, working from home has meant casual clothing has become the every-day workwear, and as a result, have been left with a wardrobe of unused clothing, shoes and bags, that have now been donated towards a selfless cause.

They have collected over 300 items of male and female donations, including suits, coats, shirts, trousers, dresses, skirts, ties, shoes, and handbags.

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Faye Mellors, project lead at The Suit Works said: “Since Covid, we have struggled for donations, so we are so grateful that we have received so many good quality items that will last the test of time. I can guarantee that every single piece will be used to help our clients dress the part.

"Working with Elevation has been a dream and great fun, we have had constant communication throughout, and we have really appreciated the brand awareness on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.”

Sarah-Lee Neesam, Business Services Director at Elevation, added: "We are delighted that we could help The Suit Works in this donation drive. We received an incredible amount of donations, and we would like to thank everyone who has donated, whether it has been big or small, it has made a huge impact to the charity. And I would personally like to thank the team at Close Brothers in particular, who have donated an astonishing amount.”

Elevation’s new CSR policy has one aim in mind, to support local charities and offer employees the chance to give back to our community, in what has been a challenging time for many during the pandemic.

Elevation Recruitment website
The Suit Works website

Images: Elevation

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News: Housing plans for historic site set for approval

Housing plans for the Swinden House site in Rotherham, are set to be discussed at the council's planning board this week.

Rothbiz reported last year that Keepmoat Homes had bought the Moorgate site from Tata Steel for an undisclosed sum and had moved quickly to submit its plans for 170 new dwellings.

With the 1940's laboratory buildings demolished, the historic buildings are set to be converted to 27 apartments and preserved as landmark buildings within the new development.

The planning application is being recomended for approval by council planners.

The use of the site changed from employment use to residential use in the local plan and Tata Steel considered that it is no longer a suitable home for the R&D arm and announced in 2014 a relocation to Warwick University.

Keepmoat wants to up the number of new houses from earlier plans, from 101 to 170 and is prepared to sell the listed buildings as a conversion opportunity to be delivered alongside its new homes development.

The new houses, in Keepmoat's style, are proposed to be across a range of different house types - semi-detached, detached and terraced. Plans have been updated to include 2 bed apartments within several blocks of three-storey buildings.

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Developers have agreed that eight dwellings in the development will be classed as affordable with a proposal for a further eight units for shared ownership to be provided through Great Places Housing Association.

A proposed Section 106 agreement (legal agreements between the councils and developers linked to planning permissions) also includes a financial contribution of £454,347 towards secondary education provision in the area, as well as money for local travel measures. The development is Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) liable at £55 per sq m of residential development. A number of conditions are also attached to a planning approval.

Access to the site shall be one-way from Moorgate Road down a tree-lined avenue with a new access/egress created in the northern boundary of the site onto Beaconsfield Road.

A number of objections have been made on issues including overdevelopment, the loss of mature trees, the proposed pedestrian access to Green Lane and the impact on the listed buildings.

The buildings set to be convert are Swinden House, Swinden House Stable Block, Swinden Lodge and Sitwell Lodge.

Swinden House, the former home of Rotherham solicitor Thomas Badger, is a Grade II listed building. Previously known as "Red House" it was completed in around 1880.

The green area to the front of Swinden House is to remain unaffected and will be enhanced through appropriate planting to create a central communal square.

United Steels acquired the site in 1946 and the facilities were claimed to be, by the 1960s, one of the largest research organisations devoted to metallurgy in Europe.

The proposals are due to be dicussed by the planning board at Rotherham Council on April 29.

A report to the board said: "It is concluded that notwithstanding the objections received the application represents an acceptable form of development on Residential allocated land which is of an appropriate design that would not adversely affect the character or appearance of the locality or the setting of heritage assets within the site.

"Furthermore, subject to conditions, the proposal would not adversely affect the amenity of existing and proposed residents, would not result in highway safety issues or drainage, ecological, environmental or land contamination issues, while providing some affordable housing."

Images: Keepmoat / Nineteen47

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News: Historic Rotherham house back on the market

The listed buildings on the Swinden House site in Rotherham have been put back up for sale as the site's owners concentrate on building new houses in the sought-after location.

Rothbiz reported last year that Doncaster-based Keepmoat had bought Tata Steel's Swinden Technology Centre (STC) for an undisclosed sum. The housebuilder went on to submit plans for 170 new dwellings on the Moorgate site.

With the 1940's laboratory buildings demolished, the historic buildings are set to be converted to 27 apartments and preserved as landmark buildings within the new development.

Now, commercial property agents, BNP Paribas Real Estate, is marketing parts of the site for sale. Four heritage buildings are listed for sale as a conversion opportunity but the asking price is undisclosed.

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The properties comprise of Swinden House, Sitwell House, Swinden House Stables and Swinden House Lodge.

Swinden House, the former home of Rotherham solicitor Thomas Badger, is a Grade II listed building. Previously known as "Red House" it was completed in around 1880. The stable block, walled garden and the lodge are also protected. Sitwell House, a late nineteenth century house is not a listed building.

United Steels acquired the site in 1946 and the facilities at STC were claimed to be, by the 1960s, one of the largest research organisations devoted to metallurgy in Europe.

Tata Steel considered that it is no longer a suitable home for the R&D arm and announced in 2014 a relocation to Warwick University.

The advert states: "Conversion opportunity to be delivered alongside Keepmoat Homes’ proposed development of 170 new build homes across the wider site, with planning application submitted."

The application is yet to be determined.

Images: BNP Paribas Real Estate / Keepmoat

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News: New Rotherham restaurant fired up for opening

A new Rotherham restaurant is waiting to see if it will be allowed to open as planned next week.

Rothbiz revealed in September that The Big Smoke was taking on the former Florence Nightingale pub at Moorgate, which was most recently Modern China.

Operators recently set a date for opening of December 4.

But as we move out of a second national lockdown, the Government has announced that England will instead continue to use a sensible approach based on three tiers.

And if Rotherham and South Yorkshire are placed in the "very high alert" tier, as it was in October, it would mean that Big Smoke and other restaurants would be unable to operate as normal. In Tier 3, hospitality settings, such as bars, pubs, cafes and restaurants are closed but they are permitted to continue sales by takeaway, click-and-collect, drive-through or delivery services.

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A post on the Big Smoke Facebook page yesterday explained that they were waiting for the announcement today before making any decisions on what to do moving forward.

Before becoming "The Florence," the building and the site on the edge of Rotherham town centre links back to the former Moorgate Hospital, and before that the Rotherham Workhouse. It is within the Moorgate Conservation Area.

With a 4,600 sq ft ground floor, the transformed restaurant has recently launched its menu which features a range of burger with names such as "Return of the Mac" and "The Porky Peppered Pig." Seven types of steaks are joined by ribs, chicken, brisket and "The Yorkshire Sarnie."

Another new Rotherham restaurant, Rancheros, is also hoping to open next week at Stag.

Big Smoke website

Images: Big Smoke / Facebook

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News: Keepmoat's plans for Swinden House

Housebuilder, Keepmoat, has moved quickly to submit its plans for the Swinden House site in Rotherham, having acquired the land from Tata Steel.

Rothbiz reported last week that the Doncaster firm had bought Tata Steel's Swinden Technology Centre (STC) for an undisclosed sum.

A full planning application for the 16 acre site on Moorgate was submitted in 2018 and now Keepmoat has submitted its own set of plans.

They show that Keepmoat wants to up the number of new houses from the 2018 plans, from 101 to 170.

With the 1940's laboratory buildings demolished, the historic buildings are set to be converted to 27 apartments and preserved as landmark buildings within the new development.

The new houses, in Keepmoat's style, are proposed to be across a range of different house types. Two bedroom units will comprise 26% of the total dwellings, whereas three bedroom properties will comprise 38%, and four bedroom properties will account for 36%.

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Based on the floorspace, applicants have concluded that eight of the 197 properties should be classed as affordable. The site is also within "Residential Zone 1 High" of the Council's Community Infrastructure Levy, with a rate of £55 per sq. m.

The plans, drawn up by consultants, DLP, state: "The mix has been selected to appeal to range of homeowners, including first time buyers, growing families and those willing to downsize."

The buildings set to be convert are Swinden House, Swinden House Stable Block, Swinden Lodge and Sitwell Lodge.

Swinden House, the former home of Rotherham solicitor Thomas Badger, is a Grade II listed building. Previously known as "Red House" it was completed in around 1880.

Plans show that the main vehicular access to the site will be taken from an existing access point on Moorgate Road, and that this will be one way entry. A second exit and entry point is planned via an amended access point on Beaconsfield Road.

A vehicle-free access route through the centre of the site is proposed, retaining the long tree-lined drive. Formal open spaces around Swinden House and Sitwell House are also propsed and the existing orchard in the eastern corner of the site is set to be retained and enhanced.

Keepmoat website

Images: Keepmoat / DLP / nineteen47

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News: Swinden House site sold

Tata Steel's Swinden Technology Centre (STC) in Rotherham has been bought by Keepmoat Homes for an undisclosed sum.

The historic buildings of Swinden House, the Coach House, the Lodge and Sitwell House on Moorgate Road are set to be converted to high quality apartments and preserved as landmark buildings within the new development.

A full planning application for the 6.7-acre site on Moorgate was submitted in 2018. It includes 101 new properties, including 27 high-end apartments incorporating the conversion of the existing buildings but a decision was never secured.

Agents, Harris Lamb have confirmed the sale, adding that Keepmoat will progress its own plans for 197 homes at the site.

Chris Jones, Director at Harris Lamb, said: “From the very beginning, there was a lot of interest in the Swinden Technology Centre site. Combining important architectural and heritage interest with a prime development location in the exclusive Moorgate area, the site is very well-placed for a high-quality redevelopment within a very desirable area.

“Positioned opposite the hospital and surrounded by high-quality residential buildings in a peaceful, quiet environment benefitting from a strong landscape belt around its periphery, Keepmoat Homes recognised the site’s huge potential for both the construction of a number of high quality new homes, but also relished the opportunity to sympathetically convert the beautiful historic properties on site for residential use.

“The sale has now exchanged, and the developer has submitted an application for both the conversions and new homes. We are delighted to have overseen this sale on behalf of TATA Steel and look forward to seeing the resulting development in due course,” he added.

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Derek Wilson, Director of Keepmoat Homes, said: “We are delighted to have secured this site. The development nestles within an existing mature setting, with fabulous listed buildings and grounds that will be embraced and enhanced to create an amazing place.

“Having exchanged recently, submitting the planning application is a significant step forward and we are excited about working with RMBC as we progress through planning and delivering another Keepmoat development of the highest quality.”

A decision is expected later this year.

United Steels acquired the site in 1946 and in addition to research laboratories, it also includes Swinden House, the former home of Rotherham solicitor Thomas Badger, plus playing fields, tennis courts and orchards. The Grade II listed building, previously known as "Red House" was completed in around 1880. The stable block, walled garden and the lodge are also protected.

The site also includes Sitwell House, a late nineteenth century house that is not a listed building.

The facilities at STC were claimed to be, by the 1960s, one of the largest research organisations devoted to metallurgy in Europe.

Tata Steel considered that it is no longer a suitable home for the R&D arm and announced in 2014 a relocation to Warwick University. 60 staff moved to premises at Meadowhall Business Park in 2019.

Keepmoat Homes website

Images: Harris Lamb / Google Maps

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News: Work underway on another new Rotherham restaurant

Another new restaurant is planning to open in Rotherham, with work underway to convert a former pub on the edge of the town centre.

it comes as operators set an opening date for a new Rotherham venture nearby.

The Big Smoke looks to have taken on the former Florence Nightingale pub at Moorgate, which was most recently Modern China.

A holding page on the new restaurant's website explains: "Prepare to experience a feast like no other in the region every time you visit. We're excited to welcome you to a new dining experience showcasing the majesty of meats. The very best prime cuts, prepared well and piled high, that's the Big Smoke philosophy."

The historic property was advertised to let with SMC Chartered Surveyors earlier this year. It comprises a 4,600 sq ft ground floor with a reception, large restaurant seating area, bar area, stores, kitchen and toilets. The upper floors were being used as accommodation and it comes with 30 car parking spaces.

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Before becoming "The Florence," the building and the site links back to the former Moorgate Hospital, and before that the Rotherham Workhouse. It is within the Moorgate Conservation Area.

At Stag, an update from the operators of new Rotherham restaurant, Rancheros, states that they are hoping to open in October.

Rothbiz reported in June that the conversion of a vacant retail unit would see the introduction of Brazilian and Latin cuisines to the area.

The new restaurant at Stag roundabout is from Doncaster-based restaurant entrepreneur, Masud Rana, owner of La Boca and La Rustica in Doncaster town centre, and the La Fiesta tapas restaurant in Armthorpe.

Big Smoke website
Rancheros Facebook page

Images: SMC

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News: Rotherham's Carlton Park secures new owners

Rotherham's largest independently-owned hotel is under new ownership and the team behind the acquisition have wasted no time in announcing plans to invest a seven figure sum in the popular three star venue.

Aiming to establish Carlton Park Hotel as one of South Yorkshire's premier destinations, the Moorgate hotel is set to become the flagship destination new owners Red Admiral Vintage, who are planning to embark upon an extensive refurbishment programme which is set begin in the New Year.

Responsible for operating 18 hotels throughout the UK as well as a property portfolio comprising, the purchase of Carlton Park marks a significant phase in the company's plans to strengthen its position within the hotels and leisure industry and marks Red Admiral's largest acquisition to date.

The new owners have confirmed that staff employed at Carlton Park have been retained, with up to 20 additional new jobs set to be created. As part of the company's future investment plans, the hotel's conference and banqueting suites, reception areas and 80 bedrooms are set to be transformed – with some areas being reconfigured to reflect the changing way in which the venue is used by local businesses and community groups.

The longstanding Rotherham-based hotel, which boasts a five star food hygiene rating, is currently gearing up towards its busiest period as it prepares to welcome thousands of guests during the busy Christmas period, with seasonal menus built around locally sourced produce and specialities.

Once named as Yorkshire's most romantic workplace, today the hotel hosts a range of business and community events ranging from glittering awards ceremonies to networking events and special family occasions.

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Kevin Saville, general manager at the Carlton Park Hotel, said: "The acquisition of Carlton Park Hotel marks an exciting new chapter in our long history. The exciting plans our new owners have for the business will see new jobs created, existing roles safeguarded and are designed to reflect the changing role hotels play.

"Since opening its doors in 1981, Carlton Park has played a vital role in the local community, something which will continue, offering a destination for families to celebrate special occasions, a hub for the local business community as well as providing the perfect destination for those spending time visiting our region."

Lee Pemberton, director of Red Admiral Investments said: "Carlton Park is very much a sleeping giant within South Yorkshire's economy. It is a hotel packed with potential. The venue is largest we have acquired to date and our plans will place the venue at the heart of our future development and growth plans.

"Our plans are currently underway and our vision is for Carlton Park to become the flagship  of our growing hotel business, forming a key part of our future growth plans."

Carlton Park website

Images: Carlton Park

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