News: Footfall figures up following first Forge Island openings

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Forge Island website

Images: Muse

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News: Council paying for fit outs at Forge Island

Rotherham Council has confirmed that it is paying a contribution towards the fit out of the units at its flagship Forge Island development.

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

Work began on site in November 2022 after the council agreed to fund the regeneration scheme itself when the funding available to its delivery partner, Muse, "significantly reduced" due to the volatility of the financial markets. The authority said it would save nearly £50m compared to an externally funded deal drafted in 2018.

Questions have been raised in the council chamber after Rothbiz reported first last year that operators had not been able to bring forward outlets that had originally signed up as construction progressed. There have been concerns over the financial cost to the council due to the empty units.

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Cllr. Robert Taylor, Cabinet Member for Transport, Jobs and the Local Economy, explained that: "The Council’s approved Budget and the MTFS [Medium Term Financial Strategy], assumed a budget plan that deals with a period where the scheme isn’t fully let, as did the financial model for Forge Island. Such a model doesn’t anticipate prospective business rates or rents so we can’t consider them as lost."

In approving the budget, the council expected that the repayment of capital costs will be met wholly or largely over the long term by revenue generated from commercial activity in the Forge Island development. At the time, the cabinet heard that the longer-term financial risks that the project presents related to the Council’s ability to maintain the incomes levels from the lettings, car parking and business rates.

Last year, the authority said that it had agreed the Forge Island development for the purposes of regeneration of the town centre, not as a commercial venture.

Cabinet approved an increase in the Council’s Capital Programme in 2022 to cover the £46.8m costs which were expected to be covered by the authority's own borrowing and capital resources.

Forge Island is funded by a loan that will not be charged until April 2026, a year after scheme completion. The Council doesn’t take specific loans out on a scheme by scheme basis, but borrows in accordance with need and cashflow combined with investments, as part of its treasury management activity.

Cllr. Taylor added: "The actual final cost of the project is not yet known, whilst the structures are largely completed, part of the project budget was a contribution towards the fit out of the units. As only some of the units are currently tenanted and open, the contribution to the fit out of the remaining ones is still to be paid. As such, the final project costs are not yet complete. However, it is still expected that the project will be completed within the £47.4m budget agreed by Cabinet in October 2022."

Vetro Lounge, a new neighbourhood bar, has recently been confirmed as the first food and drink venue to open at Forge Island.

Fit out relates to building an interior space, making it suitable for occupation.

Capital contributions from landlords are common in the leisure sector. It has been reported that Barnsley Council paid £2m to Cineworld and £1m to TGI Fridays as part of its town centre development, Glass Works.

Rotherham Council had £8m in its budget for Forge Island in 2024/25 but nothing for 25/26. It has regularly paid parnter, Muse Developments, with records showing payments such as £1,043,288 in September 2024, £1,187,143 and £1,814,858 in July 2024 and £1,691,564 in April 2024.

Forge Island website

Images: Muse / Google Maps

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News: Unlimited free parking coming to Forge Island

When new food and beverage outlets open on Forge Island in Rotherham, customers will be able to park for free, Rotherham Council has decided.

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

The development includes a 340 space car park, operated by the council, that was created on the main site with the new buildings on a podium above.

The current strategy for parking at Forge Island offers free parking for hotel customers between the hours of 4pm and 10am. In addition, those customers using the cinema are offered concessionary free parking for a period of up to 3.5 hours.

Now Rotherham Council has admitted that this is confusing for customers and has vowed to change the rules to offer unlimited free parking for all paying customers of Forge Island businesses.

A council report explains that this is being done "in order to support the continuing increased usage of Forge Island."

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

Rotherham Council has said negotiations with operators for the empty units were in advanced stages "with the most likely timescale for opening, following operator fit-outs, being Spring 2025."

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A new free parking offer for the first hour is being introduced in Council-operated car parks in the town centre, and this includes Forge Island. Free parking is already offered in the town centre at most Council Off-Street car parks on Saturdays and Sundays.

Customers of Forge Island businesses will need to validate free, unlimited parking through receipts. This is to ensure that the parking remains available for users of the site and is not adversely impacted by town centre events such as football matches at the nearby New York Stadium.

The car park currently uses an Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system, which registers number plates upon entry. A 30-minute concession period for drop-offs currently operates.

The report states: "In order to support the continuing increased usage of Forge Island, consideration has been given to promoting access to Forge Island through the parking tariffs associated with those visiting Forge Island businesses.

"Representations have been received in relation to confusion associated with tariffs for customers of Forge Island businesses and as a result, it is recommended that to simplify the system, anyone visiting a Forge Island business is granted free car parking."

The cost to the council for implementing the change has not been made clear but the report states that it "will significantly impact" on the ability to meet the approved revenue income budget of £209,000 in respect of car parking income at Forge Island, adding: "however, this needs to be balanced against the wider requirement to ensure that Forge Island is a commercial success and full occupation of the commercial units on Forge Island is achieved."

Any shortfall is set to be covered by existing budgets.

In November, Rothbiz reported that the Forge Island development was fully-funded by Rotherham Council for the purposes of regeneration of the town centre, not as a commercial venture.

Funding was confirmed on the basis that the scheme would pay for itself over the life of the development. It was projected to do so through a complex financial model which included provision for periods of time when some of the units could be empty.

Providing and update on Forge Island, Cllr. Robert Taylor, Cabinet Member for Transport, Jobs and the Local Economy at Rotherham Council, said: "I understand from figures over the Christmas period that the Arc has been one of the best performing cinemas from that particular chain, so that is particularly good news.

"We work continuously to fill the rest of the development. Efforts continue at a great pace. It is no exaggeration to say that on a daily basis we are having those discussions and negotiations to hopefully occupy those particular units, because we appreciate how important it is for the regeneration of the town - it is the flagship development in the town centre."

Forge Island website

Images: Muse / Simon-Dewhurst

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News: Arc Cinema Rotherham officially opens

With the newly opened cinema taking centre stage, Rotherham Council is hoping that Forge Island will become a central hub for family-friendly activities.

The Arc Cinema Rotherham had an official opening last week having hosted a number of advanced screenings. It is the first cinema operating in Rotherham town centre since 1990.

The centre piece of Rotherham’s Forge Island regeneration project, work commenced on building the new multimillion pound cinema in January and since that time The Arc Cinema Group has left no stone unturned in a bid to bring a luxury cinema experience to South Yorkshire.

The new facility, features eight screens, has combined contemporary design, whilst also giving a nod to the golden age of cinema houses. Each screen is equipped with luxury reclining seats, designed to give film lovers the ultimate viewing experience.

The cinema also features two state-of-the-art HYPERSENSE screens. The latest development in cinema technology, the two giant wall-to-wall cinema screens have been carefully designed to provide the ultimate viewing experience and feature state-of-the-art 4K laser projection as well as boasting Dolby Atmos® surround sound to create a truly immersive viewing experience.

To celebrate the opening of The Arc Cinema Rotherham, throughout September all films can be viewed for just five pounds every Friday and before 3pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

Laura Vickers is the general manager heading up a new 30-strong workforce at The Arc Cinema Rotherham. She said: “The opening of a new cinema in Rotherham is arguably one of the most eagerly anticipated events that the town has seen for many years. We’ve received a terrific amount of support from across the whole community.

“We believe that visiting the cinema is an experience which can and should be enjoyed by everyone and we’re looking forward to welcoming film lovers to our brand new cinema."

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Brian Gilligan, Director, Arc Cinema Group, added: “From the outset, our aim has been to create a place that belongs to the people of Rotherham, just as much as it belongs to us.

“Rotherham is an area with a large population that has been underserved by cinema facilities for a long time. We hope that the opening of our cinema, will not only create a location where film lovers can enjoy the latest blockbusters, but in time it will become an important part of the local community.”

The Arc Cinema group is a family-owned business which operates twelve cinemas across the UK and Republic of Ireland. Since its formation in 2014, the company has specialised in bringing cinema facilities to populations that are under-served. The company places emphasis upon playing an active role within the communities it serves by engaging with local good causes, schools and community groups.

Families can enjoy a day of free entertainment and activities at Forge Island on Saturday September 14. Activities include live music, street performers, art, face-painting and the chance to meet and greet some famous faces – from Minions to Paddington – to celebrate upcoming film releases this autumn, as well as special offers, balloons and giveaways throughout the day.

Rotherham Council Leader, Cllr Chris Read said: “Our vision was always to create a family friendly destination and with our fantastic new cinema, plus the Travelodge hotel now open, and the multi-million-pound investment into the public spaces and wider development complete, we couldn’t let the summer end without inviting people of all ages to mark this milestone.

"We look forward to welcoming everyone down to explore Forge Island, which has such historical significance for the town, as we celebrate the start of its new chapter as a place for people from Rotherham, and beyond, to visit and enjoy for years to come.”

The council added that: "It is hoped that Forge Island will become a central hub for family-friendly activities year-round and the team are exploring options for more activities later this year, to complement other events across the town."

Arc Cinema website Forge Island website

Images: Arc Cinema / facebook

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News: Forge Island loses restaurant brands as challenging trading conditions bite

A company connected to the restaurant operator that signed up to open a number of brands in Rotherham town centre has gone into liquidation.

Rotherham Council has confirmed that just one of the operator's brands is now coming to Rotherham.

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

With the hotel now open and the cinema slated to begin screening films in September, the food and drink units were handed over on July 1 2024.

The partners had celebrated the development being fully let over a year before opening, announcing deals that would see six independent restaurants open on the riverside, including Casa Peri Peri, Estabulo, Sakku Samba, Caffé Noor, Cow & Cream and The Rustic Pizza Company.

A triple-header deal was signed with Thistle Group in 2022 who would bring Casa Peri Peri, Estabulo Rodizio/Sakku Samba as a dual-branded concept, and Caffé Noor.

On July 8, Dabangg Hospitality Group Ltd T/A Estabulo Rodizio Bar & Grill went into liquidation. Dabangg shares a director with Thistle Property Holdings Group Ltd.

Dabangg Hospitality's website has gone offline but its LinkedIn page explains that it is "a prominent and visionary company that owns and operates five successful restaurant companies: Estabulo, Sakkusamba, Fleur, Caffe Noor, and Sakku."

Documents show that HMRC applied to the courts to have Wakefield-based Dabangg Hospitality Group Ltd wound up. A week later, Clark Business Recovery Limited was appointed as liquidator.

Further documents show that the group owed £7m to HMRC - £2.7m regarding PAYE and £4.3m regarding VAT.

Sakku Samba venues in Manchester and Bradford have recently closed but company directors appear unfazed by the liquidation with new companies created and new venues opening, including Raft in Manchester and Habbibi in Leeds.

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Back in Rotherham, the Forge Island website now only shows two outlets on its food and drink page - The Rustic Pizza Company and Caffé Noor.

Cow & Cream closed its remaining Barnsley store in September 2023, with the burger and shakes specialist stating that food cost prices, energy prices and packaging costs had made providing a value for money product impossible for them to achieve.

Rotherham Council’s Interim Strategic Director for Regeneration and Environment Andrew Bramidge said: “Unfortunately due to challenging trading conditions and circumstances beyond anyone’s control, operators have not been able to bring forward all the planned eateries for Forge Island at the current time.

“However, Thistle Group remains committed to Rotherham and will open its luxury coffee shop brand, Café Noor, at the gateway of the site as intended. Meanwhile, Travelodge hotel is already open on site and welcoming guests, The Arc Cinema is on track to open in early September, and Rustic Pizza is due to open its doors to the public this summer.

"Alongside our development partners Muse, we are already in discussion with a number of other potential operators who have expressed an interest in the site, and we will make further announcements about these in due course when agreements are reached."

It’s coming… pic.twitter.com/MrUJWSDJNs

— Chris Read (@christophe_read) July 9, 2024

Rotherham Council has fully funded the Forge Island scheme after its Cabinet approved an increase in the Council’s Capital Programme in 2022 to cover the £46.8m costs which were expected to be covered by the authority's own borrowing and capital resources.

Rotherham Council acquired the site in 2017 following the move accross town by Tesco. A 250 year lease to Muse was initially proposed before the council stepped in with the upfront costs.

The council expects that the repayment of capital costs will be met wholly or largely over the long term by revenue generated from commercial activity in the Forge Island development. At the time, the cabinet heard that the longer-term financial risks that the project presents relate to the Council’s ability to maintain the incomes levels from the lettings, car parking and business rates.

Forge Island website

Images: Estabulo / facebook /Chris Read / twitter

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News: Forge Island prepares for fit out as hotel opens for bookings

The new multimillion pound Travelodge Hotel being built on Forge Island in Rotherham has begun taking bookings for when it opens this summer.

Forge Island is the town centre's new landmark leisure destination being delivered by Rotherham Council in partnership with Muse. The £47m development includes an 8-screen boutique cinema operated by The Arc Cinema, a 69-roomed Travelodge Hotel as well as six independent restaurants on the riverside, including The Rustic Pizza Company, Estabulo, and Sakku Samba.

The hotel, the first Travelodge in the borough, is now is bookable for stays from July 8 2024.

The four storey hotel is being built by Bowmer + Kirkland on the north of the Forge Island site. It was designed with a metal top and brick base in grey. The new Rotherham hotel will be in Travelodge's new-build budget luxe hotel brand. It has also been confirmed that it will incorporate the new Bar Café concept offering unlimited breakfast, tasty evening meals and fresh barista coffee.

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In 2022 Travelodge announced that it was evolving its core brand product to a new budget-luxe premium look and feel design which includes all the low cost efficiencies you would expect from Travelodge, but with the added benefit of thoughtful, stylish design and homely touches throughout its interiors.

Standard rooms (with new décor and signature king size "Dreamer" bed) are priced at £77.99 for the saver rate and £89.99 for the flexible rate.

Also on Forge Island, Arc Cinemas is currently recruiting for a general manager.

The job advert reads: "The Arc Cinema will be opening its doors to offer an ultra high specification luxury cinema experience to customers in Rotherham. A brand new build, scheduled to open in August 2024, with 8 screens, The Arc Cinema will offer something special for all movie lovers. State-of-the-art facilities offering the ultimate blockbuster experience, while smaller screens provide a more intimate movie watching atmosphere. All screens feature VIP electric recliner seats as standard.

"We pride ourselves in taking great care of our customers, and on becoming a central part of each community that we serve."

On the food and beverage offer, incoming outlet, Rustic Pizza Co has provided an update on Forge Island progress.

The Rustic Pizza Co was founded in 2017. Its base at Lakeside in Doncaster offers authentic Neopolitan style pizza, Italian hand-pulled coffee and rustic breakfasts.

A recent update to Facebook said: "We attended a site visit at Rotherham Forge island this week and to say we are excited would be an understatement! We will be starting our fit out in the next couple of weeks and we can’t wait to bring Rustic to Rotherham!"

Forge Island website
Travelodge website
Arc Cinema website
Rustic Pizza Co website

Images: Travelodge / Rustic Pizza Co / Facebook

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News: Partners see inside £47m Forge Island leisure development

Project partners were given a sneak peek inside the new leisure spaces at Forge Island, ahead of the development reaching practical completion in the spring.

The landmark leisure destination in Rotherham town centre is being delivered by teams from Rotherham Council, nationwide placemaker Muse and contractor, Bowmer + Kirkland.

Last week, Council Leader Chris Read; Cllr Denise Lelliott, Cabinet member for Jobs and the Local Economy, Raife Gale, Senior Development Manager at Muse, and Hamza Sayed, Operations Director of Thistle Group Holding – who are opening three food and drink eateries at Forge Island - headed to site for special ‘behind the scenes’ tour. This was an opportunity for a first look inside the buildings ahead of them being handed over to the tenants to begin their fit-outs in a few weeks’ time.

The family-friendly destination is set to add to Rotherham town centre’s foodie offering, with Thistle opening Portuguese and Southern African eatery, Casa Peri Peri, created by Masterchef finalist, Bobby Geetha; Estabulo Rodizio, a concept honouring the Gaucho style of cooking and luxury coffee shop Caffé Noor. Other Yorkshire independents coming to Forge Island also include The Rustic Pizza Co.

Forge Island will also include an 8-screen state-of-the-art boutique cinema, delivered by The Arc Cinema, alongside a 69-room Travelodge hotel, complemented by stunning public realm and a new riverside park. Hundreds of local people recently flocked to Rotherham Council’s annual recruitment fair to find about employment opportunities at Forge Island, who will become a substantial local employer once open creating around 100 jobs.

Together with Rotherham Markets, the improvements are a key part of Rotherham Council’s large-scale regeneration plans aimed at breathing new life into the heart of the borough.

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Rotherham Council’s Cabinet Member for Jobs and the Local Economy Cllr Denise Lelliott said: "To see the development today rising up out of the old Forge Island site is really something and we’re firmly on track to putting a sense pride back into the town centre. This presents a fantastic opportunity for residents and visitors to be part of one of the most attractive leisure destinations in the region. This site will offer high quality restaurants, a hotel on a scale of which has not been seen in the town centre before, and a new cinema bringing blockbuster movies back to the town centre for the first time in over 30 years. With spring having sprung, and summer round the corner. we’re on track and very much looking forward to celebrating an amazing launch.”

Raife Gale, Senior Development Manager at Muse, said: “It’s exciting to share with our partners the work that’s been going on inside these spaces: the project team have done an amazing job of keeping us on track to open this summer. We’re looking forward to handing over the keys to the new tenants so that they can begin their fit-out works and bring us even closer to realising Forge Island – which will soon be a new leisure destination for everyone to enjoy.”

Hamza Sayed, Operations Director of Thistle Group Holding added: "We are thrilled to introduce these new culinary experiences to the community. Each restaurant embodies our passion for food, service, and creating memorable dining experiences. We can't wait to welcome guests and share our vision with them."

Forge Island is due to open to the public in summer 2024.

Forge Island website

Images: Muse / RMBC

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News: Construction milestone reached at Forge Island

Workers celebrated a major milestone on Forge Island recently with popcorn and deckchairs as the shells of the cinema and hotel completed on the flagship development.

Rothbiz reported last month that the Rotherham town centre leisure-led development was on track to open to the public towards the end of summer 2024.

The £47m development is being delivered by teams from Rotherham Council, nationwide placemaker Muse and contractor, Bowmer + Kirkland. During the topping out event –which marks the last beam being placed on top a structure during its construction – builders enjoyed the sweet success of completing the final building on site.

Once fitted out, the building will host an 8-screen boutique cinema operated by The Arc Cinema. It will also be the first cinema in the heart of Rotherham for more than 30 years and will be a major part of Forge Island’s family-friendly offer.

Brian Gilligan, Director of The Arc Cinema, who attended the topping out, said: “We’re very excited to open on Forge Island later this year and it’s fantastic to be here today and see our cinema taking shape. The Arc Cinema is known for their top-class facilities and we’re proud to say that the new location at Forge Island will be no exception. We also place a strong emphasis on building personal connections within the community – which includes recruiting locally – and our aim is to create a meaningful place that belongs to the people of Rotherham just as much as it belongs to us.”

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Together with Rotherham Markets, the improvements are a key part of Rotherham Council’s large-scale regeneration plans aimed at breathing new life into the heart of the borough.

Cllr. Chris Read, Leader of Rotherham Council, said: “It’s just over a year since we broke ground and here we are topping out these amazing buildings with more exciting milestones to come. Forge Island is the single biggest investment in our town centre for decades and will provide residents from across Rotherham with a family-friendly destination they can enjoy and be proud to have on their doorstep.”

Raife Gale, Senior Development Manager at Muse, added: “We’re thrilled to have reached this significant and very visual milestone that shows just how far this scheme has progressed over recent months. We have been working closely in partnership with the Council to create something special for the people of Rotherham and this will undoubtedly help to bring families into the town centre and enjoy it as a leisure destination once again.”

The cinema will sit beside a 69-roomed Travelodge Hotel as well as six independent restaurants on the riverside, including The Rustic Pizza Company, Estabulo, and Sakku Samba.

Tony O’Brien, Travelodge, UK Development Director said: “We can't wait to open our new hotel later this year and it's fantastic to witness this significant milestone in development. Rotherham is growing at pace and has one of the fastest growing economies in Yorkshire. Our 69-room Travelodge hotel will also have an on-site restaurant and car parking. With the railway station, the town centre amenities and Rotherham United's AESSEAL New York Stadium within an easy walk, the Travelodge will be ideally located for business and leisure guests. This ground-breaking scheme is an excellent, new leisure destination that I'm sure will be of great benefit to the Rotherham community and visitors to the area for many years to come."

Forge Island website

Images: Muse / Joe Horner

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News: Free parking for film fans at Forge Island

Rotherham Council has confirmed that film fans are set to have another reason to chose to stay local to watch future features - free parking at Forge Island.

Rothbiz first reported on the parking plans back in 2020 and the new Arc Cinema on the £47m development in Rotherham town centre is slated to open in 2024.

The scheme is being lead by national urban regenerator, Muse Developments, partnering with the council. It will also include a new Travelodge hotel and six food and drink outlets, which are already fully let.

A 340 space car park, to be operated by the council, is being created on the main site with the new buildings on a podium above taking them higher than the 1 in 100 flood risk level. Entry to the car park is to continue from Bridge Street and Market Street as it does currently.

When discussing the progress at Forge Island at a recent council meeting, Cllr. Denise Lelliott, Cabinet Member for Jobs and the Local Economy, confirmed that users of the hotel and the cinema would be able to park for free.

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Cllr. Lelliott said: "The strategy for parking at Forge Island offers free parking for hotel customers between the hours of 4pm and 10am. In addition, those customers using the cinema will be offered concessionary free parking for a period of up to 3.5 hours.

"Outside of these concessions car park users will be expected to pay, and while yet to be agreed, the tariffs are expected to be at least in line with the Council’s current core town centre car park tariff."

Council car parks currently charge in the region of £1.50 up to two hours, £2 up to four hours, £3.50 over four hours.

Rotherham Council bought the Forge Island site in 2017 for £1.5m. Previously a Tesco store, it has since been used as a council car park, a temporary bus station, and COVID-19 testing centre.

Cllr. Lelliott added: "Forge Island was a car park, and previous to that it was a supermarket. We have been working and looking at a parking strategy - we have got to make it work for the hoteliers and the cinema operators that have come in. We don't want parking fees to be something that prevents people from coming and using this."

Last year, Rothbiz highlighted what to expect when the Arc Cinema opens in Rotherham. It is set to have two flagship Hypersense screens and six medium-sized screens.

Forge Island website

Images: Muse / RMBC

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News: New Rotherham cinema in the frame

The new cinema in Rotherham town centre has started to come into view at the £47m Forge Island development.

The town has gone nearly 35 years without a cinema. Cannon, the last town centre cinema, closed in 1990.

The new Arc Cinema is slated to open in 2024 with contractors, Bowmer & Kirkland making swift progress for Rotherham Council and its development partner, Muse Developments. Indeed working hours were extended to include more time for construction on Saturdays (except when there's a Rotherham United home game).

As shown in the image above, the platform for the development has been installed with the 340 space car park underneath and the new structure being built on top.

Plans were approved in 2020 for the scheme which will also include a new Travelodge hotel and six food and drink outlets, which are already fully let.

Positioned at the south of the former home of the Rotherham Forge & Rolling Mills, the design of the cinema looked to the strong industrial heritage of the site which was historically home to a foundry and an iron works. The cinema design incorporates a saw-tooth roof profile with a metal cap and a robust brick podium base.

Rothbiz reported in May that operators Arc are set to bring two flagship Hypersense screens, including Dolby Atmos sound, a giant screen and a 4K Laser projector – which creates a truly immersive experience. Additionally, it will also have six medium-sized screens that provide an intimate atmosphere for smaller showings – perfect for Arc's popular events like ‘Silver Screen’ and ‘Kids club’ which will be launching in Rotherham.

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Also on the construction site, two eye-catching cranes have been named by children at Thornhill Primary School.

More than 70 pupils from the school in Masborough submitted names for the cranes, and a range of colourful pictures of their crane characters, to Forge Island site developers, Muse.

After a long and difficult deliberation, the two winning entries were "Rotherham Rainbow" by Redwanella, aged 7 and "Steely Crane" by Selda, aged 9.

The competition winners were invited down to the construction site for a hard hat tour with the project team and to see their winning names attached to the 37-metre and 25-metre-high cranes.

Raife Gale, Senior Development Manager at Muse, said: “We had so many wonderful entries that it was difficult to choose just two names, so thank you to all the pupils who took part. Our winning names really capture the essence of Forge Island, with Rotherham Rainbow representing a bright future for the town, and Steely Crane a nod to the site’s heritage as a steel forge.

“We’ve also decided to have a selection of the other pictures made into colourful hoardings around the site – a brilliant daily inspiration for the project team who are working hard to create something quite special here for families who live in and visit Rotherham. We plan to work with more local schools and community groups over the next year to bring them on the journey with us and build anticipation before the scheme opens to the public in 2024.”

Rotherham Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Young People’s Services, Cllr Victoria Cusworth, said: “It is great to see the borough’s young people getting involved in this flagship scheme and it really underlines the fact that, once opened, Forge Island will be a family destination.

“Forge Island will be a space for residents of all ages to enjoy and socialise, while accessing some brilliant amenities and restaurants. Along with Riverside Gardens, it will provide a gateway to Rotherham’s riverside where residents will be able to enjoy urban wildlife and nature. Overall, it will be hugely beneficial to residents by promoting a strong economy, good mental and physical wellbeing, and strengthening our communities.”

Forge Island website

Images: Tom Austen / Muse

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News: New bridge lifted into place at Forge Island

A striking new pedestrian bridge has been successfully lifted into place at Forge Island in Rotherham linking the flagship development with the town centre.

The Forge Island development, part of Rotherham Council’s regeneration vision for the town centre, is being delivered in partnership with the Council, nationwide placemaker Muse and contractor Bowman + Kirkland.

The bridge will offer a vital connection from the town centre to the new family-friendly leisure destination – as well as a link to the town’s remarkable engineering heritage.

The 46-meter-long bridge, weighing 86 tonnes, was manufactured and installed by S H Structures, specialists in the design and manufacture of complex steel structures. Over a period of two days, a crane was erected and rigged, ready for the careful installation of the bridge which took one hour, in a military precision operation watched by local residents from vantage points across the town centre.

The design takes inspiration from the world-famous Bailey Bridge; a portable, steel-truss bridge, designed and developed by Rotherham-born civil engineer, Donald Bailey, which was used by the military throughout Europe during the Second World War.

Designed by FaulknerBrowns Architects, the new bridge is a celebration of Rotherham’s engineering heritage, taking inspiration from the original design to create a contemporary permanent gateway structure for the town.

The diamond truss steel design that is synonymous with Bailey Bridges is clad with red/brown perforated steel panelling to fit with the colour of planned Forge Island buildings, another nod to the history of the area, which originated as a steel forge in the 19th century.

The bridge will be illuminated at night, to make a striking visual feature of its unique structural elements to enhance the experience of everyone who visits Forge Island.

The bridge will provide pedestrians and cyclists with an eye-catching crossing from the town centre across the River Don, to the new waterside destination, which will feature a mix of independent and family-friendly eateries alongside boutique cinema operator, The Arc and national hotel chain, Travelodge, all set within attractive new public spaces.

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Andrew Fairest, Project Director at Muse, said: “This is an important milestone for the whole Forge Island development, as we link this new waterfront destination to the Rotherham community, making sure everyone has the opportunity to enjoy what Forge Island has to offer.

“Rotherham’s engineering heritage was a wonderful starting point for the Muse team, offering a rich seam of inspiration and shaping our thinking around Forge Island. The bridge is a key part of this exciting new chapter in Rotherham’s story, linking the past with the present and future.”

Over the next few weeks, a podium is being built on site, which will elevate the scheme out of the floodplain of the River Don. Work will then begin to construct the buildings and new landscaped public spaces, including a stepped amphitheatre beside Rotherham Lock.

Rotherham Council’s Cabinet Member for Jobs and Economy, Cllr Denise Lelliott, said: “This major milestone not only shows that the Forge Island development scheme is forging ahead, is it also showcases a symbolic connection between Forge Island and the heart of the town centre. Once Forge Island opens, this bridge will be the main gateway from the cinema, hotel and restaurants to the rich heritage and culture of the town centre, and I am sure that my footsteps will be a few of thousands.”

Construction work on the £47m Forge Island scheme – which was announced as 100% let in October 2022 – is led by contractor Bowmer + Kirkland, working alongside the wider project team which also includes Arup, Helm Consulting, Arcadis and re-form Landscape Architecture.

Forge Island is set to open to the public in 2024.

Forge Island website

Images: B & K / Reach Timelapse

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News: Plans tweaked for Forge Island as work continues

With construction well underway, Rotherham Council and national urban regenerator, Muse Developments, its delivery partner, have made minor changes to the plans for the Forge Island leisure scheme in Rotherham town centre.

More public realm is being added to the riverside area.

Construction work started last year with lead contractor Bowmer & Kirkland, after Rotherham Council stepped in to fund the scheme when the funding available to Muse, "significantly reduced."

Plans were approved in 2020 for the scheme which will include a new Arc Cinema, Travelodge hotel and six food and drink outlets, which are already fully let.

Applicants now want to make non-material amendments to the previously approved planning permission which "reflect design development as the project moves from the planning approved drawings to detailed design for construction purposes."

Rothbiz reported earlier this month that the cinema will have two flagship Hypersense screens, including Dolby Atmos sound, a giant screen and a 4K Laser projector – which creates a truly immersive experience. Additionally, it will also have six medium-sized screens that provide an intimate atmosphere for smaller showings – perfect for Arc's popular events like ‘Silver Screen’ and ‘Kids club’ which will be launching in Rotherham.

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Across the river, the acquisition and demolition of the former Wilkos store by the council has prompted a rethink for the café and public realm in that area.

With the Riverside Precinct and Chantry Buildings gone too, the site on Corporation Street is being readied for proposals that include a 1,500 sq ft café in a new open area called "Millgate Place" that connects Forge Island (and its new bridge) with the heart of the town centre.

The plans, drawn up by Tetra Tech consultants, state: "The proposed amendment on Site B north to the café arrangement and the surrounding public realm layout reflects the opportunity to enhance the Forge Island project detail following a change in circumstances since the grant of the original planning approval.

"The Wilko store adjacent to the boundary of Site B north has now been demolished and, subject to the amendments now proposed, allows the café and public realm design to take advantage of the more exposed aspect to the north and better orientate the building within its immediate environment but also improve its integration with the wider public realm and connectivity to the riverside.

"The previous arrangement comprising a retaining wall and steps can be removed and the land graded to allow level access (1:20 max) on the footpath connecting back into the riverside path to the north. This is considered a significant public realm enhancement with improved accessibility compared to the original planning approval."

The Thistle Group's Caffé Noor is signed up to take on the unit when construction is complete in 2024.

Planning approval is still awaited for a much larger public realm scheme along the river at Domine Lane and Market Street.

Forge Island website

Images: Muse / FaulknerBrowns

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News: Slice to meet you: Rustic Pizza Co.'s journey to Rotherham

Lee Ogley, managing director of The Rustic Pizza Co. is looking ahead to a new base in Rotherham where he aims to help create an authentic, welcoming vibe combined with great food at Forge Island.

The Independent South Yorkshire restaurant chain exchanged a deal earlier this year with nationwide placemaker, Muse, to open a new outlet in the last remaining retail space at Forge Island.

The Rustic Pizza Co was founded in 2017 by Doncaster-based husband and wife team Lee and Sian who originally ran a mobile street food business. The duo transformed a passion for pizza into a successful business venture, delivering their freshly made, wood-fired pizzas across their home city as well as serving up a slice of Italy at events and festivals all over the country.

The company opened its first permanent outlet at the popular food court in Doncaster’s Wool Market in 2019.

The Rotherham restaurant is due to open in 2024 after work completes on the Rotherham town centre site.

Lee said: "When covid hit, we had to adapt and soon became famous in the city for our DIY pizza kits – something we hope will be as popular in Rotherham. Since reopening post-pandemic we’ve gone from strength to strength – opening our sister venue, The Rustic Burger Co. at the Wool Market and we have plans to open another Doncaster venue later this year [at Lakeside].

"We’re so excited for Forge Island; we really believe that it will regenerate the area and make Rotherham a place people want to visit and be an incredible destination for families who live here."

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Joining the pizza place, the Thistle Group is signed up to bring a number of brands to Forge Island. These include Portuguese and Southern African eatery, Casa Peri Peri, created by Masterchef star, Bobby Geetha; Estabulo Rodizio / Sakku Samba – a dual-branded concept honouring the Gaucho style of cooking and a fusion of Japanese-Brazilian cuisine, and luxury coffee shop Caffé Noor. Local burger, shake and dessert restaurant, Cow & Cream has also taken space to complete the mix of eateries.

The independent eateries will be joining boutique cinema operator, The Arc, and national hotel chain, Travelodge, who will anchor Forge Island, to bring a real, family-friendly feel to the town centre.

Lee added: "We really like Rotherham as a place and can’t wait to get set up in our new space and meet our new neighbours. We think that with the help of all the other independent businesses who will open here, we can work together to bring people back into the town centre by creating something truly special for the people of Rotherham – an authentic, welcoming vibe combined with great food. Our restaurant here will offer a combination of both our pizza and burger menus, with 70 to 80 in-dining capacity and we have future plans to include a takeaway offer.

"People can expect a truly unique experience when eating with us – a true taste of Italy in Yorkshire. Our freshly made, authentic, wood-fired pizzas are made with only the finest Italian products, something this area of Rotherham has never seen before.

"We can’t wait to bring our famous rustic atmosphere, tasty food, cocktails, and live music to the city and we’re confident that people are going to love it."

Rustic Pizza Co. website
Forge Island website

Images: Muse

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News: Bailey bridge for Forge Island

The team delivering the flagship Forge Island development in Rotherham got a first look at progress of the manufacturing of a new pedestrian bridge earlier this month.

The bridge will offer a vital connection from the town centre to the new family-friendly leisure destination – as well as link to the town’s incredible engineering heritage.

The 46m metre-long bridge is currently being constructed in North Yorkshire before being installed on site in June and will become a key element of the new landmark place which is being delivered by nationwide placemaker, Muse, in partnership with Rotherham Council.

The previous "Tesco bridge" was removed last year.

The design takes inspiration from the world-famous Bailey Bridge; a portable, steel truss bridge designed and developed by Rotherham-born civil engineer, Donald Bailey, which was used by the military throughout Europe during the Second World War.

The Bailey Bridge was a feat of engineering; lightweight and simple to erect without the use of tools, but also strong enough to withstand huge weights including military vehicles. It has secured a place in history as one of the most important engineering and technological advances of WWII – playing a major role in helping Allied Forces to victory. Bailey Bridges have continued to be used extensively in civil engineering construction projects across the world, often to provide temporary crossings for pedestrian and vehicle traffic.

Read more about Bailey in this Rothbiz article on the bridge's 75th anninersary in 2017.

The new bridge offers a contemporary take on the original design to create a permanent structure for the town. It was designed by FaulknerBrowns Architects and is being fabricated and manufactured by SH Structures, specialists in the design and manufacture of complex steel structures.

The diamond truss steel design that is synonymous with Bailey Bridges will be clad with red/brown perforated steel panelling that tonally matches the colour of planned Forge Island buildings and celebrates history of the area, which originated as a steel forge in the 19th century. It will also be illuminated at night to make a stunning visual feature of the unique structural elements of the Bailey Bridge.

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The bridge will provide pedestrians and cyclists with an eye-catching crossing from the town centre to the new landmark destination which will feature a mix of independent eateries alongside boutique cinema operator, The Arc and national hotel chain, Travelodge, all set within attractive new public realm.

Andrew Fairest, Project Director at Muse, said: “It’s fantastic to see the bridge taking shape and see how a contemporary take on the pioneering Bailey Bridge design will create something quite special at Forge Island.

“For Muse, the history of a place is an instrumental part of its story – and informs how we go about creating its next chapter. The bridge not only provides a physical link to what will be a much-needed family-friendly offer for Rotherham, but a metaphorical one to the incredible industrial heritage of this town. We’re excited to be making Forge Island a major part of Rotherham’s story once again.”

Rotherham Council’s Cabinet Member for Jobs and Economy, Cllr Denise Lelliott, said: “The bridge, which will link the heart of the town centre to the heart of the industrial past, will also pay tribute to the world-changing creativity and craft our residents have been a part of in the past – and the innovation yet to come. Once in place, the bridge will be the key thoroughfare between the incredible leisure and food facilities on Forge Island and the wider town centre. I cannot wait to see this new iconic feature on the Rotherham skyline.”

Work on the £47m Forge Island – which was announced as 100% in October 2022 – started on site in November 2022 overseen by lead contractor Bowmer + Kirkland working alongside the wider project team which also includes Arup, Helm Consulting, Arcadis and re-form Landscape Architecture. Forge Island is set to open to the public in 2024.

Forge Island website

Images: Muse / RMBC / SH Structures

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News: Pizza restaurant pre-let sees Forge Island fill up

Independent South Yorkshire restaurant chain, The Rustic Pizza Co, has exchanged a deal with nationwide placemaker, Muse, to open a new outlet in the last remaining retail space at Forge Island.

In an unprecedented milestone for the new landmark destination, which will bring a family-friendly offer to Rotherham town centre, all of the commercial spaces have now been snapped up. Muse is delivering Forge Island in partnership with Rotherham Council and works started on site in November.

The Rustic Pizza Co was founded in 2017 by Doncaster-based husband and wife team Lee and Sian who originally ran a mobile street food business. The duo transformed a passion for pizza into a successful business venture, delivering their freshly made, wood-fired pizzas across their home city as well as serving up a slice of Italy at events and festivals all over the country.

The company opened its first permanent outlet at the popular food court in Doncaster’s Wool Market in 2019 before having to diversify due to the pandemic and resulting lockdown in March 2020, delivering up to 500 DIY pizza kits a day across Doncaster. The business has grown from strength-to-strength since re-opening to the public in June 2020, with both its in-dining and takeaway service proving hugely popular with customers. The duo source only the finest Italian products, using their network of suppliers who provide seasonal products and regional specialties from Italian markets.

A sister venue, the Rustic Burger Co has since launched at the Wool Market, with plans to open another Doncaster venue in the new year. The Forge Island restaurant will offer a winning combination of both its pizza and burger menus, with 70 to 80 in-dining capacity and future plans to include a takeaway offer.

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The Rustic Pizza Co joins four exciting brands already signed as part of a deal with Thistle Group. These include Portuguese and Southern African eatery, Casa Peri Peri, created by Masterchef star, Bobby Geetha; Estabulo Rodizio / Sakku Samba – a dual-branded concept honouring the Gaucho style of cooking and a fusion of Japanese-Brazilian cuisine, and luxury coffee shop Caffé Noor. Local burger, shake and dessert restaurant, Cow & Cream has also taken space to complete the mix of eateries.

The independent eateries will be joining boutique cinema operator, The Arc, and national hotel chain, Travelodge, who will anchor Forge Island, to bring a real, family-friendly feel to the town centre.

Raife Gale, senior development manager at Muse, said: “The Rustic Pizza Co is a fantastic final addition to our delicious offering here at Forge Island. To let all our commercial spaces off plan is an amazing achievement, especially in the current market – and is testament to the huge amount of confidence in our collective vision for Rotherham town centre. We always look to create places that will enrich the lives of the communities we serve for the long term. Forge Island will offer residents in Rotherham a fantastic leisure destination packed with amenities on their doorstep, but it will also create jobs and provide opportunities for local people too.

“Forge Island is clear proof of how public/private partnerships like the one we have with Rotherham Council, can be a real catalyst for a place, to supercharge growth and investment, but importantly it’s focused on people. By getting all the ingredients right from the outset with our partners means we’ve created a real recipe for success and we can’t wait for it to open to the public.”

Lee Ogley, co-owner of The Rustic Pizza Co said: “Having grown our business across Doncaster over the last five years, we have been looking to venture into a new town or city for a while and Forge Island ticked all the boxes in terms of being a leisure destination with a focus on attracting local, independent businesses. I am really excited to work alongside the other indie restaurants and cafes to create something truly special for the people of Rotherham.”

Rotherham Council’s cabinet member for jobs and the local economy, Cllr Denise Lelliott, said: “The council is very happy to welcome The Rustic Pizza Co to Forge Island. It will be joining a fantastic range of café, restaurant and leisure facilities at the state-of-the-art Forge Island site and will provide families with a whole host of fun activities right in the heart of the town centre. I am sure everyone will be excited to visit The Rustic Pizza Co once it opens next year.”

The new Forge Island is due for completion in 2024 and will be set within an attractive public square with a new pedestrian bridge connecting to the town centre.

Rustic Pizza Co website
Forge Island website

Images: Muse

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News: Groundwork begins on Forge Island development - cinema slated to open in 2024

Ground works have begun on the Forge Island development – bringing a state-of-the-art cinema, 69 room hotel, and six restaurants providing food from around the world to Rotherham town centre.

The move comes after Rotherham Council's cabinet rubber-stamped a financial deal to fund the up front costs for the transformational scheme. It also comes after a sg#ignificant amout of flood alleviation work, public realm improvements and demolition in the area.

Residents passing Forge Island will be able to see diggers and heavy plant vehicles on site as they prepare to lay foundations for the £47m development, being delivered by master developer, Muse, in partnership with Rotherham Council.

Once complete, the new destination will provide something for residents and families to enjoy right in the heart of Rotherham town centre, which will include a variety of exciting features including the boutique 8 screen cinema from The Arc, each with laser digital projection and Dolby digital surround sound for the ultimate film experience.

The scheme is 100% pre-let with Travelodge who will be offering visitors a range of a hotel rooms. Finally, five food and beverage brands have already signed up to the scheme and will showcase food and drink from across the globe – the sixth will be announced shortly.

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Rotherham Council’s Leader, Cllr Chris Read, said: “Forge Island is the single biggest investment in our town centre for decades. It will be the first cinema in the central area for thirty years and the community has waited a very long time to see this work begin. As we face into the difficult economic times ahead, it's more important than ever to redouble our efforts to build a better future on the other side. So this marks a huge step in the right direction in the delivery of our town centre masterplan, towards the kind of town centre that people can be proud of once again."

Raife Gale, senior development manager at Muse, said: “Since we were appointed as the council’s partner for Forge Island in 2018, we’ve worked collaboratively with the council to reach this point where we’re on site and we can’t wait to deliver this exciting destination for the community.

“Demand to come to Forge Island has been incredible and we’ve assembled a fantastic line up of operators and amenities to join us in our mission to create an attractive leisure destination with a social purpose that becomes at catalyst for further investment and regeneration in the town.”

Forge Island website

Images: RMBC

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News: Further food firm for Forge Island

Local restaurant chain, Cow & Cream has exchanged a lease contract with national developer, Muse, to open a brand-new eatery on Forge Island in Rotherham town centre.

The team behind the burger, shake and dessert restaurant has created a concept that aims to combine the freshest ingredients cooked to order. What’s more, restaurant-goers will be able to completely personalise their food with a range of choices to make it their own.

The signing is hot on the hooves of the Thistle Group deal, which will bring four exciting brands to Forge Island.

These new eateries will be joining boutique cinema operator, The Arc, and national hotel chain, Travelodge, who have already signed up to anchor the scheme.

Construction is expected to start this month after Rotherham Council decides on which way to fund the regeneration scheme.

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Raife Gale, senior development manager at Muse, said: “Since launching Forge Island on the market earlier this year, we’ve seen huge demand from occupiers that want to open in Rotherham. This is a ringing endorsement of our mission to work in partnership with the council, to bring a great choice of amenities and a social purpose to the places where we work.

“We can’t wait to get on site later this year to create an attractive leisure destination for the people of Rotherham. We believe that Forge Island will be the catalyst for further regeneration and investment in the town.”

Rotherham Council’s cabinet member for jobs and the local economy, Cllr Denise Lelliott, said: “It’s great news that local business Cow & Cream will be joining the likes of Arc Cinema and Travelodge on Forge Island. Cow & Cream, along with the other new cafes and restaurants will bring a variety of cuisines from around the world for residents and visitors to enjoy.

“Forge Island will provide a gateway for residents to enjoy new – and old favourite – leisure facilities, including our wonderful green spaces and parks.”

Cow & Cream was launched by partners John Dunning and Rob Green in 2021 with the opening of a first restaurant at the Peel Retail Park in Barnsley. A second site at Crystal Peaks opened earlier this year.

Cow & Cream website
Forge Island website

Images: Cow & Cream / Facebook

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News: Why is Rotherham Council planning to fund Forge Island itself?

If Rotherham Council decides to fund the Forge Island regeneration scheme itself, it will save nearly £50m compared to an externally funded deal drafted in 2018.

Different routes to fund the key town centre project risk further delays and potentially losing key tenants such as Arc Cinemas.

Rothbiz revealed recently that funding for the key town centre project was under review with the funding available to the Council's delivery partner, Muse, for the delivery of Forge Island "significantly reduced."

Forge Island is a Council-owned site which sits between the River Don and South Yorkshire Navigation Canal. Led by Muse Developments, it will host a new leisure scheme with an 8-screen boutique style cinema, modern hotel, food and beverage (F&B) outlets and car parking. It is set to be completed in 2024.

The Council selected Muse as the preferred partner in 2018 and signed a "Development Agreement for Lease." Contracts have recently been updated for the scheme showing a price of £46.8m.

Further council documents explain: "Very recent volatility of the financial markets and the challenge this may now pose to private funders providing up-front capital within the requirements previously agreed by the Council has resulted in Muse (in line with the Development Agreement for Lease) assessing delivery arrangements and proposing options for the Council to consider, including the Council acting as funder of the whole or part of the development."

Rising inflation has been cited and Muse was informed last month that the markets were not prepared to lend on the terms previously agreed.

The Council's cabinet is due to meet on October 17 where it will "choose from the full range of options for delivery including further supplementing or replacing what was expected to be privately raised capital with the Council's own borrowing and capital resources."

The proposal for the Council to fund the scheme does not reduce the potential capital cost of the development, however, it does allow the Council to maintain the current projected development costs at the current secured prices. It also allows the Council to maintain the current third-party tenants (Arc Cinema, Travelodge and the recently announced restaurants via Thistle Group) that provide the ongoing revenue income to enable the Council to finance the project over the project life.

New council documents show that the 2018 deal had the headlease, that would have been paid to the private sector funder, increasing with CPI (inflation) at 3-5%. This would be replaced by with the cost of the Council’s borrowing, financing costs, which do not inflate and can be structured across the life of the project in the most cost-effective way.

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Council documents explain: "It is anticipated that based on current financial markets, that this option would save the Council around £49m over the life of the project. Due to the benefit of Council borrowing over the private sector funder headlease that would be subject to inflation."

The UK CPI rate of inflation hit 10.1% earlier in 2022. In 2018, before the UK left the EU, the global pandemic and the war in Ukraine, the rate was nearer 2%.

The Council document concludes: "Given the changes in the financial markets that have negatively impacted the original proposal to secure private sector funding, the option of Council borrowing to fund the development becomes the most financial beneficial, stable and deliverable within the confines of the public purse and the Council’s delivery aims for the site."

Options for the Council funding the project include undergoing a full re-procurement but the authority says that this "would result in considerable delay to delivery, and the very high risk that scheme could not proceed at the current tendered price." Similarly, a reduced procurement route "would not allow an alternative developer a reasonable opportunity to assemble and agree the components necessary for the scheme to be costed and delivered."

Another discounted option would be to adjust the terms of the development funding agreement with the funder through, for example, extending the term of the head-lease or increasing the initial head-lease rent.

A direct award to Muse looks to be the desired option, indicated by recently published tender documents.

The council is using a Voluntary Ex-Ante Transparency Notice (VEAT) to allow the market to challenge the decision to issue a contract to Muse without first having published a tender notice.

Forge Island website

Images: Muse / RMBC

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News: The restaurants signed up for Forge Island scheme

Four new food brands have signed lease contracts on the Forge Island development in Rotherham town centre.

Urban regeneration developer, Muse, has struck a triple-header deal with Thistle Group which will transform the area into a food destination.

First up is Casa Peri Peri, which will bring its own style of Portuguese and Southern African cuisine, created by Masterchef star, Bobby Geetha.

Estabulo Rodizio/Sakku Samba is a dual-branded concept honouring the Gaucho style of cooking while at the same time celebrating a fusion of Japanese-Brazilian cuisine. It will be the first time that the two concepts are brought together under one roof.

Caffé Noor completes the pack and is a luxury coffee shop with a difference. 50% of all its profits will be donated to local community organisations to support vulnerable people.

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Boutique cinema operator, The Arc, and national hotel chain, Travelodge, have previously signed up to anchor Forge Island and construction expected to start on site this October.

The new Forge Island will be set within a public square with a new pedestrian bridge connecting the scheme to the wider town centre.

Raife Gale, senior development manager at Muse, said: “We’re all about bringing choice and social purpose to the towns and cities we work in. Bringing these four brands to Forge Island demonstrates what we’re looking to achieve here, and we can’t wait to get on site in October.

“Working with the council, we’re creating a brand-new restaurant and leisure offer for Rotherham.

“Together, we’re driving inward investment and growth to support the local economy, providing opportunities for local people which will hopefully kickstart further investment and development in the town.”

Rotherham Council’s cabinet member for jobs and the local economy, Councillor Denise Lelliott, added: “We are pleased to be welcoming these new food establishments to the flagship Forge Island development which will provide a unique and exciting experience for residents and visitors.

“It is an exciting time for Rotherham as we see our regeneration works begin to take shape.”

Rotherham Council's cabinet is due to meet on October 17 where it will decide how to fund the scheme. Members will "choose from the full range of options for delivery including further supplementing or replacing what was expected to be privately raised capital with the Council’s own borrowing and capital resources."

Forge Island website
Casa Peri Peri website
Estabulo website
Sakku Samba website
Cafe Noor website

Images: Estabulo

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