News: More Millmoor memorabilia is being saved, demolition company confirm

As demolition work continues on the historic former home of Rotherham United, parts of the old football stadium are being carefully saved.

Rothbiz revealed in May that new owners, the Ron Hull Group, planned to demolish parts of Millmoor with plans explaining the poor condition and the "long term lack of a viable user" of the stadium that last hosted league football almost 20 years ago.

A second set of plans regarding the method of demolition were approved last month as work got underway on the stadium that has its origins dating back to 1890.

Contractors, Demex - part of the Ron Hull Group - have confirmed that memorabilia, seating, signage, turnstiles and the Derek Dalton Clock are being saved as they take down the stands, related buildings and lighting columns.

Demex said in a statement: "We understand that Millmoor holds a huge amount of history and sentimental value for the people of Rotherham, particularly the generations of supporters who have memories of watching Rotherham United here.

"A great deal of thought and consideration has gone into exploring what could be done to preserve the stadium and give it a new purpose, rather than seeing it demolished. However, after carefully considering the options available, demolition was ultimately the only viable way forward for the site.

Advertisement


"Memorabilia, seating, signage, turnstiles and the Derek Dalton Clock are all being carefully saved for reuse, donation and preservation, helping to ensure that important pieces of Millmoor’s story live on.

"For us, this isn’t simply about taking a building down. It’s about handling a significant piece of Rotherham’s history with the care and respect it deserves, while helping create the opportunity for something new in its place.

"It’s a significant project for Rotherham, and one we’re proud to be delivering as part of the team."

Rotherham United confirmed last week that the iconic Derek Dalton Clock has been returned to the football club following its removal from Millmoor.

A Millers superfan, Derek, who died aged 45 in 1993, was struck down with polio at the age of two, and did a lot for putting Rotherham United on the map. He won the Shoot Magazine Fan of the Year in 1983 and during a Royal visit, presented The Queen with a Rotherham United pennant.

Discussions are ongoing regarding any necessary refurbishment works that may need to be undertaken to restore Derek’s clock to its former glory and further conversations are taking place internally to establish where the most suitable location is at the AESSEAL New York Stadium.

The clock's short journey from Millmoor to the New York Stadium was not without its problems. More Bees Please, a local business dedicated to sustainability and the preservation of bees, was called in when it was discovered that a hive of honey bees had taken up home behind the clock. The experts were able to relocate the comb and colony.

Ron Hull website
RUFC website
More Bees Please website

Images: More Bees Please / RUFC

Read more...

News: Demolition work starts at Millmoor as plans approved for remaining stands

The new owners of Millmoor now have planning approval to demolish all of the structures at the historic home of Rotherham United.

Rothbiz revealed in May that the Ron Hull Group planned to demolish parts of Millmoor with plans explaining the poor condition and the "long term lack of a viable user" of the stadium that last hosted league football almost 20 years ago.

A second set of plans regarding the method of demolition were submitted in July.

Now both sets of plans have been approved, and contractors, Demex - part of the Ron Hull Group - have got to work on the stadium that has its origins dating back to 1890.

The applicants say that the priority to demolish is: The incomplete main stand, Tivoli, Admin building, and Tivoli stand first, followed by the terrace, uncovered stand and Part Millmoor Lane stand and lighting columns.

The second set of plans relates to the demolition of the rest of the Millmoor Lane covered stand, the Railway End stand and a maintenance building in the corner of the ground.

Advertisement
Approving the plans, Rotherham Council has given applicants five years to carry out the demolition.

Ron Hull Group, the new owners of CF Booth Ltd, took on the old football ground when it acquired the assets of the historic Rotherham firm that had entered administration.

Demex, acquired as part of the deal for CF Booth Ltd, was also the contractor that demolished the Don Valley Stadium in Sheffield - the temporary home of The Millers from 2008 to 2012.

The owners are working with local Rotherham firm, Eton Construction, on plans for the area - the 35-acre site that includes the ground and the large Booth operations at the Clarence Works at Armer Street in Masbrough.

It remains to be seen what will happen to the pitch, famed for its quality in league football.

The plans add: "All the proposed buildings to be demolished will be taken down to the ground slabs. The ground slabs will be removed and the site tidied and left in a state where redevelopment will be possible. The client does intend to redevelop the site at a future date."

Despite its history, and the association with The Millers and their fans, Millmooor is not a listed building, or recognised on the South Yorkshire Local Heritage List. Owners generally have permitted development rights regarding the demolition of buildings they own but are often required to get prior approval from the local council.

In the borough's 2018 local plan, the stadium and surrounding area was allocated as a Mixed Use Area. It added: "The area remains appropriate for a mix of uses include business use (excluding offices), housing, residential and non residential institutions and assembly and leisure uses."

Ron Hull website

Images: Tom Austen

Read more...

News: Second set of Millmoor plans sees all stands and buildings demolished at Rotherham United's former home

Having secured planning approval to knock down large parts of the historic football stadium in Rotherham, the new owners of Millmoor have applied to do the same to the rest of the structures.

Rothbiz revealed in May that the Ron Hull Group planned to demolish parts of Millmoor due to it’s poor condition and the "long term lack of a viable user."

Planning approval was secured for the method of demolition at Millmoor for the incomplete main stand, Tivoli, Admin building, and Tivoli stand first, followed by the terrace, uncovered stand and part of the Millmoor Lane stand, lighting columns and then the other associated buildings.

Now a second application looks to secure approval for the method of demolition for the rest of the Millmoor Lane covered stand, the Railway End stand and a maintenance building in the corner of the ground. All floodlighting columns, and other football associated buildings would be flattened, as would related grassed areas.

Ron Hull Group, the new owners of CF Booth Ltd, took on the old football ground when it acquired the assets of the historic Rotherham firm that had entered administration.

The owners are working with local Rotherham firm, Eton Construction, on plans for the area - the 35-acre site that includes the ground and the large Booth operations at the Clarence Works at Armer Street in Masbrough.

Advertisement
The latest plans state: "The maintenance building is a reinforce concrete frame stucture [sic] with solid brickwork infill panels, steel beams supporting the metal clad roof structure. From appearance it seems to have been constructed in the 1950- 60's. Due to the possible changing nature and use of the site this building may become surplus to requirements with regard to any proposed future use of the site.

"The covered Millmoor Lane football stand (Stand 'D') has stepped concrete ground slab with steel framed structures above with asbestos roof cladding , and is now showing signs of neglect and disrepair as a result of having not being maintained since the football clubs relocation. There is no protection from falls to the rear of the stand either.

"The Railway End (Stand ' E' ) was the away fans section where over 2,000 fans were accommodated. This end is covered and all seated. The only access being via the narrow alleyway to the rear from Millmoor Lane .This stand has a stepped concrete ground slab with steel framed structures above with asbestos roof and wall cladding , all are now showing signs of neglect and disrepair as a result of having not being maintained since the football club's relocation."

It remains to be seen what will happen to the pitch, famed for its quality in league football.

The plans add: "All the proposed buildings to be demolished will be taken down to the ground slabs. The ground slabs will be removed and the site tidied and left in a state where redevelopment will be possible. The client does intend to redevelop the site at a future date."

Despite its origins dating back to 1890, and the association with The Millers and their fans, Millmooor is not a listed building, or recognised on the South Yorkshire Local Heritage List. Owners generally have permitted development rights regarding the demolition of buildings they own but are often required to get prior approval from the local council.

Ron Hull Group website

Images: Ron Hull / Eton Construction

Read more...

News: AESSEAL extend Rotherham United stadium naming rights deal

Rotherham manufacturer, AESSEAL, has extended its partnership agreement for the stadium naming rights at Rotherham United.

With global headquarters at Templeborough, AESSEAL manufactures seals to stop leakage of harmful liquids and gases into the environment for a wide range of industries, including oil and gas, food, water, mining and pharmaceuticals.

The £20m home of Rotherham United was first called The AESSEAL New York Stadium in 2014. The substantial deal worth six figures was signed two years after the stadium opened on the edge of Rotherham town centre.

With one year remaining on the previous five-year agreement, the AESSEAL New York Stadium name will continue until the end of the 2029/30 season.

Chris Rea, managing director at AESSEAL, said: “We are delighted to extend our long-standing association with Rotherham United Football Club and the AESSEAL New York Stadium.

"Over more than a decade, we have built a strong relationship with the club, which in turn benefits the wider Rotherham community.

“The stadium is home to a range of businesses and supports many more across the town, with local trade driven both directly through the club and on matchdays. Some of those may well not be here but for the existence of the club, which has played a vital part in the fabric of Rotherham life since its formation in 1925.

“We were proud to become the club’s first stadium sponsor in 2014, and we remain equally proud to continue that commitment through to the end of the 2029/30 season.”

AESSEAL recognises that Rotherham United could receive a more financially attractive offer from another company and, if that occurs, has told the club it would be willing to step aside.

Advertisement
Steve Coakley, Commercial Director at Rotherham United, said: "We remain massively thankful to Chris Rea, and all colleagues across the AESSEAL Group, for the incredible support and belief afforded to us and the wider Rotherham community.

“We enjoy such a strong relationship, full of admiration and pride, as to what has been achieved both at AESSEAL and for the strength of shared values that have developed for well over a decade.

“The extended stadium naming agreement comes in addition to AESSEAL’s recent commitment to remain a Diamond Partner for the 2026/2027 season, the fourth consecutive year - a collaboration between five local businesses that enables the Rotherham Hospice name and logo to appear in pride of place on the front of shirt position.

“AESSEAL is such a unique success story, having started right here in Rotherham on Mangham Road back in 1979 with just five members of staff.

“Their incredible growth since then now sees them employ over 2,000 people within 108 locations, covering Europe, North and South America, Africa, Asia and with bases on all four sides of Australia, serving more than 100 countries.

“It is now one of the world’s leading specialists in the design and manufacture of mechanical seals and support systems and has experienced an incredible 47 years of continuous growth.

“AESSEAL’s reputation in business has been hard-earned and is one that speaks for itself, but it has been really pleasing to see that now translate into the footballing world, in which people immediately associate their name with our first team home.”

RUFC website
AESSEAL website

Images: RUFC

Read more...

News: Millmoor demolition plans approved

The new owners of Millmoor in Rotherham will be able to knock down large parts of the historic football stadium after Rotherham Council approved the method of demolition.

Rothbiz revealed last month that plans had been submitted with the Ron Hull Group stating that it planned to demolish parts of Millmoor due to it’s poor condition and the "long term lack of a viable user."

The works will see the site "left in a state where redevelopment will be possible at a future date."

Ron Hull Group, the new owners of CF Booth Ltd, took on the old football ground when it acquired the assets of the historic Rotherham firm that had entered administration.

The owners are working with local Rotherham firm, Eton Construction, on plans for the area - the 35-acre site that includes the ground and the large Booth operations at the Clarence Works at Armer Street in Masbrough.

The priority is to demolish the incomplete main stand, Tivoli, Admin building, and Tivoli stand first, followed by the terrace, uncovered stand and part of the Millmoor Lane stand, lighting columns and then the other associated buildings.

Construction of a new Main Stand started in approx. 2005 and was intended to replace the earlier timber stand, but work ceased in late 2007 leaving the stand incomplete, resulting in the steel structure being left open to the elements. Applicants say that a lot of work would be needed to enable construction work to continue, all of which would be uneconomic given there is no use or future use for this structure. They add that it is unsafe to leave the stand in its current unfinished state.

Advertisement
The Tivoli Stand, Millmoor Lane Stand (part), Uncovered Stand, and Terrace all have stepped concrete slabs with steel framed structures above with asbestos cladding, and all are now showing signs of neglect and disrepair as a result of having not being maintained since the football club’s relocation.

The 1950's admin building has a flat roof which has failed allowing moisture into the structure causing considerable damage.

The Tivoli with accommodation over is a 1960's building laterly used as a nightclub. This is also showing signs of disrepair and decay due to moisture ingress from the flat roofs.

The 70's press box is in a state of disrepair and showing signs of general decay due to a lack of general maintenance, whilst the floodlights are showing signs of decay, effecting possible safety.

Approving the method of demolition, Rotherham Council planners said: "None of the buildings or structures mentioned above have had any maintenance carried out on them for some considerable time, and especially so since the relocation of Rotherham United Football Club in 2007, when the ground became vacant with little further use. As a result, all the buildings are showing signs of disrepair and showing signs of general structural decay. The buildings and structures are proposed to be demolished, and future development of the site will then be considered."

The full demolition of the buildings and structures is expected to take approximately four months with the materials being processed within the Ron Hull Group.

The buildings will generally be demolished by tracked demolition machinery, equipped with demolition shear and selecta grab attachments. This is considered to be acceptable and will not cause any nuisance or long term disturbance to the neighbouring structures.

Planners add: "Furthermore, the current proposed restoration of the site is considered acceptable as it will allow for the site to be used in the future for development."

Ron Hull Group website

Images: Google Maps / Ron Hull / Eton Construction

Read more...

News: Why is demolition planned for Millmoor and what is the future of the former home of Rotherham United?

The new owners of Millmoor are looking to regenerate the site.

Rothbiz revealed first that a planning application had been submitted reagrding the demolition of what remains of the stadium that was previously home to Rotherham United.

Ron Hull Group, the new owners of CF Booth Ltd, took on the old football ground when it acquired the assests of the historic Rotherham firm that had entered administration.

The owners are working with local Rotherham firm, Eton Construction, on plans for the area - the 35-acre site that includes the ground and the large Booth operations at the Clarence Works at Armer Street in Masbrough.

The new owners said in a statement: "Ron Hull Group, are to demolish parts of the Millmoor Football Ground due to it’s poor condition. But there is no getting away from the fact that the football club now has a new home at the NEW York Stadium, and this ground has been vacant and under used since the club left.

"The buildings and structures selected in the current application to demolish are all in a poor condition due to years of neglect and are suffering from a general lack of maintenance, specifically elements like roof finishes and the structures themselves. It is assumed this situation accelerated in the period since Rotherham United Football Club vacated the site.

"The current main stand is only partially completed, and has been exposed to the elements since at least 2007. The high cost of repair, yet alone proceed to complete this stand would be excessive given that there are very limited numbers of possible users of the ground. Thus meaning it is unbuyable.

Advertisement
"As stated in the application the Tivoli entertainment space, with its living accommodation over are in a high state of disrepair, the accommodation having being vandalised and a lack of roof maintenance has allowed water into the building and building structure causing decay and partial collapse due to long term exposure to this water. This is a similar situation with the Press Box / Police Office.

"The Tivoli Stand and part of the Millmoor Lane Stand are all clad in asbestos sheeting, which is beginning to breakdown / dislodge in places, all showing signs of decay due to a general lack of maintenance. The same lack of repair and general up keep is also true for the uncovered area and lighting columns. The condition of these parts of the ground, and the long term lack of a viable user for the ground is what has lead to their inclusion within the current demolition application.

"So at present the priority / order to demolish is : The incomplete main stand, Tivoli, Admin building, and Tivoli stand first, followed by the terrace, uncovered stand and Part Millmoor Lane stand , lighting columns and then the other associated building stated in application. As this process is at its very early stages. some decisions are still to be made, at present no decision has been made about the pitch, and the remaining stands which are not included in the current demolition application. There condition will be assessed, and any future use considered if it is viable, or demolition if necessary.

"Ron Hull Group, are looking to regenerate the site, but no decision has yet been made at this point."

With regard to the future of the site, the scrap yard was allocated as Industrial & Business Use in the borough's 2018 local plan. The stadium and surrounding area was allocated as a Mixed Use Area.

The listing from 2018 stated: "The area remains suitable for a mix of uses and lies adjacent to the football stadium vacated when Rotherham United moved to their new ground. The car park has an extant temporary B8 storage plannig [sic] permission. As such it is proposed that the mixed use area is extended to include the former stadium and car park. The area remains appropriate for a mix of uses include business use (excluding offices), housing, residential and non residential institutions and assembly and leisure uses." A recommendation was made to retain the mixed use area and extend it to include the community allocation use covering the adjacent football ground.

Millmoor was featured in the recent draft of Rotherham's new playing pitch strategy. It is described as having "one good quality adult pitch that has spare capacity of 0.5 match equivalent sessions per week discounted due to unsecure tenure."

The strategy recommended low priority actions that would sustain the pitch quality and that long-term agreement is sought between the landowner and its site users to establish actual spare capacity for clubs.

Ron Hull website

Images: RUFC /

Read more...

News: Millmoor no more? Demolition plans for historic Rotherham United football stadium

It is getting on for 20 years since the last league game at Millmoor, the "spiritual home of Rotherham United," but the next fixture at the abandoned stadium could be a date with the wrecking ball.

Ron Hull Group said that it planned to demolish parts of the Millmoor Football Ground due to it’s poor condition and the "long term lack of a viable user".

Ron Hull Group, the new owners of CF Booth Ltd, took on the old football ground when it acquired the assests of the historic Rotherham firm that had entered administration.

Rothbiz reported last month that, having taken over the Clarence Works at Armer Street in Masbrough, Ron Hull has been assessing the buildings on the site, with many found to be in a state of disrepair. The company has engaged with the local planning authority, Rotherham Council, over the method of demolition for buildings on the site.

Now a similar planning application has been submitted for the football stadium which sits on the 35-acre site, alongside the huge scrap yard.

The application is "to determine whether prior approval is required of the method of demolition and restoration of the site re:- demolition of Admin Building, Tivoli club with accommodation over, Press Box, incomplete main stand, Tivoli Stand, Terrace and Uncovered Stand, part of Millmoor Lane stand, All pitch lighting columns, and other football associated buildings."

Despite its origins dating back to 1890, and the association with The Millers and their fans, Millmooor is not a listed building, or recognised on the South Yorkshire Local Heritage List. Owners generally have permitted development rights regarding the demolition of buildings they own but are often required to get prior approval from the local council.

Applicants say that some decisions are still to be made. At present no decision has been made about the pitch and the remaining stands which are not included in the current demolition application.

Advertisement
A statement on behalf of the Ron Hull Group, said: "The buildings and structures selected in the current application to demolish are all in a poor condition due to years of neglect and are suffering from a general lack of maintenance, specifically elements like roof finishes and the structures themselves. It is assumed this situation accelerated in the period since Rotherham United football Club vacated the site.

"The current main stand is only partially completed, and has been exposed to the elements since at least 2007. The high cost of repair, yet alone proceed to complete this stand would be excessive given that there are very limited numbers of possible users of the ground. Thus meaning it is unbuyable."

Rotherham Church Institute played at MIllmoor in the Sheffield Association League in 1890. Rotherham County obtained a lease at Millmoor from the Midland Railway Company in 1907 and scores of volunteers and donors were drafted in to help build a stadium for league football. When the Football League was resumed in 1919, Rotherham County applied successfully to join for the first time while Rotherham Town's application was turned down. The first league game took place at Millmoor as County beat Nottingham Forest 2-0 in August 1919.

County and Town combined and Rotherham United was officially born on May 27, 1925. Millmoor was Rotherham United's home until the last game in 2008. It hosted the first Football League Cup in 1961 and even top flight rugby.

Rotherham United fell into administration for the second time in 2008 having previously been owned by the Booth family, owners of Millmoor and the large scrap business that surrounds it.

Local businessman Tony Stewart of ASD Lighting brought the club out of administration via a Creditors Voluntary Agreement but then came the decision to play home games at the now demolished Don Valley Stadium in Sheffield, after working hard to get a deal to carry on playing at Millmoor.

The club was charged with returning to play home games in its home town within four seasons by the Football League and the £20m AESSEAL New York Stadium, on the edge of Rotherham town centre and in view of Millmoor, hosted its first Millers game in 2012.

The Millmoor ground, famed for the quality of the playing surface and its compact size that often created a raucous atmosphere. was never glamorous and lacked many of the features of modern stadia. Since 2008 it is not exactly a "ghost ground" as it has been used for kickabouts, charity games and youth football.

In 2011 talks between Rotherham Rugby Club, Rotherham Council and CF Booth Ltd came to an end with the Rotherham Titans unable to stage home games at Millmoor again after "a commercially viable solution could not be found."

Last year Rothbiz reported that Doncaster Rovers Belles had arranged to play home games at Millmoor but they were forced to return to their nomadic existence before the end of the season.

Ron Hull Group website

Images: Google Maps / DRFC

Read more...

News: Rotherham United's latest accounts published as losses increase

Playing in League One following relegation from The Championship meant that Rotherham United received £6.7m less in central funding, contributing to a loss before tax of £4.65m.

Published accounts for the year ending June 2025 show that the loss of £4.65m is larger than previous years. Having made a loss before tax of £1.1m in the year when the club beat the odds to stay in the second tier, in 23/24 the overall operating losses increased to £1.7m in the relegation year, despite a rise in income.

League clubs receive central distributions from the Football League and a solidarity payment from the Premier League. In the Championship, the Millers received £9.2m, but in League One, this dropped 59% to £2.5m.

Income from player trading was down 89% from £2.5m in 2024 to £270,000 in 2025. 2024 sales included Oliver Rathbone and Peter Kioso and potentially payments from the earlier exits of Viktor Johansson and Ben Wiles.

Despite a drop in divisions, and lower average attendances (9,328 in 2025 and 10,677 in 2024) and season ticket sales (6,668 in 2025 and 7,225 in 2024), the club reported an increase in "match income and season tickets", which went from £2.8m in 2024 to £3.8m in 2025.

The increase is despite Key Performance Indicators for the Football League showing reductions in Match Day Income (£909,000 from £1.1m), income from Season Tickets (£1,6m from £1,7m) and Total Match Receipts (£2.5m from £2.8m). Season ticket prices for 2025/26 underwent an increase, as did individual match tickets.

Money from sponsorships was reduced with commercial income down from £3.2m to £3m. Wages and salaries (which includes playing and non-playing staff) went from £11.4m to £7,6m.

The income and expenditure lead to total turnover of £10.5m – a figure that stood at £19.2m in 2024.

Advertisement
The club said in an earlier statement that it had taken measures to reduce costs and stabilise operations, with a clear focus on sustainability and responsible financial management.

The accounts have again highlighted the importance of sponsors, primarily the fellow subsidiary company, ASD Lighting PLC, who have continued to provide £1m in sponsorship.

The accounts also confirmed that the club is being charged £1m in annual rent from RU Estates Ltd, the company set up by the Stewart family when the AESSEAL New York Stadium was built.

Rothbiz reported at the start of the year that the latest accounts of ASD Lighting PLC had "included within debtors was £9,467,811 (2024: £5,204,737) due from Rotherham United Football Club (RUFC) Limited. The outstanding balance is repayable on demand."

Last month. Tony Stewart OBE, ceased to be the largest share owner in the holding company that sits above ASD Lighting and Rotherham United with the founder of the lighting business, and saviour of the football club, transferring his shareholding to his son.

Richard Stewart, managing director of ASD and vice chairman at Rotherham United saw his shareholding in ASD Lighting Holdings Ltd increase from 5% to 100%.

In an update, the League One club said that Richard Stewart "therefore indirectly holds 97.06% of the shares in Rotherham United Football Club."

RUFC website

Images: RUFC

Read more...

News: Championship relegation for Rotherham United takes £10.5m off turnover

Rotherham United Football Club has released a statement over its financial results for the year ended June 2025 - the season back in League One following relegation from The Championship.

For the second consecutive year, the proactive move comes before the results are published with Companies House.

A statement from The Millers said: "Following our relegation from the Sky Bet Championship at the end of the 2023/24 campaign, the club has faced various challenges, the headline of which has undoubtedly been its turnover being reduced to £10.5m – a figure that stood at £19.2m in 2024.

"Among other aspects, this number was reflective of lower central distributions and player trading income associated with our position in the third tier.

"Despite the necessary adjustments being made to ensure a competitive first team playing budget for the 2024/25 campaign, the Club reported a loss before tax of £4.65m as we adapted to operating at League One level and the revenue streams associated with it."

The loss of £4.65m is larger than previous years. Having made a loss before tax of £1.1m in the year when the club beat the odds to stay in the second tier, in 23/24 the overall operating losses increased to £1.7m in the relegation year, despite a rise in income.

The club said it had taken measures to reduce costs and stabilise operations, with a clear focus on sustainability and responsible financial management.

Advertisement
The statement added: "It has been well-documented throughout the football world that costs associated with the running of clubs continue to rise, but we remain committed to our promise that any and all decisions reached by our Chairman and Board must be made with the sustainability and long-term future of Rotherham United at the forefront.

"Our Commercial department continues to successfully support the generation of revenue and currently operates among the most proficient in Sky Bet League One, whilst also maintaining the integrity of the club’s core values through its involvement in the charitable sector and ongoing work alongside companies with principles that mirror our own.

"As we look to the future, our focus remains centred on rebuilding with purpose, striving to be better in every aspect within the club and delivering a product to supporters both on and off the pitch that they can be proud of."

Published accounts have highlighted the importance of sponsors, primarily the fellow subsidiary company, ASD Lighting PLC, who have continued to provide £1m in sponsorship.

Rothbiz reported at the start of the year that the latest accounts of ASD Lighting PLC had "included within debtors was £9,467,811 (2024: £5,204,737) due from Rotherham United Football Club (RUFC) Limited. The outstanding balance is repayable on demand."

Just last week, the Millers completed a rights issue which has converted £550,005 of existing debt into equity.

It also announced that Richard Stewart, managing director of ASD and vice chairman at Rotherham United, has seen his shareholding in the holding company, ASD Lighting Holdings Ltd, increase from 5% to 100%.

The son of ASD founder and RUFC chairman, Tony Stewart, Richard "therefore indirectly holds 97.06% of the shares in Rotherham United Football Club."

The club said that the changes were administrative in nature with Tony remaining as chairman of Rotherham United and Richard as vice chairman.

RUFC website

Images: RUFC

Read more...

News: ASD MD becomes Rotherham United's largest shareholder

Tony Stewart OBE, has ceased to be the largest share owner in the holding company that sits above ASD Lighting and Rotherham United.

The founder of the lighting business, and saviour of the football club, has transferred his shareholding to his son.

Richard Stewart, managing director of ASD and vice chairman at Rotherham United has seen his shareholding in ASD Lighting Holdings Ltd increase from 5% to 100%.

In an update, the League One club said that Richard Stewart "therefore indirectly holds 97.06% of the shares in Rotherham United Football Club.

"These changes are administrative in nature and ensure a clear ownership structure for the Club going forward.

"A. R. [Tony] Stewart will remain Chairman of Rotherham United Football Club, while R. P. Stewart will continue as Vice Chairman. Both remain fully committed to the Club and its long-term future.

"All of the aforementioned changes will be reflected on HMRC’s Companies House.

"The Board would like to thank supporters for their continued backing as the Club moves forward with a strengthened financial position and a clear ownership structure."

Advertisement
The club also announced that it had completed a rights issue which has converted £550,005 of existing debt into equity. The update added: "This strengthens the Club’s balance sheet and reflects the continued commitment of the Club’s ownership to supporting Rotherham United’s long-term financial stability."

Many EFL clubs convert existing debt into equity to stabilise balance sheets and comply with Profitability and Sustainability rules.

Rothbiz reported at the start of the year that the latest accounts of fellow subsidiary ASD Lighting PLC had "included within debtors was £9,467,811 (2024: £5,204,737) due from Rotherham United Football Club (RUFC) Limited. The outstanding balance is repayable on demand."

The figure has risen from £929,150 in 2023.

Tony Stewart, who turns 81 this year, was one of a number of business people invited to the Town Hall with the aim of finding a way of resurrecting the borough's football league club after it fell into administration for the second time in 2008. He ended up going it alone and brought them out of administration via a Creditors Voluntary Agreement (CVA).

After the takeover came the decision to play home games at the now demolished Don Valley Stadium in Sheffield, after working hard to get a deal to carry on playing at Millmoor, the club's home for over 100 years.

The club was charged with returning to play home games in its home town within four seasons by the Football League and Stewart, with the backing of his directors at ASD and the club, threw his drive, energy, business sense and money into creating the £20m New York Stadium on the edge of Rotherham town centre.

The iconic stadium hosted its first game in July 2012 and under Tony's tenure the club has enjoyed promotions, Play-off final victories and cup wins at Wembley Stadium, plus a number of relegations, in a period of sensible financial management not always replicated across the league.

ASD Lighting website
RUFC website

Images: RUFC

Read more...

News: Rotherham Hospice appoints new ambassadors

Four leading local figures have joined Rotherham Hospice as ambassadors.

Phil Smith, Scott Thorpe, Jamie Sharp and Allie Dransfield are helping the hospice on Broom Road raise awareness, inspire fundraising and keep hospice care firmly in the heart of our community.

As an independent charity, Rotherham Hospice relies on community support to continue providing personalised, compassionate end of life care. It costs £10.2m each year to run our services. Just 37% of that is funded, meaning it must raise £6.6m every year to continue supporting local people.

Rotherham-born and raised, Phil Smith has built an internationally successful career in banking, investment management and technology. Recently appointed Independent Non-Executive Director at Rotherham United, Phil has long been a passionate supporter of both the football club and the town it represents.

His connection to the hospice, however, is deeply personal.

“I’ve had three family members come through the hospice over the last 20 years,” Phil said. “Every single time, they did something for the family that was quite important.

“I think treating people in palliative care is probably the most important thing you can do in society. It’s not just about the person in care, it’s about the family around them who are feeling the grief and loss. There’s nothing else that could beat it.”

Scott Thorpe, CEO of TMG Mortgage Network, has already demonstrated his commitment to the hospice through transformative partnerships — including gifting the naming rights of Parkgate FC’s ground to create the Rotherham Hospice Community Stadium.

A proud Rotherham lad, Scott sees the role as a natural extension of his community work.

“It’s about giving back,” he said. “We’ve had staff who’ve been through the hospice experience. It means everything to the town. We’ve all got to look after the families and people around us.”

Beyond fundraising, Scott hopes to use his business expertise to support the hospice’s long-term sustainability. “Raise loads of money, but ultimately awareness — and how we in business can help guide the way the hospice raises money.”

Jamie Sharp, Business Manager at MTL Advanced, has supported Rotherham Hospice for many years through corporate partnerships and hands-on community projects.

Most recently, MTL Advanced apprentices manufactured hundreds of steel feathers for the hospice’s Feather Appeal at Wentworth Woodhouse — demonstrating the power of skills, craftsmanship and compassion working together.

“I was fortunate not to have a personal connection through loss at first — it was through business,” Jamie explained. “But once you understand what the hospice is about and how it supports families, you just carry on helping.”

For Jamie, the ambassador role is also about education and legacy. “It’s been great getting younger apprentices involved and helping them understand what a hospice is and does. Through the company, we want to continue generating revenue and media exposure to support the hospice.”

Allie is head of agency at Chapter II – a leading PR, marketing, design and videography agency based in Sheffield.

Born and raised in Rotherham, Allie’s connection to the hospice runs deep. From fundraising as a young dancer in annual shows organised by her dance teacher, Miss Wendy Hewitt, to supporting the hospice lottery through her family, the charity has always been part of her life.

Allie said: “I am truly honoured to become an ambassador. As someone born and raised in the town, and a long-standing supporter of the hospice, this charity means a great deal to me personally.

"Having seen first-hand the incredible difference the hospice makes within our community, I am proud to use my voice to help raise awareness, champion its fundraising efforts, and ensure it can continue delivering its vital work across Rotherham for generations to come.”

Rotherham Hospice website

Images: Rotherham Hospice

Read more...

News: Community united at stadium to launch "Rotherham Day"

A new annual celebration designed to showcase the very best of Rotherham is gathering momentum, with businesses, schools, charities and community leaders recently coming together at the AESSEAL New York Stadium to launch the town’s first official Rotherham Day.

Planned for Friday September 18, the initiative aims to bring the town together in a celebration of civic pride while recognising the people, organisations and businesses that help make Rotherham what it is today.

The idea is being spearheaded by local figure John Breckin, widely known as “Mr Rotherham”, alongside local businessman Scott Thorpe, founder of TMG Mortgage Network, and David Walker, Rotherham's School Games Organiser, with added support from a growing coalition of business and community groups and organisations across the borough.

Organisers say the day will focus on celebrating the town’s achievements, inspiring the next generation and strengthening the sense of pride among residents.

Events planned for the day include schools across the borough wearing red to show their support for the town, the continuation of the hugely successful Children’s Capital of Culture baton relay, a run to help support all local charities, which will then look to become a half marathon and full marathon to put the town on the map, and community events highlighting local charities, volunteers and businesses.

There are also plans for creative projects in schools, including a poetry initiative led by Year 9 students celebrating what Rotherham means to them with a book to published.

Advertisement
Organisers say the ambition is for Rotherham Day to become a long-term tradition that grows year on year.

Scott Thorpe said the goal was simple: “Rotherham has incredible people, successful businesses and a strong community spirit. This day is about bringing that together and putting the town firmly on the map, with blue chip companies now on board, we are convinced we can now put Rotherham Firmly on the map.

“We want people to celebrate where they’re from, recognise the achievements around them and create something that future generations can be proud of.”

John Breckin added: “There’s already fantastic work happening across Rotherham every day. Rotherham Day is about connecting all of that and creating a moment where the whole town comes together.

“If we can inspire young people, celebrate our volunteers and remind everyone what makes this place special, then we’ve achieved something important.”

Organisers hope the initiative will grow into a major annual event for the town, attracting widespread participation from schools, businesses and community groups.

Phil Smith, Non-Executive Director at Rotherham United, was at the launch event and talked about his start in life in Rotherham and his journey to the upper echelons in the global financial sector. He is convinced that the local community working together to talk up the town will encourage investors to take a closer look.

Rotherham Day could be the start, as Thorpe adds: "This isn’t just a celebration, it’s a statement: Rotherham is proud, ambitious and ready to put itself back on the map."

Anyone interested in supporting or getting involved with Rotherham Day can contact the organisers to find out more about upcoming plans and opportunities to take part.

Rotherham Day Linktree

Images: Rotherham Day

Read more...

News: Rotherham-born businessman brought on board at The Millers

Phil Smith has joined Rotherham United as a new Independent Non-Executive Director with a specific remit to examine how the club operates.

A lifelong Millers fan, Smith has had an incredibly successful career through a number of business ventures, most notably that of the technology solutions business, Embark Group, where he built a £42bn AuA (Assets Under Administration) platform, pension and investment business prior to its sale to the Lloyds Banking Group in a £390m deal in 2022.

RUFC Chairman Tony Stewart has brought the businessman on board to undertake a "thorough examination of the club’s strategic and day-to-day operations to provide us with an objective appraisal – and subsequent actions for both short and long-term projects – to help improve our fortunes both on and off the pitch."

The newly-created, unpaid, role will see him actively involved in all areas of the football club. Phil has a portfolio of other responsibilities, including as chair and in non-exec director roles at finance firms, from his base in London but is expected to spend considerable time at the club.

Smith, who has his roots in Kimberworth, has grown connections with the club in recent years through sponsorships including Embark, Defaqto and Prosper, which are set to continue, and through work with the Rotherham Hospice.

Advertisement
Phil Smith, Independent Non-Executive Director at Rotherham United told the club's YouTube channel: "It's a pleasure to be involved with Rotherham United in a more formal capacity. I've been following this club as a fan for 50-odd years. I've been a sponsor, box holder, and heavily involved in various elements commercially with people like Steve Coakley [ the club's Commercial Director] and indeed Tony. I've got to know the Stewart family very well over a number of years and, fundamentally, that's what brings me here. It's to help this football club maintain its position as what it really is, which is a championship-level club that needs to perform like a championship-level club. So I'm here to bring a little bit more oomph that we may have lost in recent weeks and to have fun with it and bring the energy back.

"This is a very, very well-run business that needs to enhance its sporting performance. To do that, we just need to get a bit sharper in a few areas. So I'm here to bring a different set of eyes to the mix, to bring some suggestions, a little bit of creativity, so that the net produces the performance that we need on the pitch and ticks the box that we're all here for, which is to create entertainment value for you."

Smith added that his independent status will enable him to challenge Tony Stewart and the operations side of the club.

He said: "Honest truth is we undershoot our potential a little bit on the commercial side. We have a great franchise; we've done wonders over the last 17 years of ownership under the Stewart family. We can do a lot more. It's remembering those base factors that we are what we are, which is we're a Championship club masquerading as a first division club.

"We've got great support in the local business community; we need to stretch that out to the national business community to get our bang for our buck. We need to show the value that we could create for sponsors. If you do that, you get a virtuous circle where fans are excited, players want to come and play for us, and people want to come in the ground and have the full package of entertainment, not just that on the pitch. That creates a flywheel where you grow the economic power of the club and you carry on pushing hard."

Rotherham United website

Images:

Read more...

News: Rotherham United's debt with ASD rises to over £9m

In the latest accounts of Rotherham-based manufacturing firm, ASD Lighting PLC, Rotherham United Football Club is listed as a debtor owing £9.4m, up from £5.2m in the previous year.

Both ASD Lighting PLC and Rotherham United have ASD Lighting Holding Limited as their parent company, connected by Tony Stewart, the founder of ASD Lighting and the man who saved the Millers in 2008. The businessman brought them out of administration and has overseen promotions, cup success and a move to a new stadium in town, at the same time as a period of sensible financial management, not something always shared by fellow league clubs.

Based on the Barbot Hall Industrial Estate, ASD Lighting has a reputation for innovation and quality and provides a range of products for domestic and commercial installations.

For the year ending June 30 2025, turnover was reported as £18m, down from £19.8m in the previous year. Sales to the UK were £15.8m (£17.9m in 2024), the rest of Europe £2.1m (£1.8m in 2024) and the rest of the world £0m (£0.1m in 2024). Included in the £2.1m to Europe were sales of £1.6m to ASD Lighting Europe Ltd set up to distribute and partner with customers in Europe.

Advertisement
Gross profit is reported at £6.4m, down from £7m. with the manufacturer highlighting that despite rising material, utility and labour costs, the gross profit margin remains strong at 36%, up from 35% in 2024.

Administration costs at £8m increased by 4% from £7.6m last year. The main increases being staff related costs which went up £300k to £6.6m despite employee numbers reducing by three to 159.

It meant that ASD posted an operating loss (before interest and tax) of £1.6m compared to a profit of £0.6m in the previous year. A loss after interest receivable and tax was £849k compared to a £276k profit in 2024.

Rothbiz has previously reported on Rotherham United's 2023/24 losses which highlighted that the club can continue to trade as a going concern "but it must continue to rely upon the support of sponsors, in particular its fellow subsidiary company ASD Lighting PLC to enable it to do so."

The accounts confirm that ASD Lighting continues to provide £1m in sponsorship and advertising to the football club each year.

Documents also show that "included within debtors was £9,467,811 (2024: £5,204,737) due from Rotherham United Football Club (RUFC) Limited. The outstanding balance is repayable on demand."

The figure has risen from £929,150 in 2023.

Also included in other debtors is an amount of £12,514,906 due from R U Estates Limited, a company of which Tony Stewart and son Richard are directors. This is thought to have been established when the AESSEAL New York Stadium was constructed.

The debt is split between £600,962 due within one year and £11,913,944 due after more than one year. This loan is unsecured and bore interest at 2% above base rate per annum until January 2021 when it began to bear interest at 1.15% above base rate and is repayable over nine years in instalments.

Rotherham United's accounts for the period are due to be published within the next few months.

ASD Lighting website
RUFC website

Images: ASD

Read more...

News: KCM Waste Management grow commercial commitment with Millers

Long-term supporters KCM Waste Management has extended its commercial agreement with Rotherham United.

KCM is a family-run waste management company based at the Barbot Hall Industrial Estate nad had seen their name become synonymous with the club since it moved to AESSEAL New York Stadium, where their branding has proudly adorned the North Stand since it opened in 2012.

In addition to that, the company headed up by Phil and Mark Hickling have also pledged their support to the next generation of Millers talent for over a decade, having also laid claim to the front of shirt sponsorship of the academy kit.

The extension of the stand sponsorship deals will run for a further three years while the Academy shirt agreement has once again been penned on a seasonal basis until the end of the 2025/26 campaign. KCM has also added the sponsorship of the South West Corner of AESSEAL New York Stadium to its portfolio of commercial projects which also includes sponsorship of the home dugout and the substitutions made by Matt Hamshaw on a matchday.

Advertisement
Mark Hitchens, Head of Commercial at Rotherham United, said: “It has and continues to be a pleasure to work with Phil and his staff at KCM Waste Management.

“It has been abundantly clear from the outset of us entering into business with them they are ardent supporters of the football club and, as a result, are always enquiring about new opportunities in which they might be able to offer their backing.

“You only need to look at the myriad of ways in which they are already involved with the Millers, which range from having their logo on the front of our young players’ shirts in the Academy to the association they have with the ‘Kop End’ at AESSEAL New York Stadium.

“They are another company we are immeasurably proud to be shouting about in our Centenary Year and we hope that we continue to enjoy the successful business relationship of today many years into the future.”

Phil Hickling, Managing Director of KCM Waste Management, added: “As a local business whose base is right here in Rotherham, we feel it to be vitally important that we show our support to the football club and we try to give back to the community wherever we can.

“The majority of our fanbase - and plenty of our customers - are lifelong Millers fans and it gives us immense pride to see the KCM branding atop the North Stand at AESSEAL New York Stadium. We hope that the exposure of those same visuals appearing on the South West corner will only amplify the message that we are huge supporters of Rotherham United.

“Whether it be on home matchdays or seeing our U18s in action – either live on pictured on the club website – it is fantastic to see the KCM Waste Management logo so closely connected to the club.

“It feels fitting to have committed to such a substantial business extension in the club’s Centenary Year and we are confident that we will continue to be successful together for many years to come.”

KCM Waste Management website
Rotherham United website

Images: RUFC

Read more...

News: Pie supplier fulfilling 50 years with Rotherham United

As Rotherham United celebrates its centenary year, another significant milestone has been cemented with the signing of a new sponsorship deal with long-serving club partners, Eric Twigg Foods & Pukka Pies.

A number of events are taking place celebrating 100 years of Rotherham United. Rotherham County and Rotherham Town agreed to amalgamate to become one club in 1925.

The deal with Eric Twigg Foods & Pukka Pies will mean that their name will continue to be carried by the West Stand at AESSEAL New York Stadium through a term that denotes an astonishing 50 consecutive years in partnership with the Millers.

The four-year commitment will run to 2030 and mean that Eric Twigg Foods & Pukka Pies have loyally sponsored the club for nearly half of its entire history without a break.

The Eric Twigg Foods name needs no introduction to Millers supporters, almost all of whom have enjoyed their matchday refreshments which have been synonymous with Rotherham United since the Parkgate firm entered into business with the club back in 1980.

As part of the newly-extended deal, their products will continue to be stocked by our the club's catering partners, Elior UK, throughout AESSEAL New York Stadium.

Advertisement
Rotherham United Commercial Director Steve Coakley said: “Eric Twigg Foods are absolutely a company who embody all of the characteristics which made their founder and our friend, Eric, so highly-revered here at Rotherham United.

“Not only do they operate a ‘can do’ attitude in every interaction we have with them, they are always looking to innovate and assist us in improving aspects of our catering provision.

“It is clear that the Millers mean as much to them as Eric Twigg Foods do to us and Matthew has done - and continues to do - a magnificent job in ensuring that his dad’s legacy both as a person and businessman is never forgotten.

“A business relationship which runs consecutively for half a century is beyond unique in the modern day and I believe that is a testament to how passionate Eric Twigg Foods are in their backing of Rotherham United.

“It is a genuine honour for us to extend this agreement up until a term that we should all be hugely proud of and it means a lot to us all here at the club that Eric’s name will continue to sit proudly on the West Stand for years to come.”

Eric Twigg Foods Managing Director Matt Twigg, added: “We are delighted to have agreed a deal which will notably see us celebrate 50 consecutive years in business with the Millers.

“From growing up going to the games on the terraces at Millmoor to being part of such a special commercial relationship with the club we support means the world to us and it serves as a poignant reminder to us all of how immensely proud we are of Dad, what he achieved in business and the person he was.

“So much about the club has changed throughout the close-to-half-century that we have been in business together, but at the same time, its values have remained consistent. While the people within the club have changed, everyone we have met and dealt with have had the personable and committed qualities that we’ve always felt represented by this football club and it has been a pleasure to meet so many fantastic people along the way.

“From the first season back in 1980 there has been a bond between Pukka Pies and Rotherham United supporters where we have always shared a loyalty for each other. I think that the relationship has been able to endure for such a long period because ultimately, we all want the same thing, and that is the very best for Rotherham United.

“It brings us great pride as a business and as a family to see Dad’s name proudly atop the West Stand at AESSEAL New York Stadium and we know that he would be honoured to know that it will remain there as our relationship with the Millers reaches the 50 year-mark.”

Eric Twigg Foods website
Rotherham United website

Images: Eric Twigg Foods

Read more...

News: Chamber Means Business celebrates record year

More than 500 business owners and delegates from across South Yorkshire came together to celebrate the power of collaboration, cultivate new business connections and discover how to tap into opportunities to work with the public sector at the sell-out Chamber Means Business Expo.

Hosted by Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber, and taking place at the AESSEAL New York Stadium, Chamber Means Business has firmly established itself as one of the most popular and successful business events of its kind. The event attracted a record number of delegates, and with the exhibition selling out in less than 24 hours, many of the businesses taking part went above and beyond the call of duty to stand out from the competition.

The power of networking was the theme of the day, and delegates were given the chance to take part in a special masterclass, learning how to make the most of networking opportunities. Hosted by Chamber Vice President Mark Smith, as well as featuring industry experts Hayley Koselogu, Phil Turner and Joada Allen, the seminar offered an insight into how to make the most of business networking, as well as sharing some of the secrets of their success.

Sponsored by KAT Communications, KCM Waste Management and EntrySign, the exhibition also gave delegates an exclusive preview of some of the opportunities available to local businesses offered by the re-opening of Doncaster Airport. Following the recent funding announcement, the airport aims to reinvest back into the local economy by engaging with local suppliers ahead of the planned re-opening.

The exhibition also provided opportunities to find out more about how goods and services are procured from key public sector partners including local authorities, education providers and the NHS.

The event also saw two longstanding members of Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber receive special ‘Salutes to Business’ awards in recognition of their time-honoured contribution to the regional economy. Rotherham-based training provider Whyy? Change celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2025, whilst Sheffield-based marketing company Objective Creative will mark its 15th anniversary. Both companies were presented with special certificates during the event.

Advertisement
Shane Young, Operations Director, Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber, said: “Business success rarely happens in isolation. It’s the result of collaborating with others, forging partnerships and building relationships. Chamber Means Business is often the first step in that journey and offers an insight into the strength and diversity of South Yorkshire’s local economy.

"From the minute the doors opened, the event was buzzing. Networking and collaboration was the theme of the day, and with a record number of delegates taking part, and with the exhibition selling out within less than 24 hours, Chamber Means Business offered something for everyone.  It was clear that many of those exhibiting at the show had spent a great deal of time in planning and preparing for the event – adding to the unique atmosphere.

"Finally, I would like to personally thank everyone who took part in the day, especially our sponsors, KAT Communications, KCM Recycling and EntrySign, as well as the chamber’s events team who worked tirelessly behind the scenes.”

Although a date is to be confirmed, Chamber Means Business will return in 2026.

Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber website

Images: BR Chamber

Read more...

News: Historic Rotherham football ground is now home to famous women's team

Millmoor football stadium in Rotherham has new tenants for this season - the Doncaster Rovers Belles.

The home of Rotherham United until 2008 was abandoned but has been used for charity games and youth football in recent years. It will welcome one of English women's football's most famous and successful clubs for the first "home" fixture on Sunday August 24.

Doncaster Belles were one of the founding members of the inaugural National Division in 1991, which they won twice, along with the FA Cup six times. Also a founding member of the Women's Super League (WSL) in 2011, the team has dropped down the leagues at the same time as women's professional football has grown.

The team, now part of Club Doncaster, the same organisation that owns the men's team, plays in Division One North - Tier 4 in the women's football pyramid.

Advertisement
Chris Wood, CEO of Doncaster Rovers Belles, said: "Our focus is simple - build a sustainable club that wins matches and makes Doncaster proud.

“In order to achieve those goals we need a stable home for the next two seasons, while we complete the upgrades to our long-term home at the Eco-Power Stadium main 3G pitch.

“Millmoor gives us that stability, with excellent facilities and strong transport links for welcoming in supporters, plus a rich history. Even as we work towards a permanent home, we cannot afford to stand still and I believe having the base at Millmoor will allow us to progress.

“It’s not a decision we’ve taken lightly. As always, we worked closely with supporters in making this choice. Understandably there were some concerns about playing outside Doncaster but the feedback was clear - given the alternatives, Millmoor was the best solution.

“Denaby served us well but lacks floodlights, Retford’s pitch was superb but travel was an issue for supporters and Thorne has infrastructure challenges. We explored the possibility of using the athletics stadium next to the Eco-Power Stadium but the cost of renovating the pitch to bring it up to standard would be significant and ultimately it is not our property.

“Millmoor stands out as the only venue that meets our needs and supports our ambition at this level.

“This move is temporary but allows us to keep growing our attendances, which are already among the highest in tier four. And it will allow us to give the players and fans the platform they deserve until we do return home.”

Rotherham United fell into administration for the second time in 2008 having previously been owned by the Booth family, owners of Millmoor and the large scrap business that surrounds it.

Local businessman Tony Stewart of ASD brought the club out of administration via a Creditors Voluntary Agreement but then came the decision to play home games at the now demolished Don Valley Stadium in Sheffield, after working hard to get a deal to carry on playing at Millmoor, the club's home for over 100 years.

The club was charged with returning to play home games in its home town within four seasons by the Football League and the £20m AESSEAL New York Stadium, on the edge of Rotherham town centre and in view of Millmoor, hosted its first Millers game in 2012.

Tier 5 Rotherham United Women currently play home games at Roundwood Sports Complex, the location for the men's training facilities.

Doncaster Rovers Belles website

Images: DRFC

Read more...

News: Guest & Chrimes hotel plans approved despite heritage concerns

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Images: Stewart Developments / stephenson hamilton risley STUDIO

Read more...