News: Whitestone - the £600m planned investment in Rotherham that would create just 39 long term jobs

Planning documents for one of the largest solar farms in the country have been published - all 159 of them.

Rothbiz reported last year on early stage plans being updated for Whitestone Solar Farm - a generating station with an estimated capacity of up to 750MW connecting to the National Grid Brinsworth Substation in Rotherham.

Whitestone has been given a cost estimate of between £500m and £600m. It is being promoted by Green Nation but operates under Net Zero One Ltd.

Initial consultation documents from Green Nation showed that vast areas of agricultural land in Rotherham and Doncaster, some safeguarded for the now-cancelled HS2 route, could make up the solar farm.

The northern site straddles the Rotherham and Doncaster border east of Hooton Roberts and north of Ravenfield.

Farmland adjacent to the M18 south of Bramley and Wickersley has also been identified to host thousands of solar panels, as has vast areas of fields either side of the M1 south of its junction with the M18. This includes sites near Ulley, Aston and Brampton, out towards North and South Anston, and the other way to land between Treeton and Whiston.

In the south of the borough, sites that are included in the proposed solar farm development are close to Kiveton Park, Harthill and Woodall.

Whitestone is classified as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP), which means that it is applying for a Development Consent Order (DCO) to authorise its construction, operation and decommissioning. The final decision on a DCO application will be made at the national level by the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero.

A three month pre-examination stage has now begun looking at the issues which will need to be discussed at the examination stage. This next stage is where the applicant, anyone who is registered to have their say, official bodies and people whose land is directly affected can comment on the proposed development or answer any of the questions at each deadline.

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Documents include numerous environmental statements on things like Landscape and Visual Impact (LVIA), contaminated land and transport, plus outline strategies for landscape and ecology management, surface water drainage and Public Right of Way (PROW) management.

However, much of the details are not yet known. Developers want to "maintain flexibility in the design" and instead specify parameter ranges, including details of the maximum, and minimum, size (footprint, width, and height, technology,) and locations of the different elements of the proposed development.

Plans also show that the developers are enacting a compulsory acquisition of land.

Applicants also say that they are proposing a large scheme due to its bulk generation potential and connection to the national grid that means that benefits are felt more widely. It discounts brownfield and rooftop sites due to thier unsuitability and related "ownership, occupation, and upkeep" issues.

On employment, planning documents say that: "During construction, it is anticipated that there would be 1,616 FTE jobs created as a result of direct, indirect and induced employment opportunities and that 538 of these would be from the local Study Area. Once operational, impacts on local labour market arising from operational and maintenance jobs would be more limited but still present, with 39 FTE direct, indirect and induced jobs created."

Promoters of the scheme, which they want to operate for 60 years, say that the proposed development is located on "grey belt land because the site does not strongly contribute to Green Belt purposes" but go on to say that "even if this position is not accepted, there are Very Special Circumstances that clearly outweigh any harm identified in terms of the five Green Belt purposes."

The applicants conclude: "The significant need for low carbon electricity generation infrastructure to meet the government’s decarbonisation objectives, and wider environmental benefits of the proposal, including the significant increase in BNG and creation of new permissive paths locally, would outweigh any harm identified to the Green Belt."

Rotherham Council does not agree that the site is "grey belt" stating that "this part of the Borough performs an important strategic and local function as open countryside in a relatively densely populated area, helping to maintain separation between settlements, prevent encroachment into the countryside and preserve a sense of openness."

Rotherham Council and the local MPs have raised issues with the scheme's consultation.

Rothbiz has detailed the issues raised by Rotherham Council with the Whitestone proposals.

Whitestone website

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News: Rotherham Council raises issues with Whitestone solar proposals

Rotherham Council's issues with a massive solar farm proposed in the borough have been published.

Plans have moved to the next stage for Whitestone Solar Farm - a generating station with an estimated capacity of up to 750MW connecting to the National Grid Brinsworth Substation in Rotherham.

Whitestone is classified as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP), which means that it is applying for a Development Consent Order (DCO) to authorise its construction, operation and decommissioning. The final decision on a DCO application will be made at the national level by the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero.

Local councils are statutory consultees for NSIPs and a report on Rotherham Council's issues with the proposals has been published with the application documents.

At the earlier stage, the council has commented on 18 separate issues. Proponents of the scheme, Green Nation, address how the latest submission relates to the earlier issues raised.

On the use of Green Belt land, Rotherham Council set out that the solar farm conflicts with the Rotherham Local Plan and national policies, in that "the development would introduce substantial built form and industrialising features into land intended to remain open and to safeguard the setting and separation of settlements."

In response, promoters of the scheme say that the proposed development is located on "grey belt land because the site does not strongly contribute to Green Belt purposes" and go on to say that "even if this position is not accepted, there are Very Special Circumstances that clearly outweigh any harm identified in terms of the five Green Belt purposes."

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Rotherham Council has also raised issue with the loss of Best and Most Versatile (BMV) agricultural land which it says is "valuable not only because of its productive capacity for food and other crops, but also because it forms part of a finite soil resource and supports the long-term resilience of rural land use within the Borough."

Applicants argue that the scheme is set to operate for 60 years so any loss is temporary.

On the issue of lifespan, Rotherham Council has raised the issue of the 60 year timescale given that national policy is 40 years. The council said: "Even if the development is technically reversible at the end of its life, the Council considers that reversibility after 60 years substantially reduces the practical weight that can be attached to "temporary" effects in the planning balance.

The council adds that the operation is likely to span more than one generation and that a more nuanced approach would be needed, It said that the "applicant has not yet demonstrated why a 60-year operational life is justified."

Applicants say that in "recent decisions the Secretary of State has confirmed that the 60- year consent lifespan is ""temporary and reversible for the majority of the land.""

Concern has also been raised relating to the "scale, concentration and persistence of significant landscape and visual effects", particularly the impact on settlements such as North Anston, Wickersley, Ulley and Harthill, and various public rights of way and recreational routes. Issues have also been raised with the submitted Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA).

Rotherham Council is also concerned about the harm to the setting of heritage assets and have asked for a robust assessment of setting impacts, including cumulative effects.

The authority is also unhappy with the inclusion of the Local Wildlife Site at Brampton Common within the limits of the scheme. Though applicants say that it is "not being managed to achieve the objectives for which it was designated," a strategy for enhancements has been drafted.

On Biodiversity Net Gain, a way of creating and improving natural habitats, Rotherham Council said that "expressing an intention to achieve a 10% minimum gain does not go far enough." BNG is not currently a legal requirement for NSIPs but applicants say that updated plans show that BNG metrics have calculated that area habitat units would see a 42.52% gain, hedgerow units, a 44.47% gain, and watercourse units, a 10.11% gain.

Rotherham Council has also raised concerns regarding the suitability and capacity of the proposed substation and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) location, along with issues regarding highways, drainage, glint and glare effects arising from solar panels, noise, and how the proposed cable corridor would interact with areas of landfill and potentially contaminated land.

Rotherham Council will now need to digest the 159 planning documents published with the application.

A three month pre-examination stage has now begun looking at the issues which will need to be discussed at the examination stage. This next stage is where the applicant, anyone who is registered to have their say, official bodies, and people whose land is directly affected, can comment on the proposed development or answer any of the questions at each deadline.

At the examination stage Rotherham Council will submit a Local Impact Report (LIR) which the Inspector must consider.

Images: Pexels / Vitaliy Bratkov

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News: Whitestone solar plans accepted by Government

Plans to build one of the largest solar farms in the country have moved a step forward - it would cover 1,169 hectares of agricultural land in Rotherham and Doncaster.

Rotherham Council and the three local MPs have all raised issues with the application.

Rothbiz reported last year on early stage plans being updated for Whitestone Solar Farm - a generating station with an estimated capacity of up to 750MW connecting to the National Grid Brinsworth Substation in Rotherham.

Initial consultation documents from solar developer Green Nation showed that vast areas of agricultural land in Rotherham and Doncaster, some safeguarded for the now-cancelled HS2 route, could make up the solar farm.

The northen site straddles the Rotherham and Doncaster border east of Hooton Roberts and north of Ravenfield.

Farmland adjacent to the M18 south of Bramley and Wickersley has also been identified to host thousands of solar panels, as has vast areas of fields either side of the M1 south of its junction with the M18. This includes sites near Ulley, Aston and Brampton, out towards North and South Anston, and the other way to land between Treeton and Whiston.

In the south of the borough, sites could be included in the solar farm development that are close to Kiveton Park, Harthill and Woodall.

Whitestone is classified as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP), which means that it is applying for a Development Consent Order (DCO) to authorise its construction, operation and decommissioning. The final decision on a DCO application will be made at the national level by the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero.

Having assessed application documents, the Government's Planning Inspectorate has now accepted an application for an order granting development consent.

A three month pre-examination stage will now begin looking at the issues which will need to be discussed at the examination stage which is where the applicant, anyone who is registered to have their say, official bodies and people whose land is directly affected can comment on the proposed development or answer any of the questions at each deadline.

Rotherham Council has already made a representation stating that: "it has been made aware of an apparent failure to serve the requisite notice on the occupiers of Springvale Farm, Springvale House, Morthen House, and New Sycamore Farm. In the absence of evidence demonstrating that such service has been lawfully affected, the Council’s position is that the statutory consultation requirements may not have been fully satisfied."

Local councillors, parish councils and local residents have raised insues over the quality and effectiveness of the consultation.

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John Healey, MP for Rawmarsh and Conisborough says that the consultation has been "fundamentally flawed" adding that each of the three sites are seperate.

The MP said: "Residents do not experience the same local impacts across these three areas, and no reasonable observer would describe them as one contiguous or coherent site.

"Instead of respecting the different communities and recognising each of the three schemes should be subject to a separate consultation, Whitestone has lumped the schemes together in a single consultation. No doubt this is for convenience and to cut costs, but aggregating the three schemes deprives communities of a proper consultation and fails to fully discharge Whitestone's obligation under the act."

Jake Richards, MP for Rother Valley, said: "Each of the three schemes exceeds the threshold for a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP) and therefore requires a robust, standalone consultation. Whitestone's decision to amalgamate them appears to prioritise administrative convenience and cost-saving over compliance with the Act [The Planning Act 2008] and over meaningful engagement with residents."

The MPs are asking the Government's chief planner to assess the the adequacy and validity of the Whitestone consultation.

Sarah Champion, MP for Rotherham, said: "Should this be found to be inadequate, I would urge you to ensure that proper, detailed consultation, which recognises the unique impacts across the three separate schemes, is undertaken prior to any planning application moving forward."

Applicants are hoping for a decision on the plans in Autumn 2027.

Whitestone website

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News: South Yorkshire Mayor: "Whitestone is the wrong scheme"

Oliver Coppard, the mayor of South Yorkshire says that he is convinced that plans for a massive solar farm that could take up acres of green belt land in Rotherham "is the wrong scheme."

Rothbiz reported last year on early stage plans being updated for Whitestone Solar Farm - a generating station with an estimated capacity of up to 750MW connecting to the National Grid Brinsworth Substation in Rotherham.

Initial consultation documents from solar developer Green Nation showed that vast areas of agricultural land in Rotherham and Doncaster, some safeguarded for the now-cancelled HS2 route, could make up the solar farm.

The northen site straddles the Rotherham and Doncaster border east of Hooton Roberts and north of Ravenfield.

Farmland adjacent to the M18 south of Bramley and Wickersley has also been identified to host thousands of solar panels, as has vast areas of fields either side of the M1 south of its junction with the M18. This includes sites near Ulley, Aston and Brampton, out towards North and South Anston, and the other way to land between Treeton and Whiston.

In the south of the borough, sites could be included in the solar farm development that are close to Kiveton Park, Harthill and Woodall.

Following a second round of consultation, the plans have been updated again.

Proponents of the scheme say that the size of the scheme has been reduced significantly.

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An update reads: "We received more than 10,000 pieces of written feedback. We have now reviewed all of the feedback we received. Where the feedback applied to the masterplan, we have made a number of changes to address concerns.

"In response to feedback from two rounds of consultation and ongoing stakeholder engagement, the size of Whitestone has been reduced significantly. The final size is now 1,169 hectares (2,888 acres), which includes 691 hectares (1,707 acres) for solar and associated infrastructure and 637 hectares (1,181 acres) for environmental mitigation and enhancement. Compared to the initial masterplan, this is a reduction of 37% of the developable area and a reduction of 17% of the total size of the project."

Following a public meeting on the plans, Oliver Coppard said: "I went into the room with significant doubts about the scale of the development, and the huge cost it will impose on the local community. I left the meeting convinced that it is the wrong scheme, with huge flaws in the public consultation, the design and the delivery, and it should not be imposed here, in the heart of South Yorkshire.

"I’ll be taking away all the comments and questions that were raised tonight, and following up with all those who attended and are interested in what we might be able to do to mount an objection to the Whitestone Solar Farm.

"It’s not in my gift to stop the scheme, and I can’t promise that will be the eventual outcome, but I can promise to explore all of our options and to work with partners and our communities to raise our voices together, and to do what we can to make those voices heard."

Whitestone is classified as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP), which means that it is applying for a Development Consent Order (DCO) to authorise its construction, operation and decommissioning. The final decision on a DCO application will be made at the national level by the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero.

A DCO submission is expected in Spring 2026.

Whitestone Solar Farm website

Images: Whitestone Net Zero Limited

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News: Rotherham hotel strengthens IHG's presence in the UK

Fairview Hotels has been confirmed as the new owner of a 91-bedroom hotel in Rotherham that has undergone a successful rebrand.

Rothbiz reported last year on the Ibis Rotherham East, situated just off Junction 1 of the M18 at Bramley, was one of three hotels sold to an owner-operator on behalf of offshore owners.

Based in Stevenage, Fairview Hotels boasts 12 strategically located properties throughout the UK, providing tailored experiences for both leisure and business travellers. It works with leading brands, including Novotel, Garner by IHG, and Voco by IHG.

The newly rebranded Garner Hotel Rotherham East adds to IHG’s leading position across essentials and premium segments as well as its success in launching and growing conversion brands, such as voco and Garner. Both of which have rapidly become popular with owners looking for a brand that delivers strong returns and performance.

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Willemin Geels, Vice President, Development, Europe, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: "The continued growth that we’re seeing across the market is a testament to the confidence our partners have in IHG’s brands, and it is exciting to see our newer voco and Garner brands resonating with owners and guests alike. We know our owners value faster routes to market and stronger returns on their investment; conversion opportunities like these, supported by IHG’s powerful enterprise platform, help deliver exactly that.”

A midscale conversion brand Garner Hotels strives to become the leading choice for travellers of all ages seeking quality stays at an affordable price point – offering the all-important things guests value, including convenient locations, comfortable beds and free Wi-Fi. Guests will experience Garner’s signature ‘refreshing moment’ free drink and snack on arrival, as well as having access to fresh bean-to-cup coffee and the Garner Shop.

A Fairview Hotels spokesperson said: “We are delighted to grow our partnership with IHG Hotels & Resorts through four new properties across their rapidly scaling voco and Garner brands. The opening of voco Letchworth Hall last year gave us valuable insights into the brand’s strength and how it can deliver and we are excited about bringing another voco hotel to a prime tourist area in the heart of Bloomsbury London. Building on this momentum, we look forward to expanding the Garner brand into Lincoln, Rotherham East and Chesterfield North - enhancing choice and quality for guests in these high‑demand locations.”

Fairview Hotels website
Garner Hotel Rotherham East website

Images: IHG

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News: Rebrand for former Rotherham asylum seeker hotel following sale

A hotel in Rotherham that was temporarily used to accommodate asylum seekers has undergone a rebrand following its sale.

Rothbiz revealed in 2024 that the Ibis at Bramley was being advertised for sale by specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co. In 2023 it was reported that the use of the hotel for asylum seekers was to end.

Since around 2020, there has been a marked increase in the use of hotels for contingency asylum accommodation. The cause of this has been attributed to several factors including the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic and public health measures, an increase in the number of migrants crossing the Channel in small boats, and a backlog in unresolved asylum cases.

The Ibis Rotherham East, situated just off Junction 1 of the M18, was one of three hotels recently sold to an owner-operator on behalf of offshore owners.

David Lee, Regional Director – Hotels at Christie & Co, said: “We are pleased to report this sizeable transaction which generated significant interest. Limited service hotels continue to be very popular with all types of investors.”

The hotels were sold at an undisclosed price.

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Now the former Ibis on Moorhead Way, that was put up for sale with a guide price of £4m, is being advertised as "Garner Hotel Rotherham East" - part of IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies.

IHG’s newest midscale conversion brand has seen rapid growth since its global launch in 2023, particularly in the company’s largest market in Europe – where appetite for hotels in the essentials segment continues to gain traction.

Garner strives to become the leading choice for travellers of all ages seeking quality stays at an affordable price point – offering the all-important things guests value, including convenient locations, comfortable beds and free Wi-Fi. Guests will experience Garner’s signature ‘refreshing moment’ free drink and snack on arrival, as well as having access to fresh bean-to-cup coffee and the Garner Shop.

Joanna Kurowska, VP & Managing Director, UK and Ireland at IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “We’re proud to see Garner hotels, our midscale conversion brand, gaining strong momentum across the UK, reflecting its compelling value proposition for owners and investors. IHG’s streamlined conversion processes and dedicated support, enables owners to efficiently integrate with IHG’s enterprise and gain faster returns.

"Our dedicated operations and development teams work hand-in-hand on the ground to deliver a seamless, efficient value proposition for every Garner property. This includes delivering the brand’s competitive conversion cost per key, flexible design and reduced pre-opening costs through a rapid conversion process. This coordinated effort not only supports our owners but also guarantees guests a consistent, high-quality, and affordable experience.

"As we continue to expand Garner’s presence across the UK, we remain committed to partnering closely with our owners and investors to maximise value and unlock new opportunities in the midscale segment.”

The 2024 listing stated: "This purpose-built hotel has 86 en-suite bedrooms spread over four floors. On the ground floor there is an open plan multi-functional space, which includes the reception area and a combined dining area for breakfast and dinner with a bar, featuring a pool table and a large screen TV (capacity approximately 50). There are also four well-equipped meeting rooms with a capacity of six up to 20 guests."

The particulars explained that the hotel was let to Accor UK Economy Hotels Limited for a term of 25 years from August 2000. The current passing rent was £364,370 per annum.

Garner Hotels website

Images: Garner / Christie & co

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News: Second consultation for Whitestone solar plans

Developers behind the Whitestone Solar Farm are about to begin a second round of consultation after plans were updated.

Rothbiz reported in April on early stage plans being updated for a solar farm generating station with an estimated capacity of up to 750MW and connecting to the National Grid Brinsworth Substation in Rotherham.

Developers say that they have made "significant changes to the project design" to respond to the feedback received.

Updated documents explain that one fourth of the land (279 hectares / 689 acres) has been removed across the whole site that was included for solar development to create buffers around homes, villages and public rights of way near the project boundary. This has resulted in the removal or reduction of panels around the most sensitive community areas, particularly around residential dwellings.

Due to its size, Whitestone is classified as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP), which means that it needs a Development Consent Order (DCO) to authorise its construction, operation and decommissioning. The final decision on a DCO application will be made at the national level by the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, rather than made locally by Rotherham and Doncaster Councils.

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A 450-page scoping report has been examined by the planning inspectorate which provided environmental information outlining the scope and methodology of the technical studies being conducted. It precedes a full Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).

The report confirms that the proposed development is being brought forward by Whitestone Net Zero Limited, owned by Net Zero One Limited but it is intended to be constructed, managed and operated by Green Nation.

A leaflet from the developers states: "The first round of consultation ran for 11 weeks, and included public events, meetings with parish councils and other stakeholders, and individual discussions with local residents. We received 940 pieces of written feedback, which we have reviewed and considered, to inform the updated design shown at this round of consultation.

"We are now holding our second consultation on the updated masterplan and draft Environmental Statement, which will help inform the proposals we submit in our DCO application next spring."

The northern site straddles the Rotherham and Doncaster border east of Hooton Roberts and north of Ravenfield.

Farmland adjacent to the M18 south of Bramley and Wickersley has also been identified to host thousands of solar panels, as has vast areas of fields either side of the M1 south of its junction with the M18. This includes sites near Ulley, Aston and Brampton, out towards North and South Anston, and the other way to land between Treeton and Whiston.

In the south of the borough, sites could be included in the solar farm development that are close to Kiveton Park, Harthill and Woodall.

The consultation will be carried out from September 16 to October 28 2025. A number of public information events have been scheduled for October.

Whitestone website

Images: Green Nation / Google Maps

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News: 349 more houses planned for Rotherham's greenbelt

A planning application has been submitted for hundreds more houses in Rotherham's greenbelt.

Rothbiz reported in May that a site in Bramley was the latest in a string of proposals for safeguarded land rather than land specifically allocated for residential use in the borough's local plan from 2018.

Planning consultants are hoping to convince the local planning authority that the land should be used now to address the borough's housing needs.

New outline plans from Hallam Land (part of Henry Boot) have been submitted for land at Moor Lane South at Bramley, close to where Redrow secured planning permission for up to 320 No. dwellinghouses on a large field.

The latest plans indicate that the next 9.38 hectare plot could accommodate 349 more dwellings with associated access, landscaping and public open space iincluding play areas.

A masterplan shows that access would be from Moor Lane South.

It is anticipated to have a housing mix to include 2-5 bedroom detached, semi-detached homes and short terraces with 25% affordable housing expected.

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Planning documents state that Rotherham Council has a shortfall of 4,000 new dwellings against its local plan's stepped requirements, adding: "Given that Rotherham’s housing need has now significantly increased under the Government’s new standard methodology used to calculate housing need, the Council will need to find suitable and available sites to meet this need as quickly as possible.

"The new housing will play an important role in improving the housing mix of Bramley and Ravenfield ward by providing units of a range of size and types."

Planning consultants, Nineteen47, add: "The site is in an accessible location, in close proximity to the services and facilities in Bramley and Wickersley. These areas provide facilities including medical practices, pharmacies, a library, a post office and several public parks. There are also a number of shops and a nursery and primary school in Bramley, with a secondary school located in Wickersley approximately 1.5km from the Site.

"It is considered that the Site represents a logical urban extension to the suburban area to the north, west and south, where new homes can be delivered in a sustainable location with convenient links to existing nearby services and facilities by means other than private car.

"The LPA [Rotherham Council] have already acknowledged the Site's suitability for development through the removal of land from the Green Belt and allocation as Safeguarded land within the adopted plan. Such allocations reflect the sustainable credentials of the Site and their ability to integrate with the existing settlement."

Images: Hallam Land / Nineteen47

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News: Safeguarding lifted on HS2 route through Rotherham

Land in Rotherham outlined for high speed rail is no longer under safeguarding directions, the Secretary of State for Transport has confirmed.

Former owners who sold to the government will be given the opportunity to buy property back, but at the current value.

The announcement comes four and a half years after the scheme to Leeds was scrapped and nine years after property owners first learnt of the plans.

The government announced in 2021 that the HS2 Phase 2b Eastern leg would terminate at East Midlands Parkway and no longer reach Leeds through the communities in the east of Rotherham. A study into how best to take HS2 services to Leeds was announced but never really got underway.

Safeguarding for Phase 2b (Crewe to Manchester and West Midlands to Leeds) was set to be ammended in summer 2024 to allow for any safeguarding needed for Northern Powerhouse Rail.

Safeguarding is designed to protect land which the government may need to build and operate HS2 from conflicting development that might otherwise take place. Issuing safeguarding directions also triggers statutory blight - starting the process of the government acquiring property in the safeguarded areas.

A latest report to Parliament confirmed that the safeguarding directions for the former HS2 route through Rotherham have finally been lifted.

Heidi Alexander MP, Secretary of State for Transport, said: "I am today formally lifting the safeguarding directions for the former Phase 2b Eastern Leg (between the West Midlands and Leeds), removing the uncertainty that has affected many people along the former route. Safeguarding along the former Phase 2b Western Leg (between Crewe and Manchester) is not being changed as part of this, and an update on future plans for safeguarding on this section will be provided in due course alongside broader plans for Northern Powerhouse Rail.

"One small area to the south of the existing station in central Leeds, previously required for the new HS2 station, will remain safeguarded to allow for potential enhancements to the existing station, including for onward travel.

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"I have also today closed the Rural Support Zone, Express Purchase, Rent Back, and the Need to Sell property schemes along the former Phase 2b Eastern Leg. Existing applications will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

"Removing safeguarding along the majority of the former HS2 Phase 2b Eastern Leg means we are now able to initiate a programme to dispose of over 550 properties on the former Eastern Leg that are no longer required. We expect disposals on the open market to begin in 2026. Before then, former owners whose property was acquired under statutory blight will have the opportunity to reacquire their former property at the current market value.

"We will dispose of land and property in a sensible and sensitive way, ensuring value for money for the taxpayer and avoiding disruption to local property markets."

The scrapped route through Rotherham was announced in 2016 and affected areas such as Wales, Aston, Ulley, Brampton-en-le–Morthen, Thurcroft, Bramley, Ravenfield and Hooton Roberts.

With no station at Meadowhall and just a spur into Sheffield, residents and local politicians believed that the change in route offered "all of the problems but none of the benefits" and had to deal with blight notices and programmes to sell property to the government before compulsory purchase.

HS2 Ltd website

Images: HS2

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News: Another set of plans prepped for houses in Rotherham's greenbelt

Another set of plans are being prepared for hundreds more houses in Rotherham's greenbelt, with proponents taking a similar stance to national housebuilders over the use of the borough's "safeguarded land."

Last month Rothbiz reported on plans at Rawmarsh from Taylor Wimpey for 231 dwellings that represents the use of safeguarded land rather than land specifically allocated for residential use in the borough's local plan from 2018. That was followed by Barratt David Wilson Homes submitting an outline planning application proposing up to 260 homes on land at Cumwell Lane, Hellaby.

Planning consultants are hoping to convince the local planning authority that the land should be used now to address the borough's housing needs.

Further plans are being drawn up for land at Moor Lane South at Bramley, close to where Redrow secured outline planning permission for up to 320 No. dwellinghouses on a large field.

The latest plans indicate that the next 15.6 hectare plot could accommodate 339 more dwellings with associated access, landscaping and public open space.

An indicative masterplan shows that two access points are proposed, from Moor Lane South and Lidget Lane.

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Sites in the greenbelt were designated as safeguarded land in the local plan as land that may be needed in the future, from 2028. In the case of Moor Lane South, it was considered that the site was developable and could be delivered in six to ten years.

Planning consultants, Nineteen47, acting for Hallam Land, submitted a pre-application enquiry to Rotherham Council before consultation got underway for the land that is bound by agricultural fields to the east, Lidget Lane to the south and Moor Lane South to the west. To the north is a separate parcel of land currently under construction as Redrow's Poppy Fields development.

Consultants say that: "The Site is in an accessible location, in close proximity to the services and facilities in Bramley and Wickersley. These areas provide facilities including medical practices, pharmacies, a library, a post office and several public parks. There are also a number of shops and a nursery and primary school in Bramley, with a secondary school located in Wickersley approximately 1.5km from the Site.

"It is considered that the Site represents a logical urban extension to the suburban area to the north, west and south, where new homes can be delivered in a sustainable location with convenient links to existing nearby services and facilities by means other than private car.

"The LPA [Rotherham Council] have already acknowledged the Site's suitability for development through the removal of land from the Green Belt and allocation as Safeguarded land within the adopted plan. Such allocations reflect the sustainable credentials of the Site and their ability to integrate with the existing settlement."

A planning application is yet to be submitted.

Images: Google Maps / Redrow

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News: Where next for Lidl in Rotherham?

Having failed to secure planning permission for a new store in Swallownest and made little progress in Maltby, where else in Rotherham is the discount retailer targeting?

Lidl GB recently announced plans to invest half a billion pounds in its expansion, as the discounter moves forward with plans to open more than 40 new stores across the country this financial year.

Rothbiz reported in 2023 that the German global discount chain had withdrawn updated plans for a new 20,000 sq ft store on a site at Rotherham Road, Swallownest. Earlier plans were refused by Rotherham Council with members saying that it would have a detrimental impact on the Swallownest district centre.

In 2022 Lidl secured planning permission for a new store on the site of a former fire station and library in Maltby but a store is yet to open.

As part of its continued mission to provide all communities across the country with access to affordable, high-quality food, Lidl has published its 2025 site requirements brochure, outlining hundreds of potential locations for new stores – including high streets, retail parks, and mixed-use town centre sites.

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The updated list features a number of locations in Rotherham.

Locations for new stores include Rawmarsh and Wickersley / Bramley.

The retailer has also confirmed that it would like to relocate away from its current store on Masbrough Street on the edge of Rotherham town centre.

The list doesn't include Parkgate where planning permission has been secured for a 20,000 sq ft unit at the retail park suitable for a national food retailer.

Richard Taylor, Chief Real Estate Officer at Lidl GB, said: “This level of investment is a clear sign of our ambition. As we enter our fourth decade in Great Britain and hurtle towards a thousand stores, there are still so many parts of the country crying out for convenient access to a Lidl store. That’s why we welcome the measures proposed in the Government’s Planning and Infrastructure Bill – they recognise the urgent need to remove barriers to development and support the kind of growth we at Lidl are working towards.

“Our latest site requirements brochure reinforces the scale of our ambition for the future. New Lidl stores mean new jobs, new opportunities for British suppliers, and continued investment into local economies. We’re proud to be one of the fastest-growing supermarkets in the country, and with this investment, we’re taking another big step in our journey.”

Lidl website

Images: Lidl GB

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News: Rotherham asylum seeker hotel for sale on Rightmove

A hotel in Rotherham that was used to accommodate asylum seekers has been put up for sale for £4m.

The Home Office has used hotels as temporary accommodation for asylum seekers as a short-term measure as the number of people entering the UK illegally or claiming asylum hit record levels. The previous government had plans to move people to parts of the UK’s asylum estate, including the Bibby Stockholm barge.

Rothbiz reported in 2023 that the former Rother Valley MP, Alexander Stafford had stated that the use of the Ibis at Bramley for asylum seekers was to end.

Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co, is now advertising the Ibis as being for sale.

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The listing states: "This purpose-built hotel has 86 en-suite bedrooms spread over four floors. On the ground floor there is an open plan multi-functional space, which includes the reception area and a combined dining area for breakfast and dinner with a bar, featuring a pool table and a large screen TV (capacity approximately 50). There are also four well-equipped meeting rooms with a capacity of six up to 20 guests."

With a guide price of £4m, the particulars explain that the hotel is currently let to Accor UK Economy Hotels Limited for a term of 25 years from August 2000 with less than a year remaining. The current passing rent is £364,370 per annum.

Across the borough, the Home Office has confirmed this week that it will be terminating its asylum accommodation contract for the Holiday Inn Express at Manvers and will not be using the hotel for this purpose going forward.

Wentworth and Dearne MP, John Healey has previously raised the issue over the use of the hotel which he said was "utterly unsuited as accomodation for 130 asylum seekers."

Writing to Mr Healey this week, Dame Angela Eagle DBE MP, Minister for Border Security & Asylum, said: "We have carefully considered the representations and views from a range of stakeholders, and I am pleased to inform you that the Home Office will be terminating the contract with the Holiday Inn Express, Rotherham, and will not therefore be re-occupying the hotel."

Images: Chrstie & Co

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News: Acres of Rotherham green belt eyed up for massive solar farm

Thousands of acres of green belt land in Rotherham has been identified in early stage proposals for the largest solar farm in Yorkshire - and one of the largest in the UK.

Solar developer Green Nation has begun consultation on plans to develop a solar and energy storage scheme that would be classed as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP).

If constructed, Whitestone Solar Farm would generate up to 750MW of energy, which is enough to power up to 250,000 homes.

Whitestone would dwarf the Common Farm Solar project in Rotherham that secured planning permission in 2023 that would have an installed capacity of up to 50MW (and cover 285 acres with solar panels).

Consultation documents show that vast areas of agricultural land in Rotherham and Doncaster, some safeguarded for the now-cancelled HS2 route, could make up Whitestone Solar Farm.

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The northen site straddles the Rotherham and Doncaster border east of Hooton Roberts and north of Ravenfield.

Farmland adjacent to the M18 south of Bramley and Wickersley has also been identified to host thousands of solar panels, as has vast areas of fields either side of the M1 south of its junction with the M18. This includes sites near Ulley, Aston and Brampton, out towards North and South Anston, and the other way to land between Treeton and Whiston.

In the south of the borough, sites could be included in the solar farm development that are close to Kiveton Park, Harthill and Woodall.

The developers say that the sites were chosen as there was available capacity at the Brinsworth substation in Rotherham - a remnant of the area's historic role in steel production.

Green Nation says that it has been able to secure an agreement for a new energy project to connect at this location.

A Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) and cable infrastructure would aslo be required.

With a capacity over 50MW, the plans for the development would not be determined by Rotherham Council, instead a Development Consent Order (DCO) application would be decided at the national level by the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero.

Classed as temporary (60 years), the proposed solar farms would be designed with open spaces around and between the panels with wildflowers and native grasses planted beneath. Measures are included to reduce the visual impact from homes and public rights of way.

Consultation documents state: "Whitestone could make a significant contribution to our national energy goals – helping in the fight against climate change while also contributing to energy security and helping reduce energy costs by producing clean, renewable energy here in the UK.

"We are at a very early stage in the development of Whitestone. Our goal is to develop the project in a way that is sensitive to the local environment and community. Over the next few months, we will consult with local residents and technical experts to ensure that valuable local knowledge is built into our proposals."

Consultation runs until to January 17 2025 with a number of in person events scheduled, starting in Rotherham at Aston cum Aughton Leisure Centre on November 30.

Developers plan to submit its application in spring 2026 with construction to follow in 2027 and connection in 2029.

Whitestone Solar Farm website

Images: Green Nation

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News: Historic Rotherham hotel sold

An historic hotel in a converted Grade II * listed building in Rotherham has been sold off an asking price of £8m.

The 4 star hotel at Bramley includes 89 rooms in the converted 17th century house of Ralph Fretwell. It offers 89 stylish bedrooms including executive, deluxe and suite options, and attracts business travellers, couples and families alike. The hotel also boasts an award-winning restaurant, bar, and lounge, as well as luxurious wellness facilities including a swimming pool, spa and gym.

Hellaby Hall Hotel has an excellent reputation in the local area, and is situated within easy reach of Rotherham, Sheffield and Doncaster. The hotel is also a versatile venue and hosts weddings, celebrations, conferences and corporate functions.

The hotel was sold by the Lavin family, to focus on other business interests. They commented: “We are delighted to have completed the sale of the property and we are sure it will go from strength to strength under the control of its new owners.”

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The hotel was successfully sold to the Harrison family, who have extensive hotel experience and are looking to continue the success of the hotel. Mr Harrison commented: "The Harrison family are proud new owners of the business. We are planning to invest and support its continuous growth.”

David Lee, Regional Director – Hotels at Christie & Co who managed the sale, said: “We were delighted to assist our much-valued clients with the sale of this renowned, profitable hotel. The Lavin family have been excellent custodians of the hotel over the past few years, and we are sure the Harrison family will also enjoy success in running this fantastic full-service hotel business.”

Rothbiz reported in 2016 that Hellaby Hall was snapped up for £5.6m after its operators entered administration.

Hellaby Hall website

Images: Christie & Co

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News: Safeguarding lifted on some axed HS2 routes, but Rotherham waits

Land in Rotherham outlined for high speed rail is still being safeguarded despite being "in the wrong place for any future routes."

The Government has announced that safeguarding of land and property across the majority of Phase 2a of HS2 (West Midlands to Crewe) has been removed, but safeguarding for Phase 2b (Crewe to Manchester and West Midlands to Leeds) will not be amended until summer 2024. This will allow for safeguarding that is needed for Northern Powerhouse Rail.

Local leaders in Rotherham say that land and property owners have had a "long shadow" of HS2 over them since the route was changed in 2016. The now scrapped M18 route east of Rotherham affected Wales, Aston, Ulley, Brampton-en-le–Morthen, Thurcroft, Bramley, Ravenfield and Hooton Roberts.

An update from HS2 Ltd said: "The Government has announced Phase 2b safeguarding will be amended by summer 2024, to allow for any safeguarding required for Northern Powerhouse Rail. It is expected that some areas in Phase 2b will continue to be safeguarded for other rail schemes, and safeguarding will be removed in the other areas."

The government announced in November 2021 that the HS2 Phase 2b Eastern leg would terminate at East Midlands Parkway and no longer reach Leeds through the communities in the east of Rotherham. A study into how best to take HS2 services to Leeds was announced but never really got underway before the Government launched its "Network North" document in October 2023.

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Cllr. Chris Read, leader of Rotherham Council said at the end of last year: “Communities like Bramley, Wales Bar and Aston are simply in the wrong place for any future routes between Sheffield and Leeds and it cannot be right that residents in those places are left in limbo.”

In September, Alexander Stafford, MP for Rother Valley raised the issue in the House of Commons, saying: "I know that the Government still want high-speed trains through the area, but the only financially viable way of HS2 getting to Leeds is by using existing track. Why is it taking so long to release the land when everyone knows and accepts that we will not be building a new track through Rother Valley to Leeds? Will the Minister release the safeguarding and release people’s homes?"

Writing to the Transport Secretary last week, Wentworth & Dearne MP, John Healey raised the issue of the threat of compulsory HS2 purchase, blight on property prices and a freeze on any other developments, adding that there was no reason to not lift safeguarding land restrictions for HS2 on large areas of land in Rotherham.

Healey said: "It was last summer when we were told by your Rail Minister that the Government's study of IRP (Integrated Rail Plan) links to Leeds meant that safeguarding restrictions would not be lifted because you were still looking to complete the HS2 Eastern Leg as had been "previously scoped" and you were looking to upgrade lines between Sheffield and Leeds.

"With HS2 now being scrapped beyond Birmingham the first part of the argument no longer holds firm and the second line of reasoning can be clearly dismissed by looking at a map to see that the community of Bramley, in my constituency, and those further afield in Rotherham, like Aston and Wales Bar, are nowhere near a new Sheffield-Leeds rail route.

"I would appreciate it if you could please provide me with the latest reasoning as to why the decision to lift blight in Rotherham has not been made.

"People deserve to live their lives without the worry of HS2 hanging over them and I would urge you again to lift the HS2 blight on our area and let people live their lives without this fear."

HS2 website

Images: HS2 Ltd

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News: Latest on Rotherham hotels used for asylum seekers

The Government has announced that more than 50 hotels accommodating asylum seekers will be exited in the coming months.

The first 50 hotels across the UK will stop housing asylum seekers by the end of January the Immigration Minister has confirmed.

The Home Office has already notified local authorities, MPs and the accommodation providers, informing them that the first 50 hotels temporarily accommodating asylum seekers will be exited as part of the move to return hotels to their proper use by communities.

Rother Valley MP, Alexander Stafford stated that the use of the Ibis at Bramley for asylum seekers is to end.

The government said that initial efforts will focus on hotels that can be exited quickly. This announcement will help to relieve pressures on local services in the areas where exits are taking place, and provide a boost to the local economy.

These hotels will be gradually handed back to hoteliers by the end of January 2024, with the first of these expected to be exited in the coming days.

Asylum seekers currently accommodated in these hotels will be moving to other parts of the UK’s asylum estate, including the Bibby Stockholm barge.

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Wentworth and Dearne MP, John Healey has raised the issue over the use of the Holiday Inn at Manvers which he said is "utterly unsuited as accomodation for 130 asylum seekers."

Speaking after the latest announcement, Healey said: "Our Manvers hotel has been used by the Home Office as an asylum hotel for over 18 months now, despite repeated objections from Rotherham Council, local residents and me as their local MP.

"The hotel and the Manvers area are totally unsuited to house asylum seekers and I wrote again last month to the Home Secretary asking for clarification on whether or not the contract would be extended beyond October 2023. As I have still not had a reply, I am writing today to ask you to release our Manvers hotel in line with the previous commitments I’ve been given by Ministers that its use as an asylum hotel would be a on a “temporary basis”.

"I am also set to meet with the owners of the hotel next week to make clear to them that I remain determined to see the hotel back open operating as a hotel."

Images: Google Maps

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News: Housing plans for historic Rotherham site

Plans have been revealed for what could replace a historic 300-year-old cottage building in Rotherham that was demolished last year.

Rothbiz reported last August on the buildings at Bramley, known as Old Hall Cottages or Ye Old Cottage, being taken down after a structural survey showed that it was not suitable for conversion.

A planning application has now been submitted for eight new build houses.

The plans supersede an application for housing on the site that was approved by Rotherham Council in 2016, having earlier been refused on grounds of over-development. It would have seen the refurbishment and extension of the cottage to create four family dwellings and the construction of two new houses.

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The new plans from Mr D Hobson are for a new residential housing development comprising of: a two bedroom bungalow, five three bedroom houses, one four bedroom house and a five bedroom property. A number of the smaller cottage properties have been positioned along the edge of Old Hall Road.

Drawn up by 69 Design architects, the plans state: "Most of the houses reflect the previous position of Ye Old Cottage, whilst the four remaining properties have been spread around the site reflecting the local urban grain.

"Given the sites current condition, maintaining large amounts of soft landscaping and greenery was a large importance from the outset of this design. We have created a comprehensive landscaping plan to help facilitate our green ambitions for the site."

Houses are designed to come with two parking spaces, with at least one space for each of the dwellings being fitted with an electric vehicle charging port.

Despite dating from the 18th Century, not being listed hindered hopes of saving the buildings. Reports from last year showed that there was little of the original historic fabric that was capable of reuse except the main walls, and they would have needed to be underpinned to make them suitable for modern residential use.

Images: 69Design

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News: United Carpets to de-list from AIM

Rotherham-based United Carpets Group plc has announced plans for a cancellation of admission to trading on the stock exchange.

The third largest chain of specialist retail carpet and floor covering stores in the UK was admitted to AIM in February 2005. It is set to re-register as a private limited company.

Bosses now believe that "the company is not of a sufficient scale to attract interest from institutional and other investors and consequently suffers from a lack of liquidity for its Ordinary Shares."

Unlike many of its competitors, the Bramley business is based on a franchise model. The business commenced trading in 1997 and in 1998 the first franchised store was created. At July 2020 the group had a total of 56 stores of which 46 were operated by franchisees.

In 2012, the group had its shares temporarily suspended after admitting it would not be able to publish its full-year results on time. A pre-pack administration deal saw United Carpets Group acquire the business and assets of its trading subsidiary United Carpets (Northern) Limited.

A statment to the stock exchange said: "The Directors have been reviewing the merits or otherwise of the Company's Ordinary Shares continuing to be admitted to trading on AIM and remaining a public limited company. The following key factors have been taken into account, amongst other matters, by the Directors in reaching the conclusion that the De-Listing is in the best interests of the Company and its Shareholders as a whole."

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Most of the shares are owned by the company's founder, and current chief executive, Paul Eyre, and an offer of 6.25 pence per share to remaining shareholders have been put forward. The maximum cash consideration payable should all qualifying shareholders tender their shares is approximately £1.8m which will be funded from the Company's existing cash resources.

Proposals are due to be discussed further at a General Meeting this week.

The company is yet to report its financial results for the period affected by Covid-19. The Group's accounting period was extended from 31 March to 30 September so that the majority of the impact from Covid-19 should be confined within that extended accounting period.

Peter Cowgill, now outgoing Chairman, said in July: "We expect 2020 to be an unpredictable period due to Covid-19. Nevertheless, we believe strongly in the Group's core retail proposition providing great products and great value to our customers and with this as a base the Board is confident the Company is well placed to return the business to a commercially strong position."

United Carpets website

Images: United Carpets

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News: Massive M18 development set for planning approval

Outline plans for a large distribution centre development alongside the M18 motorway in Rotherham are being recomended for approval.

Applicants believe that, if approved, "Interchange Park" could be home to over 1,000 jobs.

A number of objections have been received against the new use for the former greenbelt land.

Rothbiz reported in 2018 that plans were being drafted for 16 hectares of agricultural land at Cumwell Lane, Hellaby, near J1 of the M18. Applications for residential development were refused planning permission in the 1960s and early 1970s.

The application from Stretton Denman Ltd is due to be discussed at the next meeting of Rotherham Council's planning board and updated information regarding the transport impact and access seems to have appeased council officers and Highways England.

The scheme is for 722,000 sq ft of new employment floorspace (Class B1b&c/B2 and B8) and up to 54,000 sq ft of ancillary office use floorspace (Class B1a), along with an HGV fuelling station and lorry washing facilities.

There is no end user identifield but the plans state that: "Based on the maximum capacity of the proposed development, the proposals have the potential to deliver 1,119 full time equivalent employment opportunities."

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Earlier this year, the applicants submitted further details explaining that: "There has been extensive dialogue with both Highways England (HE) and Rotherham Council's Transportation Team regarding both Highway capacity and Site Access Strategy. Further to considerable discussions with both parties, agreement has now been reached regarding Highway capacity and the Site Access Strategy."

The planned improvement scheme would allow for a right turn into Cumwell Lane from Bawtry Road (travelling in an easterly direction from the M18), this would be via a dedicated lane with two lanes alongside this lane allowing for traffic to move straight ahead only to the roundabout.

Travelling in a westerly direction on Bawtry Road, Cumwell Lane will be accessed from the nearside lane which allows for vehicles turning to the left or continuing straight ahead to the M18.

In terms of exiting Cumwell Lane to Bawtry Road, vehicles will only be able to turn left. A traffic island will prevent any unauthorised movements.

Some road marking alterations are planned at the M18 junction in a bid to reduce delays.

Letters of objection were received from the occupiers of 207 properties along with objections from Hellaby and Bramley Parish Councils, Maltby Town Council, Bramley Action Group, and local MP, Alexander Stafford.

Issues mainly relate to traffic impact and the use of (now, no longer) greenbelt land.

Planners admit that "the highway impact of the development is significant and requires mitigation and sustainable transport measures" but conclude that the proposed conditions such as the traffic scheme and new footways and cycleways on Sandy Lane, mean that the plans should be approved.

The planning board is due to discuss the proposals on November 26.

Images: Stretton / CBRE / M1

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News: Historic Bramley buildings bulldozed

A historic 300-year-old cottage building in Rotherham has been demolished to make way for development.

Rotherham Council only approved the method of demolition last week but the buildings at Bramley, known as Old Hall Cottages, have been taken down and the site is expected to be redeveloped for housing.

Having earlier been refused on grounds of over-development, an application for housing on the site was approved by Rotherham Council in 2016. It would have seen the refurbishment and extension of the existing cottage to create four family dwellings and the construction of two new houses.

However, applicant Dennis Hobson, recently applied to the council to approve the method of demolition.

The reasons for the need for the demolition to take place was stated as: "The structural survey of the building has shown that it is not suitable for conversion."

The application adds: "The site is to be reused for residential subject to a planning application."

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Applicants said that local councillors who live nearby had raised concerns about youths on the site and fly tipping, so they had been told to submit the application or be faced with enforcement action.

Reports show that there is little of the original historic fabric that is capable of reuse except the main walls, and they would need to be underpinned to make them suitable for modern residential use.

Despite dating from the 18th Century, not being listed has hindered hopes of saving the buildings. Bramley Parish Council was amongst 14 objectors to the latest plans. Local MP, Alexander Stafford had hoped that the Council would take into account other national and local policies when considering the demolition methods.

A report submitted with the plans states that the nearby building known as The Warren was formerly a Methodist chapel built in 1785 (a listed building) and "the cottages are shown on the 1888 ordnance survey plan but their date of construction is unknown."

Images: Tom Austen / collinshallgreen Ltd

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