News: New McDonald's in Rotherham opens

A new McDonald's restaurant has opened in Rotherham creating 70 full-time equivalent jobs.

Developer Keystone Yorkshire identified its site for a new Drive-Thru restaurant in Dinnington. At Campbell Way and Nobel Way the land is designated as employment land on the site of the former Dinnington Colliery which has been reclaimed and transformed as part of a successful regeneration scheme.

The development on the vacant plot comprises a modern freestanding single storey restaurant with drive-thru, car parking, landscaping and associated works.

With indoor and outdoor seating for customers, the proposals also include 60 on-site car parking spaces for customers, including 2 disabled spaces and 3 cycle spaces.

Applicants said that the plans would create 100 jobs (70 full-time equivalent jobs).

McDonald's Restaurants recently secured a licence to serve late night refreshment (Indoors & Outdoors) from 11pm to 5am, which effectively grants permission for the Dinnington restaurant to be in operation 24 hours a day.

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The Dinnington site was opened this week by franchisee Franco Ventura of Ex Animo Foods Ltd, alongside representatives of Rotherham Titans. Local lad Franco spent 30 years working for McDonald’s in various roles including Vice President of Operations North. Ex Animo Foods Ltd now has ten locations in South Yorkshire.

Planning permission for the new site was approved when the planning board at Rotherham Council went against the recommendation of officers.

Planners at Rotherham Council recommended that the planning board reject the proposals stating that: "by virtue of its range and quality of employment opportunities, it has little positive contribution to the borough and would not meet the criteria."

Assessing the reaction to the plans from the local community, members of the planning board discussed how they disagreed with the officer and were instead satisfied that the range and quality of employment opportunities did meet the criteria for the land use allocation.

A motion was presented to grant approval for the plans, which also highlighted that the proposal would support the continued regeneration of Dinnington and add to the similar uses nearby - namely the Monk's Bridge Farm pub, Greggs, petrol filling station and takeaway units.

McDonald’s has more than 1,450 restaurants across the UK and Ireland and employs more than 135,000 people.

McDonald’s website

Images: McDonald’s Rotherham / Facebook

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News: New owner for established Rotherham care home

A residential care home in Rotherham has a new owner following a purchase by a first-time entrant in the sector.

West Melton Lodge is a well-established care home registered with the Care Quality Commission to provide long-stay residential care for up to 32 residents. It is located in the village of West Melton in the North of the Rotherham borough.

The home, previously owned and operated by Stephen Oldale and Susan Leigh, was brought to market to allow them to pursue a well-earned retirement.

Following a confidential sales process with Jonathan Wickens at Christie & Co, it has been purchased by first-time entrant in the sector, Sriya Care Limited.

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Rahul Sood, Director at Sriya Care Limited, said: “We took over the West Melton Lodge care home in the Rotherham area at the end of June with a clear commitment to continuing the warm, resident-centred ethos that had been built over the years. We approached this as a long-term responsibility and are focused on ensuring residents feel safe, respected, and well cared for. In these initial weeks, we've been assessing all aspects of the home and have begun laying the groundwork to raise standards across care, environment, and systems over the coming months.

“The transition went very smoothly, and we’re grateful to the previous owners, who were retiring and incredibly supportive throughout the process. Their cooperation made the handover seamless. All existing staff transferred under TUPE, and we were especially pleased that Tania, the Registered Manager, chose to stay on. Her experience and calm leadership have been central to ensuring continuity and stability for both staff and residents. We’ve inherited a fantastic team - compassionate, capable, and genuinely committed to the well-being of the residents. It’s been a pleasure getting to know them and beginning to support them with resources and structure to help them thrive further. Our focus now is on steadily bringing the home up to the highest standards in every area, from compliance and care planning to resident engagement and family involvement.”

Jonathan Wickens, Director – Care at Christie & Co, added: “This is the fourth care home property we have sold for Stephen and Susan, and we wish them all the best in their retirement. It is good to see the home sold to somebody who approaches the care sector with such passion, and we are sure that Rahul will continue to support the great team at West Melton Lodge.”

West Melton Lodge was sold for an undisclosed price.

Christie & Co website

Images: Christie & Co

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News: Swim school looking to make a splash with new Rotherham location

A family run business is hoping that the planning process will all go swimmingly as it looks to expand into another Rotherham location.

Super Swimmers was established in 2009 and initially the swim school operated through hire of public and private pools for children’s lessons. it now operates from two of its own locations - Dinnington in Rotherham, and Rossington Hall in Doncaster.

The company has now identified Unit 4 Phoenix Riverside at Templeborough to help address the substantial waiting lists in the area for the type of one on one swimming lessons they offer.

Rothbiz reported on the development back in 2020 and the unit was completed in 2023 but has remained vacant ever since.

As the site is designated for industrial and business use, an application is required to change the use of the 5,740 sq ft unit so that it can be used as a swimming pool.

Rotherham Council raised initial concerns regarding the loss of industrial space that would generate employment.

A sequential test has not been submitted. Sequential tests ensure that development is located in the most sustainable location first (usually in town centres), before other, less sustainable locations are chosen.

Plans include the pool and plant rooms being built on a raised platform, plus a reception/café area with viewing to the pool area, changing rooms and toilets.

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Operating hours are shown as 8am to 7.30pm weekdays and Saturday and Sunday from 8am to 4.30pm. In the week, morning sessions would be for adults, afternoon sessions for local schools and children's lessons in the evenings.

With 11 spaces at the unit, plans say that car parking would be sufficient for the staff and customers and operators add that: "they would work alongside the local businesses closing who have agreed for us to use their facilities and the pub car park."

If approved, it is anticipated that 25 to 30 people would be employed at the new pool in a variety of roles including water-based assistants, teachers and administration, management and cleaning personnel.

Directors Ryan Plant and Rachel Turner state in the plans: "Throughout the transition from hirer to owner, we have developed our business models to ensure we are able to provide a positive impact on the local community, provide jobs to the local area and become a popular choice for this important lifelong skill for all our pupils.

"Our business teaches a life skill and is in a sector that is poorly accommodated in a relatively low-income area. We provide affordable life skill lessons with 16 successful years of evidence to support this. We would also be able to offer the local schools a solution to lesson offering for pupils and assist with carbon footprint due to the locality of our premises.

"We are very passionate about our business and the growth of this in areas that we feel would benefit from what we offer."

Super Swimmers website

Images: Super Swimmers / CPP

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News: New Rotherham retail development filling up as dentist next on the waiting list

Changes are being made at a new retail development in Rotherham to enable a dentist to take space that was initially earmarked for offices.

Olive Lane opened earlier this year at Waverley and signing up to the scheme is a Tesco store, vets, nursery and restaurants. A medical centre and community centre are part of the plans.

The urban shopping and leisure development on Highfield Spring, part of Harworth’s complete redevelopment of the former mining site, totals 11 retail units and a medical centre and will serve the current community of more than 2,500 residents and around 1,700 homes, expected to rise to 8,000 people and more than 3,000 homes by 2029.

A planning application has been approved relating to a new build block of commercial units that was sold off by Harworth to developers before work began.

Sky House Co., the Sheffield-based housing developer bringing forward the adjacent Waverley Central scheme, applied to make changes to unit G2. The plans show the building split into three units with one set to be occupied by a dental practice.

The officer's report explains the reasons for the change: "This application now seeks to use Unit G3 as a dentist (use class E e) instead of offices, as this particular Use Class was not listed in the original permission this application seeks approval to allow Unit G3 to be used for that use."

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As previously reported by Rothbiz, the unit was originally earmarked to be the new Sky-House Office headquarters, who at the time of the original application had 30 and 35 members of staff and intended to grow the business. However, since then plans explain that "working practices have altered and continue to evolve such that far more employees now routinely work from home or from other locations."

Sky-House now only require about half the available floorspace to meet their operational requirements in the building which is nearly completely constructed on site.

The report adds: "The applicant also notes that they have been unable to secure demand that would secure commercial use of the unit, however, in contrast there is confirmed market demand from a prospective purchaser to use the unit as a dental practice (Use Class Ee) and to deliver the social and economic benefits for the local community and for Waverley as a whole. They go on to note that there is a national shortage of dentists and access to dental services, as well as within the Waverley area, as such the provision of a dentist would be a community asset.

"The proposed dentist would create ten or more full time jobs as well as approximately ten part time jobs, and customers to the practice would increase footfall to other businesses on Olive Lane."

The plans were approved without going before Rotherham Council's planning board. The planner concluded: "After discussions with Rido [Rotherham Investment & Development Office] it is concluded that there is no demonstrated demand for offices in this location.

"It is therefore not considered that the loss of this office space would have a significant detrimental impact on the supply of office accommodation in this locality or in the Borough as a whole. Additionally, it is noted that the provision of a dentist within the unit would be beneficial to the local community. It has been requested that a condition be attached to ensure that the dentist is an NHS dentist, however it is not considered that this is acceptable."

Rothbiz reported earlier this year on plans that would enable My Dentist (GB) Limited to open at a vacant unit at Parkgate Shopping.

Sky-House Co. website

Images: Harworth

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News: JELD-WEN announce plans to relocate UK facility

JELD-WEN, a major UK door manufacturer with a facility in Rotherham, has announced plans to move to a new state-of-the-art facility to support its continued growth.

JELD-WEN is one of the world's leading manufacturers and distributors of quality timber windows, external and internal doors, patio doors and stairs. It employs hundreds at the JELD- WEN UK production facilities at Woodhouse Mill, just inside the Rotherham border.

Having invested millions of pounds in production equipment over the last decade, the firm appears to have outgrown the Retford Road site and has signed a lease for Unit 3A, a new 294,000 sq ft state-of-the-art industrial and logistics facility at PLP Bessemer Park in Sheffield.

The company said that the new facility will allow it to obtain operational efficiencies in a modern, sustainable base, supporting its continued growth in the UK.

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Dom Gaffey, Vice President and General Manager, JELD-WEN UK, said “Securing this facility at PLP Bessemer Park is an important milestone for JELD-WEN UK. While the timeline for the relocation is still being finalised, this investment demonstrates a clear commitment to investing in the UK market, how we serve our customers, and how we continue to operate responsibly as an employer and community partner. The focus remains on sustaining the strong relationships JELD-WEN UK has with its customers and partners throughout this process.”

Bringing the development to 100% occupancy, this lease marks the final chapter in a series of successful lettings at Bessemer Park in Tinsley, all secured with blue-chip occupiers and with a strong emphasis on the manufacturing and advanced engineering sectors.

Hugh Chesterton, Development Director at PLP, commented: “PLP has taken a former steelworks brownfield and created a commercial park fit for ‘next generation’ manufacturing and logistics occupiers. We’re proud to welcome JELD-WEN to PLP Bessemer Park and to have completed this flagship regeneration project at full occupancy. The calibre of tenants we’ve attracted—each a blue-chip business with a strong manufacturing footprint—underscores the enduring appeal of Sheffield as a location for forward-looking industrial operations.”

Knight Frank, CBRE and CPP represented PLP. JELD-WEN UK were represented by JLL.

Founded in 1960, JELD-WEN has its global headquarters in Oregan, USA. It employs approximately 16,000 people across North America and Europe.

JELD-WEN UK website

Images: PLP

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News: Plans served up for first padel courts in Rotherham

Plans have been set out to bring the fast-growing, fast-paced, social racket sport of padel to Rotherham.

A vacant 33,654 sq ft warehouse would be converted into courts if a change of use application is approved.

Rothbiz reported in May that Top Play Limited, which shares directors with Pocket Sports Bars Ltd and other Eyre family businesses, was assessing the potential introduction of new padel courts at The Grange Golf Club in Kimberworth.

Now attention has been turned to a unit across Rotherham, at Hellaby.

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

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

Plans from Top Play show how nine padel courts could be created in the building on Sandbeck Way, with one court described as a match court, surrounded by glass and viewing areas.

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The plans also include an ancilliary café / bar for users of the facility with 37 minimum on-site car parking spaces plus an additional 14 car parking spaces for overspill in the adjacent unit.

Applicants state: "The current building was constructed in the 1970s as factory and warehouse usage. A two-story office extension to the front was constructed in the early 1980s.

"The existing building is not viable for the current uses; the size and height is limited to providing the usage this was designed for. There are currently various modern buildings in the vicinity offering much more viable alternatives."

If approved, the courts could provide 12 staff positions.

The proposed opening hours are Monday to Friday 7am - 10pm and Saturdays and Sundays 8am - 9 pm.

A letter of support from the LTA states: "Padel is a highly accessible sport, with players able to quickly reach a level of play where they can enjoy friendly and competitive games. It can make a significant contribution to the development of healthier lifestyles by encouraging people to be more physically active and it also facilitates social interaction and can positively contribution to improved mental health and wellbeing.

"This site will provide the first indoor Padel courts in Rotherham, and this will help ensure that that the local community is able to participate in this fast growing sport throughout the year regardless of the weather. The indoor venue will also create a sporting hub for local people, as has been demonstrated with the evolvement of other indoor Padel centres, and this will provide a facility where the local community can come together socially and keep physically active."

Images: CPP / LTA

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News: Work underway on new food venue in Rotherham

One of the UK’s fastest-growing café brands has chosen Rotherham as its first South Yorkshire location.

Work is underway to convert a former Chinese restaurant on Barbot Hall Industrial Estate.

Chocoberry began in Leicester in 2018 and has grown rapidly on the success of its legendary chocolate-dipped strawberries. It now has over 25 locations across the UK and UAE, with upcoming openings in Canada and Turkey and plans to expand globally.

The Chocoberry menu also includes indulgent desserts such as various cakes and cheesecakes, kanafeh, cookie dough, crepes, waffles, macarons, churros, sundaes, hot drinks, milkshakes and mocktails.

Expanding through franchising, the Rotherham branch is listed as "opening soon."

At Rother Court on Mangham Road, the new location has most recently been home to Lin Palace. It was previously Lihoma and Papa Luigi's.

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Posting on LinkedIn, Ameer Nurmahomed, franchise development manager working with the brand, said: "The remarkable rise of Chocoberry has been nothing short of extraordinary.

"We have achieved the impressive milestone of becoming the '4th most ordered brand with Deliveroo', placing us right after iconic names such as McDonald’s, KFC, and Nando's. This resurgence in popularity showcases not only our delectable and innovative menu items but also highlights the enthusiastic response from our customers who are increasingly drawn to our unique flavours and experiences we provide.

"As we continue to capture the hearts and appetites of our customers, we eagerly look forward to building on this momentum and solidifying our presence in the competitive food market.

"Rotherham, prepare yourself for a delightful experience! Our new branch is currently being constructed with an new innovative design concept."

Chocoberry website

Images: Tom Austen / Chocoberry

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News: New Rotherham restaurant opens at Forge Island

Sygnature Dish has opened in Rotherham, bringing steak and seafood to Forge Island.

Rothbiz reported in March that an independent restaurant from local entrepreneurs would be the second food operator at the town centre's new landmark leisure destination.

Delivered by Rotherham Council in partnership with Muse, the £47m development includes an 8-screen boutique cinema operated by The Arc Cinema, a 69-roomed Travelodge Hotel.

Loungers plc, the West Country-based café/bar group, opened Vetro Lounge in April as the first food venue on Forge Island.

Sygnature Dish has taken Unit 3 - a 2,580 sq ft unit adjacent to the hotel, opposite the cinema and across from Vetro Lounge.

Dalu and Sibbs Sikhosana are the enterprising siblings behind Sygnature Dish and are well known from Sub Sahara, an authentic family-run African shop and butchery in Rotherham town centre. Sub Sahara was established in August 2023 by owners who have a combined experience of retail and hospitality industry of over 30 years.

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The new website for Sygnature Dish explains: "Specialising in high-quality, expertly cooked steaks and freshly sourced seafood, Sygnature Dish will serve lunch and dinner alongside a selection of cocktails plus local and international beers. Diners will be able to indulge in the finest cuts of T-bone, sirloin and rib-eye steaks, along with beef ribs and burgers.

"There’ll be a range of seafood on the menu too, including salmon, grilled/fried calamari, mussels, prawns and the fish of the day.

"The menu will also feature chicken, pasta, vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options to suit all tastes and if you want to sample more than one dish, you’ll be able to create your own platter.

"Whether it’s a special occasion, a pre/post-cinema outing or a casual meal with family and friends, Sygnature Dish will provide a warm and stylish setting for every guest to enjoy top-quality food."

The full menu is set to be available from Friday July 24.

The modern interior has been created for the restaurant by Tailored Kollektiv.

Rothbiz revealed in June that Heavenly Desserts was planning to take a unit at Forge Island.

Sygnature Dish website
Forge Island website

Images: Sygnature Dish

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News: Castings Technology secures significant investment

An £18m investment package is enabling Rotherham-based Castings Technology to accelerate its steep growth trajectory by moving into new premises in Sheffield, enhancing one of the most advanced foundries in the world and the only commercial titanium facility in the UK.

The company produces specialised investment castings from a range of alloys for some of the most demanding advanced manufacturing companies on the planet. The deal supported by Castle Square Corporate Finance, the same Yorkshire advisers who advised them on a MBO four years ago.

Currently based on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham, the company is moving to its own dedicated 195,000 sq ft production facility on Shepcote Lane in Sheffield.

Chairman, Kevin Parkin said “Whilst continuing to lease the building and equipment from the AMRC was the correct option in 2021 when the Management Buy-Out completed, due to our substantial growth, it is now necessary for the company to move to its own, larger premises and with new, world-class equipment”.

Castings Technology, which celebrated its centenary in 2023, underwent a management buy-out in 2021 which saw MD Richard Cook and Chairman Kevin Parkin take the reins.

Since then, the company has achieved a 225+% increase in sales and significantly increased its skilled staff to more than 100, with an order book that shows no signs of slowing.

When seeking the current investment, the board turned to Kevan Shaw, Managing Partner of Castle Square Corporate Finance, who was key to the successful MBO, who was able to secure an investment facility of £15m from Zachary Asset Holdings for Castings Technology.

Kevan said “I was thrilled to receive the call from Kevin and Richard to manage this investment deal after working with them on their MBO back in 2020/21. We had several interested parties but Zachary Asset Holdings were the best fit. This deal secures Castings Technology’s long-term future with a move to its own facility.”

Robin Haller of Zachary Asset Holdings added “We are extremely excited to partner with Castings Technology and help to support their growth in Sheffield. We believe their skills and technology are world-class and will benefit both the region and the country.”

The new site, formerly a Whitbread Brewery bottling plant, is undergoing a multimillion-pound landlord-funded refurbishment to enable Castings Technology to install its new equipment.

Much equipment is already on order, due to long lead times, such as a new Vacuum Arc Remelting Furnace and Heat Treatment Furnace costing over £6.5m and £1.5m respectively.

Castings Technology has its own Metrology, X-Ray, NDT, and Metallurgical Laboratory on site which complement its world leading processes.

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Richard Cook, MD added “We have developed a strong growth strategy, and we will continue to collaborate with our clients and other institutions to help us improve operational efficiencies. The move delivers a sound platform from which Castings Technology can offer continued supply chain resilience to customers’ future and current programmes.”

Castings Technology has had to find new ways of recruiting the best talent and become an employer of choice in the region. It has a sustainable, diverse, and committed workforce and is dedicated to increasing apprenticeship numbers over the coming years.

It is partnering with local schools and the UTC in Sheffield, providing work experience placements and encouraging more interest in manufacturing to develop engineering apprenticeships. It is also a committed partner of the Better Learners, Better Workers scheme run, in conjunction with The Company of Cutlers in Hallamshire, by Sarah Ward, Managing Director of Ambition Unlimited.

Wake Smith Solicitors’ Rebecca Robinson, Director and Head of Corporate, provided legal advice to the management team including dealing with due diligence information requests and negotiating the investment documentation, facilities agreement and security documentation. Mark Cooper of BHP advised on tax matters.

Rebecca Robinson said “We are proud to have supported Castings Technology through this significant funding development. The company has outgrown its facilities and this investment allows it to move forward, and further its potential to become one of the largest Titanium foundries in the world.”

The British Cast Iron Research Association was formed in 1923 and the British Steel Casting Research Association was formed in 1953. These two membership organisations merged in 1996 to become Castings Technology International Ltd.

In 2006, Castings Technology relocated the bulk of its facilities to the AMP after securing EU funding to construct and equip a 54,000 sq ft workshop.

In 2013 ownership of these facilities was transferred to the University of Sheffield where funding was secured to expand the facility to 13,000 sq ft and to house Europe’s largest titanium melting facility.

The new facility is expected to be operational in the second half of 2026.

Castings Technology website

Images: Castings Technology

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News: Rotherham restaurant rebrands as sports bar & grill

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Press Box Rotherham website

Images: Press Box / Google Maps

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News: National retailer eyes former Rotherham Wilko store

A national retailer is set to move into an empty unit in Rotherham, but only if planning permission is secured to enable the sale of a wider range of goods.

Rothbiz reported last year on the efforts of the owners of the Cortonwood Shopping Park in Rotherham to secure new tenants following the closure of the large Wilko store.

Administrators were called in to the British high-street retail chain in 2023. A deal to save hundreds of stores fell through and instead, B&M was reported to be acquiring 51 former Wilko store premises and then-Poundland owner Pepco took on the leases of up to 71 stores. The Range subsequently agreed a deal to buy the Wilko brand, website and intellectual property.

Managers, Threadneedle has already secured permission to split Unit 1 into two separate retail units for separate tenants and now they are applying for a change of use for Unit 1B so that it can be used for the sale of food and drink "by a national multiple retailer."

Plans for the 98,000 sq ft development were only passed on appeal at a public inquiry in 2013 after earlier being refused by Rotherham Council. The permission prevents a retail operation that is "primarily for the sale of food" and planning permission had to be secured in 2015 to enable an M&S Foodhall to open at the park.

Now permission is being sought for food retail at the 5,000 sq ft Unit 1B.

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The application states: "The application is submitted to enable a small-scale national multiple food and drink retailer to take occupation of the floorspace and enable its reoccupation. The Shopping Park can already be used for a wide range of food retail operations including M&S, Poundland, B&M and Morrisons. The proposal therefore does not result in a material change of the already permitted retail land use operations that can take place at the Shopping Park."

If approved, a new tenant would bring 25 jobs to the area.

As the site is classed as out of town, a sequential test is also included. Sequential tests ensure that development is located in the most sustainable location first (usually in town centres), before other, less sustainable locations are chosen.

Applicants say that there are no suitable and available sites in nearby town centres and hope that planners agree, in the same way they did with the M&S approval.

The plans conclude: "The proposal is positive economic investment in Rotherham which will secure sustainable economic growth by providing economically beneficial retail facilities at an existing and established retail location that enhances consumer choice.

"Further, the proposal will bring vacant economic floorspace into productive use.

"With this in mind, the proposal is a positive investment in Rotherham's retail market that results in the sustainable re-use of an existing building which currently does not contribute to the local economy. Reoccupying the floorspace at Unit 1B would provide new job opportunities and wage creation, which would be to the benefit of local people."

Images: Google Maps

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News: Burnt-out former Wetherspoons in Rotherham - yours for £249,995

A fire-damaged pub in Rotherham town centre is up for sale.

The Rhinoceros pub on Bridgegate was one of 16 pubs put up for sale by J D Wetherspoons in 2019. Known locally as "Rhinos," the pub operated independently from Wetherspoon but was closed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The units were in the proccess of being refurbished and the initial intention was for the rear wing of the building to be converted into residential apartments, but two subsequent fires caused considerable damage to the existing building and structure.

Proposals for a new "Georgian inspired" mixed use development to replace the pub were approved last October.

Rotherham Council were hoping that work on the project moved quickly but with little sign of development, the property is back up for sale.

Agents, BRH have given the property a price of £249,995 and say that it "presents an exceptional opportunity for investors and developers. With full planning permission granted for 22 self-contained flats and 2 x large ground floor commercial units, it offers significant potential for redevelopment.

"While the property demands significant work, its affordable price point and strategic location make it an attractive proposition for those looking to invest in the area.

"The estimated post-development value stands at approximately £3m, highlighting the financial potential of this project."

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The pub previously went up for auction in 2021 with a guide price of £399,000.

The approved outline application would involve the demolition of the whole of the existing building and replacing it with a three storey building with a Georgian style frontage to Bridgegate containing two retail units of 800 sq ft and 1,000 sq ft. Access would be between the retail units into a courtyard area and the proposed new large apartment block.

Rotherham Council has previously served a s215 notice on the owner of the site in an effort to address the eyesore of a wrecked building. Local authorities have the power to take steps requiring land to be cleaned up when its condition adversely affects the amenity of the area. The notice was served "due to the dilapidated and poor state the building is still in after the fire and given the site is located in a prime location in the town centre conservation area."

Sale documents warn that "access is restricted due to structural instability."

As part of the approval, applicants were given three years to implement the scheme, or one year to submit landscaping proposals and a reserved matters application, and then a futher year to implement the scheme from the date the reserved matters application is approved.

BRH are also marketing another redevelopment opportunity in Rotherham town centre.

Rothbiz has previously reported on plans to convert the upper floors of 16 - 20 College Street in All Saints Square.

Agents explain: "With full planning permission already granted for nine self-contained flats, this site presents a prime opportunity for substantial development. Additionally, two commercial units on the ground floor add further value to this offering.

"The property ... requires a complete renovation throughout, with estimated refurbishment costs of £400k. Once completed, the estimated end value is projected to reach around £1.2m. This makes it an attractive proposition for investors looking to capitalise on the growing demand for residential and commercial spaces in central locations."

The College Street property is up for sale for £599,995.

BRH website

Images: BRHv / John Box Associates

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News: New neighbourhood venues in Rotherham

The Canary and Bistro Bisque are the newest venues in Rotherham.

2025 saw the opening of Olive Lane, the urban shopping and leisure development at the Waverley development which also includes a medical centre and community centre.

The Canary micro bar is preparing to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere at Unit C1, complete with outdoor benches.

Serving a curated selection of craft and cask beers from independent breweries as well as exclusive wines, small-batch gins, cocktails and exceptional whisky.

Applicant, TBO Limited, has applied for an alcohol licence with the operating hours of 9:00 - 23:30 on Monday to Thursday, 9:00 - 00:30 on Friday and Saturday and Sundays between 9:00 and 22:30.

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An opening date has yet to be announced but, operators said on social media this week: "We can’t wait to welcome you. The build is progressing well...

"Expect a heavy rotation of independent beers (our last spot poured 360 different brews in just 12 months), alongside exclusive wines you won’t find anywhere else.

"Community matters here. The history of Orgreave and its strong, working-class spirit has always inspired us — and we’re proud to bring that sense of connection to The Waverley through The Canary.

"This is more than just a bar. It’s a place to belong."

Across the borough at Thorpe Hesley, Bistro Bisque has opened a bistro and bar with a pottery painting twist.

Moving from Ecceslall Road in Sheffield into a converted former nursery on Brook Hill, the new location combines a bar & grill with a pottery area.

Events include potty prosecco, paint & pour and a six week build, fire & paint course.

Bistro Bisque website

Images: Bistro Bisque

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News: Roadhouse gets ready to reopen in Rotherham

After near neighbours Rancheros Bar and Grill announced plans to reopen its Rotherham restaurant, the operators of the Roadhouse Bar & Bottles are set to do the same.

Rothbiz has previously reported on how both venues posted in 2024 that they had closed in the Stag area for the "forseeable future" "due to circumstances outside of our control."

Roadhouse went on to open another micropub in a former opticians on Laughton Road in Dinnington but the Stag venues have remained closed.

Last week, a post on social media from Rancheros Rodízio Bar & Grill announced that they were getting ready to open on July 15.

Now, the operators of the Roadhouse have confirmed plans to reopen.

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A post on Facebook reads: "So the rumours are true, and we can finally confirm we got the keys back!

"The man in the red jumper [Chris Roadhouse, owner of Roadhouse Bar & Bottles] would like to welcome you all back.

"We're aiming for the pumps to be pouring by Friday the 18th of July, but watch this space for more updates and some special vip nights.

"Pub crawl between Dinnington and the Stag, anyone?

"Hoooooooray Rotherham!"

A craft beer specialist, Roadhouse originally opened in 2021 in the former supermarket store room at Stag Roundabout. It has hosted art events and live music and also operates as a bottle shop offering beers, wines and spirits.

Having signed a lease in 2019, operators found themselves locked out just before Valentine's Day with notices of peaceable re-entry by the landlord on display at both premises.

The property which contains both, 154 - 156 Wickersley Road, was listed for sale with Crosthwaite Commercial in October 2023, expecting offers around £350,000 for the freehold interest.

London-based The Bampton Property Group Limited, secured planning permission at the end of 2023 to refurbish the building, including a new pitched roof, demolition of first floor to the bar, and the replacement of first floor windows to the front elevation. It does not appear that the work has been carried out.

Images: Roadhouse / facebbok / Google Maps

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News: Date revealed for Rancheros reopening in Rotherham

Operators of a popular Rotherham restaurant that has been closed for over a year have confirmed when it will reopen.

Rothbiz reported earlier this month on Rancheros Bar and Grill reactivating its social media accounts to announce that it would be firing up the grill.

The operators of Rancheros, and near neighbours, Roadhouse Bar & Bottles both posted in 2024 that they had closed their venues in the Stag area "due to circumstances outside of our control."

Roadhouse went on to open another micropub in a former opticians on Laughton Road in Dinnington but the Stag venues have remained closed.

A post on social media from Rancheros Rodízio Bar & Grill reads: "We are happy to announce that we are now working everyday getting ourselves ready to open our doors on 15th July at 5pm.

"We can’t thank you enough for your love and support."

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Activity has been taking place over recent weeks at the restaurant and operators have confirmed that the reopening will be at the same Wickersley Road unit.

Rancheros brought Brazilian and Latin cuisines to the borough, converting an empty retail unit into a restaurant and bar at Stag Roundabout. Opening when Covid-19 restrictions were still in place, the venue became a hit with TripAdvisor reviewers who made it the number one ranked restaurant in the town.

The restaurant was from Doncaster-based restaurant entrepreneur, Masud Rana, owner of La Boca and La Rustica in Doncaster town centre, and the La Fiesta tapas restaurant in Armthorpe. Whilst the Rotherham branch underwent a revamp in 2022, the Doncaster branch of Rancheros closed in 2023, within a year of opening.

A new company, Rancheros Rodizio Ltd, with a new director, was incorporated recently with Companies House.

Images: Rancheros / Facebook / Google Maps

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News: Something sweet set for Forge Island

Signs are that the UK's number one dessert restaurant is opening in Rotherham town centre - at the Forge Island leisure scheme.

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

After a previous deal failed to materialise, Vetro Lounge opened in April with Sygnature Dish set to open its doors this summer.

Now the standalone unit, designed for a café on the main pedestrian route to Forge Island from town, looks to have finally found a tenant.

Heavenly Desserts, which is creating must-visit spots for both dessert and brunch lovers across the UK, has applied for new signage on the empty unit.

Promising not just dessert but an immersive experience, each of the operator's restaurants feature beautifully designed, unique interiors, perfect for every occasion. Expect elegant decor, warm hospitality, and signature handcrafted desserts and brunch items.

The menu features innovative desserts including signature dishes such as the Croffle and experimental dessert tapas inspired from all corners of the world.

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Since opening in 2008, the brand has been expanding through franchising and now has over 50+ locations in the UK. The closest branch currently is on Division Street in Sheffield city centre.

If plans are approved, Heavenly Desserts would transform the 1,500 sq unit that sits between Forge Island and Corporation Street.

Work is underway to improve the public realm on Corporation Street alongside Upper Millgate and the creation of new greenspace called Riverside Gardens.

The scheme will boast soft landscaped terraces, a riverside walk offering views of the River Don, natural play for children, new seating and improvements to footpaths and public spaces along Corporation Street, helping to make road crossings shorter. The work will also enable cyclists to travel in both directions on Corporation Street.

The unit was previously set to be occupied by the Thistle Group under its Caffé Noor brand.

Rothbiz reported that that company got into financial difficulties a year after they'd signed that pre-let agreement with Rotherham Council and were unable to bring its brands to Rotherham.

Heavenly Desserts website
Forge Island website

Images: Heavenly Desserts / Google Maps

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News: Board back Barrel & Bean at Brecks

The planning board at Rotherham Council has voted to approve plans that will enable a craft ale and coffee house to open in a vacant commercial building.

Rothbiz reported in March on plans for "Barrel & Bean" on Wickersley Road, an idea that was brewing among eight friends who envisioned a local craft ale bar providing quality cask and keg ales in a relaxed setting.

The change of use application is to use the ground floor of a former dental training facility for the café/bar area with the lower ground floor at the rear as a storage and preparation area. The first floor area would remain as a separate flat.

27 letters were received regarding the application, 11 letters objecting and 16 in support. Nearby occupiers raised concerns over potential negative effects on adjacent businesses through noise and disturbance, parking and access.

The applicant, Anthony Marples, has stated that acoustic separation measures will be carried out to ensure minimal disruption to the residential accommodation above and no outdoor seating or live/amplified music is proposed.

The council's environmental health department has asked for conditions to limit the impact, adding: "Noise from vocals is extremely difficult to control especially in drinking establishments where alcohol is served until late evening."

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The applicant has agreed to the imposition of conditions to restrict the hours of use and hours of deliveries, and to exclude external drinking or seating areas. Soundproofing is also planned.

Opening hours would be Sundays to Wednesdays 9am until 9pm, Thursdays 9am until 9:30pm, Fridays and Saturdays 9am until 10:30pm.

Council planners said that the proposal would bring an empty unit back into use and provide services for the local community, adding: "It is considered that the proposal would provide a service to local residents by providing a community meeting space and many letters in support of the application as a community facility have been received from the general public in the local area."

Mr Marples told the planning board: "We are proposing the opening of a small microbar, specialising in real ale speciality beers, coffees, teas and cakes operating until 9pm / 10 pm daily. Focusing on real ales differentiates us from typical pub venues and attracts a clientele appreciative of quality beverages in a relaxed setting.

"The target demographic is the more mature generation that prioritises quiet conversation and an ealry closing time is central to our commitment to minimising disturbance.

“The Brecks currently lacks a dedicated, quiet and welcoming venue like this, and the presence of a well run microbar adds to the diversity and vibrancy of local amenities.”

“We understand that residents may have concerns about noise, disorder and parking, and the establishment is low noise by design."

The planning board voted unanimously to approve the application.

Images: Google Maps

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News: £400,000 for prominent Rotherham pub

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Overall, the property extends to 0.57 acres."

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

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

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

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

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

Stonegate website

Images: Savills

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News: "Indian tapas" and spicy wings - the new venues set to open at a Rotherham retail development

A second food venue looks to be winging its way to Waverley in Rotherham and the recently completed Olive Lane development.

Rothbiz reported in March that Olive Lane, Harworth’s brand new retail development at its flagship site at Waverley in Rotherham had reached practical completion with just over 80% of units under offer or let.

The urban shopping and leisure development on Highfield Spring, part of Harworth’s complete redevelopment of the former mining site, totals 11 retail units and a medical centre and will serve the current community of more than 2,500 residents and around 1,700 homes, expected to rise to 8,000 people and more than 3,000 homes by 2029.

Karobar Indian restaurant has already been announced as signing up to the scheme.

Currently operating at the Three Swords in Horsforth, Karobar offers a modern twist on classic flavours, specializing in shareable small plates designed for social dining - Regional Indian Tapas features innovative bite-sized delights that showcase the diversity of Indian cuisine.

An update from the operators said: "Get ready to embark on a culinary journey to the heart of India! Karobar, your local destination for authentic Indian cuisine, is opening its doors soon in Waverley.

"Expect a vibrant atmosphere, mouthwatering dishes, and warm hospitality. From sizzling street food to elegant curries, our menu offers something for everyone.

"Stay tuned for our grand opening announcement!"

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Now a new planning application shows that a family run fast-food franchise wants to open at the Rotherham development.

The plans involve the installation of extraction system to the rear of Unit E3 and are from Wolverhampton's Wing It On Ltd.

Plans show that the unit would operate under the Wingers brand.

Amran Sunner and his brother Dylan and dad Bill, set about creating their own delicious, fresh fried buttermilk chicken recipe for customers to enjoy and the idea quickly developed wings! They formed Wingers – the Chicken Wing Company – a family run fast-food franchise business creating delicious, fresh fried buttermilk chicken recipes that got Midland folk drooling.

The first restaurant opened in Lichfield, quickly followed by more successes around the Midlands. Recent investments can support up to 75 Wingers franchised restaurants across the UK.

Dylan Sunner, co-founder and Head of Procurement at Wingers, said: “Wingers is growing rapidly and we now have fifteen restaurants trading successfully with ambitions to secure 30 sites by the end of 2025."

Plans have also been submitted to enable changes to be made to a commercial building at Olive Lane.

Sky House Co, which bought a parcel of land from Harworth for a housing scheme, has applied for a two-storey building to accommodate three commercial units (G1, G2 and G3). Units G1 and G2 would be for Use Class E (Commercial, Business and Service) with Unit G3 being for Medical or health services. The units could support 26 full time equivalent jobs.

Karobar website
Wingers website

Images: Wingers / Karobar / Facebook

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News: Rotherham restaurant announces reopening

A popular Rotherham restaurant, closed for over a year, has announced plans to reopen, setting tongues wagging amongst food fans.

A location has yet to be confirmed.

Rothbiz reported on a heart-breaking Valentine's Day for two popular Rotherham venues as they both announced shock closures at the same time in 2024.

The operators of Rancheros Bar and Grill and Roadhouse Bar & Bottles both posted that they had closed their venues in the Stag area "due to circumstances outside of our control."

Roadhouse has since opened in a former opticians on Laughton Road in Dinnington and now it looks like Rancheros is returning.

A post on social media from Rancheros Rodízio Bar & Grill reads: "The skewers are getting ready, the grill is heating up, and we can't wait to serve you that all-you-can-eat Brazilian flavour you’ve been missing. Rancheros is re-opening. Prepare your stomachs for this July!"

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The announcement comes a week after operators at another Rotherham favourite, The Big Smoke announced that they were closing with immediate effect, saying that its overheads and supplier costs had soared.

When asked if Rancheros would be taking on the Moorgate site, a quick reply came: "nope, we aren't" and instead operators said that they were "going home."

Rancheros brought Brazilian and Latin cuisines to the borough, converting an empty retail unit into a restaurant and bar at Stag Roundabout. Opening when Covid-19 restrictions were still in place, the venue became a hit with TripAdvisor reviewers who made it the number one ranked restaurant in the town.

The restaurant was from Doncaster-based restaurant entrepreneur, Masud Rana, owner of La Boca and La Rustica in Doncaster town centre, and the La Fiesta tapas restaurant in Armthorpe. Whilst the Rotherham branch underwent a revamp in 2022, the Doncaster branch of Rancheros closed in 2023, within a year of opening.

A new company, Rancheros Rodizio Ltd, with a new director, was incorporated last week with Companies House, with the same Wickersley Road address.

The reasons for the closures in Rotherham were not made public but notices of peaceable re-entry by the landlord were on display at the premises.

Leases often allow for landlords to take back possession of a property by physically entering it and changing the locks without court proceedings - if they think they have the right to do so - usually a breach of the lease by the tenant.

In 2023, The Bampton Property Group, secured planning permission for a scheme that involved a refurbishment of the 1960's building, including a new pitched roof, demolition of first floor to the public house, and the replacement of first floor windows to the front elevation.

Images: Rancheros / facebook

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