News: Rotherham Council reiterates issues with Whitestone solar proposals

Rotherham Council's issues with a massive solar farm proposed in the borough are set to be discussed this week.

Plans recently 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 is due to be presented to Rotherham's planning board this week before the Planning Inspectorate's preliminary meeting takes place next month.

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."

Promoters of the scheme, Green Nation, 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."

Rotherham Council does not agree with Green Nation's conclusion about land being grey belt given that there are historic towns nearby, that the land checks unrestricted sprawl of large built-up areas and helps prevent neighbouring towns merging into one another.

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Rotherham Council has also raised issue with the loss of Best and Most Versatile (BMV) agricultural land and over the issue of the 60 year timescale, given that national policy is 40 years.

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.

Rotherham Council is also concerned about the harm to the setting of heritage assets and the proximity to a Local Wildlife Site at Brampton Common has been raised.

Concerns regarding the suitability and capacity of the proposed substation and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) location have been raised and 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."

The report concludes: "Whilst the Council recognises the contribution the proposal could make towards renewable energy generation and national net zero objectives, it maintains that a number of significant issues remain unresolved and require further assessment through the examination process."

The authority will continue working on its Local Impact Report - a comprehensive assessment of the likely impacts of the proposed development on the borough and one of the Council's principal pieces of evidence during the examination. It will also engage on the Statements of Common Ground, an important part of the examination process.

The planning inspectorate is currently accepting submissions from interested parties until October 27 before the formal examination process starts on November 10 with a preliminary meeting in Rotherham to establish the procedures, timetable and arrangements for the examination.

Images: Pexels / Mark Stebnicki

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News: Rotherham Council refuses plans for 24hr gaming centre

Plans to convert a vacant former bank in Rotherham town centre into a 24 hour adult gaming centre have been refused.

Rothbiz reported last month on plans from London-based Chongie Entertainment UK Ltd which trades as Little Vegas and Little Macau.

A relatively new entrant in the adult gaming centre (AGC) UK market, the Little Vegas brand was established in 2020 and now has 18 venues, mainly across the South East of England.

The website explains: "Little Vegas brings the feel of the casino right to your local high street. We offer the latest slot machine games, giving players an authentic and modern gaming experience."

Plans showed how the 1,500 sq ft unit would be brought back to life with rows of modern video slot machines around the edge with two islands of screens in the middle of the gaming centre.

A new lobby, toilet and coffee station are also shown on the plans which would create 7.5 FTE jobs.

The former Alliance & Leicester and Santander branch on College Street was most recently used as part of a family arcade.

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In refusing the plans without going through the council's planning board, officers concluded that a 24 hour operation would result in unacceptable noise and disturbance to neighbouring residents.

It was agreed that noise from within the premises could be controlled using mitigation measures but the same couldn't be said for noise generated outside the premises during the night,

The planning officer's report reads: "The proposal would result in customer arrivals and departures throughout the day and night, generating noise, activity and general disturbance in close proximity to residential properties. Unlike noise arising from within the premises, such impacts would be difficult to control or mitigate through planning conditions and, given the close relationship with nearby residential accommodation, are likely to adversely affect living conditions, particularly during night-time hours.

"The proposal is considered unacceptable and would result in significant harm to residential amenity."

Rotherham Council does operate a policy for supporting night-time entertainment uses but only when they "improve the range and diversity of uses within the town centre and do not give rise to unacceptable impacts on residential amenity." The policy further advises that uses operating beyond midnight will only be encouraged within the Westgate, Market Place and Corporation Street areas of the town centre.

The report said that the AGC use "does not support or contribute towards the retail function of the frontage" of the building which is on the town's primary shopping streets, and adds: "The proposal would not contribute positively towards the Council's strategy for directing and managing evening economy uses within Rotherham Town Centre and would fail to support the creation of a diverse and attractive town centre offer for a broad range of users."

The operator has had some success on securing planning permission for other towns on appeal, some for 24 hour operations and others with restricted hours.

In Rotherham, Rothbiz reported in 2022 that Merkur Slots had opened in a vacant unit following a partly successful planning appeal. It wanted a 24 hour operation but was restricted to operating between the hours of 8am and midnight.

In 2023, Royal Amusements secured planning permission for a vacant unit on Effingham Street for an AGC. Planners concluded that: "There is no doubt that the proposed use would not generate the level of footfall from a retail use, but in comparison to a vacant premises this would still be a benefit, including associated linked trips and employment."

Rotherham Council said that a 24-hour a day operation could not be supported and a condition was imposed to ensure that an otherwise unacceptable development could be made acceptable by limiting the opening hours to between 8am and midnight. An Adult Gaming Centre Premises Licence enabling 24 hour use of Category B machines here was approved by the Council's Licencing team earlier this year.

Images: BRH

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News: Rotherham restaurants paired together

Two popular restaurants in Rotherham within yards of each other have confirmed plans to combine, according to Visit Rotherham

Rothbiz reported recently on The Garrison and The Olive Lounge in Wickersley, that both announced that they would close and both said that changes were on the menu.

The 1920s themed restaurant, The Garrison, opened in 2020 focusing is on British inspired local produce plus unique cocktails and proper beers. The Olive Lounge served authentic homemade tapas with quality wines, beers and original cocktails and the W Bars team announced at the end of 2025 that they had taken over the premises. The W Bars team are part of the same group that operates the W Italian Restaurant on nearby Bawtry Road.

An update on social media states that the team at The Garrison will be joining the team at The Olive Lounge as it transforms into Vida - a Mediterranean restaurant, cocktail bar, and music lounge.

Visit Rotherham reports that Elliott Vaughan, founder of The Garrison, said: "Roughly 1506 services later, that’s the last. Just short of 6 years of The Garrison and we’ve had a blast; for everyone who has joined us and supported us over the years, thank you from the bottom of my heart. It means everything to me, my team and my family, and you have been appreciated more than you know it.

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"We are incredibly excited to announce that we will be joining the team at The Olive Lounge (which has recently been taken over by W Italian). Together, we'll be bringing an exciting new lease of life to the venue as it transforms into Vida; a Mediterranean restaurant, cocktail bar, and music lounge. It's a project we're truly passionate about, and we can't wait to welcome both familiar faces and new ones through the doors. Keep an eye out for the launch of our social media pages and website where we'll be sharing more details over the coming weeks.

"As for The Garrison at 129 Bawtry Road, the future is still in the balance of what, or who is to come next. All will be disclosed upon finalising."

The Olive Lounge has recently seen its planning permission for an extension turned down by Rotherham Council.

Plans showed a single storey glass extension to the front facing Bawtry Road that would take the venue from 2,799 sq ft to 3,552 sq ft.

Planners objected to the appearance of the proposed extension concluding that it would be "a prominent addition which would materially affect the appearance and character of the host property and form an incongruous feature that would have a detrimental impact on the existing street scene."

In response, a new application has been submitted.

The latest plans are for a similar glazed front extension that would take the venue to 3,400 sq ft. The main difference between the two proposals is that the latest planned extension doesn't reach and follow the footpath boundary to the front of the property.

The former Garrison premises at 129a Bawtry Road benefits from planning permission for a change of use from a restaurant into a micropub and a decking area to front of the property.

However, as the premises is within the Cumulative Impact Zone, the current alcohol licence restricts the use of the premises so that it can only operate as a restaurant. Conditions state that the premises will not operate exclusively as a bar at any time and that alcohol shall only be served to customers seated.

Images: Olive Lounge / Google Maps

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News: New plans for burnt out buildings site in Rotherham town centre

New plans are being developed for the vacant plot created when two prominent burnt out buildings were demolished in Rotherham town centre.

Early proposals also provide a further hint that a new theatre is planned for the Leisure & Cultural Quarter extending from Forge Island.

The Corporation Street site is one of five where social impact developer Capital&Centric, is supporting Rotherham Council's aim of attracting new uses, services, residential and leisure opportunities and moving away from the traditional retail market.

Rothbiz revealed earlier this year that the Manchester company, a specialist in unlocking and transforming "unloved" brownfield sites into vibrant, design-led neighbourhoods, had been awarded a Rotherham contract that could reach up to £100m in value.

Pre-development work and feasibility studies will help to create full business cases for the five council-owned brownfield sites.

At Corporation Street, the council had to go through a lengthy CPO process for the buildings that made up 3-7 Corporation Street and that were a long-standing eyesore in Rotherham. Having acquired the properties, the authority was ultimately unable to realise a previously approved £6m mixed-use scheme, despite external funds to pay for demolition and help fill a viability gap.

Capital&Centric has worked with consultants, Urbana, and architects, FaulknerBrown, on a new mixed use proposal that includes commercial / office space and ten, three bedroom homes.

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A set of two blocks are shown on the vacant site fronting Corporation Street with ground floor space envisaged as a mix of café, restaurant and retail space. A range of duplex apartments, designed to be home to between two and six people, are shown on the upper floor with a courtyard open space created to the rear.

The plans state: "The proposals represent a significant opportunity to deliver commercial-led regeneration across an important brownfield site within Rotherham Town Centre.

"The proposed development represents a positive and policy-compliant regeneration opportunity within Rotherham Town Centre. It would make effective use of previously developed land, deliver new commercial and residential floorspace, strengthen active frontages and contribute towards a broader and more balanced mix of uses and homes across the wider regeneration programme."

A council cabinet report from earlier this year stated that the scheme, like the Snail Yard scheme nearby, is not considered viable without some form of public sector funding and the council is working with Capital&Centric to find gap funding.

The name given to the development by Capital&Centric is the "Theatre" site.

Rothbiz revealed in 2023 that a new theatre was included in the authority's place-based investment strategy following hints that a new theatre could be located in the Corporation Street area of town.

Rotherham Council has also purchased the former Wilko's store and the vacated former Regal Cinema / Mecca Bingo on Corporation Street for regeneration purposes.

Capital&Centric website

Images: Capital&Centric / FaulknerBrown

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News: Rotherham bank building sold, council tight-lipped

An empty former bank on Corporation Street has sold at auction at the same time as the local council approves the purchase of an unnamed property in Rotherham town centre.

The former NatWest bank building was previously part of a regeneration scheme but agreements could not be reached between the owner and the council.

Described as being "in a state of disrepair requiring development and conversion," BTG Eddisons listed 38 Corporation Street with a guide price of £180,000 - £200,000.

It sold this week for £300,500.

Rothbiz reported in 2021 on investment plans for vacant buildings on Corporation Street as part of a bid to extend the town's new Leisure and Cultural Quarter from nearby Forge Island.

As development continued on the cinema and hotel scheme, acquisitions by Rotherham Council have included the Riverside Precinct, the former Mecca Bingo building, the building vacated by Wilko, and the burnt-out buildings on the opposite side of Corporation Street. All but the grade II listed Mecca building have been demolished.

In the case of the former NatWest Bank, private sector owners did not bring forward a suitable scheme and previously turned down a bid from the council to buy the building.

To support the scheme, Rotherham Council was prepared to sell the former Lloyds bank next door for just £1 in 2022.

By 2024, concerns were being raised regarding the progress made by the owners of the NatWest Bank who were then given a short timescale to provide a plan. With no suitable plans for the bank, the owners then informed the council that they would consider selling the property. However, an agreement could not be reached.

Auction documents show that the property was being sold by Chicken Villas Limited, a company that is connected to the QFM Group, the Sheffield-based operator of a number of popular food franchises.

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Earlier this week, Rotherham Council's cabinet approved the use of its Capital Contingency Fund to "acquire a property in Rotherham Town Centre for the purposes of future regeneration."

The documents do not name the property but describe it as being "the subject of previous masterplan and feasibility work, demonstrating the strategic value of the property for regeneration purposes" and add that the "property’s location means that its future ownership, condition and use could have a material bearing on the quality and delivery of surrounding regeneration proposals."

A cabinet paper adds: "Acquisition would enable the Council to secure control of the property while future development options are assessed. Those options may include refurbishment, redevelopment, reuse in conjunction with adjoining Council interests, or incorporation within a wider regeneration proposal.

"The property is vacant and understood to require significant investment. Acquisition would therefore expose the Council to immediate holding, security, insurance, compliance and maintenance costs pending agreement and funding of any future use.

"The property is vacant and in poor condition, and full access has not yet been provided. There is therefore a risk of significant structural, fabric, building-services, asbestos, security or other abnormal costs. The maximum bid will reflect the limitations of the available information. If acquired, an initial allowance will be made for the security, insurance, health and safety and property-management measures considered essential pending a full condition assessment."

Looking ahead, the council, which is working on multimillion pound public realm work on Corporation Street and a new riverside gardens, said of the new target: "No funded redevelopment project is presently being approved. There is a risk that the cost of bringing the property back into beneficial use exceeds available resources. Acquisition must therefore be justified principally by the property’s strategic importance, supported by an assessment of holding costs and future options."

Options to leave any redevelopment up to the private sector owners, or indeed seek to engage and work with the building's owners were rejected due to the lack of influence and direct control of future regeneration.

Draft plans submitted with the auction documents show around 2,000 sq ft of commercial space in a new building overlooking the river and new gardens and a 1,700 sq ft commercial unit in the old bank. Plans for the upper floors show apartments across both buildings.

Neither the property that Rotherham Council has been authorised to acquire, or the successful bidder of the auction lot has been disclosed.

BTG auctions

Images: BTG

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News: Rotherham micropub secures longer opening hours

A pub created in a former farm building in a Rotherham village has secured longer opening hours ahead of a busy Christmas period.

Planning approval was secured in 2022 for Deer Park Tap at Deer Park Farm, a family run business based at Thrybergh that has evolved into a destination which has previously offered bespoke furniture, antiques and a farm shop.

Having earlier been refused planning permission by Rotherham Council, plans were updated to deal with noise concerns raised by nearby residents to the Doncaster Road site.

The planning permission was in effect granted on a temporary basis which was restricted by condition. This condition was later removed under a new planning application in 2024 which effectively granted planning permission for public house on a permanent basis.

The latest application, recently approved, relates to the unauthorised installation of an extractor fan for cooking at the premises, along with variations in opening hours.

Applicant, Shaun Cristinacce, said that having the proposed additional hours on Wednesdays and Saturdays by two hours to 11pm "will support the financial viability of the Deer Park Tap."

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To support the growing business at the site, the extended hours will enable the efficient hosting of pub quizzes, darts matches and "small-scale live entertainment acts" on a Saturday.

The application saw three objections and one letter of support.

The Council’s Environmental Health Officer concluded that "Taking into consideration that the premises will only play background music and all drinking activities will be restricted to indoors only after 21:00hrs, it is our opinion that the request to allow the premises to open until 23:00hrs Wednesdays, Saturdays and throughout the Christmas period is reasonable and should not result in adverse impact."

New hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday (including public / bank holidays): 12:00 – 21:00, and Wednesday and Saturday: 12:00 – 23:00.

The operator has previously obtained temporary event notices (TENs) for later hours at Christmas, which includes a ticket only access event on New Year's Eve.

The latest approval secures permanent new operating hours between December 18 and December 30 inclusive, extended to 12:00 – 23:00. And on New Year’s Eve the permitted hours are extended to 12:00 – 01:00 on the next day.

Deer Park Retail Village website

Images: Deer Park Tap / Facebook

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News: Rotherham hosts first halal food bazaar

Visit Rotherham reports on the new multimillion pound markets development in Rotherham town centre hosting its first new market since the first stage of redevelopment works completed - a halal food bazaar.

The Rotherham Bazaar, held each Thursday has also made the move to the redeveloped site at the same time as operator, Rotherham Council, made the decision to move the Monday and Friday general market from the street onto the public space around the Rotherham Market Hall.

As part of the £46.844m project, a new public realm area has been created between the market building and Eastwood Lane and the college campus.

It is not yet known if the general outdoor market on a Saturday, Tuesday street market, Wednesday Antiques & bric-a-brac market, will follow.

At the end of September, a new halal food bazaar took place in the new public realm area, reports Visit Rotherham.

The Rotherham Bazaar launched in 2013 in the old outdoor covered market and is held every Thursday. Taking place on what was historically the quietest shopping day of the week, an outside operator was brought in by Rotherham Council as a response to the message that customers wanted new shopping experiences to be introduced to the town.

Since its launch, the Rotherham Bazaar has held a number of special market days around Eid and made the move to the main streets in the town when demolition work began on the outdoor covered market.

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Promoted by the same operator, the halal food bazaar takes place on the last Saturday of every month.

Halal Food Council USA explains that halal food is a fundamental aspect of Islamic dietary laws and plays a crucial role in the lives of Muslims around the world. The term “halal” refers to anything that is permissible according to Islamic law, and this includes not only what is lawful but also what is wholesome and good. Understanding the basics of halal food is not only important for Muslims but also for anyone interested in diverse culinary traditions and global food culture.

The first event on September 26 included stalls selling nuts, olives, fruit & veg, specialist teas, iced drinks, fresh jalebi (a popular, spiral-shaped deep-fried sweet soaked in sugar syrup), sweets, waffles and other desserts.

The next event is scheduled for Saturday October 24.

Rotherham's outdoor markets relocated from the outdoor covered market at the Drummond Street site to Effingham Street in 2023 as regeneration work progressed.

As part of the redevelopment scheme, traders from the old indoor market have moved temporarily into the New Market Hall until the work on the indoor market is complete (previously scheduled for Autumn 2027). When these traders move back into their revamped home, street traders are due to make use of the new Market Hall.

Rotherham Bazaar facebook page
Rotherham Markets website

Images: Rotherham Bazaar / Facebook

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News: Are The Reytons readying a return to Rotherham and Clifton Park in 2027?

Paperwork has been submitted for a possible repeat of The Reytons’ homecoming gig in Rotherham, reports Visit Rotherham.

The concert held in the summer of 2024 drew thousands of attendees from across the nation, with some travelling from as far as Glasgow and Southampton. It marked the largest outdoor music event ever held at Clifton Park on the edge of Rotherham town centre, attracting around 20,00 people.

The connection to the borough has grown since then with the fourth album, called A Love Letter to a Broken Town, described by the down-to-earth indie rock band as being "for the community, the roots and the towns that made us..."

With press and launch events taking place in Rotherham town centre earlier this year, including a signing event and shop on Forge Island, a celebration was also held in All Saints' Square when the album was announced as reaching no. 1 in the official chart.

Now, Visit Rotherham has revealed that promoters have submitted a licence application that would enable them to hold large scale events in Clifton Park in July 2027.

The application to Rotherham Council is from Communion ONE Ltd, the company created when FKP Scorpio and Communion Presents merged in 2024. FKP Scorpio was the promoter that worked on the previous Reytons event in Rotherham and Communion ONE currently promotes events for the band.

The application is time limited for July 9 to 11 2027 and seeks to allow three outdoor music concerts to be provided in the park during this period.

If approved, the licence would enable the provision of live and recorded music outdoors on Friday July 9 and Saturday July 10 between 2:00pm and 10:30pm, and on Sunday July 11 2027 between 2:00pm and 10:00pm.

Alcohol would be allowed to be on sale between 12 noon and 11:00pm on the Friday and Saturday, and between 12 noon and 10:30pm on the Sunday.

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Mirroring the layout for the 2024 gig, the stage is set to be situated on the extended car park area off Doncaster Road, with bars, toilets, food areas, backstage and medical tents all enclosed in a "steelshield."

The perimeter is again shown around the car park, along the tree line on Middle Lane, along a tree-lined avenue towards the museum, across the field towards the fun park and back along the path opposite the play area. Plans show two customer entrances and exits - one opposite the fun park and one in the field that backs onto Clifton Grove.

The similar 2024 application allowed for two gigs, where in reality, only one took place.

Local businesses and accommodation providers are likely to welcome the news. A study was commissioned and Sheffield Hallam University revealed that the event contributed an impressive £1m to Rotherham’s economy and £1.36m benefit for South Yorkshire.

The journey to Clifton Park for The Reytons began with 350 people at Plug (now Network) in Sheffield, via The Leadmill, O2 Academy, the fruit and veg aisle at Rotherham Tesco Extra, and Magna in Rotherham (the 4,500 capacity 2022 gig which sold out in ten hours), before reaching the 12,500 capacity Utilita Arena in Sheffield in 2023.

Since the Rotherham event in 2024, the band has played at massive European festivals and Wembley Arena, with a show scheduled for the end of this month at Manchester's Co-op Live, the UK's largest entertainment arena. A world tour in 2026/27 takes in Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Holland, France, Belgium and Spain.

The Reytons website

Images: The Reytons / Communion ONE

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News: Demolition plans in to save the Alma

A planning application has been submitted as part of efforts to save what remains of a fire-damaged historic pub building in Rotherham.

Rothbiz revealed last year that feasibility issues have arisen with converting the former Alma Tavern into a live music venue.

With £4.5m of the government's Town Deal funding set aside for a music venue project, the Westgate site is the third building looked at by the authority.

The building is not a listed building (unlike The Cutler's Arms next door, saved and reopened by Chantry Brewery) but is in severe disrepair following a fire and years of abandonment. Councillors were told that an updated cost plan for the project demonstrated "a cost significantly in excess of the funding available."

Funding was moved away from the project to progress plans for a community hub for health provision in the former Boots building in the town centre, but Rotherham Council, the owners of the Alma, said that it was still committed to finding a sustainable plan for the pub that was wrecked by fire in 2012.

A new planning application from Rotherham Council explains that a recent structural report "identified a need to support the original facades in order to retain them for a future reinstatement scheme."

The planning authority is being asked if the remaining structures to the rear can be removed so that scaffolding can be erected to support the frontage. The application also includes repair works to the front elevation and original gable walls to secure and preserve the historic facades.

Permission is required as it is located in the town centre's conservation area.

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A 2021 application, from the then owners, to demolish the building and retain the front facade to the first storey window height was refused as it didn't provide any supporting information. The council's application includes a structural report and a heritage statement.

Rotherham Council said last year that it was working with Chantry Brewery, the tenants and operators of the Cutlers, who wished to take on the Alma.

The initial ideas involved an L-shaped new building on land behind, and to the side of The Alma, creating a venue with a capacity of 500 - 600 and the main entrance in the vacant pub.

Rotherham Council said in the application that "due to the unsafe condition of the building ... we are looking to undertake the partial demolition of the building in advance of any viability assessment and redevelopment scheme in order to protect the historic assets of the building and ensure public safety to the immediate areas surrounding the building."

The public house closed in 2005/6 and although not listed, it is on the South Yorkshire Local Heritage List. The Alma was rebuilt in 1909 and is noteworthy for the use of architectural lettering and the reference to Bentleys Rotherham Ales on the facade.

The plans state: "The timber roof and floor structures throughout the property are unsafe due to wood decay from wet and dry rot, and the previous fire damage sustained. This in turn compromises the restraint offered to the masonry walls and leaves the walls vulnerable to further collapse if left unsupported.

"Whilst a redevelopment scheme for the site remains a focus for the Council, the main priority is in ensuring the safety to the public realm and adjacent properties, whilst retaining the Edwardian facades to make sure this is not in the detriment to the character of the town centre conservation area.

"With the above in mind our intention is to demolish and remove the remaining structures to the rear of the building, including all brick extensions, timber roof and floor structures. We would then look to implement retaining scaffolds to the full front façade and gables of the original building, making isolated repairs to the lintels and masonry of these facades to ensure they are fully supported and maintained before any redevelopment can take place."

Satnam, the site's previous owner, had hoped to demolish both pubs to build a large retail store on the riverside site. In 2005, Rotherham Council refused the plans with one reason for refusal being that the pubs "make a contribution to the streetscene and add to the character of the setting of the listed building."

Images: RMBC

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News: Council hopes new advisers will help boost Rotherham's high streets

A new team of advisers has been deployed on Rotherham’s high streets in a bid to give local businesses more hands on support and help town centres thrive.

Rotherham Council's three advisers are acting as a familiar face for traders, working with them on a range of issues from street safety and cleanliness to promotion, footfall and access to grants.

Rather than focusing on a single issue, the advisers will have oversight of what is happening in each area, coordinating activity around events, crime prevention and wider business support.

Providing a local presence, identifying issues of concern, and signposting to other council services for assistance, they provide visible and routine engagement and are becoming known faces to businesses and local ward members, providing regular updates on activity and working to solve problems as they arise. The advisers are providing initial business advice, helping to co-ordinate local promotions, signposting to other grant opportunities and co-ordinating with other council departments.

The advisers are also playing a key role in delivering the popular Shopfront Grants scheme, which has secured a further year of funding for 2026/27 through the Local Growth Fund, worth around £600,000. The oversubscribed scheme has already helped around 50 businesses improve the appearance of their premises.

In addition, the team will work with ward councillors, residents and traders to decide how £25,000 activity budgets in each area are spent, ensuring local priorities shape the projects on the ground. This could include marketing campaigns, seasonal events or joint promotions aimed at increasing footfall.

Cllr. John Williams, Cabinet Member for Transport, Jobs and the Local Economy, said: "We've made a big investment to create and establish a new High Street Advisor team, and they'll be a single point of contact for our high streets across the borough to provide business support, advice, guidance, help to access grants and financial support. They're going to be a real practical source of help for our high streets in Maltby, Dinnington, Swinton, Wath, and in Rotherham town centre.

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"Our new High Street Advisors will provide support to our traders and to our high street shops and businesses to help tackle those everyday challenges and to provide that business support and help to access the support that's available through the council on a wide range of issues.

"We recognise that our high streets are the real heart of our communities, and this council is committed to supporting our high streets and supporting our centres across the borough."

Rothbiz reported on Rotherham Cuncil's investment in its latest budget as part of a wider push to strengthen Rotherham’s high streets. A £304,000 figure was included in the council's budget for Supporting the High Street along with further cash to continue the authority's Shop Unit Business Grant Project that was oversubscribed.

The latest round of funding has two aspects to enhance the exterior of business premises in eligible High Street locations - one for existing businesses and one to help bring empty units back into use.

Existing businesses have been applying for up to £10,000 for their projects, with entrepreneurs funding anything above this level. This can be for things like exterior re-painting, new windows, doors and shop frontage, improved access and new signage.

Priority sites are: Rotherham town centre; Parkgate / Rawmarsh (From the bottom of Rawmarsh Hill and not the retail parks); Dinnington; Maltby; Swinton; Thurcroft; Wath; and Dalton.

Rotherham Council said that applications outside of these areas will be considered on a case-by-case basis but priority will be given to the areas.

Empty Shops will have priority, then external works, then internal works to the fabric of the building.

RiDO website

Images: Armitage Sorby

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News: Rotherham Council approves 24 hour shop licence for town centre pub

Plans are moving ahead to convert part of a vacant pub in Rotherham town centre into a convenience store.

The Bridge Inn has a prominent position opposite Rotherham Central railway station but was one of four pubs being brought to market by the Old Mill Brewery in 2024.

Rothbiz reported on the demolition of The Trades back in 2022. During the last years of the Greasbrough Road venue, a passionate team of directors created "The Hive" and started working with The Trades to bring a wide variety of live music to the town as an "upstart side venue."

During the pandemic a deal was struck with the brewery to move to the adjacent Bridge Inn and turn, what was a designated pub for visiting football fans, into a live music venue.

Since the sale, the pub has remained closed, but now a premises licence has been secured for almost half of the ground floor.

The application, recently approved by Rotherham Council, is from Kari Retail Ltd and shows the layout of a Go Local convenience store in the part of the building closest to the former Trades site and current car park.

Go Local is the retail brand established by Parfetts, one of the UK's leading cash & carry wholesalers.

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The new licence is for a 24 hour operation and the provision of late night refreshment between 23:00 and 05:00, and the sale by retail of alcohol for consumption off the premises only, for 24 hours a day.

The licence comes with a number of mandatory conditions that you would expect regarding the sale of alcohol.

Property specialists Fleurets, marketing the Bridge Inn, describing it as a "very individual and unashamed live rock music operation. Bands perform almost every day on two stages and trade has been developed to cater exclusively for this market.

"Not for the feint-hearted the fit out include ghoul masks, coffins as tables, zombies, skeletons, armour, devils and much more besides. Unique and wonderful."

The property, which had operated under a franchise agreement for several years, was advertised for offers at £295,000 for the freehold with vacant possession.

Although not a listed building. it is in the town's conservation area and was added to the South Yorkshire Local Heritage List earlier this year. The listing explains that the pub was completed in March 1932 on behalf of Mappins Masbro Old Brewery. The neo-Jacobean style sits alongside the medieval bridge and bridge chapel.

When it opened it contained a lounge hall, smokeroom, luncheon room and tap room on the ground floor, with clubroom and hotel rooms on the first floor.

Images: Google Maps

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News: Hundreds more apartments for Rotherham town centre in Capital&Centric's "Foundry" plans

Social impact developer Capital&Centric's multimillion pound regeneration plans for Rotherham town centre are moving ahead.

Rothbiz revealed earlier this year that the Manchester company, a specialist in unlocking and transforming "unloved" brownfield sites into vibrant, design-led neighbourhoods, had been awarded a Rotherham contract that could reach up to £100m in value.

The next phase involves Rotherham Council using £2.42m from its remaining Local Regeneration Grant secured from the government for pre-development work and feasibility studies to create full business cases for five council-owned brownfield sites.

Plans to extend the Riverside Residential Quarter onto The Statutes and two sites on Sheffield Road are for residential-led schemes that are estimated to deliver 226 new homes including both apartments and townhouses.

Early stage planning documents for the "Foundry" scheme, seen by Rothbiz, show three blocks of apartments at The Statutes - the cleared site that was previously home to the Magistrate's Court and now operates as a car park. Up to four storeys, the unit mix here includes 39 larger, two bedroom flats, 12 one bedroom flats, and four studio flats.

For the current Westgate Car Park on Sheffield Road, called the Post Office site by Capital&Centric, plans show the erection of seven apartment blocks creating 146 homes. Up to three storeys, there are plans for approximately 12% studios, 58% one-bedroom and 30% two-bedroom accommodation. Just over 1,000 sq ft of retail / commercial space is also planned to be included here.

Designs for a "suitably urban scale of development" have evolved to respect and enhance the Grade-II listed Cutlers Arms nearby.

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At the SIG site, the Sheffield Road site most recently acquired by Rotherham Council, plans are for five blocks creating 25 two and three bedroom townhouses - broadening the overall housing offer.

Previous council papers indicate that Capital&Centric's current funding strategy is for the new homes to be developed for private rent with Capital&Centric acting as landlord. The issue of affordable housing provision is to be addressed as plans progress.

Capital&Centric are exploring a proposal to fund the development of these sites through its Impact & Places Partnership, which is a joint venture between Swiss Life Asset Managers, Homes England and Capital&Centric.

Plans, drawn up by Urbana Town Planning, state: "All three sites form RMBC'S Town Centre Strategic Sites which will work to achieve the continued diversification of Rotherham's offer through attracting new uses, services, residential and leisure opportunities and moving away from the traditional retail market.

"Successful projects undertaken to date, or being undertaken within RMBC include Forge Island leisure destination, Town Centre Public Realm improvements, Riverside Gardens, Council led housing development at Westgate, the Markets and Library redevelopment and the town centre Health Hub.

"Taken together, the proposals would deliver significant social, economic and environmental benefits through the provision of new homes, the productive reuse of brownfield land, increased support for town-centre businesses and services, reduced reliance upon private car travel and the physical regeneration of an under-utilised part of the River Don corridor."

Capital&Centric website

Images: Capital&Centric

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News: Redevelopment plans passed for Rotherham pub

The owners of a prominent public house in Rotherham have been given approval to bring it back to life following a period of inactivity.

Occupying a prime spot on Kimberworth's High Street, The Green Dragon is a large, imposing pub with restaurant dining to the rear and a first floor function room.

Currently closed, Rothbiz reported last year that the freehold of the pub had gone up for sale for £400,000.

Rotherham Council has recently approved a change of use planning application from Harbham Odedra that shows that the ground floor would change from a pub to a restaurant with the retention of first-floor residential accommodation. The proposals also include the removal of existing outbuildings, and the construction of a single-storey retail extension.

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

The proposed retail unit, to the right of the existing entrance fronting High Street, would have an approximate gross internal area of 3,200 sq ft and is designed as a "One Stop–type convenience store."

The plans stated: "The proposal ensures the continued active use of a long-established community building, avoiding vacancy and decline. The restaurant will continue to provide a welcoming social environment for residents and families, function and meeting spaces for private and community events, a family-friendly venue that supports inclusive social interaction.

"The convenience retail unit will provide an important local service, particularly for residents with limited mobility or without access to private vehicles."

Rotherham Council's planning board voted to approve the plans, which come with a number of conditions, relating to things like extraction systems, drainage, restricting the retail unit to Class E(a) only, and marking out the car parking area.

The restaurant use can only be open to customers between the hours of 12:00 and 22:00 and the retail use can only be open to customers between the hours of 07:00 and 22:00 in order to safeguard the amenities of the occupiers of nearby properties. No deliveries to the site can be made between the hours of 21:00 and 07:00 for the same reason.

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News: 141 houses planned for former Rotherham college site

A national housebuilder has been appointed to bring forward a large development on part of a former college campus in Rotherham.

In 2020, RNN Group reorganised its post-16 education provision, and whilst much of the former Dinnington Campus remains in educational use by Elements Academy and Newman School, a large part of the site became surplus to requirements.

Following discussions with other potential public sector users and a period of marketing, Homes by honey were identified as preferred developer for the site on Doe Quarry Lane following an open market disposal process.

At approximately 4.69 hectares, the site comprises two redundant teaching buildings, associated hardstanding and former agricultural training land characterised by open grassland, which is subdivided into a series of former training paddocks.

The developer has now submitted a planning application for 141 dwellings, together with associated access, landscaping, public open space and supporting infrastructure.

The site, with a net developable area of approximately 3.87 hectares, is considered a part-brownfield site. In Rotherham's Local Plan, it was designated for an Education Community Facility.

Plans show that existing access is currently obtained through the campus; however, the proposed development will be served by a new dedicated vehicular access directly from Doe Quarry Lane at the Manor Road / Laughton Road end.

A new priority-controlled T-junction onto Doe Quarry Lane is proposed supported by the demolition of the existing former teaching accommodation and associated structures located within the southern part of the site.

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The plans are for 141 houses with a range of sizes, from 2-bed semi-detached properties to 5-bed detached dwellings, with a variety of house types proposed. 25% of the total houses are set to be classed as affordable housing - 35, 2-bed houses.

However, the unused buildings on site will also mean that the development should qualify for Vacant Building Credit (VBC) which can be used to reduce the affordable housing contributions required when redeveloping brownfield sites with empty buildings.

The majority of dwellings are two storeys in height, with a limited number of 2.5-storey and three-storey dwellings, reflecting the prevailing scale and character of the surrounding residential areas.

The plans, drawn up by consultants, Nineteen47, state: "The educational use formerly undertaken on the Site has ceased and the associated buildings have remained vacant for a considerable period following the relocation and consolidation of educational operations elsewhere within the RNN Group estate.

"The Site no longer performs its allocated educational function and there is no reasonable prospect that the former use will recommence. The redevelopment of the Site therefore represents an opportunity to secure the beneficial re-use of a vacant and underutilised site within a sustainable settlement, whilst avoiding the continued deterioration of redundant buildings and land."

Applicants also say that the highly sustainable site is "exceptionally well located in relation to local facilities and services" and add that: "The submitted assessments demonstrate that safe and suitable access can be achieved, that the local highway network has capacity to accommodate development-generated traffic and that opportunities exist to encourage sustainable travel choices amongst future residents."

The plans conclude: "The proposal will transform the Site into a high-quality residential neighbourhood delivering significant economic, social and environmental benefits. These include much-needed housing delivery, a meaningful contribution towards addressing the Council's housing land supply shortfall, investment in the local economy, support for local services and businesses, new public open space, biodiversity enhancements, landscape improvements, green infrastructure and associated supporting infrastructure."

Honey launched in 2022 and is backed by private equity firm Alchemy Partners. It has previously brought forward sites in Rotherham at Waverley and Maltby. Early stage plans have also emerged for a site at Harley.

Homes by honey website

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News: Rotherham street traders move back to market hall site as indoor traders report drop in footfall

Some traders on the outdoor market that have temporarily been using the main streets in Rotherham town centre have moved back to the markets site as regeneration work progresses.

Indoor traders in the new Market Hall are hoping that it will boost footfall in the area following a slow summer.

Rotherham outdoor market relocated from the outdoor covered market to Effingham Street in 2023 as works progressed on the regeneration of Rotherham Markets.

As part of the £46.844m scheme, traders from the old indoor market have moved temporarily into the New Market Hall until the work on the indoor market is complete (previously scheduled for Autumn 2027). When these traders move back into their revamped home, street traders are due to make use of the new Market Hall.

Operator, Rotherham Council, has now made the decision to move the Monday and Friday general market from the street onto the public space around the Rotherham Market Hall.

As part of the works, a new public realm area has been created between the market and Eastwood Lane and the college campus.

It is not yet known if the general outdoor market on a Saturday, Tuesday street market, Wednesday Antiques & bric-a-brac market, or Rotherham Bazaar on a Thursday, will follow.

Rotherham MP, Sarah Champion recently visited stall holders trading temporarily in the new Market Hall to discuss issues impacting their businesses.

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Having raised the issues with Rotherham Council, the authority admitted that traders and visitors had faced "temporary challenges" as the construction work on the new library and indoor market continues around the new Market Hall.

In reply to the MP, John Edwards, chief executive of Rotherham Council, said: "We are aware that traders have raised concerns regarding footfall in recent weeks. A number of factors are likely to have contributed to this, including the summer closure of the College and the exceptionally hot weather experienced during the period. However, we recognise that accessibility issues and ongoing construction activity may also have had an impact. We continue to monitor visitor numbers and work proactively to support traders and increase market activity.

"The Council is actively promoting the market through a programme of marketing, events, wayfinding improvements, and town-centre promotional activity designed to increase visitor numbers and encourage repeat visits. These initiatives have been developed in partnership with traders to ensure they respond to the needs of businesses and help maximise customer engagement and footfall."

On accessibility, Edwards acknowledged that there had been issues with the lift accessed via Henry Street which had experienced "a number of operational issues in recent weeks" that have since been addressed by the contractors.

Edwards added: "To further improve accessibility, a platform lift will also be installed within the public realm area. Unfortunately, manufacturing delays meant that this could not be installed before the market opened, however the Council continues to work closely with the contractor to deliver this improvement as soon as possible."

Work has recently completed on the signalised crossing linking the markets with Drummond Street car park. Temporary traffic lights had been causing traffic issues in the area.

The council is also considering extending its rent free period for traders "in recognition that some temporary challenges remain."

Rothbiz reported in May on the authority's support for traders involved.

Edwards concluded: "We remain confident that, once the remaining accessibility and public realm improvements are complete, the new market will provide a high-quality, accessible, and sustainable destination that supports both traders and visitors. We will continue to work closely with traders to ensure that the market achieves its full potential as a key part of Rotherham town centre's regeneration."

Images: RMBC

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News: Plans emerge for Snail Yard site

Redevelopment plans are finally taking shape for a site on the heritage High Street in Rotherham town centre that was acquired by the local council in 2020.

Proposals involve new offices and residential units replacing a temporary pocket park and a vacant plot.

Rotherham Council purchased the former Primark building in November 2020, using funding from the Towns Fund Accelerator programme after the Government awarded a £1m grant to kick start regeneration projects in Rotherham town centre.

Demolition work took place and the authority had set out to complete a pocket park by September 2021 before targeting the Women's Euros in July 2022. It eventually fully opened in 2026 with project costs of £920,000.

Now plans are being brought forward by Rotherham Council's development partner for the prominent site.

Rothbiz reported earlier this year on details of the projects from social impact developer Capital&Centric, who have been awarded a contract to develop five council-owned sites that could reach up to £100m in value.

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Whilst residential-led plans are being progressed for other sites, for Snail Yard, a smaller-scale, mixed-use development is proposed, centred around a courtyard concept.

Early stage planning documents show two new blocks. A new block fronting the High Street, potentially on top of the current pocket park, would contain 2,600 sq ft of commercial space and four residential units. A second block would create 9,500 sq ft of office space and external deck space. The formation of the blocks would also create a hidden courtyard space.

The plans, drawn up by Urbana planning consultants, explain that the development is "principally commercial-led, bringing a substantial amount of new employment-generating floorspace into the heart of Rotherham Town Centre, supplemented by a modest residential component" that would compliment rather than replace commercial use.

The homes are all set to be four bedroom properties adding larger family accommodation to the residential mix in the town centre.

The plans add: "The proposals seek to reinstate the commercial uses which were once occupying the site prior to its temporary use as a pocket park. In this instance, the proposals bring high street uses back to the High Street, restoring an active built frontage and introducing additional activity, employment and footfall."

New housing and increasing the resident population of the town centre is being used as a way to "support the vitality and viability of its existing and emerging commercial, leisure and community offer."

On the design of the development, and given that the site is in the town centre conservation area and close to listed buildings, the developers set out that the proposals "do not seek to replicate historic development, but instead provide a contemporary development which responds to the established scale, rhythm and character of its surroundings and allows the site to make a positive contribution to the evolving character of the Conservation Area.

"Overall, the proposals represent an opportunity to deliver a significant improvement to the character and appearance of this currently fragmented part of Rotherham Town Centre."

A council cabinet report from earlier this year stated that the scheme is not considered viable without some form of public sector funding and the council is working with Capital&Centric to find gap funding.

Capital&Centric website

Images: RMBC

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News: Prominent Rotherham bank building goes up for auction

An empty former bank in Rotherham town centre is set to go under the hammer next month.

The Corporation Street building was previously part of a regeneration scheme but agreements could not be reached between the owner and the council.

The former NatWest bank is described as being "in a state of disrepair requiring development and conversion."

Rothbiz reported in 2021 on investment plans for vacant buildings on Corporation Street as part of a bid to extend the town's new Leisure and Cultural Quarter.

As development continued on the cinema and hotel scheme at nearby Forge Island, acquisitions by the council included the Riverside Precinct, the former Mecca Bingo building, the building vacated by Wilko, and the burnt-out buildings on the opposite side of Corporation Street. All but the grade II listed Mecca building have been demolished.

In the case of the former NatWest Bank, private sector owners have not brought forward a suitable scheme and have turned down a bid from the council to buy the building.

2021 plans showed CGIs of a new scheme at the bank buildings on Corporation Street, adding that: "The Council have worked in conjunction with private sector owners to develop a mixed use and residential scheme which is capable of retaining the heritage features of buildings within the conservation area but requires some public sector funding."

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To support the scheme, Rotherham Council was prepared to sell the former Lloyds bank next door for just £1 in 2022.

By 2024, concerns were being raised earlier regarding the progress made by the owners of the NatWest Bank who were then given a short timescale to provide a plan. With no suitable plans for the bank, the owners then informed the council that they would consider selling the property. An agreement could not be reached.

Now BTG Eddisons is listing 38 Corporation Street for its next auction in October with a guide price of £180,000 - £200,000.

The listing states: "An attractive and substantial stone built detached building dating back to the early 1900s originally as a Bank arranged over three floors in a state of disrepair requiring development and conversion. The existing layout comprises a ground floor which is largely open plan with several annexed meeting rooms.

"The property benefits from several strong rooms in the basement and has ancillary accommodation throughout the remainder of the property and upper floors. A scheme has been drawn up to for the conversion and development to provide two ground floor commercial units, one of which have a lower ground floor along with a mix of one and two bedroom apartments over the upper floors. We understand that any development may be eligible for local authority grants or even GAP funding, prospective buyers are to carry out their own due diligence and enquiries in this regard.

"The building is well located within the heart of the town centre and close by the new Forge Island development, a joint scheme delivered by Rotherham Council and Muse Developments. The development includes a 69-room Travelodge hotel, an 8-screen boutique cinema and a pedestrianised public space including 6 commercial properties providing bar, restaurant and entertainment facilities."

Allthough not a isted building, the former Sheffield Banking Company branch was added to the local list of heritage assets earlier this year. Listed as 36 Corporation Street, it states that it was built in 1892-4 with the northern end of the front elevation rebuilt and inset in 1913 to comply with the construction of the new road. The present building replaced an earlier house, present by 1774, which was occupied by Sheffield Banking Company from 1834.

With work underway on the new Riverside Gardens and street scene improvements, the council has been hoping to acquire more property interests at Corporation Street. The properties were not named but minutes from Rotherham's Town Deal board from 2025 show that the council had an offer accepted on the Ring Shop and make reference to 22 Corporation Street.

BTG Eddisons website

Images: BTG Eddisons

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News: Delayed Rotherham library set to open in 2027

A scheduled opening of the multimillion pound new library in Rotherham town centre in 2026 has been shelved, the leader of the council confirms.

With the first phase of the regeneration project now open, the cost of completing a long-awaited revamp of the markets in Rotherham town centre has risen to £46.84m.

The redevelopment of the Drummond Street site also includes a modern central library, a new community hub, improved public spaces, and links to the town centre and college.

The New Market Hall opened for business in July and council reports from earlier in the year had the library down as the next part of the scheme to complete - in "Autumn 2026."

Cllr. Chris Read, leader of Rotherham Council gave an update on the construction of the library. He told a recent full council meeting: "That work is ongoing and we expect it to open in the first quarter of next year. It will be a great asset."

Henry Boot (HBC) began works at the end of 2023 and have since made progress on the construction which had a total contract price of £36m. Construction costs were reported as £41.735m earlier this year.

The authority had hoped for a new library in December 2025, then autumn 2026, but the completion of the whole project was pushed back to 2027.

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The library is designed to be a welcoming cultural, leisure, and learning hub at the heart of the town centre.

In addition to books and resources, the modern facility is set to incorporate several key features including community hubs with a family-friendly café, alongside flexible, multi-purpose event and exhibition spaces. For learning and engagement, the design includes dedicated meeting rooms to support educational programmes, workshops, and diverse community activities.

Rothbiz reported in April on the Council's cabinet approving further funding, including using various council pots to fill a funding gap following an increase in the total budget of the redevelopment from £40.894m to £46.844m. The request for another £5.95m was a year after the council secured a further £6.5m from the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) to cover previous budget increases.

The council report highlighted a number of challenges including the increase in demolition costs, inflationary increases linked to delays with extended periods of clarifications and amendments, and "an overestimation of project readiness" when the contract was awarded.

A wide ranging review of how council-led projects are managed is being led by the Council's chief executive.

Consultants at Wakefield-based Solace in Business have also been appointed on a £120,000 contract to carry out an independent investigation into the Libraries and Markets project.

Traders from the old indoor market have moved temporarily into the New Market Hall until the revamp of the indoor market is complete (previously scheduled for Autumn 2027). When work began, outdoor market traders moved on to the street market temporarily with space in the new market hall earmarked for their return next year.

Images: Tom Austen

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News: Rotherham Council's local spend up by £77.3m in five years

Rotherham Council is keeping more money in the local economy after increasing the amount of money it spends locally to more than £122m.

The Council’s Annual Social Value Report shows that local spending has risen by £77.3m, from £44.8m in 2019/20 to £122.1m in 2024/25, bringing greater benefit to residents, communities and the local economy.

The report, which recently went before the council's Cabinet, also shows that social value commitments secured through Council contracts now stands at £41.6m. Validated delivery of social value stands at £23.7m, having increased by 92% compared to the previous annual report.

Social value means securing wider benefits for local people and communities when the Council buys goods, works and services. This can include creating jobs and apprenticeships, supporting local businesses, helping community organisations and reducing environmental impact.

Legally the Council is only required to consider Social Value in its Services contracts where the estimated value is greater than £189,330. However, Rotherham's social value policy goes beyond this standard ensuring all contracts and tenders over £100,000 include social value measures.

Since the Council introduced its Social Value Policy in 2019, contracts have helped to secure or retain 454 full-time equivalent jobs for local people and deliver 1,169 weeks of apprenticeships. They have also provided 4,985 hours of personalised career mentoring and employment support, alongside 728 staff hours supporting local schools and colleges.

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The Council has also continued to work with partners through the Rotherham Together Partnership to improve how social value is planned, delivered and measured across the borough.

Leader of Rotherham Council, Cllr. Chris Read said: “We want every pound the Council spends to deliver the greatest possible benefit for Rotherham.

“These figures show what that means in practice – creating jobs and apprenticeships, supporting local businesses, developing skills and helping community organisations.

“We have made strong progress, but there is more to do. Our priority now is to make sure every commitment delivers meaningful and lasting benefits for local people.

“Over the next year, we will strengthen how we monitor contracts and continue working with our partners to focus social value on the needs and priorities of Rotherham’s communities.”

The report includes a numner of case studies, including Sanderson Building Services, a Rotherham-based company who spent £45,000 with 16 local suppliers, including eight local SMEs, on one contract and has built a strong partnership with Maltby Learning Trust, supporting careers events, work experience placements and employer engagement activities.

Family-run Rotherham business, KCM Waste Management has embedded social value into its everyday operations, spending locally and recruiting eight local people whilst supporting local people who were previously unemployed and those facing barriers to work.

Mears and Equans run large contracts for the council and have become key partners in supporting inclusive growth across Rotherham. Alongside creating jobs and apprenticeships, they have championed opportunities for care leavers, supported more inclusive recruitment practices and worked with their supply chains to maximise the delivery of social value throughout the borough.

Through the Council's partnership with Go4Growth, a range of procurement readiness support has been made available to help local businesses develop the skills, knowledge and confidence required to access public sector and anchor institution supply chains. Work with Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber includes sector specific Meet the Buyer events and monthly digital promotion of local supply chain opportunities.

In addition, the council has set up a feasibility service to allow business owners to explore employee ownership and is launching the first business support programme designed and delivered specifically for social clubs in the country.

Go4Growth website
Sanderson Building Services
KCM website

Images: Equans / RMBC

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News: Proposed new Irish bar in Rotherham sees licence application refused

Entrepreneurs hoping to open an Irish bar in a popular area of Rotherham have seen their licence application turned down by Rotherham Council.

Rothbiz reported recently on a meeting of the authority's Licensing Sub-Committee which discussed the proposals from Jaxx Irish Bar Limited.

British bakery chain, Greggs, has expanded at The Tanyard in Wickersley, taking on the former Peter Cusworth Butcher's shop, to create a bakery and cafe. With the new store now open, this meant that 236 Bawtry Road was left empty and was lined up to be converted into a small Irish bar.

Rotherham Council operates a policy that affects the number of new or varied alcohol licences being granted in the Wickersley area which is designated as a Cumulative Impact Zone.

The Cumulative Impact Policy means that there is a presumption that an application in the zone would be refused and the onus is on the applicant to show that the premises are suitable for the area, and to determine how the council's licensing objectives would not be undermined. Usually that is reversed and the onus is on the authority to show how those objectives would be undermined.

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Despite setting out that the new premises would have a capacity of 35 which the applicant said could be controlled and much more manageable, Alan Pogorzelec, Licensing Manager at Rotherham Council, told the meeting that the applicant has failed to address matters relating to noise, and preventing crime and disorder and public nuisance.

The opening hours requested were Monday to Wednesday 16:00 to 22:30, Thursday 16:00 to 23:00, Friday 14:00 to 00:00, Saturday 12:00 to 00:00 and Sunday 12:00 to 22:00.

Objections have been received from residents, the Council's Licensing Authority, Wickersley Parish Council and local councillors.

Applicant Joshua White explained to a recent meeting of the Licensing Sub-Committee: "We completely understand the Cumulative Impact Zone, we are Wickersley residents ourselves, so we understand what goes on over the road and what can happen. This is why we are trying to bring a completely fresh idea to the village. Something new, exciting, to create opportunities for locals in terms of job opportunities and live music with opportunities for individuals to showcase their talents, and give them that platform."

Alan Pogorzelec told the meeting: "The intention of the policy is to make it clear that Wickersley is not like a town centre where the infrastructure and resources from the police, ambulance service, other partners are much more focused. That's not the case in Wickersley - the resources available are generally lower than those available in a regular town centre.

"This isn't a desire for me to stop the development and Mr White's dreams and long term plans for business, but what we have to be extremely mindful of is that this policy was introduced for a reason - the impact that premises were having on people in Wickersley, some of whom are clearly concerned about this application."

The meeting minutes now show that members voted to refuse the application for the Jaxx Irish Bar.

Images: Google Maps

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