News: Caprinos gets green light to open in Rotherham

A young successful UK pizza chain with a rapid popularity growth in the market has secured planning permission for a new outlet in Rotherham, reports Visit Rotherham.

A vacant unit on College Street in Rotherham town centre would be brought back into use.

As reported by Rothbiz, an application was submitted to Rotherham Council last month on behalf of Caprinos Pizza, an award-winning brand that offers Italian American cuisine with menu items suitable for adults, children, and to share with family and friends.

Offering "joy in each slice," Caprinos is one of very few pizza brands offering a Halal menu across all of its branches.

Visit Rotherham reports on the approval of the plans which are for a change of use for the 980 sq ft unit from a café restaurant to a restaurant and hot food takeaway (sui generis).

The application, drawn up by planning consultants, Mason and Marlowe, stated: "The property was a restaurant called Jo & Anna’s Zapiekarnia, with a menu that includes burgers, fries, pasta and steak dishes, plus Sunday dinners and English breakfasts. The new owner is Caprinos Pizza. The proposal is for a change of use from café restaurant to a restaurant and hot food takeaway."

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Rotherham Council's Public Health department raised concerns regarding the cumulative impact of additional hot food takeaway provision within an area identified as having a "Very High Food Environment Risk Level and the highest concentration of hot food takeaways within the borough."

However, planners recognised the town centre location and existing café restaurant use of the premises. Planners at Rotherham Council concluded that "the proposal would not result in unacceptable harm to neighbouring amenity and would support the continued vitality and viability of the town centre."

From a single store in Didcot in 2014, Caprinos Pizza now operates over 120 stores across the UK, with additional locations in Ireland and Pakistan. The Rotherham move is part of plans to open 20 new UK stores in 2026 and reach 200 UK outlets by 2030.

The chain’s range of pizzas, includes the Asian Classic Mix with tandoori chicken, Vegetarian Supreme, and Caprinos Special featuring tandoori chicken and spicy beef.

The menu also includes sides and salads, loaded fries, wraps, desserts, and milkshakes. Recent new additions to the pizza menu include the Firecracker and La Espanola.

The last national pizza chain to open in Rotherham town centre was Papa John's in 2018, but the Wellgate site was one of 43 "underperforming" UK stores that closed in 2024.

Caprinos Pizza website

Images: Caprinos Pizza / Smiths

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News: Rotherham restaurants up for sale

A range of restaurant businesses and buildings in Rotherham have gone up for sale.

At Stag, an established restaurant, takeaway and wine bar is up for sale. Agents say that it is a turnkey, profitable business with significant growth potential.

Although not mentioned by name, the images clearly show La Pondicherry Stag, one of Rotherham's leading Indian restaurants.

The particulars for the sale of the business, which has the leasehold listed for £95,000, states: "An exciting opportunity has arisen to acquire a well-established restaurant, takeaway and wine bar business in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, offering an excellent combination of strong trading performance, attractive premises, an established customer base and significant potential for further growth.

"The business has been successfully operated for approximately 10 years, building a loyal local following through quality food, excellent service and a welcoming dining experience. In addition to the established restaurant and takeaway operation, the premises also benefit from a fully completed upstairs wine bar with its own separate bar area and approximately 40 additional seats.

"The upstairs wine bar forms part of the overall business and is included in the sale. It provides an exciting additional hospitality space that can be developed for wine and drinks service, private parties, functions, events and other occasions.

"The current owner is now looking to sell due to personal circumstances and forthcoming medical treatment. This is therefore a genuine opportunity for a new owner to take over an established and profitable operation with multiple areas for future development."

The advert adds that: "The current owner has made the difficult decision to sell due to personal circumstances and forthcoming medical treatment, making it no longer possible to dedicate the time and commitment required to continue operating the business."

Also at Stag, the nearby property containing Lilia Bistro is listed as being under offer. The 991 sq ft property, which only last year changed from Willows, and was previously Cuccini's, was up for sale for £145,000. The business was not for sale but the particulars state that a three year lease was signed in June 2023.

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At Wales, The property containing the Asia Palace has been put up for sale via auction.

The freehold has been given a guide price of £150,000 by auctioneers BTG Eddisons.

Described as a substantial mixed use property in excess of 5,000 sq ft, the lot includes a ground floor restaurant premises including a bar and large dining areas, customer toilets plus a catering kitchen and prep areas.

The Cantonese restaurant near to Rother Valley and the Waleswood campsite is currently closed with the particulars adding: "The freehold title is currently subject to a 15 year lease dated 16th June 2022, however we have been advised it has been agreed between the seller and the tenant that this will be surrendered before completion."

Also in Rotherham, Veritas Business Sales is listing a pub restaurant in a "desirable semi-rural location between Rotherham and Worksop" as being available for sale.

The freehold has been given a guide price of £599,995. The purchase of the leasehold going concern is also an option.

The advert states: "Believed to date back in excess of 300 years, this historic property is one of the village's most recognisable and characterful buildings. Having stood at the heart of the local community for centuries, the property successfully blends period charm with modern trading facilities, creating a destination venue that enjoys an outstanding reputation for quality food, excellent service and a welcoming atmosphere.

"The property underwent a comprehensive refurbishment in 2020 at a cost of in excess of £500,000, transforming the business into the impressive venue seen today. More recently, the current owner has invested a further £120,000 over the past two months, installing brand-new commercial catering equipment, carrying out extensive internal redecoration and completely refurbishing the spacious two-bedroom owner's accommodation, including the installation of a brand-new fitted kitchen. As a result, the property is presented to an exceptional standard throughout, allowing a purchaser to continue trading immediately without the need for further capital expenditure."

Although listed as a confidential sale, property websites have the location as Brampton-en-le-Morthern, whose only pub is the Rising Deer.

The listing states that 70% of turnover is generated from food sales with the restaurant accommodating around 60 diners, whilst the business consistently serves in excess of 100 covers every Sunday.

BTG Eddisons website
Veritas website

Images: La Pondicherry / instagram / BTG

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News: Rotherham bar plans come up against council objections

A number of objections have been set out against a new bar opening in Rotherham, whilst planning permission for improvements to a current venue nearby have been refused.

Rothbiz reported in July on the licence application for 236 Bawtry Road which was vacated when Greggs expanded into a new unit at The Tanyard in Wickersley.

Jaxx Irish Bar Limited has applied for the sale by retail of alcohol and the provision of late night refreshment, plus the performance of live music and any playing of recorded music.

Documents show that the opening hours requested are 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.

Rotherham Council operates a Cumulative Impact Policy regarding licensing which details that an area of Wickersley village is a Cumulative Impact Zone. Rotherham Council says that, with 23 premises (19 located along a 300 metre section of Bawtry Road), Wickersley does not have the required infrastructure to deal with a large and sustained night-time economy.

Applicants "must be able to demonstrate to the Council and other responsible authorities that granting a new or varied licence will not add to the cumulative impact already being experienced within the area."

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Applicants for the new bar state that they want to operate a as a small community focused micro bar with a limited customer capacity adding that: "The nature and style of the business is fundamentally different from larger pubs, bars and late night venues that may contribute to cumulative impact concerns."

Ahead of the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting, Rotherham's Environmental Health department has set out its opposition to the application. The representation explained that because of the cumulative impact zone, the applicant has failed to satisfactorily address concerns around noise generation, especially with a proposed outdoor area, and problems associated with "vertical drinking" such as higher levels of alcohol consumption and drunkenness

Alan Pogorzelec, Licensing Manager at Rotherham Council, said: "Although the applicant has outlined a number of steps within the operating schedule that are intended to mitigate the above issues to some degree, the location and nature of the premises is such that these steps will not prevent the activities at the premises from increasing the impact of such premises in the area."

Local councillors, the parish council, neighbouring businesses and residents also made representations objecting to the application, with one representation in support of the proposals.

The Sub-Committee is set to discuss the application later this month.

Also in Wickersley, The Olive Lounge has seen its planning permission for an extension turned down by the council.

Plans show 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."

Rothbiz reported this week that The Garrison in Wickerlsey has announced its closure with a "small transformation" planned for later this year.

Images: Google Maps

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News: Changes at The Garrison as Rotherham restaurant announces closure

An independent restaurant in Rotherham has announced its closure with a "small transformation" planned for later this year.

Elliott Vaughan opened his 1920s themed restaurant, The Garrison at Wickersley, in 2020 after securing financial help from alternative lending provider Finance For Enterprise. However, within less than seven days, his plans were thrown into jeopardy when, along with the whole of South Yorkshire’s hospitality sector, the restaurant was ordered to close as South Yorkshire entered into Tier 3 lockdown.

The focus is on British inspired local produce plus unique cocktails and proper beers. Drawing on inspiration from the hit TV show Peaky Blinders, whilst giving a nod to the golden age of jazz and the roaring Twenties, Elliott re-imagined the former tearoom, transforming it into a cosy, atmospheric dining experience.

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An update on social media explained that: "The Garrison as you know it will be closing. We will be undergoing a small transformation, and our restaurant will be changing its identity. More details of what will be following will be announced in the next few months."

The premises benefits from planning permission for a change of use from restaurant into a micropub and a decking area to front of the property.

In his post, Vaughan said that the changes are "as exciting as it is upsetting" but added that "this is not a goodbye, but a see you later."

On the state of the restaurant sector, the founder said: "Please keep supporting your local independent businesses. We know it’s tough out there for everyone, and for the hospitality guys, we are all feeling your pain.

"First the Conservatives and then Starmer’s useless government sapped the living s*** out of our beautiful industry and economy on a whole (in my opinion) and I don’t have much hope that Burnham will save it."

The Garrison facebook page

Images: The Garrison / facebook

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News: Support adds to recipe for success for Rotherham-based Sri Lankan food business

A family-run food business bringing authentic Sri Lankan flavours to communities across South Yorkshire and beyond is expanding its offering thanks to support from a UKSE Kickstart Grant, delivered through RiDO.

Based in Rotherham, Curry Leafs was established by a local entrepreneur with a passion for traditional Sri Lankan cooking and baking. Originally launched as a small home-based venture alongside part-time work, the business has grown steadily through word-of-mouth recommendations, community support and increasing demand for authentic homemade Sri Lankan food.

Drawing on recipes and cooking techniques passed down through her family, particularly from her mother and grandmother, Hasitha established Curry Leafs to provide authentic homemade Sri Lankan food to people longing for the flavours and memories of home.

Since formally launching, Curry Leafs has expanded from a simple pick-and-mix meal offering into a broader food business serving customers across Rotherham, Sheffield, Birmingham, Coventry, Nottingham, London and Manchester.

To support the business, Hasitha applied for the UKSE Kickstart grant, delivered in partnership with Rotherham Investment & Development Office (RiDO) – UKSE provides finance of up to £1.5m to growing companies, as well as providing support for start-ups – which enabled Curry Leafs to purchase essential catering equipment and a professional gazebo, significantly improving its presence at outdoor events and enhancing its ability to cater for larger functions. The investment has strengthened the business’s presentation, operational capacity and overall customer experience.

Looking ahead, Curry Leafs plans to continue expanding its catering and events offering, with long-term ambitions to launch a food truck and eventually open a Sri Lankan-inspired restaurant serving both traditional and fusion dishes. The business also hopes to create flexible employment opportunities for women, particularly those balancing family commitments, helping them build financial independence and stability.

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Hasitha Priyadarshani, founder of Curry Leafs, said: “Curry Leafs started from a passion for cooking and sharing authentic Sri Lankan food with others.

“I would like to acknowledge the support of my husband and brother, who, without their support throughout this journey, Curry Leafs would not be where it is today.

“The support from UKSE has allowed us to invest in equipment that will help us grow, improve our presence at events and take on larger opportunities.

“We are incredibly grateful for the support we have received throughout our journey.”

Pete Newton, Regional Executive at UKSE said: “Curry Leafs is a fantastic example of how a small business can grow through passion, determination and a commitment to quality.

“We are delighted that the Kickstart Grant has helped support the next stage of the business’s development. We wish Hasitha every success as the business continues to expand.”

Darren McDool, New Business Developer at RiDO. Said: “Their passion for the business is clear to all to see and it’s been a pleasure working with them on UKSE Kickstart application.

“We look forward to supporting them further as they take the next steps in growing from a promising start.”

UKSE provides loans and equity finance of up to £1.5m to existing growing businesses, particularly those creating jobs.

Curry Leafs website
UKSE website
RiDO website

Images: UKSE

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News: Fast-growing franchised pizza brand targets Rotherham

A young successful UK pizza chain with a rapid popularity growth in the market looks to be heading to Rotherham.

A vacant unit on College Street in Rotherham town centre would be brought back into use, if plans are approved.

An application has been submitted to Rotherham Council on behalf of Caprinos Pizza, an award-winning brand that offers Italian American cuisine with menu items suitable for adults, children, and to share with family and friends.

Offering "joy in each slice," Caprinos is one of very few pizza brands offering a Halal menu across all of its branches.

The plans are for a change of use for the 980 sq ft unit from a café restaurant to a restaurant and hot food takeaway (sui generis).

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Agents, Smith Surveyors, have the property listed as under offer, having advertised the rent at £15,000 per year.

The application, drawn up by planning consultants, Mason and Marlowe, states: "The property was a restaurant called Jo & Anna’s Zapiekarnia, with a menu that includes burgers, fries, pasta and steak dishes, plus Sunday dinners and English breakfasts. The new owner is Caprinos Pizza. The proposal is for a change of use from café restaurant to a restaurant and hot food takeaway."

From a single store in Didcot in 2014, Caprinos Pizza now operates over 120 stores across the UK, with additional locations in Ireland and Pakistan. The Rotherham move is part of plans to open 20 new UK stores in 2026 and reach 200 UK outlets by 2030.

The chain’s range of pizzas, includes the Asian Classic Mix with tandoori chicken, Vegetarian Supreme, and Caprinos Special featuring tandoori chicken and spicy beef.

The menu also includes sides and salads, loaded fries, wraps, desserts, and milkshakes. Recent new additions to the pizza menu include the Firecracker and La Espanola.

The last pizza chain to open in Rotherham town centre was Papa John's in 2018, but that was one of 43 "underperforming" UK stores that closed in 2024.

Caprinos Pizza website

Images: Caprinos / Smiths

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News: Huge American restaurant chain planning to open in Rotherham

Visit Rotherham reports that a vacant restaurant building could be converted into South Yorkshire's first branch of a huge American fast food restaurant chain, if plans for a new drive thru are approved by Rotherham Council.

With more than 3,000 sites, Chick-fil-A, Inc. is the third largest quick-service restaurant company in the United States and is known for its freshly-prepared food, signature hospitality and unique franchise model. Specialising in chicken sandwiches, the chain's menu also includes salads and milkshakes.

Last year the first restaurant opened in Leeds as part of the company’s commitment to open five restaurants in the UK in the first two years and invest more than $100m in the UK in the next ten years.

Visit Rotherham states that a planning application is on its way for a new 4,000 sq ft restaurant at the Cortonwood Retail Park, which is in Rotherham.

Plans are for the change of use of the existing restaurant building (Use Class E) to a drive-thru restaurant (Use Class E / Sui Generis) plus some external alterations and a 300 sq ft extension to the existing unit.

Rothbiz reported last year that the Pizza Hut restaurant at Cortonwood would close after a UK operator of the brand entered administration.

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The plans, drawn up by agents, Lichfields, state that the proposed development represents an opportunity to bring a vacant unit back into use and add that it "incorporates a high-quality design, including retained and cleaned red brick facades, timber effect planks, bronze fascia canopy and glazing. The overall design approach will significantly improve the appearance of the existing unit while also being in-keeping with the retail character of Cortonwood Retail Park."

To facilitate the new drive-thru lane, on-site car parking will be reduced from 17 spaces to six spaces, comprising four standard bays and two accessible bays.

The application states that a proposed Chick-fil-A drive-thru restaurant would create around 80 jobs, with a mixture of full / part time staff.

Applicants have also carried out a Health Impact Assessment (HIA), as required for hot food takeaway proposals in line with Rotherham Council's planning policies.

Chick-fil-A's franchise model means that most restaurants are locally owned and operated. Local individuals therefore manage each restaurant, being responsible for all day-to-day activities of the business including hiring and developing their staff.

Chick-fil-A is famous in America for being closed on Sundays. The rule started in 1946 with the founder, Truett Cathy, who was a devout Christian and wanted to give workers a guaranteed day off to rest, spend time with family, or go to church.

Chick-fil-A website

Images: Chick-fil-A / Google Maps

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News: New openings in Rotherham town centre

A range of new food outlets and a play cafe are the latest openings in Rotherham town centre where current traders are also taking on new premises.

At Forge Island, the town's £47m leisure development, a new Smoke & Pepper franchise has opened a modern, vibrant, and flavour-driven restaurant.

Rothbiz reported in June that Rotherham Council had confirmed the letting for Unit 1, a 2,500 sq ft unit next door to Arc Cinema.

The menu includes smoked meats, loaded dishes and indulgent comfort food, designed to appeal to a wide range of tastes. This includes top chef-quality burgers and succulent flame grilled chicken, famous flavourful loaded fries and crispy fried wings and tenders tossed in signature sauces. Smoke & Pepper is also known for bringing the thickest shakes in town, thirst quenching mojitos and freshly baked divine milk cakes.

Across town, a unique independent cafe has brought a Brazilian flavour to the heritage High Street.

Little Rio Cafe at 20 High Street offers authentic Brazilian speciality coffee and freshly baked goods and traditional snacks.

A wide-ranging menu features Brazilian favourites such as pasteis (pastries) and coxinha (croquettes) plus desserts like brigadeiro, a Brazilian chocolate truffle. Larger meals include Brazilian breakfasts, acai bowls, various traditional corn couscous dishes and tapioca crepes.

The independent business has utilised support from RiDO via the Launchpad scheme and to introduce the new flavours to the community, Little Rio has also been hosting Authentic Brazilian Colonial Breakfasts on Sundays.

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On nearby Moorgate Street, a former estate agents has been transformed into a play cafe with a soft play area.

Wiggle & Wonder is described as an indoor play experience and family cafe "beautifully designed for little explorers and the people who love them."

Re-imagining the traditional soft play experience to be less chaotic and loud, the new opening focuses on active early-years development and genuine relaxation for parents, grandparents, and carers.

Wiggle & Wonder offers bookable designated play sessions throughout the week. The cafe and viewing area makes it just as enjoyable for the adults as it is for the children.

Within the Grade II listed Imperial Buildings, the latest opening is set to bring something sweet to the prominent Victorian mixed-use site.

From the team at Chaii Street on Westgate, Cafe Treats is due to open soon at Unit 4.

Pokilee's CardCade has recently opened at its new location on Howard Street when hundreds of loyal Pokemon fans queued up to visit the store on opening day.

Rothbiz reported earlier this year that plans were approved for a change of use at 14 Howard Street, a former Argos store, as the new venue includes a shop, cafe and family friendly arcade.

With the opening of the new Market Hall this month, 37 independent businesses have found a temporary new home. Rotherham Council says that 96% of the stalls are let, with everything from fruit and veg and fresh meat to clothing, jewellery and more on offer.

Smoke & Pepper website
Little Rio Cafe facebook page
Wiggle & Wonder website
Cafe Treats facebook page
Pokilee's CardCade website
Rotherham Markets website

Images: RiDO / LinkedIn

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News: Micropub plan for Rotherham village retail parade

A unit in a popular Rotherham retail parade could be swapping pasties for pints, if plans are approved.

A long-standing bar nearby is also planning a revamp.

Rothbiz reported in February that British bakery chain, Greggs, was expanding at The Tanyard in Wickersley, taking on the former Peter Cusworth Butcher's shop, which closed following retirement, to create a bakery and cafe.

With the new store now open, this meant that 236 Bawtry Road was left empty.

Now a licencing application has been made that would bring the old Gregg's back to life.

Jaxx Irish Bar Limited has applied for the sale by retail of alcohol and the provision of late night refreshment, plus the performance of live music and any playing of recorded music.

Documents show that the opening hours requested are 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.

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In 2023, Rotherham Council's cabinet approved the continuation of a policy that affects the number of new or varied alcohol licences being granted in the popular Wickersley area.

A statement of licensing policy was approved in 2020 as the council is responsible for licensing the sale of alcohol, hot food and various events. It included a Cumulative Impact Policy which detailed that an area of Wickersley village would become a Cumulative Impact Zone.

Policies are introduced if the authority considers that the number of licensed premises within a defined area is at such a level that the granting of further licences would be inconsistent with the promotion of the licensing objectives.

The zone was introduced to combat "problems surrounding anti-social behaviour, low-level crime, public nuisance including noise and ambulance related alcohol call outs in a mainly residential area."

The Council has been keen to make clear that the policy does not create a ban on the grant of licenses within Wickersley but an applicant "must be able to demonstrate to the Council and other responsible authorities that granting a new or varied licence will not add to the cumulative impact already being experienced within the area."

Also in Wickersley, The Olive Lounge has recently applied for planning permission for an extension.

Plans show 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.

Last year, The Olive Lounge was taken over by the operators of its near neighbours, The W Bars Team that are part of the same group that opertates the W Italian Restaurant.

Images: Rightmove

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News: New Forge Island restaurant confirmed by Rotherham Council

Rotherham Council has confirmed the new food outlet signing up at Forge Island, promising bold flavours and a fresh dining experience.

Rothbiz reported last week that work had begun on a new branch of Smoke & Pepper in Rotherham town centre.

Delivered by Rotherham Council in partnership with Muse, the £47m Forge Island development in Rotherham town centre includes an 8-screen boutique cinema operated by The Arc Cinema, a 69-roomed Travelodge Hotel. Food outlets include Vetro Lounge and Heavenly Desserts.

Smoke & Pepper, known for its contemporary street food-inspired menu, is planning to open in July at Unit 1, a 2,500 sq ft unit next door to Arc Cinema.

Its menu is set to include smoked meats, loaded dishes and indulgent comfort food, designed to appeal to a wide range of tastes.

The venture marks an exciting addition for owner Daoud Tahir, who already runs Forge Island’s dessert parlour, Heavenly Desserts.

Daoud said: “We’re excited to be bringing Smoke & Pepper to Forge Island. The development has become a key destination in the town centre, and we’re proud to be part of that journey.

“We believe our menu offers something new to Forge Island, with bold flavours and a unique dining experience that we’re confident will be a real hit with visitors.”

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Cllr Chris Read, Leader of Rotherham Council, added: “It’s fantastic to see Forge Island continuing to attract new and exciting businesses like Smoke and Pepper.

“The addition of another restaurant, particularly one offering something different, only strengthens Forge Island’s overall offer. We’re delighted to welcome this new venture and wish them every success when they open later this summer.”

Envisioned as a catalytic regeneration development, the council has faced challenges. The authority agreed to fund the scheme itself when the funding available its delivery partner, Muse, "significantly reduced" due to the volatility of the financial markets.

In 2024, Rothbiz reported on the liquidation of a company connected to the restaurant operator that the council had signed up in a pre-let agreement to open a number of brands at Forge Island. The leader of the council said that it was a "challenging business situation" for the operator.

At the start of 2026, Rothbiz reported on difficulties faced by the council with the scheme. A council report on parking issues also referenced the difficulty the authority was having in attracting businesses to the site and letting the units.

Rothbiz reported last month that Sygnature Dish, an independent restaurant set up by local entrepreneurs had closed within a year of opening at Forge Island.

With the cinema, hotel and first food outlets open, Rotherham Council's leader, Chris Read, said that there had been a million more visits in the town centre across the two years since 2024.

Forge Island website

Images: Smoke & Pepper / Tom Austen

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News: Smoke & Pepper to open new Rotherham restaurant

A fast-growing food brand is opening a new store in Rotherham, according to Visit Rotherham, promising a modern, vibrant, and flavour-driven restaurant.

What started in Leyton in 2022 as a burger joint has now turned into a raved-about restaurant. Smoke & Pepper has crafted a unique dining experience that seamlessly blends the allure of an Instagrammable restaurant with the convenience of fast-food dining.

Visit Rotherham reports that the brand has begun work on its new Rotherham location at Forge Island.

Delivered by Rotherham Council in partnership with Muse, the £47m Forge Island development in Rotherham town centre includes an 8-screen boutique cinema operated by The Arc Cinema, a 69-roomed Travelodge Hotel. Food outlets include Vetro Lounge and Heavenly Desserts.

The menu includes top chef-quality burgers and succulent flame grilled chicken, famous flavourful loaded fries and crispy fried wings and tenders tossed in signature sauces. Smoke & Pepper is also known for bringing the thickest shakes in town, thirst quenching mojitos and freshly baked divine milk cakes.

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The business is fast growing thanks to its franchise model. It has 16 stores currently trading with more in the pipeline.

Heavenly Desserts franchisee, Daoud Tahir, who recently picked up an award for his work on the Rotherham location, recently announced that he was looking to add a Smoke & Pepper franchise.

Smoke & Pepper is working on Unit 1 at Forge Island, a 2,500 sq ft unit next door to Arc Cinema.

Recruitment is underway with the restaurant currently looking for General Team Members and Back of House Kitchen Staff.

Social media posts for the brand explain: "Food is at the heart of Smoke & Pepper. Our menu centres on comfort food favourites such as smash burgers, grilled chicken, loaded fries, smoked meats and signature in house sauces, all built around carefully sourced ingredients and strong operational discipline.

"The Smoke & Pepper experience is about more than food. Our restaurants are designed to feel distinctive and engaging, so customers feel they have been somewhere, not just eaten somewhere.

"From design and music to service and flow, we focus on creating an environment people want to spend time in and return to. Every customer who chooses Smoke & Pepper is a privilege. They could have gone anywhere, and that choice is never taken lightly. We celebrate that trust by delivering great food, strong service and an experience that feels reliable, enjoyable and worth repeating."

Rothbiz reported last month that Sygnature Dish, an independent restaurant set up by local entrepreneurs had closed within a year of opening at Forge Island.

Smoke & Pepper website
Forge Island website

Images: Tom Austen

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News: Second Rotherham outlet for growing chicken brand

Visit Rotherham is reporting that a family run fast-food franchise has opened its second branch in Rotherham.

Rothbiz reported last year that the Wingers brand was opening at the successful Olive Lane scheme on the Waverley development in Rotherham.

Now Visit Rotherham states that Wingers has recently opened at a unit at Manvers, in the north of the borough.

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.

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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 with the firm hoping to open 50 restaurants by the end of 2027. The company said that the Rotherham opening is "another step towards building a truly national, homegrown UK chicken brand."

The Manvers outlet is at the Onyx Retail Park, taking the 1,250 Sq Ft Unit 1A that was recently home to online designer babywear business, Forever Sewing.

Specialising in "top notch buttermilk fried chicken," the menu includes tenders, wings, wraps, burgers and loaded fries.

A spokesperson for Onward Holdings, the owners of Onyx Retail Park, said: "This addition strengthens the diverse tenant mix at Onyx and is expected to significantly increase footfall, benefiting the entire retail ecosystem at the site.

"Congratulations to the team on a successful launch."

Wingers website

Images: Wingers

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News: Independent restaurant closes at Rotherham's flagship Forge Island

Whilst other tenants are trading well, an independent restaurant set up by local entrepreneurs has closed within a year of opening at Forge Island in Rotherham.

Sygnature Dish opened last summer, bringing steak and seafood to 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.

Sygnature Dish joined the Vetro Lounge at Forge Island and was followed by Heavenly Desserts.

Dalu and Sibbs Sikhosana, the enterprising siblings behind Sygnature Dish, were first involved in Sub Sahara, an authentic family-run African shop and butchery in Rotherham town centre.

Judith Badger, Executive Director of Corporate Services at Rotherham Council, said: “We’re sorry to see Sygnature Dish close and we recognise that any business closure is particularly difficult for the staff involved. We’d like to thank them for being part of Forge Island.

“The hospitality sector is facing challenges across the country, and unfortunately Sygnature Dish has faced difficulties linked to its own operating model as well as wider market conditions. Despite this Forge Island as a destination continues to record strong footfall and a growing customer base amongst Rotherham residents and from further afield.

“Forge Island remains a vibrant and popular place to visit, with Arc Cinema, Travelodge, Vetro Lounge and Heavenly Desserts all trading well and attracting customers throughout the week. Feedback from visitors continues to be very positive, and we’re pleased with the momentum across the site.

“Importantly, the site was always designed to evolve. With that in mind, we’re looking forward to announcing a new operator who will open at the Forge Island later this year. Discussions are progressing and we hope to share news soon.

“In the meantime, we’d encourage residents to continue supporting the fantastic businesses already at Forge Island.”

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At the start of the year, Rothbiz reported on difficulties faced by the council with the scheme.

"Operational issues" meant that a car parking system was delayed and the authority's Parking Services staff were drafted in to ensure the site was being used appropriately after the council received a number of complaints about parking availability and the "heavy usage by non-genuine customers."

An ANPR system is now in place with parking concessions extended to customers of all businesses located within the Forge Island development providing four hours of free parking.

The council report also referenced the difficulty the council was having in attracting businesses to the site and letting the units.

In 2024, Rothbiz reported on the liquidation of a company connected to the restaurant operator that the council had signed up in a pre-let agreement to open a number of brands at Forge Island. The leader of the council said that it was a "challenging business situation" for the operator.

Work began on site in November 2022 after Rotherham Council agreed to fund the Forge Island regeneration scheme itself when the the funding available its delivery partner, Muse, "significantly reduced" due to the volatility of the financial markets.

The council's project budget also includes a contribution towards the fit out of the units.

According to Rotherham Council's leader, Chris Read, there has been a million more visits in the town centre across the two years since Forge Island opened in 2024.

Forge Island website

Images: Sygnature Dish

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News: Changes on the way at popular Rotherham pub restaurant

The future of a pub restaurant in Rotherham is unclear after its owners carried out a wide ranging review of its business.

The Brecks in Rotherham is part of Whitbread's Beefeater portfolio and is connected to Premier Inn Rotherham East, part of the UK's biggest hotel brand that is also owned by Whitbread.

Having undertaken a review, bosses at the leading hospitality business are putting in place a refocused growth plan in the UK to replace all remaining branded restaurants.

Expanding its "Accelerating Growth Plan" will see 197 branded restaurants replaced "with a more efficient and tailored F&B [Food & Beverage] offering for our guests."

The company said it had seen positive early results two years into the original plan to optimise the delivery of F&B at a number of sites by converting lower returning branded restaurants into a higher margin and more efficient, integrated F&B offering, and converting space into new hotel rooms.

Whitbread added that it had already agreed the sale of 51 branded restaurants for £50m and agreed terms for the sale, subject to conditions, on a further 60 sites.

The sales are expected to be as going concerns over the next 24 months with the investment into creating more efficient integrated restaurants set to take place in the 2027 financial year.

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An update from Whitbread said: "Moving to a 100% integrated F&B offering will improve the guest experience and add more higher returning extension rooms and we will deliver 15% - 20% returns on capital by FY31 [the 2031 financial year].

"With over 500 integrated restaurants already operational across our UK estate, it is clear that this F&B format is preferred by our hotel guests and delivers better margins and returns than the branded restaurant format."

Dominic Paul, Chief Executive at Whitbread plc, said: "Owning a significant proportion of our property is a unique strength which powers the growth of Premier Inn while supporting our resilience as a business, underpinned by a strong balance sheet. But we can improve our approach. We will refocus our capital spend and recycle more of our freehold real estate, driving increased margins and returns, reducing our capital intensity and increasing cash returns for shareholders.

"By making our assets work harder and focusing on the highest returning projects, we will be able to continue to take advantage of constrained supply to strengthen our position in both of our core markets, whilst at the same time deliver attractive financial outcomes for shareholders.

"In the UK, by reallocating some of our capital spend and building on the success of our Accelerating Growth Plan, we plan to convert all our remaining branded restaurants to an integrated food and beverage offer that is preferred by our hotel guests and will unlock the addition of more highly profitable extension rooms. Our continued efforts to drive our commercial plan and efficiencies will extend our market-leading position and allow us to take share from our competitors, many of which are struggling to grow."

The Premier Inn on East Bawtry Road secured planning permission last year for a 4,800 sq ft two storey extension to the east of the current hotel. It would provide an additional 16 bedrooms but two current rooms would be lost to create a new corridor. It would take the total rooms at the site from 62 to 76.

The update from Whitbread added: "Against a backdrop of limited UK supply growth, we will open a further 3,000 higher returning extension rooms (including the original plan and the extension of the plan) that are being added in locations where we know from our trading data that, at certain periods, demand outstrips supply and so we are confident that these additional rooms will deliver highly attractive financial returns."

Whitbread website

Images: Google Maps

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News: Mixed use plans for former Rotherham pub

A new set of plans have been submitted that would bring back to life a vacant pub on the edge of Rotherham town centre, reports Visit Rotherham.

Updated following earlier approved plans, they include a restaurant, a café and a small Bed & Breakfast (B&B).

Back in 2011, plans were approved to convert the rear of the vacant Crinoline Bridge Inn on Rawmarsh Road into a café/sandwich shop, with the main pub operating as a tile shop.

Rothbiz reported in 2024 that an application was submitted for a change of use from a tile shop to a restaurant, including the erection of a commercial unit with additional rear corridor access and the construction of first floor roof terrace.

Pad Thai Cafe has been in operation at the site for a number of years after applicant, Phil Richardson, was advised by Rotherham Council that the introduction of residential use in this location would be "wholly unsuitable and likely to lead to poor amenity for future occupiers."

Now Visit Rotherham reports on the latest plans that replace the previously approved single-restaurant scheme. None of the external alterations approved under the earlier permission are included in this revised submission.

If approved, the conversion would be carried out without external changes. All modifications proposed are internal, relating purely to the reorganisation of the building’s internal layout and operational model.

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Plans show that, on the ground floor, the restaurant will occupy the main frontage of the building, accessed from Rawmarsh Road. It will provide indoor dining and bar facilities. The café will be situated at the rear of the ground floor with its own seated areas and service counter.

The first floor will be internally reconfigured into four ensuite double bedrooms. These will operate as a small-scale B&B. The café will act as the functional hub for the B&B, providing breakfast for guests as well as check-in, key collection and visitor support.

Plans explain that they a create "a coherent and commercially viable mixed-use arrangement that maximises the long-term sustainability of the premises.

"The proposal represents a positive and sustainable re-use of an existing building by introducing three complementary commercial uses. The restaurant and café will provide community-facing food and drink services, while the B&B introduces modest visitor accommodation without the need for external works. This diversification strengthens long-term commercial viability and supports local employment.

"The scheme avoids any visual or physical impact on the surrounding area, maintains adequate parking and access arrangements, and aligns with national and local planning policy promoting sustainable economic growth and mixed-use development."

The Crinoline Bridge Inn, as it was originally known, is thought to have opened in 1849, with the current building at one time showing 1919 above the door.

Images: Google Maps

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News: Newest Rotherham burger joint opens

Visit Rotherham reports on the opening of a Rotherham branch of a popular burger joint in Sheffield that specialises in high-quality 100% Irish Angus smash burgers, 16-hour smoked beef ribs, and loaded munch boxes.

Maison de Burgers has operated on London Road in Sheffield for a number of years and recently secured planning permission to open in a vacant unit on Main Street in Rotherham town centre, adding to the vibrant food scene create in the area.

2 Main Street was previously part the former Tryst / Bar One unit and has been converted into a restaurant.

The grand opening is scheduled for Monday April 27.

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The menus includes juicy chicken burgers, perfectly smashed burgers, delectable wraps, flavorful shakes, succulent brisket, and perfectly cooked ribs.

Burger fans can get 50% off on the opening day to see if Maison de Burgers really does offer the best smash burgers in town!

The new eatery is part of the £10m Westgate Chambers development, which has quickly become a foodie destination in Rotherham with the openings of burger and milkshakes specialist, Munchies, and Cali's - a specialist in chicken burgers, wraps, wings and tenders. The outlets on Main Street were then joined by Dessert Time - the home of indulgent desserts.

Planning permission comes with a condition on opening hours - 10:00 until 23:30 Sundays to Thursdays, and 10:00 until 02:30 (the following day) Fridays and Saturdays. Other conditions relate to the installation of an extraction system.

The developers behind Westgate Chambers, HMP Bespoke Construction Ltd, has recently submitted plans to tweak the new build element of the scheme with the floor plan of the proposed building on Domine Lane reduced in size to avoid building over an adopted sewer.

Maison de Burgers website

Images: Maison de Burgers

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News: Pokémon-themed business trading up into long-vacant Rotherham unit

Plans have been approved that will enable the expansion of a Pokémon-themed shop and café in Rotherham town centre, reports Visit Rotherham.

Moving across town from the Imperial Buildings and transforming a vacant unit in The Old Town Hall in 2023, enterprising Lee Kucia has created a haven for Pokémon fans, offering cards, booster boxes, toys and graded cards. The theme continues into a Coffee House serving barista coffee, hot drinks, cake and sandwiches that also offers space for trading and playing.

Under the name, PokiLee, Lee has amassed over 11,000 subscribers on YouTube who catch him opening packs, interacting with customers and various other live streams.

Having also added a family-friendly arcade and renamed as PokiLee's CardCade, a new set of plans were submitted for a change of use at another retail unit in Rotherham town centre - a bigger building which will allow both businesses to operate cohesively from one location.

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Rothbiz reported in January on plans for 14 Howard Street, a former Argos store. The change of use application has now been approved.

Planners at Rotherham Council said: "Although the scheme introduces elements that move slightly away from traditional retail, such as café and gaming arcade, it is unlikely to result in any harmful impact on the Primary Shopping Frontage", it would "not detract from the existing appearance or character of the frontage and would instead make a positive contribution to Howard Street by reinstating an active and engaging street presence."

A post on social media from Pokilee's Cardcade said that: "Everything you love is coming together under one roof. Bigger and Better! We can’t wait for you to see it!"

The update added that the last day in the current Old Town Hall shop would be Saturday May 2 with a closure planned for around two weeks to get everything ready for the new space.

Pokilee's CardCade website

Images: Rees Denton / Pokilee's CardCade / Facebook

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News: Rebranded Rotherham venue set to reopen

A prominent venue in Rotherham town centre has closed for a rebrand, with plans to reopen with Irish cheer, just in time for St Patrick's Day, reports Visit Rotherham.

Visit Rotherham is the only place that brings together news and events information so you can find out what's on in Rotherham.

At Westgate Chambers, which has been undergoing a multimillion pound regeneration programme, the former Co-op building has long been a part of the evening circuit - as Milano's, Switch and the Jaxx bar.

Maximum Leisure, which currently operates venues in Rotherham including neighbours, Elliotts, has taken the decision to rebrand the Jaxx Bar and convert it into "The Westgate."

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Posts on social media point to it being a sister venue to Elliotts, offering live music, darts and pool.

Fans of the resurgence of stout, will notice the large Guinness vinyl on the new frontage.

The Westgate is set to open on Friday March 13 with Sheffield's Sharon Dreadz bringing the best of Irish / rock / pop / indie and country.

There is plenty of regeneration happening in the area. The new pub is across the road from the recently opened Empire Theatre, with work currently underway on Rotherham Council's multimillion pound improvement scheme on Corporation Street and Riverside Gardens - a new public space which will form a key gateway to the flagship Forge Island leisure development and wider town centre.

The Grade II listed part of Westgate Chambers (where Elliotts is housed) was originally a fine residence built in 1794 by the architect John Platt for himself. Platt sold the house in 1808 but remained in occupation until his death in 1810. The part of the house further to the left was demolished when Main Street was constructed.

The Westgate Facebook page

Images: Tom Austen

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News: Plans progress for takeaway expansion after Rotherham Council loses appeal

Operators of a doughnut shop in Rotherham are progressing plans to convert it into a hot food takeaway after it successfully secured planning permission on appeal. Rotherham Council planners earlier concluded that it would "fail to promote a healthier community."

Rothbiz reported last year on proposed changes to a wider regeneration scheme close to Mushroom Roundabout at Aldwarke, where the seperate drive thru unit has been occupied by Dunkin’ Donuts on Sycamore Road.

Sheffield-based franchise specialists, QFM Group, applied in 2024 to make changes at the unit, admitting that Dunkin' had not traded optimally since moving in.

However, Rotherham Council refused the change of use application that would enable a hot food takeaway to operate in the unit instead.

Refusing the application, planners pointed to the proximity of High Greave Junior School, 500 metres away on foot, and the Hutton Park campus of Rotherham Aspire Pupil Referral Unit (PRU) at 650 metres.

Rotherham Council has a supplementary planning document that restricts hot food takeaways within 800 metres of a school or college, unless it is in within a defined town or district centre. Planners acknowledged that there is already a Taco Bell on the site but concluded that the proposal was in direct conflict with its adopted planning policies.

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An appeal followed and last year an inspector overturned the decision, stating that the site "is not an unacceptable location for the proposal with regards to promoting a healthier community."

The inspector's decision explains that the national planning framework "states that local planning authorities should refuse applications for hot food takeaways and fast food outlets within walking distance of schools and other places where children and young people congregate, unless the location is within a designated town centre; or in locations where there is evidence that a concentration of such uses is having an adverse impact on local health, pollution or anti-social-behaviour."

The inspector recognised that the policies of both nearby schools prohibit pupils from leaving the school premises during the school day without express permission and that there is already easy access to a number of existing fast-food takeaways in the immediate area.

The inspector added: "Whilst I note that there are already a number of hot food takeaways in the local area the Council has not provided any substantive evidence that there is an over concentration of such uses or that they are having an adverse impact on health, pollution or anti-social behaviour in this locality.

"Although it does not provide hot food, the existing restaurant currently provides goods which are high in sugar and therefore do not provide a significantly more healthy alternative to the proposal. Moreover, as there are already a range of fast-food takeaways in the immediate area, the anticipated occupation of one additional unit would not, in my view undermine the overarching aims of the SPD [the council's planning framework] with regards to the creation of a healthier community."

Plans have now been submitted for new Taco Bell signage at the current Dunkin Donuts unit.

Images: Taco Bell / Google Maps

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News: Rotherham firms receive royal visits

Two Rotherham-based companies had the honour of a royal visit recently when Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal was in the region.

Last month, Princess Anne visited MTL Advanced in Brinsworth, and was received by His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant of South Yorkshire, Professor Dame Hilary Chapman.

The firm, which operates a 387,000 sq ft facility, has over 440 employees and annual sales expected to exceed £64m for 2025. MTL Advanced is recognised globally as a market leader in the processing of armoured steels and complex fabrications. The business has invested more than £15m in additional factory space and state-of-the-art equipment over the past two years.

In addition, over 100 apprentices have now come through the doors of MTL's in-house Academy since it opened its doors in 2015 and the company’s home-grown talent has played a critical role in the company’s recent growth and success.

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After a visit to a nursery and the Baby Basics UK charity in Sheffield, Her Royal Highness then visited Yorkshire Crisps in Rotherham.

The luxury hand cooked crisps and popcorn maker is based at Waleswood where its award-winning produce is made by a small, dedicated team using the finest local ingredients for a local, national and international market.

A spokesperson for Yorkshire Crisps said: "It was a truly memorable day for our whole team. Her Royal Highness was a wonderful guest, generously taking the time to speak with colleagues across the site and showing genuine interest in the people and processes behind our crisps. Her warmth and engagement made a lasting impression on everyone she met.

"We are also proud to recognise the outstanding work The Princess Royal continues to do in supporting local industry and championing charities across the UK. Her Royal Highness’s dedication to strengthening communities and celebrating British enterprise is both inspiring and greatly appreciated."

MTL Advanced website
Yorkshire Crisps wesbite

Images: Yorkshire Crisps

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