News: Council moving ahead with Rotherham town centre health hub plan

Work to create a new Health Hub in Rotherham town centre is progressing with the conversion of the empty former Boots building.

Rothbiz reported last year on the authority's plans to introduce "Health on the High Street" in a bid to improve access to health services and increase footfall. For phase 1, Morris and Spottiswood Ltd started work in January on a £843,580 contract to carry out ground floor internal modifications and a potential fit-out to accommodate the relocation of Abbey Pharmacy.

The completed relocation and opening of Abbey Pharmacy's new location links to the wider regeneration of the nearby markets.

Now, early stage work is underway on phase 2 of the health hub project and establishing which services can occupy the rest of the 25,985 sq ft property that was acquired by Rotherham Council in 2023.

It is expected that Connect Healthcare Rotherham will play a major role. The community interest company was formed by all 28 GP practices in Rotherham as shareholders and provides primary care services at scale. They are said to be keen to relocate their services into a centrally located hub.

A new health hub is expected to enable more same day services and extended access (weekend and out of hours) for services such as GP, nurse and other appointments. Phsyio, NHS Health Checks and stop smoking and weight management services could also operate from the hub.

The council has identified that 80,000 additional people are within 30 minutes of the town centre site using public transport compared to current facilities at Rawmarsh.

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Cllr. John Williams, Cabinet Member for Transport, Jobs and the Local Economy, described the project as "an opportunity to bring together both regeneration and health and wellbeing objectives in a way that will benefit both our residents and our town centre."

He added: "The second phase is about that broader vision for the project and the role it could play in improving access to health and wellbeing services in a central and highly accessible location in the town centre. The vision is to create a hub that improves the access to primary health services and supports a more joined up approach between health, local government, the voluntary sector, to help tackle health inequalities and contribute to the vibrancy and footfall of the town centre.

"In terms of the council, it is being led by regeneration. It is a regeneration project but pursuing those wider health and wellbeing benefits for the town centre. It is benefiting the town centre by bringing those alternative uses in. We know that's what we need to do for regeneration and the future of our town centre - we can't rely purely on a retail offer. That's why we are doing the new town centre housing, the new library and markets project, and this is another big key project."

Lorna Vertigan, head of regeneration at Rotherham Council, said: "It's location is really, really important in developing that service strategy - a reason for people to come into the town centre. It sits directly opposite the markets and where the library is going to be open soon. You've got the proximity there of the shopping centres and the interchange right behind it, you've got Tesco and the Drummond Street car park - they are all within a really close walking distance. And when you access that building you are walking past other properties, which helps drive that footfall and give people a reason to meander and move round the town centre."

Gilly Brenner, Consultant in Public Health at Rotherham Council, added: "We really want this to improve patient experience. We do know that from other places where they have put health on the High Street we have seen people combine trips. So rather than just going for their health appointment they are then able to fit that in to their busy day - picking up their shopping or various other things, make it a bit more of a day out and link it then to the other opportunities within the town centre."

A phased approach is being used and a business case for the hub is in development. A big part of the work will be to identify and secure funding to complete phase 2.

£1.7m was secured from the Pathfinder funds (now Local Regeneration Fund) for both phases. Funding was moved away from the live music venue project to the health hub project.

Images: Tom Austen

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News: Change of use plans for large empty Rotherham office block

An empty office block in Bramley could be brought back into use if newly submitted plans are approved by Rotherham Council.

Oak House has most recently been used by the NHS for its administration teams and was also used as a COVID vaccination centre. The building previously served as the headquarters for the Rotherham Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) but has been vacant since 2024.

Providing 23,244 sq ft of office space over three floors, the property is now listed with agents as being under offer. It was made available to let / may sell with a guide price of £2.5m.

A new planning application is for a change of use that would enable the office building to be converted into a residential care home.

The proposal also includes three single storey extensions to reconfigure the layout of the building.

Plans, drawn up by 7 hills architectural design, state that "the building itself will undergo total refurbishment" and show 57 rooms in the current building and new extensions - two on the front elevation and one on the rear.

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Plans also include new lifts, a cafe area, lounges, a private dining room, cinema and a roof terrace.

If approved, 70 full-time equivalent jobs would be created.

The plans are from a newly formed company, Oak House 1111 Ltd, but make reference to a development company, Balmoral Investments. It is understood that the property is owned by the South Yorkshire Pensions Authority.

The site, which sits alongside commercial buildings, a Bannatynes Gym, and the recently rebranded Garner Hotel near to the M18, had been included in the safeguarded land for high speed rail.

The designation was lifted last year, four and a half years after the HS2 scheme to Leeds was scrapped and nine years after property owners first learnt of the plans.

Images: Oak House 1111 Ltd / 7 hills / CPP

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News: Health Hub work to get underway in Rotherham town centre

The first phase of a new Health Hub in Rotherham town centre can get underway after contractors were appointed by the council, but costs have risen.

Rothbiz reported last year on the authority's plans to introduce "Health on the High Street" in a bid to improve access to health services and increase footfall.

The idea would also provide a long term use for a large retail unit that has been empty since 2022.

Creating a community hub for health provision as a way to reinvigorate town centres has been tried and tested across the country in areas such as Barnsley and Oldham.

In Rotherham, the council acquired the former Boots building in 2023 after the retailer closed as part of a 2020 acceleration of its Transformation Plan.

Close to the markets redevelopment, the proposal involves Abbey Pharmacy relocating from its current position in the first phase with the exploration of the development of a new health facility within the remainder of the building part of a second phase.

For phase 1, Morris and Spottiswood Ltd, which is registered in Glasgow but has an office in Leeds, has been appointed on a direct award by the council on a contract worth £843,580 to carry out ground floor internal modifications and a potential fit-out to accommodate the relocation of Abbey Pharmacy.

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With the £40m revamp of the markets well underway, and as part of the lease, Rotherham Council would need to pay to relocate Abbey Pharmacy from Howard Street now, and potentially a second time, or work around them. Both of these options have been discounted due to the costs involved.

£1.7m has been secured from the Pathfinder funds (now Local Regeneration Fund). Government pathfinder funding was moved away from the live music venue project to the health hub project. Phase 2 funds are to investigate using the remainder of the building for GPs, Health or Wellbeing operators.

The total funding required for phase 1 has increased from £1.3m to £1.47m which leaves less for feasibility studies for phase 2.

A council report explains: "At the start of this project, a direct award procurement route was recommended on the basis of accelerating the procurement process and appointing a contractor as quickly as possible given the multi-million pound Market Redevelopment scheme is dependent on ensuring timely vacant possession of the Indoor Covered Market.

"Following receipt of tender prices and a full independent review of the project and its costs, the cost for Phase 1 will now be higher than the allocated budget. It is proposed that the increased costs for Phase 1 are funded by reducing the budget allocated for undertaking Phase 2 feasibility works, whilst still working within the same budget envelope for the overall scheme. This will mean the scope of works for Phase 2 will have to be reduced or further funding identified at a later stage for completion of Phase 2.

"To maintain alignment with the wider town centre programme and avoid delays to the Markets project, it is recommended that Phase 1 proceeds on the basis of the tendered figure. Sufficient flexibility exists within the overall £1.7m Health Hub allocation to accommodate the Phase 1 variance while still enabling Phase 2 feasibility work. Approval is therefore sought to utilise part of the Phase 2 envelope to meet the Phase 1 cost pressure."

Images: RMBC

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News: Rotherham ready to Rise and Reform

A disused dance studio in Rotherham has been transformed by the owners of South Yorkshire's leading Pilates studios.

Pilates is a form of exercise that focuses on balance, posture, strength and flexibility. Reformer Pilates is a full-body, low-impact workout that uses a specialised machine (sometimes called a bed) with a sliding carriage and springs to add adjustable resistance and support to traditional Pilates exercises.

Rise and Reform, which already operates from studios in Doncaster and Barnsley, has been hard at work over the last few months on its new Rotherham premises at Stag roundabout.

Rothbiz reported on the potential new occupantts last month when the operator of the Roadhouse Bar & Bottles secured a change of use for 1,387 sq ft of space to create a wine and cocktail bar with a function room on the first floor. Next to existing premises on Wickersley Road, the unit was previously home to the Paws to Hooves pet shop before it relocated to Wickersley.

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The rest of the first floor, previously home to Moorgate Dance Academy, now has a clean and cosy look where experts at Rise and Reform can offer classes designed for all levels, including reformer Pilates and hot Pilates.

A post on social media about this week's opening said: "Rotherham… the wait is officially over! We’re so ready to finally welcome you into our brand new studio. We’ve poured so much time and energy into this one. Bigger, better, and cosier than ever. And yes… we now offer HOT Pilates! It’s been on our wish list for such a long time, and we’ve finally built the space to make it happen."

The latest tenants moving in marks a complete turnaround for the building. In 2024 both the Roadhouse and Rancheros restaurant said that they had closed in the Stag area for the "foreseeable future" "due to circumstances outside of our control." The reasons for both closures were been made public but a notice of peaceable re-entry by the landlord was on display at the premises.

Rise and Reform website

Images: Rise and Reform / Facebook

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News: The challenge of restoring pride in Rotherham with £20m

A £20m regeneration fund has been welcomed in central Rotherham but the leader of the council admits that it will be a challenge to spend it so that each resident feels the benefit.

Rothbiz reported earlier this month on the regeneration plan being developed for the government's Pride in Place Programme.

Previously called the Long-Term Plan for Towns and then renamed as Plan for Neighbourhoods, £20m is for the next ten years for the central Rotherham area where interventions in line for funding will need to come under the themes of: regeneration, high streets and heritage; health and wellbeing; education and opportunity; cohesion, safety and security; or work, productivity and skills.

The plan has been shaped through extensive consultation with residents and stakeholders and will be delivered in partnership with a newly formed Neighbourhood Board, which includes representatives from the public, private and voluntary sectors, as well as South Yorkshire Police, local councillors and Sarah Champion, MP for Rotherham.

The first period of delivery is expected to begin in April 2026, with further investment plans to follow in 2030 and 2033.

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Cllr. John Williams, Cabinet Member for Transport, Jobs and the Local Economy, said: “This is welcome investment in communities that have gone without for too long. And while it will certainly not fix all the challenges faced by our residents it will help us create safer, healthier, and stronger communities where we hope people will feel proud to live and work.

“We’ve listened to residents and built a plan that reflects their priorities. Over the coming months, we will be able to set out plans in more detail to ensure we are getting the best value from this funding.”

The vision statement for the Pride in Place regeneration plan states that regeneration will bring back purpose to cherished buildings, create safe and welcoming public space and breathe new life into the town centre. It adds that: "The success of Rotherham’s plan will be felt by the Rotherham community who will feel empowered to participate, and recognise a growing sense of belonging and pride, as they come together more to celebrate where they live."

Cllr. Chris Read, leader of Rotherham Council said: "We've managed to end up with a fund, that whilst it is welcome, is on its third name before we've managed to spend any of it - which I think is unprecedented. It is absolutely welcome funding, it was welcome funding under the last government and it is welcome funding under this government. The long term nature of it is particularly welcomed as a sustainable fund over the course of the decade.

"It is worth refelecting that it is largely capital funding, funding for "stuff" - goods, items and buildings, rather than people's wages and the provision of services. And inevitably, given the geography of the area, that means that something doesn't get built in every one of those places. It would be a very small thing that would be built in each of those places.

"We need to look at that geography as a whole in order to be making decisions alongside the neighbourhood board about where it should be spent. We are particularly keen to be working with those communities on their priorities around its spend to ensure that we are getting the most sustainable benefit for improving lives of people in the central Rotherham area. That does meen that it is a complicated scheme to administer. It isn't the same as getting a chunk of funding to build, for example, some provision at one of our country parks in the way that we are currently delivering.

"It really is good that it is sustainable over a period of time and not just a one off but it will be more of a challenge given the geography and the scale of the area covered to be able to produce an impact that each resident will feel directly in a way that we would want them too. It is a big, and quite difficult, piece of work to administer, this particular fund, for the benefit of residents in the central Rotherham area."

Images: RMBC / Don Catchment River Trust

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News: Economic Trailblazer to continue in South Yorkshire

An economic inactivity trailblazer in South Yorkshire is in line for a funding boost to help give more people furthest from employment the tools to get into work.

Transformative schemes are being extended with an £80m funding boost as the government targets economic inactivity hotspots through joined up localised support.

Unlike traditional employment support, inactivity trailblazers empower local areas to design tailored solutions that tackle the root causes of economic inactivity - such as poor mental health, low skills, and barriers like social isolation - rather than just treating the symptoms.

New support that areas can offer will include work readiness skills, employer engagement to change hiring practices and support Local Growth Plans, mental health support, confidence-building social groups and skills training to move thousands more people closer to the labour market.

Rothbiz reported in April on an £18m scheme in South Yorkshire for a dedicated new service working with employers to hire those with health conditions, and a new “triage” system to make it quicker and easier to connect people to employment, health, and skills support.

These groundbreaking schemes are helping to break the vicious cycle between poor mental health and unemployment by trialling initiatives that combine job support with health and skills support.

Those who benefit from the trailblazer support face complex, often deeply personal barriers to work, and the scheme is part of the Government’s wider plan to deliver national renewal focused on opportunity and respect, ensuring everyone is seen and valued.

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Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Pat McFadden said: "For too long too many people have been locked out of the job market, which fails them and fails our economy.

"That is why we are doing things differently – putting local leaders in the driving seat so the right support goes to their community.

"By further investing in our trailblazers we’re helping people who were previously underserved or overlooked to build the confidence and skills they need to thrive."

By taking a holistic approach, the programme is already delivering results through early intervention, flexible training and working directly with employers to create supportive environments, rather than treating health and employment as separate issues.

South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard, said: "South Yorkshire has a proud industrial heritage that shaped our communities and powered progress far beyond our borders. But the legacy of industrial decline left behind deep-rooted challenges.  For too long, poor health, low skills, and limited opportunity have held too many people back. That’s not good enough, and we’re changing it.

"I’m proud that we’ve secured another year of funding for the Economic Trailblazer. It’s a vital part of our nationally recognised Pathways to Work programme, which is helping thousands of people across South Yorkshire into good, secure jobs.

"We’re building a South Yorkshire where everyone can stay near and go far, putting people and employers at the heart of everything we do - creating opportunity, transforming lives, and strengthening communities. Together, we’re making change happen."

South Yorkshire operates a Pathways to Work system, ensuring alignment and a coordinated one-system approach to employment support services on offer.

Through their new initiatives, South Yorkshire aims to reduce inactivity from 25.5% in 2023 to under 20% by the end of 2029 – equivalent to helping 40,000 people across the area.

Economic inactivity in Rotherham is higher (27%) than in South Yorkshire, statistical neighbours and the national average (21%). This is driven by higher economic inactivity among women, residents aged 50-64, and ethnic minorities.

South Yorkshire Pahways to Work website

Images: Barnsley Council

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News: Restoring Rotherham's Pride in Place

Plans are being prepared on how to spend a £20m investment over the next ten years, building pride in Rotherham.

Rotherham Council has set out which types of regeneration projects are set to receive the most money.

In March, £20m earmarked for Rotherham by the previous Government was confirmed and given a wider remit focusing on neighbourhood renewal and improving social capital and renamed Plan for Neighbourhoods.

Last month it was announced that Rotherham will also receive £1.5m to restore pride in place, support community cohesion, and stimulate local economic activity through visible, short-term, community-led improvements.

Maltby was also named as one of the areas that will receive £2m every year for a decade.

Rotherham Council has now confirmed that the initial £20m Plan for Neighbourhoods for the built up area around the town centre has been renamed as the Pride in Place Programme for Rotherham Central.

Rothbiz has previously reported on the results of consultation and the government data that will support decision makers - the local Neighbourhood Board which brings together residents, local businesses, grassroots campaigners, workplace representatives, faith, and community leaders and those with a deep connection to their area.

Consultees (people who live, work or visit the main urban areas around the town centre) assessed the area low in most themes and picked out safety, run-down streets and parking as key issues.

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Government data, which covers key issues such as vacant property, crime rates and footfall, shows that there is still much to do in Rotherham, even to match the national averages.

A ten year programme, the £20m is set to be split - £15m on capital and £5m on revenue.

An update from Rotherham Council shows that interventions in line for funding will come under the themes of: regeneration, high streets and heritage; health and wellbeing; education and opportunity; cohesion, safety and security; and work, productivity and skills.

As the focus is on interventions where alternative funding is less accessible, it means that housing and transport projects will not be supported.

A report shows the main target areas with £5.72m earmarked for health and wellbeing and £3.84m for regeneration, high streets and heritage.

Possible interventions under the health and wellbeing theme include co-locating services under one roof in an accessible high street location, community mental health hubs, funding for local sport and activity facilities, initiatives and drug and alcohol support.

Potential interventions under the regeneration, high streets and heritage theme include public realm improvements, green spaces, community and neighbourhood infrastructure projects, support for arts, cultural, heritage and creative activities and initiatives.

At this stage, it is not a fixed investment programme and there will be flexibility to review interventions. The Neighbourhood Board will now work with Rotherham Council, who are the accountable body for the money, to create a Regeneration Plan that needs to be submitted to the government by November 28.

Images: LSH

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News: Funding boost for Connect to Work scheme

A grant funding agreement has been signed that will see £35.3m to help thousands of sick or disabled people into good, secure jobs in South Yorkshire.

A new £338m investment into the Connect to Work programme will deliver localised, tailored support to over 85,000 people who are sick, disabled or face complex barriers to work in 15 areas across England.

The scheme provides intensive, personalised help including individual coaching from employment specialists, job matching services, and ongoing support for both participants and employers to ensure sustainable employment outcomes.

In all around 300,000 people across all of England and Wales are set to benefit over the next five years. To access support, sick and disabled people and those facing complex barriers to work can self-refer or they can be referred through various routes including healthcare professionals, local authorities, and voluntary sector partners.

With 2.8 million people out of work due to ill-health – one of the highest rates in the G7 – it’s part of the Government’s plan to get Britain working again and deliver an 80% employment rate by overhauling jobcentres, tackling economic inactivity through local plans, and delivering a Youth Guarantee so every young person is either earning or learning.

Among those out of work, over one in four cite sickness as a barrier - more than double the 2012 figure of one in ten - highlighting the urgent need for tailored employment support that removes barriers faced by disabled people and those with health conditions.

Economic inactivity in Rotherham is higher (27%) than in South Yorkshire, statistical neighbours and the national average (21%). This is driven by higher economic inactivity among women, residents aged 50-64, and ethnic minorities.

Long-term sickness is the leading reason for inactivity. Rotherham has the highest rates of inactivity due to long-term sickness (35%) and retirement (14%) among comparator areas.

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Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall said: "For too long, millions of people have been denied the support they need to get back to health and back to work.

"It’s bad for their living standards, it’s bad for their families, and it’s bad for the economy.

"That’s why we’re taking decisive action by investing millions of pounds so sick or disabled people can overcome the barriers they face and move out of poverty and into good, secure jobs as part of our Plan for Change."

The five-year programme launched recently and Connect to Work in South Yorkshire is part of the Pathways to Work system, ensuring alignment and a coordinated one-system approach to employment support services on offer. Up to £35.3m has been secured, helping 9,950 participants across Sheffield, Rotherham, Barnsley, and Doncaster into work.

The South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority is the accountable body, working in partnership with the local councils. The authority has contracted organisations to deliver support - £7,413,744 with South Yorkshire Housing Association and 4,942,496 with The Shaw Trust.

South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard said: "I want South Yorkshire to be a place where we all thrive. Where poor health doesn’t hold us back. And work plays a huge part. It’s not just about wages - it’s about dignity, pride, and the security that comes from knowing you can support yourself and your family.

"Right now, more than 140,000 people across South Yorkshire aren’t in work. But many of those people desperately want to have a job, want to provide for their families, and contribute to the future of our communities. Which is why I’m proud that South Yorkshire is one of the areas across England and Wales delivering Connect to Work.

"It’s a programme designed to help those with disabilities, long-term health conditions, or from disadvantaged backgrounds, into good, secure jobs. And I’m even prouder that Connect to Work is part of the national Pathways to Work project, which we pioneered right here in South Yorkshire.

"South Yorkshire’s at the forefront of tackling these challenges nationally, and we’re increasingly a model for other places across the country."

Rotherham Employment Solutions website

Images: Opportunity Sheffield

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News: £83m Rotherham regeneration projects can be pushed back to 2028

Multimillion pound regeneration projects in Rotherham will have more time to be completed after the Government granted more flexibilities over how the money can be spent.

Partners in the borough will also find it easier to cancel projects, move funding to different, or even new, projects, and change governance arrangements.

Rothbiz reported in 2023 that the previous government had entered Rotherham into the Simplification Pathfinder Pilot, a simplified approach to funding delivery, after the National Audit Office (NAO) warned of delays around spending Levelling Up funding pots.

Now the new government has consolidated a number of funding schemes in a bid to accelerate project delivery and improve value for money.

In 2021, Rotherham secured £31.6m from the Town Deal to revamp areas of Rotherham town centre as well as Templeborough, Eastwood and the site of the proposed mainline station at Parkgate. In the same year, £12.6m was secured from the Future High Streets Fund.

From the Levelling Up Fund, Rotherham was successful in securing £19.5m for the town centre and £19.9m for a number of connected projects around the leisure industry. £20m was then secured in 2023 for a new mixed-use development in Wath town centre, as well as delivering significant improvements to Dinnington High Street and market.

The pots have now been combined into the "Local Regeneration Fund" with single, annual allocations based on streamlined monitoring and reduced reporting frequency.

One of the main flexibilities is that all funding is now due to be spent by the end of March 2028.

The Future High Streets Fund was initially due to be spent by March 2024, with other funds then due to be spent by March 2026. In Rotherham this includes projects that have suffered delays due to rising costs, difficulties securing contractors and legal issues.

The revamp of Rotherham Market, which is using money from the Future High Street Fund, was originally scheduled to finish in December 2025 but this was pushed back to 2027 with total costs now at £40.89m. At Riverside Gardens, another Future High Street Fund project, a contractor has recently started work. Changes have also been made to projects at Rother Valley and Thrybergh Country parks but construction work is underway.

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With the council unable to acquire the properties required to deliver the Dinnington scheme, a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) was issued earlier this year which meant that the spending on the project was extended from 2026 to 2028.

Many schemes have completed in the borough backed by the funds. This includes Skills Street at Gulliver's Valley, work to transform heritage buildings at Maltby Grammar School, and the acquisition and demolition of burnt out buidings in the town centre.

Another flexibility is that the government no longer requires local authorities to seek approval for any changes. As long as it still meets conditions around value for money and contributes to one or more Government Missions, changes could include amendments to the scope of existing projects, the cancellation of existing projects and the creation of new projects.

An update from the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG) said: "After listening to feedback from local government, on the need for less bureaucratic micromanagement and more local control, we have now announced the consolidation of MHCLG’s Levelling Up Fund, Town Deals and Simplification Pathfinders Pilot Fund together into a single funding pot. This reform will increase flexibility to adapt schemes to local needs and focus on delivery.

"We are giving local authorities greater ability to make decisions locally about moving funding between projects in their funding portfolio. Local authorities should consider how they can use this increased flexibility to invest more effectively, whether that is pooling funding in the same area, redeploying funding to different priorities or making changes to existing projects to expedite delivery and maximise their impact.  

"It is our expectation that projects already underway will be completed, for the benefit of local residents. In the small number of cases where projects are no longer viable, we expect that councils will use the funding available to invest in the area that originally stood to benefit, so local residents can feel the improvements to their everyday lives that they have been promised. We strongly encourage local authorities to consult with key stakeholders, including MPs in their local areas on any proposed changes and in particular changes to the location or projects and/or intended beneficiaries."

Rothbiz has previously reported on changes made in Rotherham to funded schemes. Aspects have been removed from projects, such as a proposed new bridge over the River Don to the football stadium and the live music venue project has looked at a number of heritage properties in the town centre. A new project to introduce "Health on the High Street" in a bid to improve access to health services and increase footfall in the town centre was added to the mix earlier this year.

Not included in the funds is the Plan for Neighbourhoods that will guide a £20m investment into the town over the next ten years.

Images: RMBC / AHR / Maltby Learning Trust

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News: New owner for established Rotherham care home

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

West Melton Lodge was sold for an undisclosed price.

Christie & Co website

Images: Christie & Co

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News: Health hub set to fill Boots in Rotherham town centre

Rotherham Council is planning to introduce "Health on the High Street" in a bid to improve access to health services and increase footfall in the town centre.

The idea would also provide a long term use for a large retail unit that has been empty since 2022.

Creating a community hub for health provision as a way to reinvigorate town centres has been tried and tested across the country in areas such as Barnsley and Oldham.

In Rotherham, the council acquired the former Boots building in 2023 after the retailer closed as part of a 2020 acceleration of its Transformation Plan.

Close to the markets redevelopment, the proposal involves Abbey Pharmacy relocating from its current position in the first phase with the exploration of the development of a new health facility within the remainder of the building part of a second phase.

The idea was included in the initial £20m Long Term Plan for Towns (now The Plan for Neighbourhoods).

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A paper to Rotherham Council's cabinet explains: "Rotherham town centre is currently limited in its provision of health care services and the Council has been working in partnership with health service partners to consider how that provision may be increased. This project would see the first step in improving the provision of health services for the Town Centre and surrounding communities.

"In terms of phase 2, there have been no decisions on how the remainder of the building will be utilised, but it is envisaged that the building could be used by GPs, Health or Wellbeing operators. This is being reviewed and a feasibility study is being undertaken to deliver a connected and collaborative health provision in the Town Centre.

"The Council has been liaising with health providers over the last year. Providers recognise the benefit of a health provision in this location and are actively engaging with the feasibility process."

The government's Plan for Neighbourhoods exemplifies the approach taken in Barnsley. Evidence provided states that proximity to public transport has minimised missed appointments and has attracted an additional 55,000 visits to the town centre, supporting local businesses. It cites "improved health outcomes and economic growth, improving patient care and fostering a greater sense of community" amongst the positive outcomes of the facility.

With the £40m revamp of the markets underway, and as part of the lease, Rotherham Council would need to pay to relocate Abbey Pharmacy from Howard Street now, and potentially a second time, or work around them. Both options have been discounted due to the costs involved.

Following cabinet approval, the council will carry out feasability work and design development using money from the Pathfinder pot. In 2023, Rotherham Council was granted more flexibility over the £80m+ regeneration funding it has secured from the Government.

Potential costs for a Rotherham health hub have not been made public but council Health Select Commission papers show that the Phase One proposal to relocate the pharmacy is estimated to cost £1.3m with Phase Two estimated at £400,000 to work up plans.

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News: More pathways to work to be created in Rotherham

South Yorkshire is one of nine £125m backed "inactivity trailblazers" across the country to launch, with the aim of helping areas with the highest levels of economic inactivity as part of the Government's wider Plan for Change.

Backed by £18m, South Yorkshire plans a dedicated new service working with employers to hire those with health conditions, and a new “triage” system to make it quicker and easier to connect people to employment, health, and skills support.

This work will include preventing people falling out of work completely due to ill health through an NHS programme, working with people with conditions ranging from cardiovascular disease to diabetes. This could include arranging voluntary work as a stepping stone to paid employment or helping people receive the right treatment early so they can remain in a job.

Having been pioneered in Barnsley, the programme will now roll out to Rotherham and the rest of South Yorkshire. £8m is funding the NHS Accelerator programme.

The programmes build on the recommendations of the Pathways to Work Commission which was led by Barnsley Council in partnership with the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA). The report highlighted that the proof-of-concept model could deliver direct Exchequer savings of up to four pounds for every one spent.

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Work and Pensions Secretary, Liz Kendall MP said: “For too long, whole areas of the UK have been written off and deprived of investment. We are turning the tide on this – as we believe in the potential of every single person across our country and that they deserve to benefit from the security and dignity that good work affords.

“This is why we’re investing £125m into nine local areas to get Britain back to health and back to work – with our new approach making it quicker and easier for people to access the support they need to stay in work if they have a health condition or return to work.

“South Yorkshire is the first to kick off their innovative plans – backed by £18 million – and we will be launching more areas in the coming weeks as we put more money in people’s pockets, boost living standards and Get Britain Working under our Plan for Change.”

South Yorkshire Mayor, Oliver Coppard, added: “We know that South Yorkshire’s industrial past has left a legacy of poor health and low skills that holds people back right across our communities; holding people back from accessing good work, making the most of their potential or living their fullest lives.

“That’s why we developed the pioneering Pathways to Work approach here in Barnsley, and why we’re now working with the Government to roll that programme out across the whole of South Yorkshire. From today people will receive tailored support, bringing together the health system, the skills and employment system, to truly help people back into decent work.

“I’m really pleased that South Yorkshire is now leading with the first inactivity trailblazer and NHS growth accelerator to launch in the UK, because it means we can help people more quickly and more effectively, and in a more tailored way. That’s not just the right thing to do for those people locked out of finding good work, it’s the right thing for our economy too, helping us to create the bigger and better economy we need and deserve here in our region.”

The trailblazer programmes, which have been designed largely by civil servants based in Sheffield working with Mayoral Combined Authorities, are part of the Government’s wider efforts to reach an 80 per cent employment rate, which includes a record £1 billion investment in helping disabled people and those with long-term health conditions who can work into work and an overhaul of Jobcentres to make sure they meet the needs of employers.

Through their new initiatives, South Yorkshire aims to reduce inactivity from 25.5% in 2023 to under 20% by the end of 2029 – equivalent to helping 40,000 people across the area.

It is hoped that South Yorkshire will also be named as one of eight youth trailblazer areas, backed by £45m from the government to ensure all 18–21-year-olds have access to education, training, and employment opportunities.

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News: Retained £20m Rotherham regeneration pot given wider remit

£20m earmarked for Rotherham by the previous Government has been confirmed and has been given a wider remit focusing on neighbourhood renewal and improving social capital.

Rotherham was selected in 2023 as one of 55 towns to be given £20m endowment-style funds to invest in local people’s priorities. The Long Term Plan for Towns has now been extended to 75 “left behind” areas and renamed the Plan for Neighbourhoods as part of efforts to end the "Whitehall knows best" approach by empowering local leaders to strengthen communities.

Undertaking meaningful engagement with the local community is a central pillar of the funding and "Neighbourhood Boards" will work up a Regeneration Plan – in partnership with the local authority - to deliver the strategic objectives of the programme.

Investment over a ten year period will take place in delivering improved vital community services from education, health and employment, to tackling local issues like crime. Transformation will be holistic, long-term, and sustainable to deliver meaningful change in the day-to-day lives of local people.

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With £250,000 of capcity funding already awarded to the borough, Rotherham Town Board, a private-sector chaired board that oversees government spending, has already been working on plans for the £20m endowment.

Rothbiz reported last year that the long term plan would focus on the key themes of safety and security, high streets, heritage and regeneration, and transport and connectivity.

The new prospectus adds more potential interventions with activities listed ranging "from eye-catching new developments to the bread-and-butter issues raised by people on the doorstep."

The programme has three strategic objectives - thriving places, stronger communities and taking back control. Adding to safety, regeneration, high streets, heritage and transport interventions, money could be spent on addressing housing and homelessness issues, worklessness, business support, community cohesion, youth and community groups, sport and activity, education and skills and child poverty.

A further capacity payment of £200,000 will be made this financial year. Delivery funding will be released from the beginning of the 2026 to 2027 financial year.

Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, Angela Rayner said: “For years, too many neighbourhoods have been starved of investment, despite their potential to thrive and grow. Communities across the UK have so much to offer – rich cultural capital, unique heritage but most of all, an understanding of their own neighbourhood.

“We will do things differently, our fully funded Plan for Neighbourhoods puts local people in the driving seat of their potential, having control of where the Whitehall cash goes – what issues they want to tackle, where they want to regenerate and what growth they want turbocharge.”

Minister for Local Growth and Building Safety, Alex Norris added: “When our local neighbourhoods thrive, the rest of the country thrives too. That’s why we are empowering communities to take control of their futures and create the regeneration and growth they want to see.

“Our Plan for Neighbourhoods we will deliver long-term funding that will bolster that inner community spirit in us all and relight the fires in corners of the UK that have for too long been left fighting for survival.

“This, along with our ambitious reforms to streamline the planning system, devolve powers and strengthen workers’ rights, will help get places and people thriving once again.”

Neighbourhood Boards will need to confirm finalised membership and any proposals to alter their place boundaries by the end of April. The previous allocation came with a defined area around Rotherham town centre. From Spring 2025 to winter 2025 Neighbourhood Boards will submit their Regeneration Plan to government for assessment and approval.

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News: Plans to bring new tenants to Rotherham retail park

Planning applications are progressing at Parkgate that could lead to new tenants opening at the popular Rotherham retail destination.

With Superdrug moving within Parkgate Shopping, doubling the size of its previous store with a c. 10,000 sq ft unit, plans have been approved that will allow a new occupier to move in to the empty unit.

My Dentist (GB) Limited has had its plans for unit 10c checked by Rotherham Council and the authority has issued a Lawful Development Certificate, approving the use as a dentist clinic under the current planning permission.

The key issue was whether or not the existing use falls within use Class E and therefore doesn’t require a change of use application. Changes in 2020 grouped Commercial, Business and Service in Use Class E and includes both the retail sale of goods, other than hot food, as well as the provision of medical or health services.

Planners concluded: "It is considered that the proposed use of the Unit for a Dentist Clinic can be carried out without the submission of a full planning application, as the previous and proposed uses fall within the same wider use class and as such there is no material change in the use of the building."

Mydentist is one of the largest dental providers in the UK with a national chain of 534 dental practices. It currently operates in Rotherham town centre and Brinsworth. The group is jointly owned by management and Palamon Capital Partners.

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Across the park, owners, Threadneedle, have submitted plans for Units 17 and 18.

The applications are for the reconfigurement of the internal layout, including the mezzanine, a new trolley bay and new solar panels.

The units are currently occupied by the TUI Holiday Superstore and One Below but the correspondence talks of new tenants.

Agents, Savills, said: "The works are part of a package of works to enable the units to be occupied by new tenants. As can be seen from the proposed works shown on the submitted plans they are of a minor nature and do not raise substantial considerations."

Another new opening involves an unnamed food retailer taking a new build unit. Rothbiz reported in January that an outline planning application had been approved for a new 20,000 sq ft foodstore at the park.

Parkgate Shopping website
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News: South Yorkshire receives Government backing to help build pathways to work

A pioneering approach to tackling economic inactivity which aims to get 10,000 South Yorkshire residents back into work over the next four years is set to receive Government funding.

Unveiling the Government’s Get Britain Working White Paper, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Liz Kendall MP, confirmed up to £10m of funding for a trailblazer programme that will be led by the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA), focused on improving the support available to people who are economically inactive due to ill health, helping them return to work.

As part of the trailblazer, the South Yorkshire Integrated Care System (ICS) will also become an NHS England Health and Growth Accelerator area, receiving a share of £45m. This will help develop evidence of the impact of targeted action on the top health conditions driving economic inactivity. SYMCA and the South Yorkshire ICS will work together to integrate the support to tackle economic inactivity.

These programmes will build on the recommendations of the Pathways to Work Commission which was led by Barnsley Council in partnership with the SYMCA. The report outlined the need for a proof-of-concept model that brings together work, health and skills support in a radical new approach to help people overcome barriers to employment.

The funding for South Yorkshire, which is part of a £240m cash injection announced in the Budget, will accelerate the rollout of local services for employment support. The Pathways to Work report highlighted that the proof-of-concept model could deliver direct Exchequer savings of up to four pounds for every one spent.

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The commission, led by former Health Secretary Rt Hon Alan Milburn, reported this summer and revealed “a catastrophic failure” in the benefits, health and employment system. It highlighted “a chaotic mess” of national and local initiatives and a focus on toughening benefits rules instead of addressing ill health, the primary driver of economic inactivity.

Official forecasts expect working-age health-related benefits to increase from £48 billion in 2023-24 to £63 billion in 2028–29.

Based on the largest-ever survey of people classified as ‘economically inactive’, the commission found that seven in ten people would take a job aligned with their skills, interests and circumstances. However, only one in 10 economically inactive people had demonstrated steps to finding employment.

The commission made a series of radical proposals to help people overcome the obstacles to work with intensive, personalised support and a duty to engage with employment services.

Mayor Oliver Coppard, said: “In South Yorkshire, work, health and skills barriers have prevented people here making the most of their talents for far too long. That’s why we’re has been determined to address those barriers through our pioneering Pathways to Work Commission. The Commission’s report set out recommendations that could unlock the full potential of our communities and I’m really pleased that the Government has backed our pioneering approach.

“In South Yorkshire we have led the way in highlighting the importance of bringing work, health and skills together as we support people back into employment. We now have a Government that understands the importance of devolution and joined-up working, and together we are undertaking the biggest reforms to how we support people into work for a generation.

“Our trailblazer will help us to create a bigger and better economy in South Yorkshire that helps people to stay near and go far.”

Gavin Boyle, Chief Executive of NHS South Yorkshire, added: “We know that there is a strong link between good health and a good job and vice versa. We’re absolutely committed to supporting those in South Yorkshire with a health need to access work or stay in a job if it’s at risk. This is also about fairness, often those with a disability or a long-term health condition live in some of our most deprived communities. So were focussing our efforts where it will help the most. We are already making progress but I’m delighted we’ve been selected as a Health and Growth Accelerator to help us go further faster.”

Barnsley Pathways To Work website

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News: Safe, welcoming, green, and with accessible services and facilities - £20m vision for Rotherham town centre

Councillors in Rotherham have been given an update on how £20m of government funding could be used to continue the regeneration of Rotherham town centre, despite doubts being raised whether the money will reach the borough.

After a consultation period, the key themes of safety and security, high streets, heritage and regeneration, and transport and connectivity are at the forefront of local priorities with a number of objectives and potential schemes being looked at.

Rothbiz reported last month that the town's MP, Sarah Champion, and leader of the Council, Cllr. Chris Read, had written to the government regarding regeneration funding awarded to Rotherham town centre under the previous government.

In 2023 Rotherham was selected as one of 55 towns to be given £20m endowment-style funds to invest in local people’s priorities. A government deadline of August 1 2024 was moved and a submission date remains unconfirmed.

The Rotherham Town Board, a private-sector chaired board that oversees government spending in the borough, has been working on a new 10-year vision and 3-year investment plan relating to the £20m fund. An update was recently presented to the council's Improving Places Select Commission.

Setting out a geographic area and broad investment themes, the government also published a policy toolkit, a list of interventions that provide the opportunity for Town Boards to take bespoke, ‘off-menu’ approaches.

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For Rotherham, one of the main areas of investment is around "feeling safe." The report states: "Investment will contribute to the establishment of a 'Rotherham Town Team' with dedicated, cross-organisation resources and powers to bolster enforcement, providing a welcoming and reassuring presence in the town centre.

"The town centre team will increase capacity for both preventative and responsive interventions such as building and coordinating local intelligence, dealing with street drinking, anti-social behaviour and signposting people to support and services."

Under "social interaction" funding is set to go to events, activities and campaigns to attract more people into the town centre, encourage them to stay and visit again.

Tackling the number of empty buildings is also listed as a priority, supporting work that is already underway where the council is undertaking acquisitions, with potential grant schemes and managed refurbishment projects.

A new focus for the town centre is around improving services and facilities with the report stating that: "The primary focus for this work will bring health to the High Street. Objectives will ensure the developing town centre community has access to good health facilities as well as giving those from around the Borough another reason to visit the town centre."

Improvements to public spaces links to both regeneration and safety so investment could follow in more high quality, well maintained public spaces.

Under transport and connectivity, interventions in the report include active travel schemes and improvements for gateways and routes to areas such as Clifton Park and the new mainline station zone towards Parkgate.

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News: Medical company expands into new Rotherham HQ

A global manufacturer and distributor of healthcare equipment is expanding into bigger premises with the £850,000 purchase of a new Rotherham HQ.

ISO-registered Sheffmed manufactures and distributes ENT suctions and instruments across the world and is relocating after 20 years into 8,395 sq ft at Salisbury House on Centurion Business Park at Templeborough.

Wake Smith advised Sheffmed, which employs 15 people, on the commercial property work while the Sheffield office of Knight Frank acted for owners toolmakers Troy (UK) Ltd on the sale.

Sonia Hobson, managing director at Sheffmed, which started out in an office at Aizlewood’s Mill in Sheffield, said: “We have grown out of the old place on Clifton Street and were looking for something with more space for our existing team and our resources. It will be a new experience for us being on an established business park but we are really looking forward to the move and being amongst like minded business people.

“We are currently undergoing some work in the warehouse to give us a mezzanine floor and a clean room which is essential for our work with medical instruments and are hoping to be in before November.

“This is the right decision for our business and we even have a nature reserve nearby which is ideal for walking our dogs at lunchtime.”

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Ben Spencer, director in Wake Smith's commercial property team who acted on the purchase of Sheffmed’s former base at Clifton House in Sheffield 10 years ago, advised on the new purchase and business estate requirements.

He said: “We’re pleased to have worked again with Sonia to bring the purchase to fruition. This is a growing firm and we wish Sonia and her team the best of luck in their new base.”

Harry Orwin-Allen, senior surveyor at Knight Frank in Sheffield, said: “Centurion Business Park is an established commercial location with fantastic links to the national motorway network.

“Salisbury House, which forms part of the wider estate, is a modern hybrid business unit which offers a range of good quality office space and full height industrial warehouse accommodation with yard and loading, which offered Sheffmed opportunity to expand their operations further within the region.

“The market for similar property to purchase remains robust in the Yorkshire area and, on behalf of our retained client, it was great to secure a committed purchaser in Sheffmed. It was a pleasure dealing with Sonia and her team, who acted swiftly throughout the process.”

Sonia added: “Ben Spencer at Wake Smith really looks after us and that is why we go back for our commercial property work. He provides information quickly and is always friendly and helpful when we need any advice.”

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News: Watermans presented with Queen’s Award for International Trade

Staff at Rotherham-based E-commerce business, Watermans, recently welcomed the Lord Lieutenant to their headquarters to celebrate receiving a Queen's Award. His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant Dame Hilary presented this award to Gail and Matt Waterman.

The award was won in 2022 for Enterprise, International Trade. The Queen’s Award is the highest UK business award to achieve for any business.To mark this fantastic achievement the team held a celebratory event where they were presented a trophy and an official scroll by the King’s representative Lord Lieutenant Dame Hilary.

For the small team run by Gail Waterman, it is a great example of a successful part-owned black business striving for success. The business workforce is 98% female, championing women to be present in the workforce no matter their gender.

His Majesty Lord Lieutenant said: "It’s incredible to meet the team here at Watermans and present them this prestigious award. Their efforts and their business truly capture what the Queens Award means. This award is much sought-after for high achievers. Watermans have been recognised for being exceptional at International Trade."

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The Queen's Award is an outstanding award for business. It was the last award to be awarded during Queen Elizabeth’s reign.

Founders Matt and Gail Waterman said: "It’s a huge honour to receive this award in front of staff and family. We are very proud of this achievement; the business has been running for over ten years and to receive this award is a huge accomplishment for the brand.

"The award speaks for itself and our triumph, we are delighted to have everyone together to mark this special occasion."

Watermans boasts a strong track record of international trade, with its services now available globally in the USA, Dubai, Australia, and Slovenia, Sweden, Finland and Norway, Thailand, Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia and Croatia. Recently, it has signed two new territories Jordan and Egypt.

Using marketplaces such as Amazon, where Watermans is a best seller, has helped to build an additional international profile especially in USA, with one Amazon sale every 30 seconds.

Watermans website

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News: Rotherham director banned for wrongly claiming Bounce Back Loans

A Rotherham-based director overstated turnover for his four construction contractor companies to secure £200,000 Covid-19 financial support to which he was not entitled.

Stephen Burke, 63, from Woodhouse Mill, has been disqualified as a director for 11 years after he took £200,000 of taxpayers’ money through the Bounce Back Loan scheme that his companies were not entitled to.

Burke was director of four companies that provided services to construction projects: Yorkshire Plant Hire and Sales Ltd, Yorkshire Site Preparation Ltd, Woodhouse Civil Engineering Ltd and Richmond Brokers Ltd.

One of the four companies, Yorkshire Site Preparation Ltd, was listed as dormant with Companies House by January 2020. Of the other three, their company accounts ending January 2020 indicated turnover ranging from just £635 to £3,400.

Despite this, Burke, who was sole director of each company by 2020, stated on the application forms that turnover was between £200,000 and £320,000 for each company. This allowed him to secure four Bounce Back Loans for the full £50,000 permitted under the scheme.

He spent £174,000 repaying a personal loan to his former partner, which was also a breach of the loans’ conditions as they could only be spent on legitimate business expenditure.

In February 2021, Burke sought to dissolve all four companies. This was blocked due to the outstanding loans being identified, and instead the companies were placed in liquidation. The Liquidator has begun recovery action.

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The Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy accepted a disqualification undertaking from Stephen John Burke, after he admitted obtaining £200,000 in government Bounce Back Loans, the maximum amount available of £50,000 per company, by overstating company turnover, then using the funds obtained to repay a personal loan and not for the economic benefit of the company.

His ban is effective from 4 August 2022 and lasts for 11 years.

The disqualification undertaking prevents him from directly, or indirectly, becoming involved in the promotion, formation or management of a company, without the permission of the court.

Rob Clarke, Chief Investigator at the Insolvency Service, said: "Coronavirus support schemes were introduced to help British businesses through the most testing of times, providing them with the financial support to protect jobs and return to prosperity.

"Stephen Burke not only sought to defraud the Bounce Back Loan scheme for personal gain, but then sought to cover his tracks by dissolving the companies he’d used. This abhorrent conduct has rightly resulted in a lengthy ban, removing his ability to trade with the benefit of limited liability until 2033."

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News: Plans approved for £2m medical centre in Rotherham

Planning permission has been granted to construct a £2m medical centre at the Waverley development in Rotherham.

The newly approved health centre is expected to serve up to 6,000 residents at Olive Lane, which is currently being developed by land and property regeneration specialists, Harworth Group.

Designed by Race Cottam Associates, the new centre encompasses a two-storey building with a double height patient waiting area as a feature glazed element addressing the development. The ground floor is entirely patient-facing and includes a reception and interview room alongside a range of clinical spaces such as consultation, nurses’ and treatment rooms.

The staff-centric first floor houses the centre’s office/admin rooms, spaces for debriefing and sharing of information both internally and with external professionals, and staff comfort facilities. Car and cycle parking is positioned to the south of the site alongside a dedicated ambulance pick-up/drop-off zone.

Laurie Cottam, director at Race Cottam, said: "Olive Lane’s medical centre forms part of a wider development masterplan that will eventually see a new high street created with retail, leisure and office spaces. Situated on the corner of Stephenson Way, the intention is for the medical centre to bookend this junction of the high street with a prominent and striking new building.”

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The design allows for the centre’s front façade and eaves to match the adjacent street scene while a higher roof ridge creates a focal point on the northern elevation. A fully glazed feature corner with perforated panels engages the site entrance, and a subtle chamfered overhang indicates the main entrance point. The centre’s material palette incorporates cream brick with stack and stretcher bond detailing, aluminium framing and dark grey standing seam roofing.

Cottam added: “Internally, we worked closely alongside the local Clinical Commissioning Group to establish an appropriate provision of healthcare services. The centre is designed so publicly accessible spaces are located towards the street frontage, meaning the patient journey is as straightforward as possible. If necessary, the design also can be adapted to accommodate a one-way system and contact-free movement.”

Also designed to achieve a BREAAM Excellent rating, the new medical centre features materials deliberately specified for their durability and a primarily natural ventilation strategy.

Plans for Olive Lane, submitted last year, also include retail uses, a gym, offices, restaurants and cafes, a supermarket, community space, a bus hub and residential development, all of which will create a vibrant centre for local people.

Images: Race Cottam

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