News: New McDonald's in Rotherham opens

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

McDonald’s website

Images: McDonald’s Rotherham / Facebook

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News: Public funding approved for South Yorkshire Airport City project

South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard and Council Leaders have taken a historic decision to reopen Doncaster Sheffield Airport, approving a £160m (£159.52m) funding package.

The decision was made at a meeting of the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority Board (SYMCA). All five board members voted unanimously in favour of the funding, including Rotherham Council leader, Chris Read, paving the way for the airport’s reopening.

Doncaster Sheffield Airport closed in November 2022, leaving South Yorkshire one of the largest UK city regions without an international aviation presence.

Since it closed, the Mayors of South Yorkshire and Doncaster, along with local authority partners and central government have worked at pace to explore the opportunity to return aviation to the region through a reopened airport with a viable future.

South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard, said: “We’re reopening DSA. Today, we’ve made a historic decision; to invest in the plans to reopen Doncaster Sheffield Airport, and to create a sustainable aviation and advanced manufacturing hub at Gateway East.

“I’ve always said I wanted to reopen DSA, but we needed to know exactly what the plan looked like. That’s why we’ve taken the time and done the work. No plan of this size or scale is ever easy, or without risks, but today we’ve taken a bold step forward, backed by data, expertise, and a shared vision for the type of South Yorkshire we want to build, because DSA is a unique opportunity.

“The plan we have backed today is about more than holiday flights or passenger numbers, it’s a long-term commitment to drive jobs, growth and opportunities in sustainable aviation, advanced manufacturing, freight, and even the defence sector, here in South Yorkshire.”

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The majority of the funding required, £121.62m, has been earmarked from Gainshare funding allocated to City of Doncaster Council’s Place Investment Plan. Gainshare funding refers to the money committed to South Yorkshire through the Devolution Deal agreed by the MCA, South Yorkshire local authorities and government.

Significant passenger operations are not likely to commence until summer 2028 but with potential for limited passenger activity and cargo from winter 2027.

On voting to approve the use of funding, Cllr. Chris Read, leader of Rotherham Council, said: "Clearly this is a huge asset for the South Yorkshire economy, with enormous potential for driving forward jobs and opportunities for people in our region. And that benefit will be felt far beyond Doncaster. So am satisfied on that basis, and on the basis of the conversations that we've had over recent weeks and months that this is an appropriate use of public money and a wise thing for us to do to take forward the South Yorkshire economy."

On the politics of the decision, Read added: "We live in a time where there is minute by minute commentary on the decisions that we take and the way that we hold ourselves in public office. and Ros [Mayor of City of Doncaster Council Ros Jones] has shown exemplarary leadership through that period of time.

"Because none of this is easy. It was not in awy way inevitable that we would be here today making this decision. We can only do that because of the leadership that Ros and Doncaster Council have provided.

"Because of the way that the South Yorkshire Mayor has been able to look at all the feasible ways that this could proceed, and to weight those risks. And because of the way the officers at the MCA have then taken their responsibility so seriously to weigh those risks, to look at the pros and cons, to work with us as politicians and to look at credible, serious ways that we can facilitate economic growth in South Yorkshire."

Carrie Sudbury, Chief Executive, Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber said: “The decision to re-open Doncaster airport today is a milestone moment for South Yorkshire and we welcome the decision reached today.

"Today marks the end of an extensive consultation period, which clearly laid out the strong business case for re-opening. I hope that with funding now secured and consultations completed, this marks the beginning of an exciting new phase which will ultimately see flights return to the skies in South Yorkshire.

"My hope is that the re-opening of Doncaster airport will act as a catalyst towards boosting growth across the region, helping to connect the truly unique and innovative work being delivered throughout South Yorkshire, as well as helping our business community to explore new opportunities within international markets. At the same time, the decision is likely to create many new jobs within the regional economy as well as helping to drive inward investment into South Yorkshire."

SYMCA website

Images: SYMCA

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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: Plans in for Wickersley housing

A planning application has been submitted for another parcel of "safeguarded land" in Rotherham, this time a proposal for 136 houses on fields near Wickersley.

Rothbiz reported in June on land promoters, Richborough, preparing plans for land to the west of St Albans Way.

It is one of a number of proposed developments in Rotherham this year that are for sites in the local plan that were designated as safeguarded land rather than sites designated for housing. The 2018 plan set out that they may be needed in the future and taken out of the greenbelt after the end of the plan period in 2028.

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

The application site is 5.85 ha of currently open fields, behind Sorby Way and its recreation ground. The only vehicular access to the proposed new houses would be from St Alban’s Way. A non-vehicular connection is proposed to the adjacent public play and sports areas.

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The plans, drawn up by Sten Architecture and consultants, LSH, state: "The proposed development will be a viable and sustainable addition to the existing settlement and will deliver a high quality and well-planned residential development. There is the potential to produce new homes that are varied, meet housing needs, and provide high quality accommodation for a range of users."

Regarding local facilities and services, applicants say that the development would have strong links to Wickersley and local services and bus routes but do admit that "the variety of local services in the immediate proximity are somewhat limited and the larger town of Rotherham is a significant distance away."

At this stage, details of the houses are not discussed but applicants state that it would be a mix of dwellings that "will help to improve the tenure, size and type mix of the local area."

Plans add that on-site affordable housing would be included, equivalent to 25% or 34 dwellings.

A ponding area is planned in the south-west corner with an overland flow route through the centre of the site.

Richborough website

Images: Richborough / STEN / Google Maps

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News: "Multiple companies" interested in Speciality Steel business

Multiple companies are interested and have come forward regarding the operations of Liberty Speciality Steels UK, the Minister for Industry has confirmed.

A Parliamentary debate took place this week over the insolvency of the company following the approval by a judge of an application from creditors to place the business, previously part of Liberty Steel and GFG Alliance, into compulsory liquidation.

Speaking during the debate, Minister for Industry, Sarah Jones said: "We believe that this viable industry is languishing unnecessarily. The Government will provide the right support through interventions such as our energy reduction measures, and work with the official receiver.

"Multiple companies are interested and coming forward, and we need to establish how viable those offers are and what the best situation is. Of course, the official receiver must think of the best outcome for the creditors, but we take a close interest in that.

"I very much believe that the steelmaking sites in Rotherham, Stocksbridge, Brinsworth and Wednesbury have a future. I am keen to see them return to production, but that has to be achieved through private investment by an owner who can invest in the workforce and in the future of the business so that they put it on a long-term, sustainable footing. We know that the business environment has not been good enough for the UK’s steel industry, which is why we have already made substantial changes to secure a stronger future for it."

Liberty bosses said after the judge's decision that it would "continue to advance its bid for the business in collaboration with prospective debt and equity partners."

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Parliamentary documents also show that the Department for Business and Trade has provided the Official Receiver with a letter of comfort and a letter of indemnity which effectivley covers costs.

The Official Receiver will now carry out the proper performance and duties expected as the official receiver and liquidator of the company. This includes overseeing the winding-down of the company’s business and affairs and distributing assets of the company in the ordinary course as the official receiver's duties as liquidator.

But the governmnent is also covering the cost of investigating the cause of failure and identifying any asset recoveries against the company, current/former directors of the company, and any other parties.

The update added that: "it is not possible at this stage to accurately quantify the value of the overall funding requirement with relation to the letter of comfort and letter of indemnity" but costs are expected to be reported to Parliament when they are more accurately known.

Jones added: "The company has faced severe financial and operational difficulties since 2021. Liberty Speciality Steels had failed to file accounts for over six years — a failure that has led to a separate prosecution by Companies House of its parent company. I am sure that the official receiver will want to gain a better understanding of the company’s business and the conduct of its directors leading up to the liquidation. I also inform the House that the director of the company is currently under investigation by the Serious Fraud Office for suspected fraud, fraudulent trading and money laundering.

"In the case of Liberty Steel, the lack of transparency, the legal and financial risks and the complete absence of reliable corporate information meant we had no credible route to act before insolvency.

"The official receiver will look at what is true and what is not, because there have not been any accounts published for many years. They will establish what has happened. The Secretary of State has written to the Insolvency Service today to ask it to take special account of the Serious Fraud Office investigation, and to pass over any information it uncovers to the Serious Fraud Office, so that it can do its work."

The Rotherham site includes two electric arc furnaces (EAFs). The first casts at Aldwarke were produced in 1964. The N-Furnace, which was installed in 1993, is the larger of the two EAFs and was mothballed in 2015 at the height of the global steel crisis. Liberty reignited the N-Furnace in 2018 and the 800,000-tonne-a-year capacity furnace turns scrap metal into specialised steels for uses such as vehicle gearboxes or aircraft landing gear.

The UK company was hit by the collapse of Greensill, a specialist in invoice financing that operated with less regulation than the traditional banks. In its current state, Aldwarke is producing only minimal volumes of steel and with many employees still on furlough. "We want to turn that around," the minister added.

Images: Google Maps / Liberty Steel

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News: Haulage operators receive £3.75m funding to drive growth

Yorkshire-based, TSL Vanguard and Specialist Trailer Hire (STH), have received a £3.75m funding package from NatWest to support their ongoing expansion and strengthen their operations across Leeds and Rotherham.

Operating locally since 1968, the family run businesses specialise in haulage, warehousing, logistics and truck hire needs, tailoring services to offer both short and long term rentals. The funding—comprising a £2.75m Royal Bank of Scotland Invoice Finance (RBSIF) facility and a £1m loan—will be used to purchase additional premises, boosting capacity and storage space to meet increasing customer demand.

STH provides a comprehensive range of services including commercial vehicle management, contract hire, maintenance, breakdown support, and long-term rentals. TSL Vanguard complements this offering with general haulage and warehousing services.

The acquisition of additional premises will support the businesses’ long term growth through greater capacity to extend their fleet and diversify service offerings, which currently include the operation of more than 1,000 trailers. This expansion will also allow more specialist roles to be brought in-house, reducing dependency on third parties and creating new employment opportunities in both Leeds and Holmes in Rotherham.

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Mark Liversidge, Managing Director at Specialist Trailer Hire, commented: “Securing this funding marks a significant milestone for both TSL Vanguard and Specialist Trailer Hire. We’re excited about the opportunities this creates, both for our team and our customers, as ultimately the funding will enable us to invest in the space and infrastructure required for continued growth.

“We’ve had a great relationship with NatWest for years now and we’re looking forward to the future."

Mark Forsyth, Senior Relationship Manager at NatWest, said: “As longstanding customers, we’re proud to support TSL Vanguard and Specialist Trailer Hire with a funding package that will enable them to scale their operations and invest in long-term growth.

Both businesses have a strong track record and a clear vision for the future, and we’re looking forward to continuing our work together and helping to enable their continued growth within the region, whether that’s through funding packages or the specialist knowledge, networks and expertise we can offer for businesses”.

Both companies are committed to environmental responsibility and evolving to meet the demands of the modern environment, with ongoing investment in fleet upgrades to reduce emissions. TSL Vanguard and STH are accredited by the Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme, which sets safety and efficiency standards within the transport operations industry, recognising fleet performance in key areas such as environmental impact, safety, and operational efficiency.

The funding represents a significant step toward achieving the group’s long-term ambition of maintaining a strong position within the haulage and logistics market while expanding operational capabilities to meet future demands.

STH website
TSL Vanguard website

Images: STH

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Super Swimmers website

Images: Super Swimmers / CPP

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News: Mexican multinational invests in UK production creating 100 jobs in Rotherham

A viral TikTok snack is being made in Rotherham with a multinational firm expanding into an empty warehouse alongside its existing facility in the north of the borough.

A local recruitment firm says that the move is creating over 100 jobs across various roles.

Takis, the cult snacking brand known for its extreme heat and intense flavours, has had its rolled tortilla chips inspired by taquitos available in the UK for four years and work started in 2024 on a new production line at Swinton Meadows in Rotherham.

The industrial estate is the location of the New York Bakery Co production facility, one of the largest bagel production factories in the world. The bagel factory's owners, Mexico's Grupo Bimbo, itself recognised as the largest baking company in the world, took over the warehouse next door that was vacated when motorhome manufacturer, Autocruise, ceased production here.

The use of the 59,000 sq ft building has been under wraps but now a planning application shows that it is for the production of Takis snacks.

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Plans, drawn up by consultants at [PS]K Design, state: "The Proposed Development is a fundamental part of Grupo Bimbo business strategy in the UK.

"In recent history the site has been owned by Grupo Bimbo with the aim of creating a new production line for their "Takis" crisps in the UK.

"The proposed works are necessary to adapt the existing building and bring it back into use. The design and appearance of the proposed development is appropriate to the industrial setting and will not be prominent in views from outside of the site. The proposed development will create new jobs both while the proposed works are carried out and afterwards."

The plans include a new goods in/out dock, new external plant and exhaust flues, an extension to east side of the main building to store ready to use pallets and an extension to the south side of the main building to house new plant. The installation of two oil tanks, including the construction of a bund wall to contain any spillage, is also in the plans.

The application also shows that work started in September 2024 and was completed in March 2025. The new production line involves taking the crisp from flour to cooking, to seasoning, to boxing.

Rotherham-based Elevation Recruitment is supporting the project and its recent job advert for a Maintenance Engineer says: "Elevation Recruitment Group is thrilled to partner with Grupo Bimbo, the world’s largest baking company, in launching their brand-new, state-of-the-art Takis factory in Rotherham.

"Grupo Bimbo operates in over 33 countries and is bringing the production of their globally renowned snack, Takis, to the UK for the first time! This new facility represents a significant investment in the UK market and will create over 100 jobs across various roles.

"The launch of this facility in Rotherham is an exciting milestone, making Takis more accessible to UK consumers."

Takis was launched by Barcel Snacks, another Grupo Bimbo company. Takis has earned a cult following among snack enthusiasts around the globe. Originating in Mexico, these fiery snacks include flavours such as Fuego, Dragon Sweet Chilli and Blue Heat. Products are available in covenience stores and the likes of Aldi, Morrisons and Co-op.

Takis website

Images: Takis / Facebook / Google Maps

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News: Work begins on Thrybergh Country Park revamp

Work is underway on a café refurbishment project and outdoor landscaping at a country park in Rotherham.

The café upgrade – set to be completed this winter - will transform the aging building at Thrybergh Country Park into a modern lakeside hub with improved indoor and outdoor seating, better access, and upgraded facilities.

Rothbiz reported last month on local firm O&P Construction had been appointed as the main contractor by Rotherham Council.

The project has been given a budget of £789,873 and is being funded by a £19.9m package of investment secured by the Council from the Government’s Pathfinder funding.

Improvements include a new kitchen, an updated interior, a new outdoor terrace and fully accessible toilets and entrances.

The café will also feature modern design elements that blend with the park’s natural surroundings, while visitors with a sweet tooth are in for a treat, as the new café will serve ice cream.

While the work is underway, a temporary café service will operate at the nearby Tutti Fruitti ice cream parlour, so visitors can still enjoy refreshments during their visit.

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The work at Thrybergh is part of the Council’s wider aim to build a thriving leisure offer and visitor economy in Rotherham.

Cllr Lynda Marshall, Cabinet Spokesperson for Community Safety and Street Scene, said: “Thrybergh Country Park is one of our most loved green spaces, and this investment will help it reach its full potential as a welcoming, accessible destination for residents and visitors alike.

“The café refurbishment is just one example of how we’re forging ahead and enhancing our local attractions to support wellbeing and Rotherham’s growing visitor economy, by creating jobs and encouraging more people to spend time - and money - in our borough.”

In addition to the work at Thrybergh, the £19.9m package is being used to create a new café at Rother Valley Country Park, transform part of Wentworth Woodhouse’s Grade I listed stable block to include a new commercial kitchen, café and events space, while Magna has benefited from exhibition upgrades and an improved visitor experience.

The investment has also led to the creation of Skills Street at Gulliver's Valley Resort and a new incubator space at the former Maltby Grammar School.

A larger project was initially planned for Thrybergh with £2.5m plans for a new café building, but they were scrapped due to rising costs.

O&P Construction website

Images: RMBC

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News: Consultees raise same issues again in "left behind" Rotherham

Consultation is underway that will guide a £20m investment into the town over the next ten years, and the issue of feeling safe is coming to the fore again.

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.

Rothbiz reported in March that £20m earmarked for Rotherham by the previous Government had been confirmed and given a wider remit focusing on neighbourhood renewal and improving social capital.

Now called Plan for Neighbourhoods, the £1.5 billion programme sets out to invest in 75 areas over the next decade – "a long-term strategy to fix the foundations of those places most left behind." It focuses on three core themes: Thriving Places, Stronger Communities, and Taking Back Control. These themes aim to revitalise local areas, address deprivation, and empower residents by focusing on local needs and priorities.

The findings echo the previous consultation carried out before the government revamped the strategy. Rotherham's long term plan for towns included the key themes of safety and security, high streets, heritage and regeneration, and transport and connectivity.

An update to councillors explains that Rotherham is one of 75 places to receive funding based on its level of need. Money will be spent inside the boundary chosen by Government, known as a "Built Up Area." It is based on data provided by the Office for National Statistics and is the area of a town characterised by urban features such as town centres, major infrastructure and larger populations.

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Consultation used the "Place Standard" tool to assess and improve the quality of places by helping to identify what's good about a place, what needs to be protected, changed, or improved.

Results so far show that the lowest score was for the Influence & Sense of Control theme which scored an average of 2.83 out of 7. A council paper said that "Residents don’t feel listened to. While surveys and councillors are valued, people want clearer evidence that feedback leads to change."

The next lowest theme was Feeling Safe at 2.91, the report adding: "Safety is one of the biggest concerns. Crime, antisocial behaviour, and intimidation make people feel unsafe, especially at night. CCTV and lighting are valued but seen as not enough."

Parking problems in neighbourhoods, litter and fly-tipping have also been flagged up.

In the Street & Spaces theme, the report highlights that "heritage and recent improvements valued, but many streets fee [sic] run-down and in need of better upkeep" and in the Identity & Belonging theme, consultees expressed "pride in heritage, diversity, and friendliness, but stigma and negative perceptions persist. Residents want more positive promotion of Rotherham."

Natural Spaces scored an avaerage of 4.18 out of 7 and was the seen as the strongest asset where parks and countryside was highly valued, "with Clifton Park and Thrybergh often mentioned."

A raft of interventions have been pre-approved by the government which can address the issues from the consultation.

The council report said: "The allocation of funding will be informed by the built-up-area data provided by Government and consultation feedback. Interventions will be prioritised where they have collective benefits and meet the needs of the Geography as a whole."

Undertaking meaningful engagement with the local community is seen 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.

Rotherham's Regeneration Plan will be submitted to government by November 2025, following which the first tranche of funding will be released in April 2026, broken down to approximately £2m per year with a 75% / 25% split between Capital and Revenue.

The £20m fund is set to be discussed at the council's next Improving Places Select Commission.

Images: South Yorkshire Police / RMBC

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News: Grants of up to £25,000 to help breathe new life into Rotherham high streets

Businesses on high streets across the borough have the opportunity to benefit from a makeover thanks to a £270,000 Rotherham Council investment.

As part of its commitment to breathe new life into Rotherham’s high streets and create thriving neighbourhoods, the Council has launched the Shop Unit Business Grant Project, funded through the government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), with support from the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA).

The grant aims to help high street businesses in the town centre, Dinnington, Maltby, Swinton and Wath-Upon-Dearne enhance their premises by funding improvements that will contribute to their overall look, feel and vibrancy.

Eligible businesses can apply for grants of up to £25,000 to improve the look and feel of their shop units. Improvements could include new shopfronts, signage, flooring, lighting and other refurbishments that will enhance the attractiveness of local high streets.

Businesses are being encouraged to act quickly, with grants awarded on a first come, first served basis until the full allocation is spent.

Applications are open until October 30 2025, with all projects set to be completed by the end of December 2025.

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Cllr. John Williams, Cabinet Member for Transport, Jobs and the Local Economy said: “We’re committed to forging ahead and breathing new life into our high streets across the borough.

“This funding represents an opportunity to support the local businesses at the heart of our communities. By investing in the look and feel of shops located in our town centres, we’re helping to create more vibrant, welcoming spaces for residents, shoppers and visitors alike. I’d encourage all eligible businesses to apply early and make the most of this support.”

Businesses interested should contact Rotherham Investment and Development Office (RiDO) for more information via businessgrants@rotherham.gov.ukl

The cabinet at Rotherham Council approved plans in March for the £3.28m of UKSPF for 2025/26, a transitional year allocation.

£945,256 is for business support with £60,000 set aside for enhancing the operation of the outdoor market during the current redevelopment. Rotherham Children’s Capital of Culture is set to receive further funding with £275,000 for the extension of the successful traineeship programme. £200,000 has been allocated for marketing to support the communications and reach of the festival year.

Rothbiz reported in January on proposals put forward for Rotherham Council's latest budget which included £50,000 for free parking. One hour’s free parking has recently been introduced in council-run car parks in Rotherham town centre.

The investment across Rotherham’s high streets will be complemented by the introduction of a new ‘Street Safe Team’ focused on increasing safety in town and village centres, as well as a new team dedicated to roadside cleansing, with a focus on popular routes and key gateways.

RiDO website

Images: RMBC

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News: £4.4m Rotherham riverside improvement works complete

A transformative £4.4m improvement scheme along the Rotherham riverside is now complete, opening up more land for housing developments in the town centre.

Delivered by Esh Construction on behalf of Rotherham Council, the project included the construction of a new access road and a riverside footpath linking Water Lane to the town centre, alongside extensive landscaping and infrastructure upgrades.

Works involved cut and fill operations, deep drainage, invasive weed removal, pavement construction, and the installation of gabion baskets to form a retaining wall feature. The project also included cosmetic repairs to the existing masonry river wall, carried out by rope access-trained personnel.

A key component of the scheme saw complex piling works used to futureproof the riverbank and support the Riverside walkway. Over 250 sheet piles – 127 pairs weighing up to six tonnes each and measuring between 14-18 metres in length – were installed over a five-week period.

These piles formed a new foundation to support the new riverside route behind the existing river wall, designed with a 100-year lifespan to ensure long-term stability and resilience while a capping beams and balustrade were also installed to complete the new riverside route.

Michael Sherrard, Construction Manager at Esh Construction, said: “This project has been a fantastic opportunity to showcase our expertise in complex civil engineering. We’re proud to have successfully completed this transformative scheme, which plays an important part in the wider regeneration of Rotherham town centre.

“The project is a great example of the collaborative partnership we’ve built with Rotherham Council, and we look forward to continuing that relationship through future projects that help shape the town’s future.”

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Cllr John Williams, Rotherham Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, Jobs and the Local Economy, added: “We’re delighted to see this infrastructure project completed, opening up a new footpath along the river and wider site that pave the way for future development in Rotherham town centre.

“The scheme has also delivered a brand-new access road alongside significant landscaping and infrastructure improvements.

“As we continue to invest in the future of our town centre, and bring brownfield housing sites forward, works like these are an essential part of the redevelopment. It’s all part of the work we need to build a smarter environment, supporting a brighter future for this corner of town.”

As part of the £31.6m Town Deal programme, government funding is being used to continue the development of a Riverside Residential Quarter. The authority has continued to acquire land in the Sheffield Road area and are set to use a cluster approach "to create a sufficient quantum of development potential to tackle viability."

The project was procured through YORhub’s YORcivil2 framework. Through its Constructing Local strategy, which sees Esh maximise social and economic value for the local area, the social value team has delivered 66 apprentice weeks, 19 weeks of work experience, 392 hours of support into work through our Constructing Careers programme and 67% of operatives on the project were South Yorkshire residents.

Additionally, a community garden at Lighthouse Homes was redeveloped thanks to £8,200 of funding which was unlocked through the YOR4Good Fund community grant initiative. The garden’s makeover was part of plans to enhance the quality of life for the Lighthouse Homes residents, and saw Esh’s team, alongside agricultural students from RNN Group revamp the garden area and create a space for residents to grow fruit and vegetables for the facility.

The Rotherham Riverside scheme completion builds on Esh Construction’s delivery of public realm and active travel projects in the region, including Wellgate and Broom Road, Sheffield Road Cycleways, and Maltby Bus Corridor.

ESH Group website

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News: Masterplan updated for Rotherham housing scheme

A masterplan has been updated for a proposed housing scheme on a parcel of land in Rotherham where developers have been unable to bring forward a commercial scheme.

Rothbiz reported in October 2024 on rival housebuilders Persimmon Homes and Gleeson Homes, both identifying the site at Aston for development.

The Mansfield Road site was allocated for mixed use in the council's local plan with the authority explaining that around 150 houses could be accomodated here alongside employment uses.

Plans for 155 houses on part of the site were submitted by Persimmon Homes in 2019, with Gleeson submitting a planning application for 111 houses last year for another part of the site.

Rotherham Council has asked for a masterplan for the "comprehensive development of the whole site" which is required to support any planning permission.

Consultants, nineteen47 on behalf of Gleeson Homes, have now submitted a masterplan, which includes planned uses for Gleeson's site, Persimmon's site, and a remaining parcel of land between the existing Mansfield Road Industrial Estate and the A57 Aston Bypass.

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Applicants argue that their site is not required for employment use and therefore both this and the parcel to the east can appropriately accommodate new housing development.

Landowners Network Space Ltd has owned the Site for over 30 years and has been unable to deliver employment land development owing to the topography and ground condition relevant to industrial development.

The masterplan shows that the remaining western parcel of land could be used for future housing development, or as a dedicated biodiversity net gain site featuring enhanced landscape planting.

The application concludes that the update "demonstrates how residential development can be comprehensively delivered within the Application Site as part of a cohesive masterplan alongside residential development to the east, and alternative forms of development on the remainder of the allocation to the west.

"Two illustrative masterplans have been provided, which illustrate potential future uses for the remaining allocation land to the west. It has been demonstrated that these future uses could be integrated cohesively with the Application Site and will be able to function as a well connected and considered final development."

Aston-cum-Aughton Parish Council has already objected to the plans.

Gleeson website
Persimmon website

Images: Gleeson / nineteen47 / niemen

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News: Late night licence bid for new Rotherham venue

The restoration of a former theatre and cinema in Rotherham town centre has reached another milestone with operators hoping to host events until 4am.

Rothbiz reported earlier this year on the former cinema known as the Essoldo building on Ship Hill / High Street that was built in 1913 as the Empire Theatre. It has since operated as a cinema, snooker hall and nightclub.

A new community interest company (CIC) has been created centred around using the restored building as a multi-purpose community arts venue, pointing out that Rotherham has a lack of venues and no dedicated live music venue.

With Branch Developments Ltd and Mark McGrail of SME Environmental Services highlighting the progress of the works on social media, a 2025 opening is a real prospect.

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SME Environmental Holdings Limited has now applied for a premises licence for The Empire Theatre.

The application indicates that the two floors could be used for performances of live music, plays, dance or any entertainment of a similar description. The licence would also cover an indoor sporting event or an exhibition of a film.

As part of the licence, the provision of late night refreshment and the sale by retail of alcohol, is also included.

If approved, opening hours would be 12:00 to 04:30 with licenced activities, including the sale by retail of alcohol for consumption on the premises only, taking place until 4am.

It is thought that the new Empire will have a capacity of 800 - 400 on each floor.

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This cinema building was designed by architects Chadwick and Watson, opening in 1913 under the name of the Empire Theatre. By 1929 it had become part of the ABC cinema chain and subsequently became part of the Essoldo chain in 1954. It became the Classic Cinema in 1972 and subsequently a Cannon Cinema in 1988 before closing in 1990 to become a nightclub and snooker club.

The last part of the building in operation was The Amber Lounge, a contemporary cocktail / champagne bar. It went by many names as a nightclub including New York, New York, Beach, Blu Bambu, Synergy, Pop and Hub.

Restoration work has included uncovering the first cantilever beams (designed by a local architect) that created the impressive "Gods" - the building's uppermost balcony.

Having looked at the same building, Rotherham Council has switched its focus to the Alma Tavern, which the authority owns, as a potential live music venue, backed by £4.5m of government funding. Feasability issues have arisen but the Council says that it is committed to working with Chantry Brewery on the project.

Also in the town centre, work is underway on a £450,000 contract to secure an art deco former cinema on Corporation Street until a new use can be found. Rotherham Council acquired the former Regal Cinema and Mecca Bingo, a listed building, in 2022. A viable scheme for its re-use has yet to be confirmed.

Rotherham Empire on Facebook

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News: More South Yorkshire businesses set for energy efficiency boost

A project that has supported businesses across the region to cut emissions, reduce costs, and boost efficiency has been expanded thanks to an additional £1.6m investment.

The Low Carbon Project provides dedicated support and a source of funding to help local businesses reduce their energy consumption and carbon emissions but has previously seen a slow take up in Rotherham.

Businesses benefit from fully funded support, including on-site energy surveys and access to capital grants for improvements such as low-energy lighting, insulation, and efficient heating systems.

In the first phase, the project supported 223 businesses with £3.2m in funding. The second phase will run until March 2026 and aims to support a further 144 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Sheffield, Barnsley, Doncaster, and Rotherham.

Sheffield City Council is leading the initiative, with the support of South Yorkshire’s other local authorities who are helping to deliver this support across the entire region.

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Erodatools, a second-generation precision engineering company based in Penistone, were supported by the Low Carbon Grant to install 240 solar panels on the roof of the factory it has owned for 52 years.

The new 102kwp photovoltaic system will generate more than 72,000 kwh green energy a year which will cut their annual electricity bills by an estimated £17,000 and reduce their carbon emissions by 14.07 tonnes a year.

The project is part-funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund via the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority.

Rotherham businesses should contact Rotherham Investment and Development Office for assistance.

Last year Rotherham Council reallocated £43,032 from the Low Carbon project to a project which aims to improve business productivity and digital innovation through the provision of capital or revenue grants. A council paper confirmed that: "The Low Carbon project continues to have difficulties in committing grants, whereas the Productivity project has a strong pipeline of applications that can complete quickly."

Councillor Mohammed Mahroof, Chair of the Economic Development, Skills and Culture Committee at Sheffield City Council, said: "We know many business owners want to reduce energy costs and do their bit for the planet, but it can be difficult to plan how to do this effectively, and to find the money to pay for carbon-saving measures.

"That is where this brilliant scheme can help. Specialist advisors will help businesses identify where they can make changes that save budgets and tackle the climate crisis. Low carbon grants give businesses the financial support they need to make changes that will reduce energy costs and carbon emissions."

Low Carbon Project website
RiDO website

Images: RiDO

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News: Plans passed for luxury apartments in Rotherham town centre

Plans to create 16 luxury apartments in Rotherham town centre have been approved after changes were made to the design.

Rothbiz reported at the start of 2025 on plans to knock down a prominent matchday pub and replace it with a new-build block of flats.

Rotherham Council's conservation specialist had raised concerns about the height of the building and its impact on the adjacent former Post Office building which dates from 1907.

Close to Forge Island and the New York Stadium, the area around Domine Lane, Main Street and Market Street has been successfully regenerated with high quality residential and mixed use developments. The latest plans are for the site of a bar at the back of the old Post Office, once used to store the vehicles for the workers.

At six storeys, the design for "Forge Apartments" is for a "relatively condense apartment scheme" that aims to complement the existing buildings and create 16 luxury apartments, including two duplex apartments and two penthouse apartments.

All of the apartments, bar one of the duplexes have their own private balconies with both penthouse apartments on the fifth floor having roof terrace areas as the fifth floor is set back from the edge of the building

Applicants, SME Environmental Services, saved the vacant building and created the 1915 Bar & Bistro in 2016. Its architects, Just Architecture, have ammended the plans following feedback "to better reflect the prominent nature of the site when viewed from Forge Island and also to step down and be set back from the adjacent unlisted but historic former Head Post Office building."

The building would be constructed in red brickwork similar to that in the adjacent building with the scheme judged to enhance the character and quality of the area.

The amended plans were approved without going before the planning board.

The council's planner concluded: "These changes have ensured that the massing has been pulled away from the building on the corner of Main Street and Market Street. The set back of penthouse has further reduced the visual impact on the adjacent buildings. Therefore, it is now considered that the height and scale and massing is acceptable in terms of impact on the unlisted former Head Post Office building and would not have a detrimental impact on the Conservation Area."

The site is surrounded by residential developments such as The Old Market, Keppel Wharf and Westgate Chambers and the pub has most recently operated as The Forge. Applicants set out how the site has not been viable as a drinking establishment for some time, including when a previous tenant failed to pay rent due to a lack of income.

Viability issues with the apartments scheme means that affordable housing has not been included in the plans, and this has been accepted by the authority.

Images: Google Maps / Just Architecture

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News: Guest & Chrimes hotel plans approved despite heritage concerns

A planning application has been approved by Rotherham Council for a long-awaited redevelopment of a former foundry on the edge of the town centre, despite concerns from Historic England over the demolition involved.

Only earlier this week, Rothbiz revealed that the government's statutory adviser on the historic environment had raised objections regarding the removal of two of the buildings at the fire-damaged former Guest & Chrimes foundry.

Now the application, and connected plans regarding listed building consent, have been approved, without the need to go before the authority's planning board.

Planners conclude that the benefits of the proposal, which they say "represents a significant opportunity to regenerate a long-vacant and historically important site within Rotherham town centre," outweighs the significant harm to the listed building.

The authority is also concerned that, without redevelopment, it may need to take back the property it leased to the football club and carry out costly urgent repairs itself.

A planning application was submitted in January for a new hotel development on the prominent site which is alongside Rotherham United's AESSEAL New York Stadium. Stewart Developments Ltd sought permission to convert and partly demolish the dilapidated existing Grade II listed building and link it to a new build property to create a new hotel.

The foundry use of the site ceased in 1990 and the building has been empty since 1999. A severe fire at the former brass and iron foundry in 2018 meant that the front portion was subsequently demolished.

Plans show that the 51,074 sq ft hotel would have 138 bedrooms and include a restaurant and bar. The largest northern range is set to be refurbished so that the hotel main entrance is located directly beneath the water tower. A new L-shaped building is set to replace the other two remaining wings as the retention of fire damaged blocks is seen as unviable.

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Historic England are not convinced that the applicant has provided the clear and convincing justification for the level of harm to this Grade II Listed Building and have requested that any decision to approve be referred to the Secretary of State.

A Rotherham Council planning report concludes: "Historic England’s comments are fully noted. However, the site in question is highly problematic from the perspective of potential redevelopment.

"The site falls within Flood Zone 2 and has been vacant for 26 years. The buildings have experienced substantial fire damage, and is currently in a very poor state of repair.

"Whilst urgent works have been considered by the Local Authority, these are unlikely to prevent the ongoing deterioration of the building and a scenario of serving a Repairs Notice is more likely. Due to the costs involved, this is likely to involve the Local Authority having to take back the lease of the building from the current lessee (the applicant), back to the Council, who are the freeholder, then fully repairing the building. This is a highly complex process and a huge financial burden for the Local Authority to take on. Any repairs to the building would ultimately require consideration of a future use of the building."

Applicants say that the proposed hotel development and the demolition of two wings "is considered the only viable opportunity available to deliver beneficial use."

As the site is designated for mixed use, it could accommodate some form of leisure or education use but the planning report shows that this is not viable due to the high costs of refurbishing the buildings and flood proofing the site. Office use is also not considered viable due the demand for office accommodation in Rotherham being low.

As a hotel, it is expected that a total of 60 jobs will be created on site (32 full-time and 28 part-time jobs).

The planner's report concludes: "The run-down state of the buildings creates a poor image for the town and the wider area. As such, the redevelopment of the site into a hotel with a high-quality design, along with the conversion of the most architecturally significant wing, would greatly enhance the immediate surroundings of the site as well as the image of the town from prominent transport nodes.

"The hotel use would provide an additional benefit to the borough helping to develop the town's visitor economy, within a sustainable location along with the increase in employment within the borough. As such, it is considered that the proposed hotel would provide substantial public benefits to the town centre in addition to preserving the most iconic elements of the listed building.

"While Historic England object to the proposals, the local planning authority is satisfied that the viability evidence provided by the applicant, site constraints, and public benefit of bringing this building back into use, provide clear and convincing justification for the proposed works."

The approval comes with a number of conditions. For example, following Historic England's concerns over justifying the demolition, the applicants will need to submit demonstrative proof that a hotel operator and appropriate developer has been secured before any demolition on the site takes place.

If the decision is referred to the Secretary of State, they could decide not to intervene or appoint an inspector to hold an inquiry or hearing. The inspector will then make a recommendation, and the Secretary of State will make the final decision.

Images: Stewart Developments / stephenson hamilton risley STUDIO

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News: Who will run the market as part of £12m Dinnington regeneration scheme?

Rotherham Council has been in discussion with the operators of Dinnington's current outdoor market regarding the future market operations as part of the £12m regeneration scheme in the town.

The authority has been critical of the way the operators, who also own the land, have carried out little investment and have let the site become "run-down" and "poorly maintained."

Rothbiz reported last month that all objections had been withdrawn just before a legal inquiry got underway into a compulsory purchase order (CPO) that would enable Rotherham Council to acquire the various land and property interests needed for the Government-funded project.

Legal papers show that Donna Nixon / Paylet Limited were seeking a sale and leaseback of the land with a licence to continue to operate the market. An offer was made to acquire the outdoor market land on terms that Rotherham Council's property consultants "consider to be better than compensation code provisions" and the objections were withdrawn.

In seperate negotiations, heads of terms were also prepared that would enable Paylet to operate the future market.

The Council’s scheme has been designed to include an outdoor market presence in an improved location and environment, one with demountable stalls which is designed to limit the prevalence of anti-social behaviour and provide dedicated welfare and storage facilities.

The council said last month that it had not heard anything back regarding the terms it had offered since January 2025.

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Representations for Rotherham Council justifying the CPO stated: "The outdoor market comprises basic low-height, steel pole framed, corrugated metal roofed market stalls on a concrete hardstanding. The layout and design of these stalls are regularly subject to anti-social behaviour, being situated on back land behind the shopping parade fronting Laughton Road.

"The area has been poorly maintained and the subject of numerous fires and is an escape route for those committing crimes in the neighbouring shops. The surfacing is in extremely poor condition and presents a danger to pedestrians."

The market trades infrequently on one day per week for 5.5 hours and lacks welfare facilities. The permanently affixed market stalls prevent the site being used for any other purpose.

Representations added: "The long-standing outdoor market has reduced its operation over a number of years, it is hidden behind shops fronting the high street and is of poor quality both in terms of assets and surfacing."

Positives on the current market operation pointed to its location close to the bus station and to the traders and well established businesses that engage with customers.

Lorna Vertigan, Head of Regeneration at Rotherham Council said: "Until the public sector was able to intervene, the multiple private sector owners have, for various reasons allowed the area to decline to the point that, in my opinion only a holistic place-making solution will now deliver the change required. This coupled with changes in shopping habits, car use and the general attractiveness of local shopping areas requires a public sector led regeneration solution capable of contributing to the promotion and improvement of the economic, social and environmental well-being of Dinnington.

"It is evident from the ongoing communication which dates back ... to 2018 that the Council has endeavoured to work alongside the operator to maintain and improve a market offer in Dinnington and to retain the same market operator in an improved setting."

As part of the next stage of the project, Rotherham Council is seeking to undertake the demolition of acquired units as soon as possible.

Images: RMBC / AHR

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