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

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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: Further reaction to Liberty Steel liquidation

Last week a judge approved an application from creditors to place Speciality Steel UK Ltd (SSUK) into compulsory liquidation.

An Official Receiver has been appointed as liquidator with Teneo Financial Advisory Limited appointed as Special Managers of the company, previously part of Liberty Steel and the GFG Aliiance, to assist the Official Receiver with the liquidation.

The court heard that the Department for Business and Trade had been preparing in the event of an Official Receiver being appointed, and was prepared to take control of SSUK’s affairs.

The company has operations in Rotherham and Sheffield. South Yorkshire's Mayor, Oliver Coppard, said that the news was "difficult, but offers the opportunity for clarity and a path forward. There is and will continue to be a period of uncertainty for workers at Liberty’s two sites in South Yorkshire.

"So I welcome the positive comments from the Secretary of State for Business in the wake of the Court’s decision.

"I now want to see swift progress from government to safeguard the unique steel making capabilities we have here in our region. I will be seeking a conversation with Ministers as a matter of urgency and will do everything I can to make sure that workers at Liberty Steel and the steel industry that is so integral to our identity, have the brightest possible future."

Secretary of State for Business, Jonathan Reynolds, has described the steelworks and its workers as important strategic assets for the UK, and wants them to have a strong future as part of the UK's overall steel strategy.

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Liberty employs around 1,450 people within the Speciality business and provides a wide range of specialist steel products.

Speciality Steels provides vital steelmaking capacity in aerospace, defence and power generation. The steel made by Liberty Speciality Steels can be found in vessels including aircraft carriers, military aircraft components and defence systems, landing gear, controls and in components for oil and gas, power generation, rail and beyond.

UK Steel Director General, Gareth Stace, said: “UK Steel welcomes the Government’s recognition of the importance of the Liberty Speciality Steel assets and hopes that a new owner is found quickly and can inject the investment and working capital required to return production volumes to previous levels.

“The assets produce high quality, specialist steels that serve high value markets. The low production levels of recent years have left significant holes in the domestic supply chain that have been filled by imports. We hope to see these holes quickly filled by UK-made steel.

“The Government must continue to push on trade defence and reducing the burden of energy costs so that the Speciality Steels business, and the rest of the UK steel ecosystem, is sustainable, and steel workers will in future be spared from the limbo state that the employees in South Yorkshire have endured.”

Community General Secretary Roy Rickhuss CBE said: “This is an extremely worrying time for our members at Liberty Steel, but the Government’s intervention must mark a turning point to deliver certainty for these strategically important businesses.

“Crucially, jobs must be protected throughout any restructuring and transition to new ownership. Steelworkers at Liberty Steel are highly-skilled and hugely experienced; they are quite frankly irreplaceable and will be critical to delivering future success for the businesses.

“As a first priority wages must be paid and the outstanding twelve months of pensions contributions must be secured. Resolving pay and pensions is urgent and we are closely monitoring the situation, but in talks with senior officials we have received firm assurances that both matters are in hand.

“We welcome the Government’s intervention which is yet another demonstration of our Labour Government’s commitment to delivering for steelworkers and our vital foundation industry. However, in taking control of the business the Government has assumed responsibility for our livelihoods and our communities, and we will of course be holding them to account.”

Sheffield City Council Leader, Cllr Tom Hunt, said: "This will be a difficult period of uncertainty for the workers at Liberty Steel and we appreciate that the news yesterday will have caused concern.

"The Government have agreed to step in to safeguard jobs in the short-term. We hope this brings assurance for those who work there, as well as for those who live in the areas around Liberty Steel’s sites and rely on the steelworks for their own businesses.

"The steel industry is a big part of Sheffield’s past, present and future. We continue to work proactively with all stakeholders to safeguard the future of Liberty Steel, and the industry as a whole in Sheffield and South Yorkshire. We are committed to work alongside the Mayor of South Yorkshire Oliver Coppard and Cllr Chris Read and our colleagues at Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council to ensure a viable path forward can be found for Liberty Steel and its dedicated staff."

Liberty Steel website

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News: Liberty boss calls judge's liquidation decision "irrational"

Liberty Steel has called a High Court decision to send its speciality steel business into compulsory liquidation "irrational" and says it put forward plans to create a "sustainable operational platform."

Rothbiz reported this week that a judge has approved an application from creditors to place the business, ehich has operations in Rotherham and Stocksbridge, into compulsory liquidation.

Official Receiver, Gareth Allen, has been appointed as liquidator with Teneo Financial Advisory Limited appointed as Special Managers of the company to assist the Official Receiver with the liquidation.

Jeffrey Kabel, LIBERTY Steel Group’s Chief Transformation Officer, said: “The decision to push Speciality Steel U.K. into compulsory liquidation, especially when we have support from the world’s largest asset manager to resume operations and facilitate creditor recovery is irrational.

"The plan that GFG presented to the court would have secured new investment in the UK steel industry, protecting jobs and establishing a sustainable operational platform under a new governance structure with independent oversight.

"Instead, liquidation will now impose prolonged uncertainty and significant costs on UK taxpayers for settlements and related expenses, despite the availability of a commercial solution.

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"LIBERTY has pursued all options to make its SSUK viable, including efficiency improvements, reorganisations, customer support, several attempts to find a buyer for the business and intensive negotiations with creditors to restructure debt liabilities. LIBERTY’s shareholder has invested nearly £200mn, recognising the vital role steel plays in supplying the UK’s strategic defence, aerospace and energy industries.

"GFG will now continue to advance its bid for the business in collaboration with prospective debt and equity partners and will present its plan to the official receiver. GFG continues to believe it has the ideas, management expertise and commitment to lead SSUK into the future and attract major investment. GFG’s other significant business interests in the UK remain unaffected.

"Despite many challenges facing the group and the difficult market conditions, GFG has invested over £2 billion into the UK economy since 2013, ensuring the survival of many GFG businesses despite operating losses and safeguarding thousands of jobs that would otherwise have been lost.”

Liberty's plan is reported to have been a pre-pack administration deal which would have seen creditors lose out.

MP for Penistone & Stocksbridge Marie Tidball, said: "I know that steelworkers and other employees will have a number of queries about what happens next, and I will continue to work closely with Community Union around ongoing job security.

"From day one, I have advocated for the importance of the Speciality Steel UK sites as part of South Yorkshire's Steel Corridor, and the need to secure their future.

"It is reassuring to hear that the Secretary of State for Business, Jonathan Reynolds, has described our steelworks and its workers as important strategic assets for the UK, and wants them to have a strong future as part of the UK's overall steel strategy.

"It is positive to hear that that the Government has already received approaches from "independent third parties who have expressed an interest in returning some or all of the sites to steel making," according to a letter from the Department for Business and Trade entered in court.

"I want to thank all our local steelworkers and their families for all their hard work and patience throughout this difficult process."

Liberty Steel website

Images: Liberty Steel

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News: Speciality Steel in administration, "government committed to not letting it fail"

The latest from the High Court indicates that Liberty Steel's owners are losing its battle to keep hold of its Speciality Steel business.

Earlier this week a judge adjourned a case regarding a winding-up order regarding Speciality Steel UK Ltd (SSUK), which has operations in Rotherham and Stocksbridge.

The judge in the case asked for more information on what would happen under two scenarios - if SSUK was wound up, and if a pre-pack administration was to take place. The second scenario is likely to be opposed by creditors.

But now a different judge has approved an application from creditors to place the steel business into compulsory liquidation.

A winding up petition is issued to the courts by those seeking to recover money that they are owed. The judge agreed with the creditors and a winding-up order was made on August 21.

The court heard that the Department for Business and Trade has been preparing in the event of an Official Receiver being appointed, and was prepared to take control of SSUK’s affairs.

The Guardian reported the judge's decision, quoting Mr Justice Mellor as stating that: “It is quite clear that there are special managers lined up who have the support of the government. I consider by far the preferable approach is to make a winding-up order.”

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Official Receiver, Gareth Jonathan Allen, has been appointed as liquidator. Teneo Financial Advisory Limited has been appointed as Special Managers of the company to assist the Official Receiver with the liquidation.

The Official Receiver will wind-up the company in accordance with his statutory duties. He also has a duty to inquire into the cause of the company’s failure and conduct of current and former directors. 

Creditors and subcontractors are being urged to get in touch.

The UK company was hit by the collapse of Greensill, a specialist in invoice financing that operated with less regulation than the traditional banks.

Court documents from February regarding Greensill creditors and SSUK show that the Liberty company has a debt with them of approximately £289m. The debts owed to Greensill creditors in respect of the activities of the GFG Group amount, in broad terms, to some US$4 billion.

Sarah Champion, MP for Rotherham, said: "All I can say is; I’ve been in conversation with the Government for months about the future of this strategic and profitable business, and they are committed to not letting it fail. You have my word that I will do all in my power to make sure that is the case."

Charlotte Brumpton-Childs, GMB National Officer, said: “This is another tragedy for UK steel - and the people of South Yorkshire - this time brought on by years of chronic mismanagement by the owners.

“But this represents an opportunity for the Government to take decisive action, as it did with British steel, to protect this vital UK industry.”

Cllr. Chris Read, leader of Rotherham Council, said on Threads: "The end of a long rollercoaster period of Liberty ownership brings uncertainty but also the opportunity of fresh beginnings with more solid plans. Glad the government has heeded our urging and taken over operational costs while those plans take shape."

Liberty Steel website

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News: Judge grants more time to decide fate of Liberty Speciality Steel

More time has been granted for the court case that could lead to Liberty's Speciality Steel business going into insolvency.

Rothbiz reported in July on the second adjournment for a winding-up order regarding the company which has operations in Rotherham and Stocksbridge.

Discussions have been ongoing - including a potential sale of the business, with media reports suggesting that Sanjeev Gupta, the owner of the GFG Alliance of which Speciality Steel UK Ltd (SSUK) is part, was planning a controversial pre-pack administration to set up a new company and keep hold of the operations whilst many creditors would lose out.

After the case was heard again in court this week, MP for Penistone & Stocksbridge Marie Tidball, confirmed another two week adjournment.

The MP said: "I have been fighting for our speciality steel site since day one. I am in regular touch with steelworkers locally, and I know the two week adjournment will cause anxiety for them and their families. However, evidence shared in court that government is preparing to step in immediately to secure the continued operations at Speciality Steel UK is extremely reassuring.

"Both LIBERTY sites in Stocksbridge and Rotherham are essential parts of our South Yorkshire Steel Corridor and their success is crucial to our national defence, aerospace, and energy industries.

"I do not believe that these sites can reach their potential under Sanjeev Gupta's continued ownership, and any outcome of the case should prioritise the long-term future of the plants, and protecting jobs to retain the fantastically skilled workforce at these sites.

"My immediate priority now will be securing pensions for Stocksbridge steelworkers, as local workers have faced nearly a year without employer pension contributions. I have raised this with the Department of Business and Trade, Aviva, and the Pensions Regulator. I will continue to press for them to take action, as well as LIBERTY, to resolve these issues as quickly as possible."

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Earlier this year, Liberty pulled a restructuring plan before it could be judged in court as it was apparent that it did not have the backing from creditors.

Liberty signed a new framework agreement in April 2024 with its major creditors that would enable it to consolidate its UK steel businesses "under a new entity with a simpler structure, a strong balance sheet and greater access to third party finance and investment."

In November 2024, Liberty sought approval through the courts for the restructuring which would reduce the company's debts but needs the approval of the majority of creditors.

The UK company was hit by the collapse of Greensill, a specialist in invoice financing that operated with less regulation than the traditional banks.

Court documents from February regarding Greensill creditors and SSUK show that the Liberty company has a debt with them of approximately £289m. The debts owed to Greensill creditors in respect of the activities of the GFG Group amount, in broad terms, to some US$4 billion.

The Telegraph yesterday reported on a Department for Business and Trade letter to Mr Gupta’s creditors that was used in court proceedings. It said that, through an official receiver, it was prepared to take control of SSUK’s affairs.

On the government being prepared to step in, Sarah Champion, MP for Rotherham, said on X: "Hand on heart, I don’t believe the Tories would have done this. So grateful this Government will."

The judge in the case has asked more information on what would happen under two scenarios - if SSUK was wound up, and if a pre-pack administration was to take place. The second scenario is likely to be opposed by creditors.

As reported in The Gaurdian, Judge Sally Barber said: “In the absence of some certainty there is too much at stake for the court to shoot blind.

“Any government decision [to step in immediately to secure the continued operations] would be subject to a formal ministerial decision, and no such decision has been made.”

Liberty Steel website

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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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News: Liberty Steel court case adjourned again

A court case that could have led to Liberty's Speciality Steel business going into insolvency has been adjourned again.

A winding-up order was due to be decided this week regarding the company which has operations in Rotherham and Stocksbridge.

An initial hearing in May was adjourned to July, with discussions ongoing to keep the business going - including a potential sale of the business.

Marie Tidball, MP for Stocksbridge confirmed that the case has been adjourned again.

Earlier this year, Liberty pulled a restructuring plan before it could be judged in court as it was apparent that it did not have the backing from creditors.

Liberty signed a new framework agreement in April 2024 with its major creditors that would enable it to consolidate its UK steel businesses "under a new entity with a simpler structure, a strong balance sheet and greater access to third party finance and investment."

In November 2024, Liberty sought approval through the courts for the restructuring which would reduce the company's debts but needs the approval of the majority of creditors.

The UK company, part of Sanjeev Gupta's GFG Alliance, was hit by the collapse of Greensill, a specialist in invoice financing that operated with less regulation than the traditional banks.

Court documents from February regarding Greensill creditors and Speciality Steel UK Ltd (SSUK) show that the Liberty company has a debt with them of approximately £289m. The debts owed to Greensill creditors in respect of the activities of the GFG Group amount, in broad terms, to some US$4 billion.

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One creditor is Harsco, which operates a large site in Rotherham under its SteelPhalt brand. Court documents show that Harsco issued a winding-up petition against Liberty in 2024 in an effort to recover £4m that it is owed, along with machinery "for which it has not been paid and which it would like back."

The Caseboard website has now added Greensill Capital (UK) Limited (In Administration) to the list of creditors supporting Harsco with its winding-up petition against Liberty.

Marie Tidball, MP for Penistone and Stocksbridge, said: "I hope all options are on the table to secure our Stocksbridge site, whilst parties reach a conclusion at the next stage of the court case. We cannot see this nationally important asset and its skilled workforce broken up longer term.

"My immediate priority now will be securing pensions for Stocksbridge steelworkers, as local workers have faced 10 months without employer pension contributions. I raised the need for urgent reassurances in respect to pension payments in the House of Commons earlier this week.

"I will be writing urgently to Aviva, The Department for Business and Trade, the Department for Work and Pensions and the Pension Regulator, to ensure all Stocksbridge steelworker pensions are secured.

"I will always continue to fight to protect our site and its jobs, as well as its strategic capability."

In parliament, the MP discussed the uncertainty at Liberty which "means that pension contributions have not been paid to the skilled workforce for 10 months, causing significant worry and anxiety for 600 local steelworkers."

Speaking to The Guardian, a Liberty Steel spokesperson said: "Today’s resolutions and adjournment provides additional time to finalise options for SSUK while continuing our broader debt restructuring efforts.

"We remain committed to identifying a solution that preserves electric arc furnace (EAF) steelmaking in the UK — a critical national capability supporting strategic supply chains.

"SSUK has been engaged in complex debt restructuring since the collapse of Greensill Capital in 2021, which significantly constrained its access to capital.

"Throughout Liberty’s ownership, the shareholder has consistently supported the business, contributing nearly £200m in loss funding and payroll over the past four years — even during periods when significant portions of the business remained non-operational."

Liberty Steel website

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News: Objections withdrawn to Rotherham CPO

A legal inquiry into a compulsory purchase order (CPO) required to progress a Rotherham regeneration project was over before it began with all landowners previously against the council's order withdrawing their objections.

Backed by £11m in Government funding, the scheme at Dinnington aims to address blight in the town centre and boost the local economy. The funding will facilitate clearance of the burnt out and derelict buildings on the high street and pave the way for a new attractive town square, with purpose built commercial units to diversify the local offer.

With the council unable to acquire the properties required to deliver the scheme, a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) was issued earlier this year which revealed that the authority was talking to the Government about extending the spending on the project from 2026 to 2028.

The order was published by Rotherham Council in January 2025 with the inquiry due to hear from the authority and legal firms representing landowners this week.

The Council received five objections to the order.

Strangely, one objection was from South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA), which was withdrawn in April. Initial legal papers showed that those against the order included the Nixon family (regarding the outdoor market), Roy Mugglestone, Yvonne Mugglestone and William Carrol (regarding the indoor market) and Cobani Property Limited (regarding 50 Laughton Road).

As the inquiry was due to begin (July 1), the Nixon family / Paylet Ltd was the only party remaining but the local MP, Jake Richards, who attended the inquiry as an interested party, has now confirmed that he was "really happy to say that all objectors have withdrawn."

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£11m in funding for the project was allocated by the Government in March 2023 and the funding agreement was received in June 2023 when Rotherham Council's cabinet approved the start of the scheme. A further £1m in council funding was allocated to the project in July 2024.

Documents submitted to the inquiry show that those with leasehold and freehold interests in the Laughton Road and market areas were contacted back in 2022 but since April 2023, market value offers from the council to purchase remaining interests were not agreed to. Negotiations continued right up until the inquiry and offers were made "based on the compensation that the vendor would be entitled to if their property were acquired pursuant to a confirmed compulsory purchase order."

A CPO is considered a last resort. The Government grants powers to enable acquiring authorities to compulsorily purchase land to carry out a function which Parliament has decided is in the public interest. Tribunals are often used to judge the levels of compensation for compulsary purchased land.

Legal papers show that landowners and operators of the outdoor market were seeking a sale and leaseback of the land with a licence to continue to operate the market.

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

The council were unable to offer a condition that Paylet would operate the new market but the council state that it "has sought to keep an outdoor market presence in the area and to that end has offered terms to Ms Nixon to retain and even expand their provision in the town."

The council's representative at property consultancy, Gateley Hamer, stated that: "The gap between the sum that Paylet wanted, and the sum that I have assessed on compensation code terms was significant."

Objections from the Nixon family, since withdrawn, stated that: "Offers made were inadequate and did not reflect the true value of the property or the operational disruption the acquisition would cause" and that the council did not genuinely exhaust all reasonable efforts to acquire the property.

But it now appears that a deal has been done and the project can now progress with the acquisition of all of the property required.

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News: Rotherham Gateway Station masterplan published

Rotherham Council has published the masterplan for the proposed new multimillion pound mainline station in the borough showing how a transport improvement scheme can act as the catalyst for a much wider regeneration project supporting thousands of new jobs.

Ideas for a much simpler "parkway" style station have been superseded by plans for a new integrated station on the mainline and a tram-train stop on land at Forge Way, Parkgate that aims to transform the regional and national connectivity of Rotherham, catalysing a new Innovation Campus around the station.

The employment-led masterplan focuses on the opportunity the location offers to further develop the advanced manufacturing cluster within South Yorkshire as part of the UK’s first Investment Zone. Rothbiz has previously reported on estimates that a station surrounded by business, retail, community and housing offerings which could generate 1,800 new jobs.

A phased approach starts with the Station Quarter, on land which is currently Northfields Business Park, which features a station building with a potential business centre, a 150 space car park and bridges over the two lines. Phase 2 (years 5 - 15) involves the creation of an innovation campus on plots of land nearby, one currently owned by NetworK Rail and vacant, the other used by Stobart to support biomass energy production.

The campus of around 180,000 sq ft of commercial space "will renew the existing industrial character, turning its focus towards high-quality employment in the advanced manufacturing sector or commercial use." Buildings for F&B or retail use could also be included to extend the experience of the Station Quarter.

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Phase 3 (years 15 - 20) includes the potential to replace the original car park with a multi-storey car park to the north of the mainline. Masterplanners also add that successful regeneration could prompt the redevelopment of industrial space on Mangham Road / Greasbrough Road, which is currently dominated by MAG's car auction site, into the Northwest Quarter.

Phase 4 (year 20 and beyond) introduces the idea of new housing in the area. To the east of the Station Quarter, the masterplan encourages residential use and the development of a Living Quarter on the land which is currently the large Trade Centre UK car showroom. Residential blocks and townhouses, shown with green courtyards, total 205 flats and 37 houses.

Connections are also discussed in the proposals, including active travel links between the Station Quarter and the town centre. With routes for pedestrians and cyclists on Effingham Street and Rotherham Road, this could also open up sites for development such as around Bailey House and Erskine Road.

Station opening has been pencilled in for "late 2030" creating additional rail services and faster journey times to the adjacent centres of Sheffield, Doncaster and Leeds whilst adding direct and quicker connections to key markets in the North West, the Midlands and the North East, as well as ports and airports.

The masterplan shows that consultants estimate annual footfall at the station to be 0.609 million (access) and 0.584 million (egress).

The conclusion outlines the need for "substantial public sector led intervention" for a £100m+ project. Today, the board at the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) will be asked to set aside £11.35m to enable the detailed design of the project and move it towards procurement.

The SYMCA paper has the total costs of the project, based on estimates from Network Rail, at £133m, and could be as much as £166m for a four-platform station.

Rotherham Council is also utlising £10m from the Towns Fund to acquire land needed for the station. It is asking its cabinet to approve a further £2m for the acquisition of further land and property to facilitate the delivery of the station masterplan.

The masterplan concludes: "The ambitious Masterplan is purposefully designed to support Rotherham’s economic future, improving opportunities for all residents. A strong employment offer will precede the introduction of other uses in the long-term, including housing.

"Landing a station in Rotherham will bring forward better connectivity to the surrounding areas, activate the town centre, enhance mobility and generate value and placemaking through supported residential developments.

"A high quality public realm and creation of a greater premium on the quality of public spaces used by people has proven to benefit the built environment and uplift values.

"Early spending in infrastructure, local amenities and public spaces creates better places."

Images: RMBC

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News: S2S Group secures investment from Bailie Group to propel growth ambitions

The Rotherham-based S2S Group has received a £500k injection from investment firm Bailie Group.

S2S Group at Manvers is one of the leading players in electronics manufacturing, asset recovery and electronics recycling, specialising in the disposal and management of IT assets at the end of their lifecycle, offering a certified and eco-friendly IT Asset Disposal (ITAD) service.

The Baillie Group, a family-owned group of agencies and consultancies, invests in ideas, people, and properties with the goal of making a positive impact. It has offices in Leeds and Antrim.

The £500k deal sees Baillie Group acquire a 25% stake in S2S and is set to accelerate growth ambitions and develop S2S Group's market share in the defence sector, focusing on key target contracts.

The move builds on a recognition for a strong commitment to sustainable and secure recycling and reuse of end-of-life IT equipment, supporting clients across the defence, finance and education sectors. Significant growth in the last five years has included the acquisition of operations in London and Glasgow in 2023.

The investment from Bailie Group, which owns a portfolio of communications agencies and consultancies, is set enable S2S to accelerate its aims of achieving 21% growth this year, taking annual revenue to £5.8m.

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Grant Barton, CEO of S2S Group, said: “Partnering with Bailie Group is a major milestone for us. Their experience, network, and values align perfectly with our ambitions. With their support, we’re confident we can grow faster, innovate further, and deliver even greater value to our customers.

“After a strong 2024 and a sharpened focus on electronic and remote data‑wiping, particularly in the defence sector, this investment gives us the resources and know‑how to boost our positive impact on data security and create more value for both companies.”

Fergus Bailie, CEO of Bailie Group added: “Bailie Group’s mission is to improve lives by sharing knowledge, and this investment marks our first foray into safeguarding information through secure data disposal. S2S are operating in a critical area where security, sustainability and innovation come together, and we’re excited to support their vision for the future.

“Our commitment goes beyond financing; we’re bringing the expertise, energy and strategic guidance the team needs to scale and thrive. We believe S2S has tremendous growth potential, and by combining our strengths I’m confident we can expand their market share and drive their initiatives forward.”

In 2024, S2S processed a total of 217,329 redundant IT assets – 81% of which were scrapped through recycling and 19% resold, contributing to the circular economy.

S2S Group website

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News: Rotherham manufacturer acquired in international deal

Empire Tapes, a British tape manufacturing business supplying customers across the globe with a varied selection of tapes, has been acquired by Ireland's Zeus Group.

As a leading specialist manufacturing and distribution group, Dublin-based Zeus provides a diverse range of sustainable packaging solutions tailored to the unique needs of businesses worldwide.

Founded in 1993 and with its base at Manvers in Rotherham, Empire Tapes are manufacturers, rewinders and converters of adhesive tape.

Zeus said that the deal, which is for an undisclosed sum, supports its continued growth trajectory across Europe and further reinforces the company’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer-centric solutions. Empire Tapes also enhances Zeus’ industrial adhesive capability.

Empire Tapes brings more than 20 years of expertise in high-performance adhesive technologies, serving industrial clients across the UK and globally. With a strong reputation for agility, technical specialism, and UK-based manufacturing, the acquisition bolsters Zeus’ industrial packaging capabilities and expands its specialist offering in technical adhesives such as double-sided, masking, and barrier tapes.

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The deal was announced alongside a deal to acquire Spanish firm, Rio Tinto Plásticos.

Brian O’Sullivan, Founder and Owner of Zeus Group, said: "These acquisitions reflect Zeus’ ambition to deliver world-class, sustainable packaging solutions by combining technical excellence with local market insight. Empire Tapes and Rio Tinto Plásticos are both highly respected operators in their fields. Their addition to the Zeus family brings new capability, enhanced customer value, and an even stronger platform for future growth across Europe.”

Dean Sherriff, Chairman of Empire Tapes, welcomed the opportunity to accelerate the company's growth and technical development under Zeus’ ownership.

Zeus also said that the strategic additions are set to boost annual revenue by €20m, helping to pass the €500m mark this year. THe group has an ambitious goal of reaching €1 billion in annual revenues.

In 2023, Empire Tapes secured £4m from NatWest to support the business to progress in the sports sector. In 2017, the company diversified into the sports tapes space, focusing on the tape used to wrap boxers’ hands and secure their gloves during training and for competitive fights. It is now a world-leading brand, used by champions.

Empire Tapes website

Images: Empire Pro Tape / Facebook

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News: ICA Group makes acquisition

Align Building Control, a highly renowned inspection company operating across a wide variety of construction sectors, has been sold to the Rotherham-based ICA Group.

Trading since 2012 and based in Heald Green, Greater Manchester, Align’s team of surveyors have established an impressive reputation for their vast knowledge of building regulations and relevant legislation.

The company works across the residential, commercial, healthcare, arts, hospitality, leisure, energy and industrial sectors, and is well known for its collaborative and proactive approach with clients, developers, architects and contractors.

Align now joins Cook Brown in the Building Control Services division of ICA Group, which was rebranded from Hickton Group in January 2025.

Wentworth-based ICA Group is a leading multi-disciplinary provider of site inspection and consultancy services, and has acquired Align to strengthen its shared expertise and expand its presence across England and Wales.

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Michael Clemence, Director and sole shareholder of Align, said: “Really pleased to be joining ICA Group. All of us at Align Building Control look forward to a very exciting future.”

Paul Liptrott, KBS Corporate Deal Executive, advised on the transaction and described an unusual element which needed to be overcome in the search for the ideal buyer. He said: “A lot of interested parties had to ‘park’ the exploration of the deal whilst the industry underwent some changes. They all came back to explore the opportunity simultaneously, and effectively made up for lost time in a short period. This is a rare thing to experience in the sale of a business.”

Ultimately, Paul was delighted that a suitable buyer was found for Align, offering a collaboration that will greatly benefit both companies.

“ICA Group had acquired a business marketed by KBS Corporate previously within this space and explored this opportunity as a way to build upon their existing operations,” added Paul.

“The acquisition allows Mike to work towards his retirement whilst helping to integrate the business within ICA Group.

“Anyone who meets Mike would find themselves fond of him and I personally believe ICA Group offered a great prospect for his exit plans. Obviously this is what we work towards, and this outcome is great to see.

“ICA Group is well established in the industry and this is a win for all involved.”

ICA Group website

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News: Two year delay confirmed for Rotherham regeneration project

A much-needed £12m regeneration project will not be completed until 2028, Rotherham Council papers confirm.

Backed by £11m in Government funding, the scheme at Dinnington aims to address blight in the town centre and boost the local economy. The funding will facilitate clearance of the burnt out and derelict buildings on the high street and pave the way for a new attractive town square, with purpose built commercial units to diversify the local offer.

With the council unable to acquire the properties required to deliver the scheme, a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) was issued earlier this year which revealed that the authority was talking to the Government about extending the spending on the project from 2026 to 2028.

Now a new update confirms that, in February 2025, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, confirmed the extension of the project’s delivery window from March 2026 to March 2028 "to reflect potential CPO timescales."

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The delay means that Rotherham Council has had to find another £200,000 to support the development and delivery of the project.

A council report explained: "Whilst this extension secures project funding, it is likely that the extended programme length will require additional contingency funds to make allowance for potential cost increases due to factors such as contractor availability and materials inflation, as experienced in delivery of previous capital regeneration projects that have been subject to delay."

The allocation, from the council's Feasibility Fund, follows on from £1m in council funding being allocated to the project in July 2024.

The funding deadline for the grant has been extended by the Government to March 2027, with the additional £1m Council capital allocation then supporting subsequent works to complete the project to the end of its extended delivery window in March 2028.

A CPO is considered as a last resort and the Government grants powers to enable acquiring authorities to compulsorily purchase land to carry out a function which Parliament has decided is in the public interest. They can be long and costly with compensation for landowners to be decided relating to land value, disturbance and loss.

An inquiry for the Dinnington order is scheduled to open on July 1 2025.

Legal papers show that those against the order include the Nixon family (regarding Dinnington Market), Roy Mugglestone, Yvonne Mugglestone and William Carrol (regarding the indoor market) and Cobani Property Limited (regarding 50 Laughton Road).

Images: RMBC / AHR / Google Maps

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News: Former editor lambasts National World for "ripping apart" Rotherham Advertiser

Historic independent weekly title, the Rotherham Advertiser, has new owners again after British multimedia company, National World plc, was acquired by a major shareholder.

The editor, who left the paper during National World's ownership, described the company as "wolves" in a post on social media.

Listed on the London Stock Exchange, National World plc became operational with the acquisition of JPIMedia (formerly Johnston Press) for £10.2m in 2021. Titles include The Scotsman and the Yorkshire Post, and locally, The Sheffield Star. In 2023 it added the Rotherham Advertiser, buying it for an undisclosed sum from Regional Media Ltd.

Last year, Media Concierge announced plans to acquire the shareholding of the plc in a deal worth £65.1m that involved the creation of a new privately owned company.

Media Concierge is an independently owned media group providing local marketing solutions at scale across the UK and Ireland.

The strategy is to focus on local news with stock exchange documents setting out that it will "continue and accelerate National World’s strategy to grow its monetisable audience. This will be achieved by concentrating on local and regional audiences, improving the user experience of the websites and ensuring that adequate news gathering and technical resources are available and properly directed to drive traffic and user loyalty.

"Whilst Media Concierge accepts the shift to online news consumption it also remains committed to preserving the printed products for the foreseeable future."

The takeover triggered a legal confrontation between Media Concierge and National World with a court approving the deal recently.

National World made claims of a "potentially systemic pattern of historical invoicing irregularities in relation to the activities of entities within the Media Concierge Group" with Media Concierge claimed to be "inappropriately withholding revenues due to National World totaling £4.4m in respect of certain contracts with entities in the Media Concierge Group which had been terminated."

Media Concierge "has continued to deny invoicing irregularities and argue that the withheld revenues are subject to a substantial counter-claim for breach of contract in excess of the £4.4m amount."

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Added into the situation is the plight of local journalists. The National Union of Journalists (NUJ) says that since National World took over the former JPI Media, the strategy of executive chairman David Montgomery saw "an estimated 25% of editorial jobs cut across the business, with remaining journalists reporting that they are overworked, experiencing stress from the workload, and that they are set arbitrary targets which are impossible to meet."

Changes at The Rotherham Advertiser saw editor, Andrew Mosley leave the publication, along with a number of senior reporters and long-standng staff. Richard Fidler moved from a role at the Yorkshire Post into the role of editor at "the 'tiser."

Posting on X, Andrew Mosley, who has recently published his first novel, said that the new deal had got to be a positive for the likes of the Rotherham Advertiser, adding: "Sold down the river and to the wolves by the owner of Regional Media Ltd and ripped apart."

More bad news for the borough came when National World signed a deal with Newsquest in 2023 that resulted in production ending at DMG Media's site in Rotherham. With a reduction in work, the £60m plant at Dinnington ceased printing for good in 2024.

Following the court's approval, Malcolm Denmark, CEO, sent a message to staff. He said: "Our company, Media Concierge, has been a strong supporter of local and regional media for many years. In fact, we were the first and largest investor in National World. From the outset, we believed in the vision of building a sustainable and independent news business that serves communities across the UK. That belief has not changed.

"Now, as we move from investor to owner, our approach is straightforward. We want to support you in doing what you already do so well. You know your audiences, your titles, and your communities. The most important thing we can do right now is to give you the space and confidence to carry on — business as usual."

According to data firm, ABC, The Rotherham Advertiser, which began publishing in 1858, had an average weekly circulation of 6,543 in 2024, down from 7,594 in 2023. Previous owners, Regional Media Ltd reported a ciculation of 13,700 in its 2023 annual report to independent regulator, IPSO.

National World website
Media Concierge website

Images: ABC

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News: Liberty Steel insolvency case pushed back as sale talks continue

A court case that could have led to Liberty's Speciality Steel business going into insolvency has been adjourned until July.

Rothbiz reported on a winding-up order being due this week regarding Liberty Speciality Steel, which has operations in Rotherham and Stocksbridge..

The hearing has been adjourned to July 16, with discussions ongoing to keep the business going - including a potential sale of the business.

Jeffrey Kabel, LIBERTY Steel Chief Transformation Officer said: “Today's adjournment is a positive development, allowing us the necessary time to finalise options including a sale of the business while we continue to pursue our debt restructuring efforts.

"We remain committed to finding the right solution that preserves EAF steelmaking in the UK, a vital national asset serving strategic supply chains.

"SSUK has been involved in complex debt restructuring since the collapse of Greensill Capital in 2021 restricting its access to capital. However, like all steel producers in the UK, SSUK has faced long-standing competitiveness challenges dating back decades.

"Throughout LIBERTY’s ownership of SSUK its shareholder has consistently supported the business, investing nearly £200 million in loss funding and salaries over the past four years, even as significant portions of the business remained inactive.

"We recognise that change is essential to set the business on a positive trajectory and provide certainty for our creditors, employees, and stakeholders.

"We will utilise the time afforded by the adjournment to engage in intensive discussions with a view to achieving an outcome which best serves the strategic interests of the UK, the South Yorkshire community, and the broader UK steel sector.”

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Earlier this month, Liberty pulled a restructuring plan before it could be judged in court as it was apparent that it did not have the backing from creditors.

Roy Rickhuss CBE, General Secretary of steelworkers’ union Community, said: “Our members at Liberty Steel have endured far too much turbulence and uncertainty over recent years as a result of the erratic and irresponsible way the company has been run. Failed restructuring plans and broken promises from the company have become a familiar, demoralising pattern, and things simply can’t go on as they are.

“Ever since the collapse of Greensill Capital, we have worked with the company in good faith, even when refinancing deadlines have been missed. Our patience has now run out.

“Liberty Steel’s plants are strategically important sites for the UK steel industry and the country as a whole, and these assets must be secured.

“New, responsible ownership is needed to give the business the brighter future it needs and deserves, and that can only be achieved with a decisive change at the top. Enough is enough – Sanjeev Gupta must invest in the business or step aside.”

Marie Tidball MP, Labour Member of Parliament for Penistone and Stocksbridge, added: “I have listened to my constituents in Stocksbridge and agree with them that it is time for Gupta to go. He has run out of road; his chaotic ownership must end now. Our Stocksbridge Speciality Steels site needs new, competent ownership to maximise its potential, so that the business has a real chance for success.

“As I said in Parliament earlier today, Stocksbridge Speciality Steels has strategically significant, highly specialist capability, to produce world-leading steel, crucial to our national defence, aerospace, and energy industries. The site employs 650 people and has an excellent skills training centre.

“I know the capability of the site, the extraordinary ability of the workforce and the exceptional quality steel produced in Stocksbridge. What we need now is a new owner to come forward and restore the glory of a site which has proudly made steel in our constituency for over 180 years. This is an exciting investment opportunity, and these works are part of the strategically important South Yorkshire Steel Corridor.”

Liberty Steel website

Images: Liberty

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News: Liberty lurches from one legal battle to the next over insolvency

Liberty Speciality Steel withdrew a restructuring plan put before the courts just before a judge was due to decide if it could go ahead.

With a lack of agreement with key creditors, lawyers representing them have previously said it was unlikely to be sanctioned anyway due to the money owed.

After pulling its "Part 26A" restructuring plan, as reported by Global Restructuring Review, Liberty Speciality Steel, which has operations in Rotherham and Stocksbridge, is understood to be acting quickly to consider alternative options.

Rothbiz reported in April last year that Liberty had signed a new framework agreement with its major creditors that would enable it to consolidate its UK steel businesses "under a new entity with a simpler structure, a strong balance sheet and greater access to third party finance and investment."

In November 2024, Liberty sought approval through the courts for the restructuring which would reduce the company's debts but needs the approval of the majority of creditors.

The UK company, part of Sanjeev Gupta's GFG Alliance, was hit by the collapse of Greensill, a specialist in invoice financing that operated with less regulation than the traditional banks.

Court documents from February regarding Greensill creditors and Speciality Steel UK Ltd show that the Liberty company has a debt with them of approximately £289m. The debts owed to Greensill creditors in respect of the activities of the GFG Group amount, in broad terms, to some US$4 billion.

Argus reported earlier this month that there was a restructuring plan hearing held in April, where all Greensill creditors and over three quarters of "other" creditors opposed the restructuring,

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One creditor is Harsco, which operates a large site in Rotherham under its SteelPhalt brand. Court documents show that Harsco issued a winding-up petition against Liberty in 2024 in an effort to recover £4m that it is owed, along with machinery "for which it has not been paid and which it would like back."

Harsco has been against the restructuring plan with its lawyers saying: "everyone in the room knew that it was unlikely to be sanctioned" by the judge.

A winding up petition is issued to the courts by those seeking to recover money that they are owed. The courts do not look on it as a debt recovery process, rather that the company can't pay its debts and should be wound up so that liquidation can be used to collect the company's assets.

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) issued a petition to have Liberty Speciality Steel wound up in 2022 but following positive discussions, the petitions were withdrawn.

A decision on the latest winding-up order is due this week. If the court approves, Liberty will be served the order and the official receiver automatically becomes the liquidator. An alternative is if a private liquidator is appointed.

Oliver Coppard, mayor of South Yorkshire, said last week: “The news emerging about Liberty Steel is deeply concerning for all of us in South Yorkshire, but particularly those who work in their plants at Rotherham and in Stockbridge. I spoke with the Business Secretary yesterday (Thursday) to raise our concerns and we agreed to work together as more details emerge and the situation develops.

“Our steel industry has been integral to our identity and economy for generations. While the challenges we face are significant, I'm committed to working alongside industry leaders, unions, and government partners to explore all possible avenues to safeguard jobs, support our steel sector and ensure that South Yorkshire remains at the forefront of advanced manufacturing.”

Following the government stepping in to save British Steel in Scunthorpe, local MPs have discussed the potential for similar action in South Yorkshire.

Marie Tidball, MP for Stocksbridge, said: "The Steel Industry (Special Measures) Act, passed last month, demonstrates clear reassurance that the Government will do everything they can to get it right for our British steel industry, including a commitment to using our steel assets productively. This must include Stocksbridge.

"Our local plant has strategically significant highly specialist capability to produce world-leading steel, which is crucial to our national defence, aerospace, and energy industries.

"The Government have committed £2.5 billion to secure the UK steel industry, and have always been clear that there is a bright future for steel in the UK. I am working around the clock to ensure that Stocksbridge is an integral part of that.

"Our steelworks has been the beating heart of our community for nearly 200 years, and I will continue to fight to protect our site, our jobs, and the strategic capability our site can offer."

Liberty Steel website

Images: Liberty Steel

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News: Rotherham MP raises concerns over Liberty Steel restructure

Sarah Champion, the MP for Rotherham, says that she is "deeply troubled" by reports that Liberty Speciality Steel could fail to be part of proposed restructuring plans due to a lack of agreement with key creditors.

Rothbiz reported in April last year that Liberty had signed a new framework agreement with its major creditors that would enable it to consolidate its UK steel businesses "under a new entity with a simpler structure, a strong balance sheet and greater access to third party finance and investment."

In November 2024, Liberty sought approval through the courts for the restructuring which would reduce the company's debts but needs the approval of the majority of creditors.

The company, part of Sanjeev Gupta's GFG Alliance, was hit by the collapse of Greensill, a specialist in invoice financing that operated with less regulation than the traditional banks.

Argus reported earlier this month that there was a restructuring plan hearing held in April, where all Greensill creditors and over three quarters of "other" creditors opposed the restructuring, which was set to be voted on by a judge at a sanction hearing this week.

Sarah Champion said that Liberty's Speciality Steels UK (SSUK) potentially withdrawing from restructuring is "deeply worrying and will be a cause of great concern to Liberty employees in Rotherham."

A judge was due to decide if restructuring can go ahead. Without the plan, SSUK would likely head towards administration, winding up and liquidation.

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The MP said: "I am extremely worried that this decision places in doubt the future of steel making at Liberty's sites in my constituency.



"It is crucial that agreement is reached between Liberty and its creditors to ensure the future of Rotherham’s steelworks, and the businesses throughout their supply chains that depend upon them.

"I have written to Liberty Steel seeking urgent clarity on the implications of these reports and will be doing all that I can to safeguard the future of steel production in Rotherham."

Liberty put in place a specialist committee to accelerate a restructuring and refinancing project which has seen investment and focus on Aldwarke in Rotherham.

UK operations have since October 2021 been supported by £210m loss funding by Liberty's shareholder to maintain employment, operations, and growth potential. 2023 included a restructuring programme affecting 440 roles - including 185 roles at its Rotherham sites.

Court documents from February regarding Greensill creditors and Speciality Steel UK Ltd show that the Liberty company has a debt with them of approximately £289m. The debts owed to Greensill creditors in respect of the activities of the GFG Group amount, in broad terms, to some US$4 billion.

The government recently published its Plan for Steel which reiterated that up to £2.5 billion would be put towards supporting the steel industry,

Liberty continues to call for strategic capability investments including a new Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) and slab caster at the Rotherham mill "which could increase the site’s production capacity from 1.2Mtpa to 2Mtpa and provide the UK with the capability needed for the next generation of offshore wind towers."

Liberty Steel website

Images: Google Maps

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News: £28m battery company project falls flat, millions of public money lost

A £28m investment project to create a manufacturing base for a new type of battery in South Yorkshire appears to have died - a long with the 500 promised jobs and millions of pounds in public sector loans and grants.

Rothbiz reported in 2023 that Rotherham was confirmed as the location for the Ultimate Battery Company's (UBC's) first manufacturing plant and innovation centre, set to create 495 highly skilled jobs by early 2026.

The announcement followed on from the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) agreeing to support the private company with £5.2m in loans and grants.

Premises at Thurcroft were identified and recruitment got underway.

Now the same New Orchard Lane property is back on the market to rent with agents, CPR, and the Ultimate Battery Company has switched its address back to Manchester with Companies House.

SYMCA pledged financial support to enable the firm to set up a new research and development centre and manufacturing facility in the region to develop lighter, more energy dense batteries for the automotive sector. Boards were told that it would create 495 new jobs.

UBC aims to deliver a new battery that provides Lithium-like performance at 35% of the cost, enables twice the energy to be stored in the same physical space and provides a faster charging rate. These batteries would significantly reduce weight by up to 15Kg per vehicle, driving down CO2 emissions and manufacturing costs, while increasing energy densities.

Now it is clear that specific loans to local entities have been written-off, with the likelihood that SYMCA will not be repaid.

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A SYMCA audit report shows that a loan of £3.2m to the Ultimate Battery Company (UBC), supported by a Gainshare funding grant of £2m, has been written off.

Using devolved government money, the South Yorkshire Gainshare funding has been designed to support both place-based investment plans, and key thematic areas that aim to deliver the stronger, fairer and greener policy objectives outlined within economic plans.

The report states: "At a programme level, direct investments into businesses in the strategically important sector of advanced manufacturing were expected to enable both the growth of indigenous businesses and attract inward investment by supporting businesses from outside of the region to establish themselves in South Yorkshire."

The loan to UBC was evaluated by SYMCA under its assurance framework and deemed to be well aligned to the plans. However, due to issues encountered by the projects, the company has since ceased trading without the repayment of loans to the authority.

The report talks of the "subsequent unrecoverable nature" of the loan so SYMCA engaged an independent consultant to inform the national evaluator's Gateway Review of these investments.

The report adds: "This review resulted in a number of key lessons learned being identified and an action plan is currently underway and will be published once the Final Review Report has been received. We note that the external consultant did note that the business case process followed for these investments was deemed to be fit for purpose and the issues and difficulties experienced by these companies could not have been foreseen. We have therefore not identified a significant weakness in governance arrangements in relation to the circumstances of these loan write-offs and will follow up on the resulting action plan as part of our 2024-25 review of arrangements."

Ultimate Battery Company website
SYMCA website

Images: CPR

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