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: 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: 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: 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

Images: Steel City Drone Pilot / Google Maps

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News: New Rotherham restaurant opens at Forge Island

Sygnature Dish has opened in Rotherham, bringing steak and seafood to Forge Island.

Rothbiz reported in March that an independent restaurant from local entrepreneurs would be the second food operator at the town centre's new landmark leisure destination.

Delivered by Rotherham Council in partnership with Muse, the £47m development includes an 8-screen boutique cinema operated by The Arc Cinema, a 69-roomed Travelodge Hotel.

Loungers plc, the West Country-based café/bar group, opened Vetro Lounge in April as the first food venue on Forge Island.

Sygnature Dish has taken Unit 3 - a 2,580 sq ft unit adjacent to the hotel, opposite the cinema and across from Vetro Lounge.

Dalu and Sibbs Sikhosana are the enterprising siblings behind Sygnature Dish and are well known from Sub Sahara, an authentic family-run African shop and butchery in Rotherham town centre. Sub Sahara was established in August 2023 by owners who have a combined experience of retail and hospitality industry of over 30 years.

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The new website for Sygnature Dish explains: "Specialising in high-quality, expertly cooked steaks and freshly sourced seafood, Sygnature Dish will serve lunch and dinner alongside a selection of cocktails plus local and international beers. Diners will be able to indulge in the finest cuts of T-bone, sirloin and rib-eye steaks, along with beef ribs and burgers.

"There’ll be a range of seafood on the menu too, including salmon, grilled/fried calamari, mussels, prawns and the fish of the day.

"The menu will also feature chicken, pasta, vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options to suit all tastes and if you want to sample more than one dish, you’ll be able to create your own platter.

"Whether it’s a special occasion, a pre/post-cinema outing or a casual meal with family and friends, Sygnature Dish will provide a warm and stylish setting for every guest to enjoy top-quality food."

The full menu is set to be available from Friday July 24.

The modern interior has been created for the restaurant by Tailored Kollektiv.

Rothbiz revealed in June that Heavenly Desserts was planning to take a unit at Forge Island.

Sygnature Dish website
Forge Island website

Images: Sygnature Dish

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News: Contractor appointed to Rotherham country park revamp

A local firm is set to get to work on a café refurbishment project and outdoor landscaping at a country park in Rotherham.

Securing money from the Government's Levelling Up Fund (LUF), £19.9m was awarded for a number of connected projects which aim to build a new leisure industry that responds to the challenges of economic recovery and health and well-being.

A £2.5m improvement plan for Thrybergh Country Park moved a step closer in 2023 after Rotherham Council's plans for a new café building were approved but in July 2024, the council's cabinet approved a new way forward which meant that there was a "reduced scope" for the Thrybergh scheme where a brand new café building was scrapped and replaced by a refurbished café and outside space.

Following market testing, the project required "revised budgets as a result of the impact of inflation and the volatile national and international construction market."

The new scheme has been given a budget of £789,873 and approved plans, drawn up by the council's design and projects team, showed a refurbishment and alteration of the existing café building, and revised level access arrangements with the creation of a new ramped entrance and landing.

The development also includes increasing the size of an existing outdoor seating/terrace area, with associated hard and soft landscaping works. Fixed external canopies to accommodate covered seating for visitors of the café and country park could also be added.

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A new entrance would be to the lakeside with booth seating inside to make more efficient use of space. The new café design provides up to 60 covers internally, whilst the outdoor terrace will provide space for up to 100 covers externally.

Wath-based O&P Construction has been appointed as the main contractor for the project were physical works are programmed to commence in "late July 2025 and complete by December 2025."

A limited café offer will be maintained from the adjacent building throughout the delivery of the works.

O&P began back in 1971 and now turn over £20m of projects a year. It is currently working on a £3m school extension construction project at Waverley.

The work at the café accompanies £325,000 of improvements to the paths around the popular country park.

Thrybergh Reservoir was initially excavated in 1880 and still occupies the land to the present date. It came under the management of Rotherham Council in 1980 and was then developed into a Country Park and Nature Reserve by 1983.

O&P Construction website

Images: RMBC

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News: Tourism boosted Rotherham economy by half a billion pounds in 2024

The latest visitor figures have been released by South Yorkshire Local Visitor Economy Partnership showing significant growth across the region, especially in Rotherham.

An estimated 36.3 million tourism visits were made to South Yorkshire in 2024 bringing a £3.7 billion boost to the region’s visitor economy. This included 32.3 million tourism visits made by day visitors, showing a 5% increase on the previous year, and a 10.5% increase since 2022. Visitors staying in the region were estimated to have spent 9.4m nights in local accommodation.

The data commissioned via the South Yorkshire Local Visitor Economy Partnership and processed by Global Tourism Solution’s STEAM Report, also revealed that visitor activity and spend supports more than 32,101 full time equivalent jobs locally, making it a key sector within the region.

For Rotherham, A total of £509m was generated directly and indirectly within the local economy through visitor and tourism business expenditure, with the economic impact 12.2% up on the previous year.

The stats showed that there were 5.35 million tourism visits to Rotherham in 2024, up 7.5%, and that visitor activity and spend supports more than 4,543 full time equivalent jobs in the borough.

For comparison, in South Yorkshire’s other town, Barnsley, there were 3.9 million tourism visits (up 0.2%), with £382m generated directly and indirectly within the local economy through visitor and tourism business expenditure (up 6.1.%).

Sheffield welcomed 17.4 million visitors, up 4.8% from 2023, generating £1.85 billion – a 10% increase on the previous year.

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Rotherham is home to various visitor attractions such as Gulliver's Valley, Magna, Wentworth Woodhouse and Grimm & Co.

Rothbiz reported last year that The Reytons’ sell-out homecoming gig in Rotherham provided a big boost for the local economy. A study by Sheffield Hallam University revealed that the July 2024 event contributed an impressive £1m to Rotherham’s economy and £1.36m benefit for South Yorkshire.

It marked the largest outdoor music event ever held at Clifton Park, attracting around 20,000 people.

Following a £1.9m refurbishment and upgrade programme, Magna Science Adventure Centre saw annual visitor numbers increase by 20%, going from 87,622 in 2023 to 104,833 in 2024.

2024 also marked the opening of Forge Island which brought a cinema back to Rotherham town centre for the first time in over 30 years.

This year the RHS Flower Show recently visited Rotherham at Wentworth Woodhouse. With the Grade-I listed house as the backdrop, this popular event for gardening enthusiasts and families alike attracted thousands of visitors for the iconic floral displays, talks and tips, markets, stalls, children’s activities as well as delicious food and drink.

2025 also sees Rotherham home to the Children’s Capital of Culture. Created by the children and young people of Rotherham, the festival has already been a huge success with a full programme of events and activities featuring music, dance, drama, film and exhibitions.

Sarah McLeod, CEO of Wentworth Woodhouse and Chair of the South Yorkshire Local Visitor Economy Partnership, said “The STEAM data is invaluable for us a partnership and for the wider visitor economy as it clearly highlights the vital role of this sector in South Yorkshire. By working collaboratively, we can drive sustainable growth, ensuring that—now more than ever—we encourage visitors to stay longer and spend more with our local businesses.”

South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard, said: “We are home to an incredible array of culture, creativity and character. From world-class festivals and iconic sporting events to museums that tell our story and music that’s known around the world - we are a place that inspires.

“Our heritage and culture don’t just enrich our lives and shape who we are - they drive our economy too. With a £3.7billion boost and over 32,000 jobs supported, the impact of arts, culture, and tourism is clear: when we invest in our people our places and our stories, we create growth and opportunity, and we build hope.”

The South Yorkshire Local Visitor Economy Partnership (SYLVEP) is a collaboration between Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, City of Doncaster Council, Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council, Sheffield City Council, South Yorkshire Combined Mayoral Authority (SYMCA) and the private sector. Its purpose is to work collectively on shared priorities and targets to foster the growth of the local visitor economy.

Images: The Reytons / Magna

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News: Council continues to collaborate with Chantry to help Save The Alma

Rotherham Council says that it is committed to working with the private sector to help keep a project going that would create a live music venue in Rotherham town centre and help save a historic building.

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

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

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

The issue was recently discussed as the council's cabinet agreed to approve the reallocation of funding from the music venue project to progress plans for a community hub for health provision in the former Boots building in the town centre. The funding would cover estimated costs of £1.7m.

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Simon Moss, Assistant Director, Planning, Regeneration and Transport at Rotherham Council, explained to councillors: "We think a music venue would be beneficial but it has been problematic. We've looked at a number of buildings since the funding came forward a few years ago and there are challenges with bringing back old buildings into use.

"It has been through a few iterations and has been challenging but we still believe it is a valuable thing to push for in the town centre.

"We are looking at The Alma, which is next to The Cutler's, and there is already a music operation there - relatively small, but successful. We are planning to build some housing around that site, so dealing with that issue is something that we think is worthwhile as well, trying to work with the current operator to protect the continuation of music at that venue.

"The proposal is to downsize some of the proposals at that site. When we've worked through the design process, we don't think it is affordable, so we are looking at still keeping some funding allocated to that project but more around remediating the site, protecting what's there, but actually looking at what we can do to bring forward a music venue through other delivery means."

It is expected that support from the private sector is required if the project is to be realised. The initial ideas involved an L-shaped new building on land behind, and to the side of The Alma, creating a venue with a capacity of 500 - 600 and the main entrance in the vacant pub,

Moss added: "There are challenges that the public sector faces in delivering end-to-end regeneration solutions - we need that confidence and consideration of risk with funds. And the private sector, of course, can sometimes play a different type of role in bringing things forward."

In 2023 Rotherham Council acquired all land and properties owned by Satnam Urban Regeneration Ltd in the Sheffield Road area which included the 200 space Westgate Car Park and the two pubs.

Lorna Vertigan, head of regeneration at RiDO, said: "It's a complex building [The Alma}. It's not in a good condition and what we are trying to bring is also quite a complex build in terms of its power supply and its M&E [mechanical and electrical] requirements etc. and we were just finding that costs at each stage of development were going up and up and up and it just felt like it had come to a point really where "the public sector can't do this on their own" they need private interventions and that is something that we are going to need more and more over time. The nature of the provision also leans it more towards the private sector.

"It is really important to point out that we are still really committed to it [a live music venue] and really do want to support something. They are our buildings so if nothing else, we have got a duty to do something in there. In the next phase, we will still have money allocated to it and we are looking at what remedial works we can bring forward to help the private sector and what a private sector "acquisition / disposal / I don't know yet." might look like.

"We are certainly not turning our back on it but I think we have to draw a line at some point."

The 1907 rebuilding of The Cutler's was part of a general rebuilding in Westgate to provide a broader highway into the town to relieve traffic congestion. The Alma was rebuilt in 1909 and is noteworthy for the use of architectural lettering and the reference to Bentleys Rotherham Ales on the facade.

Chantry Brewery was established in Parkgate in 2012 and reopened The Cutler's in 2014 following a restoration, inside and out. Live music has been a constant at the venue with a temporary outdoor marquee almost always at the rear.

Vertigan described Chantry as "a great asset to the town centre" and added: "We have worked really closely with Chantry Brewery over this last six months to a year or so and I think that one of the primary drivers is, I think, to make sure that they are sustainable in the long term.

"It is a successful and very popular venue so we are thinking of them more as the operator. The original plans that we looked at for The Alma surrounded the back and incorporated both properties. We are still talking to them about what they might like to do.

"I know it is a bit of a dream for them to have The Alma as well and we still want to really help support them."

Chantry Brewery website

Images: Google Maps / RMBC

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News: Rother Valley upgrade planned

The popular visitor destination in Rotherham, Rother Valley Country Park, is getting another investment to accompany the new lakeside café.

Rothbiz reported last year that work had begun on a £7.4m contract to build a new waterfront development, housing a new 150-seater eatery and indoor function space with views extending over the lake.

The new development will also include external landscaping with an area for play outside the café for younger visitors. In addition, visitors will also benefit from new car parking facilities to the East of the lake, which will greatly improve accessibility and visitor experience.

The improvements at the popular country park are part of wider aims to build a thriving leisure offer and visitor economy in Rotherham.

Rotherham Council secured almost £20m from the government’s Levelling Up Fund to create new jobs and celebrate the hidden gems and green spaces that are unique to Rotherham’s heritage, transforming Rotherham into a major leisure destination.

Now a planning application has been submitted for a raft of new play equipment at the country park.

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Play options have been limited at the park in recent years. The paid-for play area called Adventure Valley closed and never re-opened and the free play area was reduced during COVID.

New plans show that the small play area at the Northern end of the park near main Lake and Northern Lake is getting an upgrade with the installation of a multi-unit play equipment item as part of a new play area for the country park.

Proposals include a large multi unit with play feature activities such as a large slide, a step ladder, a climber, a ramp with climbing nodules and double sided, vertical vine climber. A sloped climbing wall, a liana rope climber, vertical rock climb and foot/hand hold access offer more challenging activities.

Across the play area. new toddler and junior swings, and a cantilever basket swing are shown, along with various play crossings such as beams, net bridges and striding stilts. A timber bali house, spinnning disc, telescope, bug magnifier and hammock complete the setup.

The planning application is required as the multi unit piece of equipment reaches four metres in height and the site is in the green belt.

The investment is part of Rotherham Council's Children’s Playgrounds Programme, with Rother Valley Country Park being part of phase one.

Last year a £919,000 Capital budget allocation was approved by Rotherham Council for a three-year period from 2024 to 2027 to improve play provision at Thrybergh Country Park, Rother Valley Country Park and at least six additional play areas, which would otherwise not be funded for refurbishment or replacement.

£380,000 was set aside for an initial three play areas at Chestnut Grove, Dinnington Rother Valley Country Park and Thrybergh Country Park.

Last month, phase two of the programme - the next five children’s playgrounds to be replaced, to the value of £536k - were approved. These are: Wath Skate Park; Rosehill Victoria Park, Rawmarsh; Cherry Tree Park, Maltby; Ferham Park; Packman Way, West Melton; with Old Hall, Kimberworth in reserve.

Rother Valley Country Park website

Images: Google Maps

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News: Rotherham restaurant rebrands as sports bar & grill

A popular Rotherham restaurant that closed suddenly in May has rebooted its social media and online presence, hinting that a new future is about to kick off at the venue.

Rothbiz reported that "heartbroken" operators at The Big Smoke were closing the restaurant on the edge of Rotherham town centre in the face of rising costs.

Now The Big Smoke Facebook page has been rebranded as The Press Box - a new sports bar in Rotherham that is set to open in August.

The move makes sense given the family operators were also involved in the Sport Box in Rotherham town centre that has recently changed hands again.

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A new website explains: "Rotherham just got its game-changer.

"Fourteen screens showing multiple sports at once, so you’ll never miss the action. Proper sports bar atmosphere with sports bar food, cold beer, and cocktails that will keep you coming back.

"But we’ve gone further than just screens and good grub. Golf simulator featuring world-class courses for when you want to test your swing. Two 22-foot shuffleboards perfect for group competitions. Three traditional dart boards plus one interactive lane. A fussball table. Pool tables for serious matches and friendly rivalries. The Press Box has everything you need for mate dates and competitive sessions that settle debates once and for all."

The venue promises to be the destination for big sporting events, from "Masters tournaments with prize competitions to Super Bowl parties with corn dogs."

With a 4,600 sq ft ground floor, The Big Smoke opened during COVID in 2020 "dedicated to the majesty of meats," taking on the former Florence Nightingale pub at Moorgate, which was previously turned into a restaurant and operated as Modern China.

A post regarding the closure, which was with immediate effect, said: "Due to rising costs and mounting financial pressures, we’ve found ourselves in an impossible position.

"Since April 1st, our overheads and supplier costs have soared, driven by changes brought in by a government that feels completely out of touch with the realities of small, independent businesses like ours. We’ve done everything we can, but the numbers just don’t add up anymore."

The Press Box Rotherham website

Images: Press Box / Google Maps

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News: Council set to change track over live music venue

A regeneration project based around creating a live music venue in Rotherham town centre highlights the difficulties working with heritage buildings and public sector funding.

Support from the private sector is required if the project is to be realised.

Rothbiz reported in 2021 that the plan for the Guest & Chrimes site was to use £4.5m of the government's Town Deal funding to create a micro-brewery and fan zone at the former foundry which sits alongside Rotherham United's New York Stadium and further updates confirmed that a large music venue was in the plans.

However, later in 2022, the council confirmed that it was not able to reach an agreement with the football club and attention switched to another potential building and creating a live music venue in the former Empire Theatre on Ship Hill. In 2024 feasibility concerns with the Empire were such that attention moved to the another building, the remains of the Alma Tavern, a building now in council ownership.

But now it appears that similar feasibility issues have arisen with the Alma which is not a listed building (unlike the saved and re-opened Cutler's Arms next door) but is in severe disrepair following a fire and years of abandonment.

A council report confirms that £4.5m is not enough to bring the building back to life as a venue within the timeframe of the funding. It states: "Stage 2 designs have now been completed and the updated cost plan demonstrates a cost significantly in excess of the funding available. Therefore, while there are benefits of supporting music provision in the Town Centre, the costs of the project are proving prohibitive to the public sector.

"It is therefore proposed to seek private sector support for the project and the methodology for this is currently in review."

Government pathfinder funding is set to be moved away from the live music venue project to the health hub project reported by Rothbiz earlier this week.

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Plans for the Alma redevelopment were submitted to the council's planning department as part of pre-application discussions. The early plans explain that Chantry Brewery, the operators of the Cutlers and a music venue within its brewery at Parkgate, are the intended occupiers of a live music venue at the Alma.

Plans so far have looked at creating a music venue with a capacity of 500 - 600. Keeping the Alma's ornate facade and using it as an entrance and making use of the adjacent land, currently an MOT garage, were also assessed.

The preferred option in the sketchbook involves an L-shaped new building on land behind, and to the side of the Alma, creating a main entrance in the vacant pub, with the stage at the rear and the front of house (including bar and courtyard), back of house and a main standing area in between. Plans show seating and standing areas on the upper floor overlooking the stage, along with another bar and dressing rooms. External amenity space is shown at the back of the building.

In the time since the public sector looked at the historic buildings, redevelopment plans have been brought forward by the private sector.

At the Guest & Chrimes, a company connected to the owners of the football club has submitted a planning application to transform the historic former foundry into a high quality hotel.

At The Empire, renovation work is underway with possible uses including a multi-purpose community arts venue.

Alongside this, Rotherham Council set aside regeneration funding to undertake market testing and an options appraisal for the provision of a performing arts venue in Rotherham town centre as the current Civic Theatre building has challenges in terms of capacity, opportunity for growth and its general condition.

Images: RMBC / AHR

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News: Date revealed for Rancheros reopening in Rotherham

Operators of a popular Rotherham restaurant that has been closed for over a year have confirmed when it will reopen.

Rothbiz reported earlier this month on Rancheros Bar and Grill reactivating its social media accounts to announce that it would be firing up the grill.

The operators of Rancheros, and near neighbours, Roadhouse Bar & Bottles both posted in 2024 that they had closed their venues in the Stag area "due to circumstances outside of our control."

Roadhouse went on to open another micropub in a former opticians on Laughton Road in Dinnington but the Stag venues have remained closed.

A post on social media from Rancheros Rodízio Bar & Grill reads: "We are happy to announce that we are now working everyday getting ourselves ready to open our doors on 15th July at 5pm.

"We can’t thank you enough for your love and support."

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Activity has been taking place over recent weeks at the restaurant and operators have confirmed that the reopening will be at the same Wickersley Road unit.

Rancheros brought Brazilian and Latin cuisines to the borough, converting an empty retail unit into a restaurant and bar at Stag Roundabout. Opening when Covid-19 restrictions were still in place, the venue became a hit with TripAdvisor reviewers who made it the number one ranked restaurant in the town.

The restaurant was from Doncaster-based restaurant entrepreneur, Masud Rana, owner of La Boca and La Rustica in Doncaster town centre, and the La Fiesta tapas restaurant in Armthorpe. Whilst the Rotherham branch underwent a revamp in 2022, the Doncaster branch of Rancheros closed in 2023, within a year of opening.

A new company, Rancheros Rodizio Ltd, with a new director, was incorporated recently with Companies House.

Images: Rancheros / Facebook / Google Maps

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News: New openings in Rotherham town centre

Something for your mind, body, soul and stomach! New openings in Rotherham town centre.

A new pilates studio is one of the first tenants to open in a converted Victorian mill in town.

Opening this week in Bridge Court, Opus Pilates has created a boutique studio which it describes as a "beautifully designed, high-end space where you can focus on strength, mobility, and well-being."

Pilates is a form of exercise that focuses on balance, posture, strength and flexibility. The new Rotherham studio offers expert-led classes including Reformer, Mat Pilates and Barre.

Directors of the business are Shannon Cant and Tyler Williams.

A post on social media about the opening states: "More than just a Pilates studio - Opus is your new go-to for movement, mindfulness and modern wellness. From expertly-led classes and genuine connection to wellness shots, cold towels and post-workout drinks - it’s all in the details. Come for the Pilates, stay for the experience."

Rothbiz reported in 2022 that the former mill building had gone up for sale.

Situated close to Rotherham Central Station, the interesting property on Greasbrough Road was called Bridge Mill and has now been renovated and converted into five units - all of which are listed as being let.

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Across town on Grove Road, offices that were planned to be converted into flats have instead been repurposed as art space for ROAR (Rotherham Open Arts Renaissance).

The non profit is dedicated to supporting creative practices and promoting the arts in Rotherham. Studio space is being offered to artists, makers, and creative professionals.

In the Old Town Hall, final preparations are being made for the opening of a new entertainment venue.

Rothbiz reported last month on PokiLee's PokiWorld securing planning permission to enable an expansion into a next door unit.

The Pokémon-themed shop and café is set to open the Evolution Arcade soon.

On the High Street, plans are in place (plaice?) to open a new fish and chip shop in a former barbershop.

At 21 High Street, in the middle of a row of restored heritage buildings, plans were submitted last year to add another storey and create three flats above the former Cutthroats barbers.

With Cutthroats moving to nearby Doncaster Gate, a planning application has recently been submitted regarding an extraction system at 21 High Street which explains: "The new proposed use is to be a Chip Shop and as such an extract duct is required to extract heat from the new fryers.

"This proposal will allow the ground floor of the building to be used and will help to bolster the town centre while hopefully bringing more custom to the high street."

The application is from SME Holdings Ltd and Mark McGrail, the businessman that spearheaded the restoration of the nearby George Wright building, creating a boutique hotel in the Grade II listed "hidden gem" of a building.

SME Holdings Ltd is also involved with plans for a new spa and a golf-themed bar complete with a simulator setup.

Rothbiz reported in March on the plans helping to bring Rotherham back to life, including The Bunka and The Bath House on Snail Hill.

At Forge Island, the town centre's new landmark leisure destination, Sygnature Dish, a new steak and seafood restaurant is "set to open in late June 2025."

Opus Pilates website
ROAR website
PokiWorld website
The Bunka website
The Bath House website
Sygnature Dish website

Images: Opus Pilates / Google Maps

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News: Gulliver's Valley adds new rides and experiences

Two brand new rides have officially opened at Gulliver’s Valley in Rotherham with operators also confirming that a lantern show will take place this winter in a first of its kind for the popular resort.

Gulliver’s Theme Park Resorts was founded by Ray Phillips and his late wife Hilary, who opened the family’s first theme park, Gulliver’s Kingdom in Matlock Bath, in 1978 - beginning a life-long passion for the family to provide great value days out and short breaks to generations of children across the UK.

Opening adjacent to Rother Valley Country Park in 2020, Gulliver's Valley is the company's fourth park aimed at families with children aged two to 13-years-old and each offering a great variety of rides, attractions and accommodation options, as well as a calendar packed full of special events throughout the year.

In Rotherham the Gulliver’s Gears area has been expanded with the opening of its new ‘Turbo Tower’ and ‘Crazy Planes’ rides.

Turbo Tower gives riders treetop views of the surrounding Rother Valley before plunging them down a 15m drop. Manufactured by SBF Visa, the ride is set to be one of the most popular at the resort.

Guests can now also buckle up and take a flight on the super Crazy Planes ride which spins guests through the skies!

The two new rides add to the motor-themed Gears area which already boasts the Grand Prix Racers roller coaster, Carfari which gives riders a delightful drive in vintage themed cars and the theme park classic, Dodge City dodgems.

Craig Seedhouse, resort director at Gulliver’s Valley, said: “In our fifth anniversary year, we are really excited to have our two newest rides open for all to enjoy, enhancing our Gulliver’s Gears area and giving people even more reason to pay our fantastic resort a visit this spring and summer!

“We are always looking at ways to enhance our park and bring new experiences and memories for families to enjoy and these new rides do just that. We’re really looking forward to a fun-packed season ahead and hope as many people as possible will come and join us. Gulliver’s Valley is better than ever!”

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Later in the year Land of Lights, which will light up the skies at the Rotherham theme park, will be a mile-long visual voyage exploring 12 vivid dreamworlds of imagination and illumination.

The highly-anticipated festival, which has taken place at Gulliver’s resort in Milton Keynes since 2022 and Gulliver’s World Resort in Warrington since 2023, will now also see Gulliver’s Valley join the winter fun for the first time.

It will open on selected dates from November 2025 and run until January 2026.

Julie Dalton, managing director of Gulliver’s Theme Park Resorts, said: “Our Land of Light events have proven to be extremely popular at Milton Keynes and Warrington with each received thousands of visitors every year, so we are delighted to be extending into Gulliver’s Valley in Rotherham for the first time giving even more people the chance to experience what truly is a magical event.

“Land of Lights 2025 promises to be a breathtaking spectacle, featuring an all-new collection of lanterns covering 12 dreamworlds including an array of incredible dinosaurs. In addition, there will be music, entertainment and street food on offer.

“As a family-company, Gulliver’s is always looking at new ways for families to create magical memories and spend quality time together and Land of Lights does just that. The festival will also help to boost the local economy with the creation of more jobs and bringing more people into South Yorkshire which is always welcome news.

“It’s a fantastic attraction not just for those from the immediate area but we also expect people to visit from far and wide because it really is an eye-opening experience suitable for all the family. It’s a great opportunity to get Rotherham on the map and showcase something spectacular in the run up to Christmas.

“We are expecting a lot of interest so would encourage people to sign up to our exclusive mailing list which will shine a light on sneak peeks and big announcements. We hope as many people as possible will join us this winter.”

Land of Light won in the Best New Event category at last year's UK Theme Park Awards where Gulliver's Valley picked up a Gold award for Best Theme Park for families.

Gulliver's Valley website

Images: Gulliver's

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News: Early plans set out to bring padel to Rotherham

Plans could be about to be served up to bring the fast-growing, fast-paced, social racket sport of padel to Rotherham.

A puropse-built facility could breathe new life into a Rotherham golf course..

Padel is a form of tennis that originated in Mexico in 1969, grew across South America before making it to Spain. The sport is now rapidly expanding across Europe.

The LTA says that since 2020 the number of padel courts in Britain grew from 50 to over 800, while annual participation rose from 15,000 in 2019 to 400,000 players in 2025.

Now a pre-application planning enquiry has been made to ascertain Rotherham Council's opinions on the potential introduction of new padel courts at The Grange Golf Club in Kimberworth.

Rothbiz reported last year on new investors coming on board at the former municipal course.

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Top Play Limited, which shares directors with Pocket Sports Bars Ltd and other Eyre family businesses, talked about a significant refurbishment and upgrade to the current facilities.

Padel is played on what looks like a smaller tennis court enclosed by walls made of glass or mesh. It is predominantly played as doubles and suitable for anyone to play as it is easy to learn the basic skills.

Early plans show two options for locating the courts. Four courts could be positioned opposite the club house next to the farm buildings used by the greenkeepers for storage. Alternatively, four courts could be located alongside the access road as it enters the current car park.

Grange Park Golf Club was laid out in the 1970's on former coal workings where the freehold ownership passed to the Council. The course and clubhouse was let to Grange Park Golf Club Limited in 2005.

The leases expired with the tenant having the right to renewal but Rotherham Council were reluctant to sign a new lease as it was owed over £250,000 in rent and business rates.

Grange Park Golf Club website

Images: LTA

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News: Revamped Rotherham Watersplash to be UK's largest

An environmentally friendly revamp of Clifton Park’s much-loved waterplay is set to be finished in time for the summer holidays.

Rotherham Council's leader says that it is the largest free-to-use attraction of its kind in the country.

Originally created in 2008 as part of a Heritage Lottery Funded project, the waterplay has been a firm favourite among children and families for the last 15 years.

However, because of its popularity, wear and tear has started to have an impact, with some equipment no longer working.

Following extensive public consultation with park visitors, local schools, SEND groups and other stakeholders, plans are now in motion to transform the facility into a modern, accessible and inclusive play space that will serve the community for years to come.

The new £900,000 facility – delivered by contractor Ustigate - will include enhanced safety standards and modern, interactive equipment, which will encourage imaginative and active play. Improved accessibility will ensure all children can enjoy the space, which will encourage learning about water conservation and the environment.

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With the environment in mind, the area will also include a more modern operating system, meaning more efficient water use.

Plans show new features such as twist nozzles and spinning orbs, small splash buckets, fountain sprays, the Bamboo Ring where two jets collide creating a refreshing cloud of droplets, water cannons, water jets and the larger Super Splash bucket. In a nod to the 1930's water area, a paddling pool is also set to feature.

Cllr Victoria Cusworth, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People at Rotherham Council, said: “Our aim is for every neighbourhood in Rotherham to be a thriving neighbourhood, and part of that commitment is to enhance our green spaces like Clifton Park.

“The redevelopment the park’s waterplay is more than just a facelift - it’s a commitment to enhancing community infrastructure, promoting health and wellbeing, and creating a safe and engaging space for children to play.

“We know how much residents enjoy the current facility. However, much of the equipment is outdated, with some features no longer working. That’s why we’re forging ahead with a scheme that will replace old infrastructure and equipment and make sure that children are able to easily access a high quality waterplay facility.

“The revamp of the waterplay is just one of a series of investments we’ve made in the last year in family-friendly facilities across the borough, including in play areas, a new SEND hub, our baby pack project and at Forge Island. This particular investment will encourage physical activity, family engagement, and environmental awareness and put outdoor play at the heart of the community.”

Updating members at a recent council meeting, Cllr. Chris Read, leader of Rotherham Council, said: "Work is underway on Clifton Park's watersplash which is apparently, I'm advised, the largest free watersplash in the country. And if not, I think that is something that you can keep claiming until somebody corrects you!"

Clifton Park website

Images: RMBC

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News: Rotherham Pokémon store looking to level up

Expansion could be on the cards at a Pokémon-themed shop and café in Rotherham town centre.

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

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

Now a planning application has been approved for a potential new expansion project at PokiLee's PokiWorld, converting storage space into an amusement arcade.

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Lee explained: "Families can come to purchase Pokémon products such as packs, cards etc and then open them in the coffee house seating area. This is Unit 20- 21 where we are currently trading. This does extremely well and has customers coming in from all over the country to visit.

"[I] currently use the next door unit (18 to 19 Old Town Hall) for storage, my plan is to add double doors to access the next door unit to open a small arcade section for families to enjoy.

"As the arcade would be accessible via our store area there will be minimal machine noise as not to bother customers or other businesses and more importantly to be able to monitor who is coming in and out of the arcade (along with the many security cameras we have installed).

"The opening times of the arcade will be the same as the store, meaning the earliest opening time is 10am and the latest closing time is 6:30pm, this ensures we are not bothering any other businesses at late hours - no sound pollution or annoyances."

Approving the plans, Rotherham Council officers said that the new use would not go against local planning policies and dilute the concentration of shops in the secondary shopping frontage below 30%. They added that it would reintroduce an active shop frontage and look to make a positive contribution to the units of the Old Town Hall, not appearing out of character, or cause harm to other units in the building.

Planners concluded that the proposal would enhance the viability and vitality of Rotherham town centre.

PokiLee's PokiWorld website

Images: Pokilee's PokiWorld

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News: Get ready to raise your glass - Vetro Lounge opens in Rotherham next week

Loungers plc, the West Country-based café/bar group, is opening Vetro Lounge in Rotherham town centre on Wednesday April 30, creating around 30 jobs for local people.

Rothbiz revealed at the end of 2024 that Loungers UK Limited had applied for a premises licence for a unit at Forge Island, indicating that it would operate under the Lounge brand.

Loungers has transformed the site at Forge Island - heavily patterned wallpapers, tiling and stripped wooden floors now feature alongside oversized vintage sofas, upholstered lounge chairs, eclectic artwork and statement wall and pendant lighting, creating a variety of cosy and elegant drinking and dining areas to choose from.

A real home-from-home, Vetro Lounge will cater for all tastes throughout the day with a varied and innovative all-day menu. Whether it is a coffee with friends, a long lazy brunch with family or a relaxed dinner and drinks, Vetro Lounge is the perfect place to relax and unwind in good company.

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John English, Head of Community at Loungers, says: “We can’t wait to open the doors of Vetro Lounge next week. Our Lounges strive to put community at the heart of hospitality and our teams always go the extra mile to make a difference. They are actively encouraged to connect with their communities by working with local groups, charities, organisations, and businesses that are at the heart of the fabric of local life. We are very much looking forward to welcoming local residents to Vetro Lounge.”

Starting as the mean to continue, Vetro Lounge has partnered with local charity The Team Ted Foundation and will donate 50p from every burger and 20p from each coffee sold in the first month of trading to the cause.

The all-day menu will feature everything from breakfast, tapas and salads to burgers and buttermilk fried chicken, with those following a vegan or gluten-free diet, well catered for with their very own menus.

Particular attention will be paid to families with a selection of games, books, colouring pencils and pads on offer. A full menu, high chairs and baby-changing facilities are also available for Little Loungers.

Vetro means glass in Italian. Rotherham has a long history of glassmaking. Glass packaging manufacturer Beatson Clark has been making glass bottles and jars in Rotherham since 1751. The Glassworks Cone at Catcliffe is the oldest surviving structure of its type in Western Europe and one of only four to remain in the UK.

Lounge, which currently operates at The Glass Works in Barnsley and Fox Valley in Sheffield, is operated by Loungers plc. The AIM-listed firm, which also operates the Cosy Club bar and dining concept, and Brightside roadside dining, is currently undergoing a buyout by an American investment group which places its value at £350.5m.

The company is opening within the 5,618 sq ft Unit 4 at Forge Island, which is the largest of the remaining units. Work continues on the next outlet, Sygnature Dish, which is set to bring steak and seafood to Rotherham town centre.

Vetro Lounge website

Images: Loungers

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News: New heading for Rotherham sailing club

Contractors, Kier are making headway with a multimillion pound development at a Rotherham country park and now plans have been drafted for a new home for a local sailing club.

A £7.4m contract got underway at the end of 2024 for an improvement and regeneration project at Rother Valley Country Park in Rotherham, the centrepiece being a new waterfront café.

Rotherham Council confirmed last year that the scope for the project had reduced with some aspects of the orignal plans removed, affecting the future of Firbeck Sailing Club.

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A planning application from Kier and Rotherham Council explains: "A new visitors centre is being provided on the existing site historically occupied by Firbeck Sailing Club. A development site had been designated just south of the Water Sports & Activities Centre building to rehome Firbeck Sailing club, however, due to budgetary restrictions associated with redeveloping this site, a new location has been selected further south along the lake which will provides a more cost-effective location to construct a new boat storage and welfare facility for Firbeck Sailing Club."

The new site is closer to the Cable Waterski & Aqua Park - the North of England's biggest cable wake park.

Proposals are to construct a sailing club with parking spaces, boat bays and a welfare unit. The secure storage compound also includes a slipway.

Built on grassland, the propsal will result in both the permanent and temporary loss and/or alteration of some of the habitats located on the proposed re-development site. Consultant's reports and the council's ecology department make a number of reccomendations regarding the loss of habitats and biodiversity net gain.

Securing money from the Government's Levelling Up Fund (LUF), £19.9m was awarded for a number of connected projects which aim to build a new leisure industry that responds to the challenges of economic recovery and health and well-being.

At Rother Valley, physical works were programmed to commence in Autumn 2024 and complete in Autumn 2025.

Images: Firbeck Sailing Club / Facebook

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