News: More pub conversions in Rotherham

Time appears to have been called at a number of vacant pubs in Rotherham, with a range of planning proposals coming forward to bring them back into use.

At Swinton, the Sportsman Inn, that has been vacant for six years, has seen plans approved to change the use of ground floor of the existing public house to a convenience retail store.

The approval comes after a previous refusal for plans for the Fitzwilliam Street pub building that has a mock Tudor external appearance. A number of highway safety concerns and parking issues were raised.

Dispite objections, the planning board at Rotherham Council voted to approve plans that would create a 1,744 sq ft retail unit.

Opening hours would be restricted to 7am to 10pm Mondays to Saturdays and between 7am to 9pm on Sundays.

Measures are also set to be taken to prevent customers from using the front area of the site as off-road parking. This proposal has also wholly removed the customer car park, and the proposed car parking facilities at the rear are now not intended to be used by customers, but by occupants of the first floor residential accommodation and staff only, which will be secured via a planning condition.

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At West Melton, the former Queens pub has secured planning approval to be converted into two retail units on ground floor with two flats above.

The planner's report states that previous plans were refused and dismissed at appeal, adding that "the ground floor of the pub has recently been converted to a hot food takeaway, with three flats to the first floor area. This work was unauthorised."

Previous plans were for three flats and this proposal is for one two bedroom flat and one one bedroom flat which now meet the minimum internal space standards.

At Parkgate, plans have been submitted for the vacant Travellers pub on Broad Street.

The plans involve the conversion of the 3,485 sq ft pub building into seven flats over two floors.

The freehold of the property was recently sold by agents from a guide price of £225,000.

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News: Council refines Rotherham shop front grant scheme

Priority areas across the borough have been the target in the latest round of shop front grants from Rotherham Council.

46 businesses successfully secured funding to make improvements to the premises through the initial scheme.

£270,000 was utilised from the government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and a decision was made in December 2025 to allocate a further £117,643 to the project from the same pot to meet demand.

The scheme has been given a further funding boost. Rothbiz reported in May that £666,655 (£110,000 revenue and £556,655 capital) had been set aside for Shop Unit Grants from the council's Local Growth Fund allocation.

The latest round of funding has two aspects to enhance the exterior of business premises in eligible High Street locations - one for existing businesses and one to help bring empty units back into use.

Existing businesses have been applying for up to £10,000 for their projects, with them funding anything above this level. This can be for things like exterior re-painting, new windows, doors and shop frontage, improved access and new signage.

A council report explained that "some funding is available to bring empty units back into use, with funding available to support projects up to £20,000. The first £10,000 of the project is 100% funded. Anything up to £20,000 after that is 50% match funded, meaning there is a maximum grant of £15,000 available.

"The Scheme will seek to revitalise local high streets across the borough, through bringing empty units back into use and improving the exteriors of existing buildings. Funding to the internal fabric of building can also be supported in certain cases."

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Priority sites are: Rotherham town centre; Parkgate / Rawmarsh (From the bottom of Rawmarsh Hill and not the retail parks); Dinnington; Maltby; Swinton; Thurcroft; Wath; and Dalton.

Rotherham Council said that applications outside of these areas will be considered on a case-by-case basis but priority will be given the areas.

Empty Shops will have priority, then external works, then internal works to the fabric of the building.

Businesses within eligible locations were previously able to apply for up to £25,000 in grant funding to improve the exterior location of their properties.

A council report on the first year of the scheme states: "Over the course of the scheme, 46 businesses successfully secured funding to make improvements to the premises. Improvements included complete paint refresh of exterior of premises, new windows and shop frontages, improved accessibility for premises, new signage, new lighting to improve visibility, especially at night, new awning, new doors, new carpets internally and some internal refreshment.

"All works were carried out by legitimate local suppliers, who worked with the clients to supply quotes, carry out the work and then invoice for payment to be made.

"Feedback from clients that have undertaken the process has been positive with many stating that the projects would not have been undertaken without the grant funding.

"Not only has the exterior work made the premises look better, new doors, windows and shop frontages have helped to make premises warmer and more economical. Businesses that have carried out internal remodelling have reported that it has made them more attractive to customers."

Prestige Printers in Swinton received a grant in the first wave. They said: “We now look like a modern up to date business, a more inviting and aesthetically pleasing place to enter. We believe our customers both new and old will be with us long into the future. An updated business on the High Street, whereas before we had an outdated, uninviting frontage which gave the impression of us not caring about the business or our customers which was simply not true. We are now ready for the modern age and are very pleased with the finished result."

In addition to the grants, Rotherham Council is recruiting three new High Street Business Advisers, who will work directly with traders in Rotherham town centre and the borough’s principal town centres.

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News: Council confirms support for Rotherham's high street businesses

A new team of advisers will be deployed on Rotherham’s high streets in a bid to give local businesses more hands on support and help town centres thrive.

Rotherham Council’s Cabinet is set to approve the recruitment of three new High Street Business Advisers, who will work directly with traders in Rotherham town centre and the borough’s principal town centres – Wath, Swinton, Dinnington and Maltby.

As reported by Rothbiz, the investment was agreed as part of the council budget in March and forms part of a wider push to strengthen Rotherham’s high streets. A £304,000 figure was included in the council's budget for Supporting the High Street.

Each of the five locations will also benefit from a £25,000 activity fund, designed to back local promotions, events and campaigns to bring more people through the doors of independent shops and services.

Under the plans, the advisers will act as a familiar face for traders, working with them on a range of issues from street safety and cleanliness to promotion, footfall and access to grants.

Rather than focusing on a single issue, the advisers will have oversight of what is happening in each area, coordinating activity around events, crime prevention and wider business support.

The advisers will also play a key role in delivering the popular Shopfront Grants scheme, which has secured a further year of funding for 2026/27 through the Local Growth Fund, worth around £600,000. The oversubscribed scheme has already helped businesses improve the appearance of their premises.

In addition, the team will work with ward councillors, residents and traders to decide how the £25,000 activity budgets in each area are spent, ensuring local priorities shape the projects on the ground. This could include marketing campaigns, seasonal events or joint promotions aimed at increasing footfall.

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A council paper explains that various indicators will be used to measure the impact and success of the activities, and will include the number of businesses supported, the amount of vacant building floorspace brought back into use, and the take up of business support and grants by Rotherham businesses.



Recruitment to the new adviser posts is expected to begin shortly, with the team due to be in place to start work with traders later this year.

Cllr John Williams, Cabinet Member for Transport, Jobs and the Local Economy, said: “Our high streets are the heart of our communities, and this new team of High Street Business Advisers is about giving traders the direct, practical support they’ve told us they need.

“The advisers will be a visible, familiar presence, helping businesses tackle everyday issues, make the most of funding opportunities and work together to attract more people into our town and township centres. Alongside the £25,000 activity fund in each location, this investment will help strengthen Rotherham’s high streets, part of our wider commitment to ensuring our places are thriving, safe and clean.”

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News: Rotherham Council hails "visible difference" made by Street Safe team

Over 1,620 hours of high-profile patrols in Rotherham town centre are part of Rotherham Council's investment aimed at reducing both actual, and perceived crime and Anti-social Behaviour (ASB), and increasing feelings of safety.

Recruited thanks to a £570,000 investment in last year’s budget - the Street Safe Team has been patrolling Rotherham’s town centres daily, providing reassurance to residents, tackling antisocial behaviour, and supporting partner organisations.

The team aims to improve feelings of safety and security in the town centres of Rotherham, Wath, Swinton, Dinnington and Maltby. The team provide a visible, uniformed Council presence, with a particular focus on hot spot areas.

The team has provided dedicated resources utilising their ability to deploy various powers to bolster enforcement and alongside existing uniformed presence, provide a welcoming and reassuring presence in the town centres. By being a highly visible presence, the team has acted as the "eyes and ears" of the Council and are identifying and reporting issues where they are unable to intervene directly.

With Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) in place, the council say that the Street Safe Team has increased its capacity for both preventative and responsive interventions such as building and coordinating local intelligence, dealing with street drinking, anti-social behaviour, as well as enforcement for issues such as littering and wider environmental issues (commercial waste etc). The team will be undertaking parking enforcement once training is complete.

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A report to the council's cabinet sets out that, since going live in November 2025, the team has delivered:

· 1,620 hours of high-profile patrols in Rotherham town centre · 112 hours of patrols across other town centres · 12 Community Protection Warnings · 9 Fixed Penalty Notices relating to PSPO breaches · 17 environmental waste cases raised · 17 intelligence reports, leading directly to arrests in four cases

The team has also provided vital support to vulnerable people, with six referrals for vulnerable adults and four emergency first-aid interventions, including one that uncovered a domestic violence incident.

The authority has also invested in created a Roadside Cleansing team, working with other teams to form a coordinated effort to improve the look, feel and safety of Rotherham’s public spaces.

Cllr. Lynda Marshall, Cabinet Member for Street Scene and Green Spaces, said: “Residents have told us that clean streets and safe neighbourhoods are their top priorities, and these teams are delivering exactly that. You can already see and feel the difference their work is making across our communities.

Cllr. Saghir Alam, Cabinet Member for Finance and Community Safety, added: “This isn’t something the Council is doing alone – it’s all of us together looking after our neighbourhoods, reporting issues, supporting one another and taking pride in where we live.

“With continued investment and the dedication of these new teams, we’re building on this positive progress and creating the cleaner, safer Rotherham that residents expect and deserve.”

A refreshed communications and perception-management plan has been developed focusing on "rebalancing the narrative" around town centre safety, promoting positive developments and encouraging public reporting and the use of support services.

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News: Plans put in for new indoor golf and darts facility

A vacant unit at a Rotherham trade park could be home to double bogeys and double tops as it is targeted for a new sports and leisure destination, according to Visit Rotherham.

Visit Rotherham is the only place that brings together news and events information so you can find out what's on in Rotherham. It reports on a planning application being submitted for Rowms Lane in Swinton, which would enable the change of use. An alcohol licence application has also been submitted.

Sim Roomz is being spearheaded by Scott Dawson and promises a state-of-the-art facility if plans are approved by Rotherham Council.

A post on social media explains: "We’ve secured the very best in indoor sports and entertainment technology. Our state-of-the-art facility will feature top-of-the-range TrackMan indoor golf simulators, allowing you to play like the pros, experience world-class courses from around the globe, and enjoy fun, interactive games for the whole family.

"In addition, we’re bringing you the Target OMNI automated dart scoring system, perfect for players of all levels, alongside pool tables, live sporting events, and a VIP family-friendly room complete with multi-sport simulators and a private dart wall — with even more to come."

Swinton's own PGA professional, Lewis Thompson has also announced that he will be relocating to Sim Roomz as its resident golf coach.

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The parade includes trade retailers such as Screwfix, United Carpets and Toolstation. Sim Roomz is looking to create an all-year-round indoor venue in the former gym next door to The Little Town of Play.

When the development was originally approved it restricted uses in the unit to either a "trampoline park, a children’s play area and a gymnasium but for no other purposes (including any other leisure purposes in Class D2)." It also restricted opening hours.

The former planning class D2 Assembly and Leisure was abolished in 2020 and largely redistributed into the new Class E (commercial/leisure).

Applicants want to secure planning permission to use the unit for another leisure use - namely for golf and darts. A change in the opening hours would go from 09.00 and 21.00 Monday to Saturday and 10.00 and 19.00 Sunday inclusively, to 09:00 and 22:00 Monday to Saturday and 09:00 and 19:00 on Sunday.

Plans show eight simulator bays on the ground floor plus a VIP sim bay at the rear, with toilets and a kitchen. The first floor shows four interactive dart boards a pool table and a separate room for the PGA pro.

Sim Roomz Facebook page

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News: Council sets aside £700k to support businesses on Rotherham's high streets

High street businesses across Rotherham are in line for much-needed support with local and regional business support agencies setting aside resources to target "High Street Heroes."

The South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) has recently launched High Street Heroes, a fully funded programme designed especially for South Yorkshire's independent retailers and high street businesses.

Delivered by Novus Marketing Solutions, the programme is designed to help real businesses build confidence, attract customers, and feel more in control of their online presence. Supporting shop owners, market traders, cafés, restaurants, hospitality venues, and service providers that have a physical presence, it includes practical workshops, 1-to-1 consultations, events and resources.

A spokesperson for the scheme said: "Running a high street business today comes with constant pressure. From managing stock and serving customers to dealing with rising costs and trying to keep up online, it can often feel like there is never enough time to step back and focus on growth.

"High Street Heroes has been created to give independent high street businesses access to support that is clear, friendly, and designed to fit around real working days. Everything is explained in plain English, with a focus on ideas that can be used straight away rather than theory or jargon.

"High streets are at the heart of local communities. When independent businesses feel supported and confident, it benefits not just the shops themselves but the towns and people around them.

"High Street Heroes is about backing those businesses with the right kind of support at the right time, helping South Yorkshire’s high streets move forward together."

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Rotherham Council is looking to further support high streets in the town centre, Swinton, Wath, Maltby and Dinnington.

Rothbiz reported last year that the authority's Shop Unit Business Grant Project was oversubscribed but it looks like further funding has been found.

With an initial £270,000 from the government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), a decision was made in December 2025 to allocate a further £117,643 to the project from the same pot to meet demand.

And following the capital investment, a £304,000 figure is included in the council's budget for 2025/26 to introduce three new Business Support Officers to engage with businesses in the town centre areas, helping them to flourish.

A council report states: "The purpose of the proposed £304,000 investment is to introduce 3 new Business Support Officers to engage with businesses in these areas to ensure that resources are focused on tackling the issues that matter most and so that successes can be effectively communicated.

"As well as providing a visible presence, and becoming known, in the various locations they will provide initial business advice, help to co-ordinate local promotions, signpost to other services (e.g. grant opportunities) and co-ordinate with other Council departments. They will also have access to a small budget in each of the five locations to support local activities e.g. promotional campaigns or local events."

The aim is to allow for greater engagement with ward members, businesses and residents with the officers working across the five main town centre locations, but also be available to provide support to business in other high street locations across the borough.

Further investment for certain high streets is also on its way through the Pride in Place long term funding allocated by the government - £20m over the next ten years for building Pride in Place in the Rotherham Central area and £20m over the next ten years for building Pride in Place in Maltby East.

High Street Heroes website
On the High Streets website
RiDO website

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News: Street Safe team aims to make Rotherham feel safe and welcoming

A dedicated team designed to make Rotherham’s high streets safer and more welcoming have hit the ground in the town centre, with the first new recruits now in post.

Rothbiz reported in January on key investment in the budget for 2025/26 - £570,000 to launch a new "Street Safe Team" focused on increasing safety in town and village centres.

The new team will provide extra eyes and ears on the ground, tackling anti-social behaviour and supporting residents, businesses and visitors.

Their role includes engaging with the public, reporting issues quickly and working closely with South Yorkshire Police and other partners to keep Rotherham safe.

The uniformed team, which will be made up of a full complement of 10 staff in the new year, will focus on hotspot areas in the town centre before being rolled out in Dinnington, Wath, Maltby and Swinton in the next few weeks. They’ll have powers to enforce Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) to tackle anti-social issues such as street drinking and substance misuse, as well as nuisance parking.

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Cllr Chris Read, Leader of Rotherham Council, said: “We’re acting on what our communities have told us - that feeling safe and visible support matters - as part of the changes we’re making to support our local high streets.

“We want Rotherham to feel safe and welcoming for everyone. Our new team are there to lend a hand, point people in the right direction and to take action against the minority who can put other people off. They’ve already supported the police with an arrest in the town centre, and they’re providing valuable evidence and feedback.

“But this initiative isn’t just about enforcement. It’s about restoring pride and trust in our public spaces - giving residents and visitors a familiar presence that’s welcoming, approachable and ready to help. So when you see them, do say hello!”

Paul Murphy, Community Protection Manager and lead of the new team, said: “We’re pleased that we're on the ground and already making a difference. The Street Safe team is all about giving people confidence that our high streets are safe, welcoming places to visit and enjoy. The team is approachable, proactive and ready to tackle issues head-on, while working closely with partners to keep things moving in the right direction.

"Having the team in place is a big step forward for Rotherham, and we’re excited about the positive impact the team will have for residents, businesses and visitors. We're looking forward to meeting everyone over the coming weeks."

Rotherham Council is currently running a consultation on local safety matters in Rotherham town centre.

Earlier consultations had respondents ranking feeling safe low for the town centre with the report adding: "Safety is one of the biggest concerns. Crime, antisocial behaviour, and intimidation make people feel unsafe, especially at night. CCTV and lighting are valued but seen as not enough."

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News: Stelrad delivers strong operational performance despite subdued market

Stelrad, the UK's leading manufacturer of stylish modern radiators, has talked of ongoing economic uncertainty that has led to lower revenues in its latest financial results.

Registered in Newcastle, it now operates from facilities in both Nuth, in The Netherlands, and in Swinton, Mexborough. The Rotherham site handles the UK radiators business, coordinating an advanced production and distribution operation that spans a 17 acre site which is the largest radiator storage facility in the UK.

The company is a big supplier to new build housing developments and in a trading update for the ten months ended 31 October 2025, Stelrad said that new build end-market activity has remained subdued since the half year. The update added that the group "continues to implement proactive margin management initiatives and cost reduction activities, with continued operational excellence playing an important role in offsetting declines in volumes."

The board expects the full financial year to have an adjusted operating profit within a range of £32m to £33m, ahead of the prior year (£31.5m), with positive operating margin growth year-on-year.

After the announcement Stelrad successfully refinanced its £100m multicurrency facility agreement at improved terms which it says will reduce its future borrowing costs.

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Trevor Harvey, Chief Executive of Stelrad, said: "Stelrad continues to deliver a strong operational performance and remains on track to achieve growth in adjusted operating profit and margin expansion year-on-year, despite the subdued volume environment.

"Whilst the continued delay in end-market recovery remains frustrating, Stelrad's flexible, low-cost manufacturing footprint, outstanding customer service and unmatched product availability means that the Group remains well-positioned for the eventual recovery in our end markets, and I remain confident in our ability to deliver long-term value for our stakeholders."

The Rotherham site remains the company’s manufacturing hub for selected models, representing the brand’s continued investment in British engineering.

Stelrad explains that its customers increasingly want to know where their products are made, and for good reason. UK manufacturing means shorter supply chains, reduced delivery times, and lower environmental impact. It also reflects a continued investment in local communities and sustainable industry growth.

By producing selected radiators on site at Mexborough, Stelrad helps ensure that customers receive products made to exacting standards, including complying with BS-EN442.

Stelrad website

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News: Rotherham high streets grants scheme oversubscribed

Demand has been "incredible" for Rotherham Council's grants scheme that aims to help breathe new life into the borough's high streets.

The council is looking at extending the scheme if money can be found.

Rothbiz reported in August on the launch of the opportunity for local businesses to benefit from a makeover thanks to a £270,000 investment from the authority.

The Shop Unit Business Grant Project is 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.

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

Applications closed in October, with all projects set to be completed by the end of December 2025. Grants have been awarded on a first come, first served basis until the full allocation is spent.

Providing an update to the council, Cllr. John Williams, Cabinet Member for Transport, Jobs and the Local Economy, said: "This was a £270,000 scheme to help support our small businesses, shops and our local high streets across the borough. And I'm pleased to say that the scheme has been oversubscribed actually - the level of demand has been incredible to be fair, and I think that it has shown that there is a need and a demand for this sort of intervention and support for our small business community.

"We are actively looking now to find additional funding that will be able to support as many of the applications as possible that we have received and I am hopeful that we are going to be able to progress that over the next few weeks.

"I have given the steer to the service that the majority of the money can't just go into the town centre solely, there does need to be a fair spread across all eligible areas. It was designed from the outset to support high streets across the borough."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Takis website

Images: Takis / Facebook / Google Maps

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News: 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

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News: Rotherham accountancy firm at 40

Brearley & Co, an accountancy firm in Rotherham, has been recognised with a Salute to Business award at the recent Barnsley & Rotherham Business Awards.

This prestigious award honours businesses that have made significant contributions to the local economy and community over the past 40 years.

The Barnsley & Rotherham Business Awards, hosted by the Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber of Commerce in association with Barnsley College, took place at the end of 2024.

Brearley & Co was honoured for its long-standing commitment to providing exceptional financial services to businesses and individuals in the region.

The award was presented by Amy Garcia of BBC Look North, who praised Brearley & Co for its dedication to client service, community involvement, and financial expertise.

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“We are incredibly proud to receive this award,” said Mark Smallman, Managing Director at Brearley & Co “It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team over the past 40 years. We are grateful for the support of our clients and the community, and we look forward to continuing to serve Rotherham for many years to come.”

Established in 1984 by the firm’s founder, Giles Brearley, Brearley & Co have grown from a single room to five buildings at their head office at Swinton, Mexborough and now have offices in Dinnington, Doncaster and Chapeltown. It advises clients across a range of sectors, including care homes and corporations and also has a number of local community sponsorships including Dinnington Town FC, fundraising for Rotherham Rise (now called Hopian) and for Bluebell Wood Children’s hospice.

Brearley & Co website

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News: South Yorkshire manufacturing specialist joins industry elite

A Rotherham-based entrepreneur has been named as one of the most inspiring business leaders currently working in the manufacturing sector.

Adam Bradley was named as one of the top 100 most influential people by industry publication The Manufacturer during a special event that took place at the Birmingham NEC.

Chosen by a judging panel comprising academics, senior business leaders and established industry bodies, The Manufacturer's Top 100 list was launched in 2013 in response to academic studies and parliamentary reports that identified a lack of visible role models within the manufacturing sector.

Adam secured his place on the list after overseeing a significant period of growth at Corrosion Resistant Materials. Since becoming a director of the business in 2020, Adam has successfully seen the company enjoy significant year-on-year growth, which has seen the business export its products to 38 countries across the world, where it supplies goods and services to the advanced technology, energy and food and drink sectors.

Based in Swinton, Corrosion Resistant Materials secured a Queen's Award for Enterprise in 2022, and since that time both Adam and the company he oversees has secured a number of prestigious industry accolades. In the same year, Adam was awarded Business Person of the year by Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber and since that time, both Adam and Corrosion Resistant Materials have been presented with a number of prestigious industry awards including Business of the Year and the coveted Made In Sheffield award for Exporting.

In addition to his day-to-day responsibilities, Adam is a regular speaker to schools across the region, where he speaks about the career opportunities within the manufacturing sector. In recent years, Adam has played a key role in the development of the South Yorkshire-based Island Networking group, created to forge stronger links across the region's SME sector. He is also currently vice chair of the British Stainless Steel Association and a board member of the British Valve and Actuator Association.

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Adam Bradley, Director, Corrosion Resistant Materials, said: "The Manufacturer's Top 100 list is a prestigious industry accolade, which is often referred to as the Who's Who guide of British manufacturing, and I feel incredibly honoured that the work I have delivered has been recognised in this way.

"The manufacturing sector plays a vital role in Britain's economy, yet for the sector to truly prosper, we must inspire and educate the next generation about the many different career opportunities available. We all have a part to play in realising this, and I feel truly humbled that my efforts have been recognised in this way."

Joe Bush, Editor, The Manufacturer, added: "Over the last decade, those who have been inducted into The Manufacturer's Top 100 have used their experience to highlight the amazing opportunities that exist for the next generation of UK manufacturers. To be part of it means each person has been nominated, and judged, to be an outstanding role model for the young people we all want to encourage into careers in our sector.

"All 100 are catalysts for change. They will continue to strive for innovation, champion the latest technologies and pioneer new business models. They will pivot and plunge forward as the markets and competition around them evolve. They are the driving force behind the country's manufacturing renaissance, and to understand their journeys is to understand why it is truly exciting to be manufacturing in Britain today."

Corrosion Resistant Materials was founded by Chris Williams and Lee Perry in 2015 after spotting a niche in the supply of specialist materials to industry. The company provides a comprehensive range of services including heat treatment, machining, testing and forging.

Today, Corrosion Resistant Materials successfully exports more than 70 different grades of specialist materials to 38 countries across the world and since securing the Queen's Award for Enterprise, the company has continued to enjoy significant year-on-year growth.

Corrosion Resistant Materials website

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News: Rotherham library closure brought forward following discovery of RAAC

The Swinton library building in Rotherham has been closed for the foreseeable future after RAAC was discovered following inspections.

A long-awaited £8m regeneration revamp of Swinton includes a new library, but it is not yet complete.

Rotherham Council’s Asset Management Team has been reviewing the authority’s estate to check for the presence of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC). Should RAAC be found, actions are taken to ensure buildings remain safe to residents and staff.

In the case of Swinton Library, RAAC has been identified in the roof and therefore the building has been closed.

In the 1990s, several bodies recognised structural deficiencies in RAAC panels installed up until the mid-1990s. It was recognised that the in-service performance was poor with cracking, excessive displacements and durability all being raised as concerns.

Alternative arrangements have been put in place at the newly renovated Swinton Civic Hall, while the council conducts further surveys to see whether remedial work is appropriate.

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A newly refurbished library is planned to be opened early next year at the former customer service centre building as part of a major redevelopment of Swinton town centre. This will mean the demolition of the current library off Station Street, with the area then landscaped.

Building work has already started on affordable new homes, upgraded community buildings and public spaces in Swinton Town Centre.

This includes building 49 new homes, the upgraded and improved Civic Hall, a green and the demolition of the current library. Under these ambitious plans the existing Council Customer Service Centre will house the new library.

Assistant Director Rob Mahon, who oversees the maintenance of all Rotherham Council owned buildings said: “The health and safety of our residents and staff is our priority, which is why we have temporarily closed Swinton Library as a precautionary measure.

“We made the decision to close the site as a precaution last week while further surveys are conducted, and potential mitigations investigated.

“This decision is supported by recent government guidance issued due to concerns where RAAC has been used in schools, prompting similar concerns around other public buildings including libraries. Our approach here is in step with similar approaches taken by other local authorities.”

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News: CityFibre gets to work in Wath

Work to upgrade the digital foundations in parts of North Rotherham with fast, reliable and future-proof full fibre network connectivity is now underway after CityFibre, the UK’s largest independent full fibre platform, started construction works in the Swinton area.

CityFibre is investing £31.2m in bringing this new technology to local homes and businesses, providing them with access to a network that has been designed to serve their growing data needs for decades to come.

Locally, the rollout is being completed by Heneghan & Sons who will work closely with CityFibre and Rotherham Council to ensure any disruption is managed safely and efficiently. Typically, teams will only remain in each area for a few days at a time, and residents will be contacted ahead of any work starting.

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Charles Kitchin, CityFibre’s Partnership Manager for Wath upon Dearne, said: “I’m immensely excited and proud to see work getting underway in Wath upon Dearne as it gets ready to thrive in the digital age. It’s important to remember that any short-term disruption will pay off tremendously in the long-term - once the network’s built, it will serve the community’s connectivity needs for years to come.”

Full fibre networks use 100% fibre optics to carry data at light speed all the way from the home to the point of connection. This gives users speeds of up to 1,000 Mbps for upload and download, near limitless bandwidth and reliable connectivity.   

A full fibre connection also goes far beyond simply enabling access to the latest entertainment at lightning speed. Full fibre boosts households and businesses, with experts saying it will drive a range of economic benefits, such as making us more productive and innovative. 

Recommended reading: How do UK residents spend their time online?

When the new network goes live in Wath upon Dearne, customers will be able to access full fibre enabled services via a choice of providers, including CityFibre’s UK launch partner, Vodafone, on selected Vodafone Pro Broadband plans, TalkTalk, Zen, and Giganet with other providers expected to join the network soon.  

CityFibre began work in the borough back in 2020 after Rotherham was included in the second phase of rollouts extending CityFibre's Gigabit City programme.

CityFibre website

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News: Ticket offices set to close at Rotherham stations

Nearly a thousand railway stations, including Rotherham Central and Swinton, are set to see their ticket offices closed under recently announced plans to modernise customer service across the rail network.

Train companies, including Northern Rail - the operator of stations in the borough, have launched passenger consultations to move staff from ticket offices and into stations, offering more face-to-face support for customers across the network as a whole.

Opponents believe that the move will restrict passengers’ access to the best value tickets, worsen passenger service, accessibility, safety and security and lead to a de-staffing of stations.

Where adopted, the proposals will see ticket office staff transitioning to multi-skilled ‘customer help’ roles - already in place in many parts of the network - where they would be better able to give advice about the best and cheapest fares, advise on journey planning and support customers with accessibility needs. The changes would mean a more visible and accessible staff presence across the network as a whole at stations during staffed hours, on ticket concourses and on platforms.

The Rail Delivery Group, previously the Association of Train Operating Companies, said that 12% of tickets are sold at ticket offices on average following a generational shift in customer behavior. It added that an estimated 99% of all transactions made at ticket offices last year can be made at Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs) or online.

Staff are likely to be given the option to move to a new skilled role and comprehensive re-training and re-skilling.

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Objecting to the proposals, Sarah Champion, MP for Rotherham, said: "I strongly believe that passengers would no longer have widespread and easy access to the purchase of rail products and best value fares if the ticket offices closures went ahead.

"There is substantial demand for the ticket office. While the Government says that 'only' 12% of tickets are sold at ticket offices, in 2022/23, there were 1.5 billion passenger journeys, which equates to around 180 million journeys being facilitated by ticket offices."

The MP raised concerns over ticket machines and added that ticket office closures would cause a "significant worsening of the facilities and support offered to disabled, deaf and older people."

The RMT union claimed that train bosses had already issued hundreds of redundancy notices to staff.

Champion added: "It is difficult to see how train operators would be able to demonstrate that their proposals would make cost savings, unless there is the intention to reduce staffing. I am wholly opposed to any cuts to station staffing and believe any supposed cost savings cannot be used to justify a policy that will worsen passenger service, accessibility, safety, security and access to rail products.

"I also believe that ticket office closures will be counterproductive in terms of revenue, as it would disincentivize rail travel for many."

Re-opening in 2012 following a £8.5m revamp, it took years before a ticket machine was installed at Rotherham Central.

National Rail's website has the ticket office opening at Rotherham Central between 6am and 6:45pm weekdays and then 7am and 6:45pm on Saturdays, 8:45am - 4:15pm on Sundays. Swinton station's ticket office is curently listed as opening between 7am and 1:30pm Monday to Saturday and closed on a Sunday.

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News: Ben Bailey begins work on Rotherham redevelopment project

Yorkshire property developer Ben Bailey Homes has begun work on a major development of new housing and important community restoration in the Rotherham town of Swinton.

Plans were approved last year for the long-awaited project that will see the construction of 41 private properties and eight housing association homes, along with upgraded community buildings and public gardens.

The £8m plus Harrop Mews project is being carried out in partnership with Rotherham Council.

The 49 new homes - including the eight affordable properties - are being built off Highcliffe Drive in Swinton, along with a newly refurbished library at the former customer service centre building, an upgraded and improved Civic Hall and a new public space area between the existing Civic Building and Station Street.

As part of the partnership, Ben Bailey will also provide funding towards sustainable travel measures, the planting of replacement trees and education provision. Cllr. Denise Lelliott, Cabinet Member for Jobs and the Local Economy performed a ceremonial ground-breaking alongside Rotherham Council Leader Councillor Chris Read, Council colleagues and partners from Ben Bailey Homes.

“These new homes, green spaces and improved community facilities will transform Swinton Town Centre for the better,” said Cllr. Lelliott.

“It’s a real privilege to be able to mark the official start of works and I’m looking forward to seeing the benefits.

“These changes will bring people much-needed housing, and new community buildings where friends and families will meet and enjoy their leisure time together.”

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Ben Bailey Sales and Marketing Director Jon Bailey said: “This project really takes Ben Bailey Homes back to its roots as the company was launched in the 1930s in neighbouring Mexborough.

“We’re pleased that as well as providing much needed two, three and four bedroom homes for sale, all with Ben Bailey’s signature unrivalled specification, we are also providing refurbished facilities to Swinton town centre, delivering a project that will once again make this area the centre of the community.

“This is the sort of project that the Ben Bailey brand was revived for, bringing quality development to the heart of the region.”

Launched in 1933 by Ben Bailey himself, Mexborough-based Ben Bailey Plc was Yorkshire's largest independent house builder, developing more than 700 homes a year when acquired by Gladedale in 2007.

Following the takeover and a subsequent rebrand, the Ben Bailey name disappeared completely from the construction industry.

But it has made a strong return after it was acquired and revived by Yorkshire’s award-winning Conroy Brook Group.

Conroy Brook website

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News: Another Rotherham school in line for multi million pound rebuild

Another secondary school in Rotherham has been successful in the next phase of the Government's School Rebuilding Programme.

Last year, Rothbiz reported that Wales High School had become the first school in Rotherham to be awarded funding.

Now Swinton Academy in the north of the borough has been announced in the latest round and will recieve capital funding from the Government, more than a decade on from a similar investment being axed.

239 more schools and sixth forms are set to benefit from renovation projects. And the good news for Rotherham is that Kilnhurst Primary School becomes the first primary school from the borough to be awarded funds.

400 schools and sixth forms have now been selected for rebuilds through the ten-year School Rebuilding Programme but Brinsworth Academy has missed out.

The new buildings will be more energy efficient for future winter resilience and net-zero in operation, with old facilities replaced by modern education environments including new classrooms, sports halls and dining rooms.

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Gillian Keegan, Secretary of State for Education, said: "Education is a top priority for this Government. That is why, despite facing challenging economic circumstances, we are investing a record amount in our schools and colleges.

"The additional funding, alongside fantastic new facilities, will mean our brilliant teachers can get on with what they do best – and inspire the next generation."

Swinton is part of Aston Community Education Trust (ACET) and converted to an academy in 2019.

£98m worth of Building Schools for the Future (BSF) projects at Abbey SEN, Aston, Hilltop SEN, Milton, Oakwood, St Pius and Swinton (then known as Swinton Community School) in Rotherham were stopped by the coalition government in 2010. Maltby Academy progressed a major revamp in 2012 and later, Oakwood High School made it onto the Priority School Building Programme (PSBP), carrying out a £12.2m refurbishment in 2016.

Data shows that a number of Rotherham schools were nominated but have not been selected in any of the previous rounds of the new School Rebuilding Programme. These include Brinsworth Academy, Brinsworth Whitehill Primary School, Maltby Manor Academy, Milton School and Newman School.

At Newman Special School, a project got underway in 2022 on a new £4.5m state-of-the-art facility to replace the Upper School buildings. It is backed by Rotherham Council.

At Brinsworth, Rotherham Council's cabinet met in February 2022 and approved £1.7m capital funding from the Department for Education allocated Basic Need funding to increase capacity by 150 places. In 2017, a £2.6m Sports Centre opened on the site providing a new multi-use sports hall, dance studio, fully accessible changing rooms and classrooms for GSCE and A-level PE.

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News: Swinton town centre revamp plans approved

A long-awaited £8m regeneration revamp of a Rotherham town has finally been approved after the council and its partners agreed a number of financial contributions for the area.

The regeneration of Swinton town centre has been under consideration for some time and to progress plans a consortium made up of the Sheffield-based development and asset management company, Vesta Group, with Barnsley-based developer, Quest Property, and Holmfirth housebuilder, Conroy Brook, were selected by Rotherham Council.

The partners submitted a planning application from Ben Bailey Homes Ltd (part of the Conroy Brook Group) in February 2021 and it was approved by the planning board at Rotherham Council in July 2022.

The plans include a refurbished Civic Hall and café plus the library relocating to the refurbished former customer service centre. A significant landscaping scheme is planned.

This was all predicated on approval for 49 homes on the cleared land adjacent to the site. It has been agreed that 12 affordable homes will be provided - eight 2 bedroom houses would be provided on site and the equivalent financial contribution for four 3 bedroom houses provided off site.

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A decision notice has been published this month after the council and developer agreed a Section 106 agreement (a mechanism which makes a development proposal acceptable in planning terms, that would not otherwise be acceptable). The agreement includes a financial contribution of £500 per dwelling towards sustainable travel measures to support the development, a financial contribution of £23,600 for the provision of replacement offsite tree mitigation, a financial contribution of £91,338 towards education provision, the establishment of a management company to manage and maintain the areas of Greenspace on site.

Cllr. Denise Lelliott, Cabinet Member for Jobs and the Local Economy said: “Our partnership work will bring affordable new homes, green spaces and improved community facilities to Swinton Town Centre. It’s out with the old and in with the new.

“We’re modernising and regenerating a large area of Swinton in order to create attractive places for people to live and visit.”

Two, three and four-bedroom homes will be built on the site of the former council offices on Queen Street, the former swimming pool and health centre, and the old Charnwood House care home.

Jon Bailey, Director at Conroy Brook, said: "We are excited to see the development move ahead, bringing new family homes to the town centre along with the refurbishment of community facilities. Ben Bailey has a long history of building in Swinton and we can’t wait to get started on this new project."

Conroy Brook website
Quest Property website

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News: Swinton regen plans set for approval

£8m regeneration proposals for a Rotherham town are finally going before the council's planning board, a year and a half after being submitted.

The regeneration of Swinton town centre has been under consideration for some time and to progress plans a consortium made up of the Sheffield-based development and asset management company, Vesta Group, with Barnsley-based developer, Quest Property, and Holmfirth housebuilder, Conroy Brook, were selected by Rotherham Council. The partners submitted a planning application from Ben Bailey Homes Ltd (part of the Conroy Brook Group) in February 2021.

With the sites currently the subject of ongoing anti-social behaviour, the plans include a refurbished Civic Hall and café plus the library relocating to the refurbished former customer service centre. Public realm and accessibility is set to be improved through a significant landscaping scheme which opens up the site, improving visibility of the shops and community facilities, safety and accessibility.

This is all predicated on approval for 49 homes on the cleared land adjacent to the site.

After numerous revisions, the planning board at Rotherham Council are now being recommended to approved the plans.



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A report states: "The new library will provide improved and updated facilities, including a new outside reading area. This community facility will not therefore be lost, but services consolidated and modernised. The Council concurs with this view and considers that the proposals will assist in increasing footfall within Swinton Town Centre. The existing library is in a poor state of repair and is the subject of anti-social behaviour. The demolition of the building will allow for additional open space to the front of the newly refurbished library and open views to the Civic Building and the shops adjacent."

The housing is planned for the site of the Charnwood House care home and are described as achieving a high density development whilst meeting acceptable spacing and amenity standards.

The report adds: "The principle of the residential development of these sites is therefore accepted in Policy terms. It is understood that the housing element is key to delivering the wider regeneration of the area as well as increasing the number of residents within close proximity of the town centre and therefore increasing the critical mass to increase the use of local services. It will also ensure that the entire area is regenerated as a whole site."

In recognition of the community benefits and improvements to the town centre it has been agreed between the partners and the council to provide a split of provision of affordable housing on site and through a commuted sum for off site delivery. An agreement has been reached with an offer of 12 affordable units (25%) in total of which eight 2 bedroom houses would be provided on site and the equivalent financial contribution for four 3 bedroom houses provided off site.

Concerns have been raised regarding highway issues and an issue regarding a potential covenant on the land has been highlighted.

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