£2.4m town centre redevelopment moves closer

Work to build new homes, shops and offices at five key town centre sites in Rotherham has moved a step closer.

The council's cabinet has approved the £2.42m redevelopment of a cluster of locations, including Westgate Car Park, sites on Sheffield Road, the Statutes Car Park, Snail Yard and 3-7 Corporation Street.

Phase two of the programme involves turning the proposals into fully costed, approved "deliverable" plans for a final cabinet decision in 2027,with construction due to start as early as 2018.

Councillor John Williams said: "This isn't just about buildings, it's about creating new communities, new homes and new opportunities right in the heart of Rotherham."

About 225 new riverside apartments and houses could be built across Westgate, Sheffield Road and the Statutes, creating a "significant" community within walking distance of the town centre.

The homes would be aimed at attracting new residents and increasing spending in the local economy. Snail Yard and Corporation Street could focus on office and retail space alongside new residential units.

The council said it would continue its partnership with developer Capital & Centric, which is known for transforming historic mills, industrial sites and vacant land into "vibrant communities".

The first phase had focused on initial design ideas, how each development would benefit local communities, and new ways to involve residents and stakeholders in shaping the projects.

Williams said: "We're looking at a future where people choose to live, work and spend time here, and that's something we can all be proud of.

"This is all part of our commitment to creating thriving town centres."

Rotherham Council's ambitions for the sites are supported by ongoing regeneration work across the town centre.

Market traders will move into the new Market Hall on Friday while their existing home in the indoor market is refurbished.

The sites earmarked for development in the town centre are part of wider plans for the Don Valley Corridor, the mayoral investment zone that also includes the Magna Tram Train and the proposed Gateway Station, which is set to create 8,000 jobs, build 3,000 homes and bring a £1.2bn investment boost to the region's economy, the council said.

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