rotherham business news

News: Rotherham is the blueprint for a new age of industrialisation

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Tue, 29 Sep 2026 08:31:26 +0000

The successful regeneration of the former Orgreave site in Rotherham and the creation of the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) has been highlighted as a blueprint for a new age of industrialisation by the Chancellor of the Exchequer.

John Healey is the government’s chief financial minister and MP for Rawmarsh and Conisbrough. In his speech at the Labour Party Conference, he said that the site's transformation is "how Britain's industrial past is being remade now for the modern world."

Healey said: "My politics have been shaped by the industrial heartlands of South Yorkshire.

"And the most brutal day of that bitter miner's strike was at Orgreave. Today on the site of the Orgreave pit is Rotherham's Advanced Manufacturing Park, one of the most concentrated areas of innovation anywhere in Britain. It's where South Yorkshire's young people are now working with high-tech systems, making things their grandparents could never have dreamt of.

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"One of those young people is Shaun. Shaun's dad was a local miner, but there were no pit jobs for Shaun. So, he joined the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre. He joined as an apprentice. And so, while his dad mined the coal that kept Britain's lights on, above that same coal seem, Shaun is now working on high-tech research for the future of nuclear power.

"Our coal mines are not coming back. But this is how Britain's industrial past is being remade now for the modern world. It's how people are starting to tell each other stories of the future and not the past. And this is a story we can tell across the country.

"This is the new age of industrialisation. This is the new confidence in Britain, lit by this government, driven forward by business. So don't tell me it's not possible to create a new age of British industry. Don't tell me it's not possible to have good growth in every postcode. And don't tell me that people can't hope again."

Healey also confirmed a £300m investment in sites across the country from Rolls-Royce which includes the £21.3m expansion project at its Advanced Blade Casting Facility (ABCF) on the AMP in Rotherham.

In June, Rothbiz reported on the Northern Powerhouse Partnership (NPP) analysis of the AMP and Rotherham which showed that real gross value added (GVA) grew in the AMP area from £111.6m in 2004 to £369.8m in 2022, a 231% increase in real terms, the strongest of any area in the borough by a substantial margin.

Healey's speech started with banter with the Prime Minister watching on: "I know Manchester is a great city, just like Liverpool is a great city, but give me Rotherham any day of the week."

Images: Labour Party / YouTube

News: Rotherham tour operator on the road to a record year

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Mon, 28 Sep 2026 07:52:17 +0000

Rotherham-based Leger Shearings Group, the UK's largest escorted coach tour operator, has posted impressive financial results for 2025 and has carried on performing well this year too.

Coach tours are in demand despite consumers having less discretionary spending available for holidays.

The Canklow company, which has over 200 employees, offers self-drive breaks, holidays to the UK and Europe, specialist Battlefield Tours, and educational experiences across four different brands.

Since an initial management buy out (MBO) in 2019 and the acquisition of Shearings in July 2020, the group's presence in the UK has increased significantly. A 2024 injection of funding from NatWest followed.

For the year ended December 31 2025, Leger Holidays Ltd posted its strongest trading EBITDA (earnings before taxes) to date, totalling £6.1m, a 21.29% increase compared to 2024. Consolidated turnover for the year amounted to £79.8m, reflecting a 3.1% increase from the previous year.

The board said that the company had maintained a strong focus on product innovation, continually developing and refreshing its holiday portfolio across both brands with new itineraries, destinations and experiences designed around evolving customer preferences. The ongoing investment in the product range and customer proposition helped sustain demand and underpins the Group's growth strategy.

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Customer satisfaction remains high, with the Group's two principal brands independently rated 'Excellent' on Trustpilot as at June 2026, with Leger Holidays scoring 4.5 out of 5 and Shearings 4.3 out of 5, reflecting continued strong approval from clients.

Forward bookings were described as strong with Leger and Shearings each tracking double-digit growth for both the 2026 and 2027 seasons, building at record levels.

Into 2026 and the company recorded the highest sales day in the company’s history, exceeding the previous record by more than 25%. It went on to post 15 consecutive months of sales growth and a record-breaking May. July saw Simon Bingley join the group's board as Commercial Director.

In addition to competition in the market and the impact of geo-political events and natural disasters, the company picked out how demand for holidays is affected by local economic conditions. The accounts add that: "During 2025, rising costs across the economy have affected the cost of holiday arrangements and resulted in consumers having less discretionary spending available for travel. However, this has been compensated by the high level of consumer demand for coach tours in the UK and Europe."

Looking ahead, the company is set to launch Lumina in 2027, a brand-new flagship coach offering, and the first launch since 2015's Luxuria.

Liam Race, CEO at Leger Shearings Group, explained that people "love the stress-free, ultra-comfortable side of coach travel – no flying, no airport drama, no hanging around wondering what's gone wrong. It's a kinder way to see Europe, and a more sustainable one. Lumina takes everything people already love about that experience and pushes it a step further. After more than a decade in the making, we can't wait to welcome you on board."

Leger Shearings Group website

Images: Leger Shearings Group

News: At £631.7m, Harworth agrees to Peel deal

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Fri, 25 Sep 2026 08:27:23 +0000

The board of Harworth, the Rotherham-based regenerator of land and property for sustainable development and investment, has recommended a best and final takeover offer from major shareholder Peel Holdings, valuing the company at £631.7m.

Rothbiz reported last month on the initial cash offer worth £582.88m at 172.5p per share that was dismissed, along with a follow up bid at 177.5p. The board argued that those attempts significantly undervalued the business and its standalone growth potential.

Having acquired Harworth shares and passing the 30% mark, Peel Pepper (UK) Limited (part of the wider Peel Group) returned with an increased cash offer of 187p per share which has now gained the unanimous recommendation of the Harworth board.

Created from what was UK Coal, Harworth Group owns, develops, and manages a portfolio of over 15,000 acres of strategic land over 100 sites located throughout the North of England and Midlands. With a focus on Grade A industrial and logistics (I&L) space and emerging opportunities in the data centre market, the company has a target of £1bn of EPRA NDV - EPRA NDV is how Harworth measures the value of its assets.

Manchester's The Peel Group is a long-term investor in Harworth, having held various ownership interests in Harworth over a number of years. The Peel Holdings directors believe that Harworth's assets would be best owned, managed and developed under the full control of Peel Holdings.

An update to the stock exchange read: "While the Harworth Board has confidence in the Group’s standalone strategy and future potential, the recommendation follows careful consideration of the Best and Final Offer and engagement with Harworth Shareholders."

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Peel believes that the bid is a "highly attractive and certain cash solution at a full valuation, against the alternative of an investment in Harworth, which has an increasingly uncertain outlook, and an unsuitable public company structure from which to deliver the strategic change that BidCo [Peel] believes is required."

Harworth's statement added: "The Harworth Board believes that the Best and Final Offer is in the best interests of all Harworth Shareholders, as it accelerates shareholder returns that could be delivered from, and removes the execution risk associated with, the strategic plan that Harworth would pursue independently."

In the earlier bid document, Peel said that Harworth's administrative expenses and net interest expenses are too high and increasing, whilst the investment portfolio's passing rental income has decreased. Harworth subsequently announced a strategy to reduce expenses and withdraw from the residential sector to focus on industrial and data centre development. Peel said that this strategy was "reactive and unsubstantiated."

Harworth recently moved into a new headquarters at its flagship Waverley development in Rotherham. Peel earlier said that it had "not yet determined whether any changes will be made to the location of Harworth's headquarters or headquarters functions, or to the locations of Harworth's other fixed places of business." Any changes would be considered as part of a review into Harworth's assets.

Peel's earlier document also said it would de-list the business from the stock exchange and on jobs, the announcement said: "Following the Offer becoming or being declared unconditional, BidCo expects to review overlapping functions across the Harworth Group, including senior management, corporate, operational, finance, human resources, compliance and other support functions.

"Based on BidCo's preliminary assessment, the Offer is expected to result in a significant headcount reduction and synergies from overlapping functions and the elimination of costs associated with Harworth's status as a listed company. BidCo has not yet determined the number of roles likely to be affected, the timing of any reductions or the specific functions or locations in which any reductions may occur and will provide further information to affected employees in accordance with applicable legal and regulatory requirements."

Peel is expected to review Harworth's fixed asset base, including its strategic land bank and investment portfolio, and then intends to accelerate the disposal of selected assets.

Harworth Group website
The Peel Group website

Images: Sotech Architectural Facade Systems

News: Rotherham Council's local spend up by £77.3m in five years

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Thu, 24 Sep 2026 08:35:23 +0000

Rotherham Council is keeping more money in the local economy after increasing the amount of money it spends locally to more than £122m.

The Council’s Annual Social Value Report shows that local spending has risen by £77.3m, from £44.8m in 2019/20 to £122.1m in 2024/25, bringing greater benefit to residents, communities and the local economy.

The report, which recently went before the council's Cabinet, also shows that social value commitments secured through Council contracts now stands at £41.6m. Validated delivery of social value stands at £23.7m, having increased by 92% compared to the previous annual report.

Social value means securing wider benefits for local people and communities when the Council buys goods, works and services. This can include creating jobs and apprenticeships, supporting local businesses, helping community organisations and reducing environmental impact.

Legally the Council is only required to consider Social Value in its Services contracts where the estimated value is greater than £189,330. However, Rotherham's social value policy goes beyond this standard ensuring all contracts and tenders over £100,000 include social value measures.

Since the Council introduced its Social Value Policy in 2019, contracts have helped to secure or retain 454 full-time equivalent jobs for local people and deliver 1,169 weeks of apprenticeships. They have also provided 4,985 hours of personalised career mentoring and employment support, alongside 728 staff hours supporting local schools and colleges.

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The Council has also continued to work with partners through the Rotherham Together Partnership to improve how social value is planned, delivered and measured across the borough.

Leader of Rotherham Council, Cllr. Chris Read said: “We want every pound the Council spends to deliver the greatest possible benefit for Rotherham.

“These figures show what that means in practice – creating jobs and apprenticeships, supporting local businesses, developing skills and helping community organisations.

“We have made strong progress, but there is more to do. Our priority now is to make sure every commitment delivers meaningful and lasting benefits for local people.

“Over the next year, we will strengthen how we monitor contracts and continue working with our partners to focus social value on the needs and priorities of Rotherham’s communities.”

The report includes a numner of case studies, including Sanderson Building Services, a Rotherham-based company who spent £45,000 with 16 local suppliers, including eight local SMEs, on one contract and has built a strong partnership with Maltby Learning Trust, supporting careers events, work experience placements and employer engagement activities.

Family-run Rotherham business, KCM Waste Management has embedded social value into its everyday operations, spending locally and recruiting eight local people whilst supporting local people who were previously unemployed and those facing barriers to work.

Mears and Equans run large contracts for the council and have become key partners in supporting inclusive growth across Rotherham. Alongside creating jobs and apprenticeships, they have championed opportunities for care leavers, supported more inclusive recruitment practices and worked with their supply chains to maximise the delivery of social value throughout the borough.

Through the Council's partnership with Go4Growth, a range of procurement readiness support has been made available to help local businesses develop the skills, knowledge and confidence required to access public sector and anchor institution supply chains. Work with Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber includes sector specific Meet the Buyer events and monthly digital promotion of local supply chain opportunities.

In addition, the council has set up a feasibility service to allow business owners to explore employee ownership and is launching the first business support programme designed and delivered specifically for social clubs in the country.

Go4Growth website
Sanderson Building Services
KCM website

Images: Equans / RMBC

News: Chantry Brewery creates “Chancellor’s Choice”

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Tue, 22 Sep 2026 08:37:11 +0000

A Rotherham brewery has commemorated a cut in business rates bills for pubs, social clubs and live music venues.

Earlier this year, the Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced plans to cut rates from April next year that should see the typical pub save an estimated £1,100.

Following publication of new rateable values in 2025, the government previously announced an additional 15% relief for pubs, clubs and live music venues, to be applied from 2026/27 after other transitional relief.

The latest fully funded plan involves an additional 20% relief from 2027/28.

The government has also announced a review into the way in which pubs and hotels are valued for business rates, with any changes to be implemented at the next revaluation in 2029.

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Chancellor of the Exchequer John Healey said: "Pubs, clubs and live music venues are at the heart of communities across the UK. They help make a place what we love. They bring people together, support local jobs and help keep high streets and town centres busy — which is why we will back them all the way.

"We are determined to bring hope back, give businesses the support they need and generate growth in every postcode.

“This is just one step of the Government’s plans to back our communities and high streets, and we will return to our commitment to reform the wider business rates system, including Small Business Rates Relief, at the Budget.”

To recognise the announcement, Rotherham-based brewers Chantry Brewery created a special commemorative “Chancellor’s Choice” pint. As well as being Chancellor of the Exchequer. Healey is also MP for Rawmarsh and Conisbrough.

The Parkgate brewery also operates a number of pubs and live music venues.

A new review into business rates in the sector comes as the pubs and hotels sectors saw significant increases in rateable value at the 2026 revaluation in large part due to the ending of pandemic-era valuations.

Chantry Brewery website

Images: John Healey

News: Revenues up but Xeros suffers delays with appliance manufacturers

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Thu, 17 Sep 2026 08:34:31 +0000

Xeros Technology Group plc, the Rotherham-based creator of technologies that reduce the impact of clothing on the planet, has reported good operational progress across its key divisions in its latest financial results, despite wider appliance industry headwinds extending commercial timelines.

The AIM-listed group is taking greater ownership for the creation of its own washing platform to counteract delays.

Based at the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham, Xeros recently published its unaudited interim results for the six months ended June 30 2026.

The results show group revenue increased by 67.7% to £0.1m, driven by income recorded across all of the group's technology areas (a first for the business). Adjusted EBITDA (earnings before tax) loss remained static at £1.6m, while administrative expenses decreased slightly to £1.8m due to tight cost management.

Xeros reported net cash of £3.5m in the preiod (£2.8m at the end of August 2026) and remains debt-free following working capital movements in respect of 2025.

Operational highlights included the retail launch of its XF3 external microplastic filter, which is now on sale in Germany via MediaMarkt, with a UK retail launch through Russell Hobbs expected imminently. Further launches are anticipated across major Nordic and US retailers.

In denim finishing, Xeros' partner Yilmak - the world’s largest denim processing machine manufacturer - achieved its goal of initial machine placements in Turkey, Egypt, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, with further orders placed for Sri Lanka and India.

In its Laundry Care division, the firm reported continued progress with a major global washing machine brand under a previously announced breakthrough agreement. Xeros has also initiated an additional go-to-market strategy to launch Xeros-designed washing machine platforms by 2028, which it estimates could represent a £25m revenue opportunity.

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However, the company noted that macro-economic pressures and lower-cost Asian competition facing major European and US appliance manufacturers are extending partner programme timelines beyond its control.

As a result, early revenues previously anticipated in the second half of 2026 are now expected to shift into the first half of 2027.

The announcement discusses a project named "WM2.0" which has begun negotiations ahead of the anticipated appointment of one or two manufacturers in China. The project sees Xeros take greater ownership and responsibility for the creation of a fully functioning washing platform to counteract delays felt whilst working with manufacturers that licence Xeros' technology.

Neil Austin CEO at Xeros, said: "The Group has made good operational progress. Our external microplastic pollution filter (XF3), is now on sale in Germany through MediaMarkt; our denim processing partner, Yilmak, which is the world's largest denim processing machine manufacturer, has facilitated strategic machine placements across key denim manufacturing hubs; the breakthrough agreement for our Xeros laundry care washing machine with one of the world's largest washing machine brands continues to progress well.

"Whilst we have a few months delay in activation, we also have firmer foundations for growth with additional placements in Denim Finishing and distributors for XF3 lined up.

"The Board and I remain excited by the interest levels in, and potential for, Xeros's Technology."

The focus for the management team is distribution.

Speaking in a Q&A for investors, Austin added: "We need product which is ready and is in market, and we need that product to be as distributed as widely with high quality partnerships as we possibly can. If we do that, we give this business the very best opportunity to be able to establish those foundations.

"I'm extremely pleased with the progress that the business has been able to make and equally the things that I can see which we can't talk about just yet, which we know are coming as well. So we never take these things for granted. We are very careful when it comes to the use of the cash that we've got.

"I can say to you that in terms of the work that the business has done, we are establishing those foundations which are critical to be able to get us to the position that, as I said, the management team, the board ... will agree with, not least as well as investors, want us to get to."

Xeros website

Images: Xeros

News: New study reveals Rotherham's lack of jobs for young people

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 09:54:29 +0000

A stark new Local Youth Opportunity Index from IPPR reveals a six-fold divide in the availability of suitable jobs for young people depending on where they live.

Young people in Rotherham have just 46 vacancies for every 1,000 young adults, compared with 288 in the Cotswolds.

The issue of NEETs, an acronym for "Not in Education, Employment, or Training", has long been on the agenda in places like South Yorkshire.

IPPR is an independent charity working towards a fairer, greener, and more prosperous society. Its latest analysis measures the number of suitable online vacancies relative to the number of 18 to 24-year olds in a local labour market and finds that there is around one suitable vacancy for every 22 young people in places like Rotherham, compared with one for every four young people in the Cotswolds.

Allthough it should be said that the link between Sheffield and Rotherham operating as one economy will mean that “suitable” vacancies looked at in the study ("occupations likely to offer entry-level opportunities, based on relatively low entry and experience requirements") outside of the borough will be accessible to Rotherham residents. For example, at Meadowhall. Sheffield still only ranked as tenth in the analysis with 60 suitable vacancies per 1,000.

National statistics centre on participation in education, training and NEET, age 16 to 17. The figure in Rotherham has been rising since 2019, when it stood at 195. It had hit 313 by 2023 before reducing to 289 in 2025.

The 2026 figure for NEETs aged 16 to 17 in Rotherham is the highest since 2019 at 342. At 5% of the 16 to 17 population, it marks a significantly poorer performance than comparator areas.

The charity says that the findings underline that becoming NEET is not simply a question of an individual's qualifications or willingness to look for work with young people facing an unemployment rate more than three times that of the wider workforce.

The authors warn the government that the employment-support system is failing to reach a large part of the population it is supposed to help. Jobcentre Plus is principally organised around people receiving Universal Credit, yet around half of young people who are NEET do not receive it. For those that do claim, the system remains too focused on compliance and work-search requirements.

A drop in the number of apprenticeships is also highlighted as having an impact on NEET figures.

Lord David Blunkett, former secretary of state for education and employment, said: "Young people have an immense amount to give. With national ambition, local leadership and the willingness to invest, we can ensure that birthplace does not determine a young person's future. We can renew the promise that should lie at the heart of any decent society: that no young person will be discarded, that the door to opportunity will remain open, and that everyone will have the chance to build a life of purpose."

Lord Jim Knight, former minister for employment and minister for schools, added: “IPPR's report dispels the myth that nearly a million young people are out of work because they lack aspiration. Young people in Rotherham are not six times less talented than those in the Cotswolds; they face six times fewer suitable vacancies."

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Rotherham's Employment and Skills Strategy 2026-2031 has a target for partners to reduce the number of 16–18-year-old and 18–24-year-old residents categorised as NEET and an action to create a "Joined Up and Tailored Provision for 16–24-year-olds."

Another action is for partners to develop targeted, person-centred interventions for young people at risk of becoming NEET. This includes "triaging and guidance; engaging schools, employers and parents/guardians; addressing barriers to work through 1-1 coaching and personalised support; and matching young people to opportunities for work and training."

Support focused on young people who are struggling in the labour market includes the council-funded Ambition project which supports young people to access employment, education or training, with half of these participants moving into the labour market.

The pioneering South Yorkshire approach of the Pathways to Work service works specifically with young people and through the Employment Solutions team in Rotherham, the Wage Subsidy Scheme supports employers to recruit young people with a paid job role for up to three months that is intended to lead to sustainable employment.

Another example is the traineeship programme linked to the Children’s Capital of Culture and Work Ready Placement Programmes specifically designed for NEETS.

Coordinated and accessible careers education in the borough is also highlighted as having an impact as pupils encountering employers are less likely to become NEET when they leave school.

National programmes include a Jobs Guarantee scheme and the Youth Jobs Grant and this week it was announced that a new scheme to offer 18-24-year-olds work experience is being developed with Britain’s biggest retailers. Young Futures Hubs and Youth Hubs are also being rolled out across the country but funding is yet to reach Rotherham.

Whilst Rotherham has seen large increases in productivity, and support may be there for young people, it is the lack of jobs that the analysis highlights.

The Rotherham Together Partnership has placed the economy at the forefront of its latest long term plan. It picks out that unlocking the full potential of Rotherham Gateway is a gamechanger, along with thriving town centres and growing a fair and thriving economy.

In addition, Rotherham is a key part of the Don Valley Corridor programme that has been given prominence as a growth area for South Yorkshire.

Henry Parkes, principal economist at IPPR, said: “Too much of the debate about youth unemployment starts from the assumption that the problem lies with the young person. Our local data shows just how wrong that is. There is a more than six-fold gap in the availability of suitable vacancies depending on where you live.

“You cannot solve a shortage of opportunity simply by asking young people to search harder. We need to create the first rung of the employment ladder in places where it is missing – and rebuild apprenticeships so that every sector is playing its part in giving the next generation a route into good work.”

IPPR website

Images: Pexels / This Is Engineering

News: Speciality Steel UK nationalisation - what happens now?

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 08:44:35 +0000

The Government's work towards the public acquisition of Speciality Steel UK (SSUK) is expected to take between four and six months, but Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds wants it to be resolved as quickly as possible.

The Government took the step as it found that the private sector proposal from the preferred bidder "could not provide the long-term stability, certainty and value for money that workers, communities and taxpayers deserve."

Reynolds told the House of Commons: "That bidder subsequently requested Government support to make its purchase of Speciality Steel UK possible. However, following extensive engagement between the bidder and its advisers, and having done all the due diligence and given the case the consideration that taxpayers would expect, the Government have decided that they cannot provide support on the proposed terms."

He added that the Government had "serious concerns about the proposed financing of it."

The company’s sites support over 1,300 jobs in Rotherham, Stocksbridge, Brinsworth and Wednesbury.

The public acquisition move means that a liquidation process has been postponed, giving the state a strategic control over the future of a business that it believes has a unique place in the UK’s steel ecosystem due to its specialist steelmaking capabilities.

The government will work with local leaders, industry experts, private investors, workers and other partners to consider what is best for the strategically important locations. Taking between four and six months, the work will look at "future industrial use, regeneration opportunities and the role that specialist manufacturing capabilities could play in supporting growth and our national resilience."

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The future of speciality steel production will be high on the agenda and the assessment will include the consideration of products, customers and markets if the business is to be run profitably.

The Business Secretary explained: "The work we can now do will have to look at the capacities, the potential for new investment that might be required, the product lines, where the customers are and so forth.

"The key issue — I am not sure if this has ever been put on the record in Hansard before — is homologation. That is the assets of these sites and the accreditations they have for such a speciality set of products. Those assets are incredibly valuable. Not many parts of the world can produce to the standard that we are talking about. We now have a process — I want that to be as short as possible — where we can assess that."

Reynolds also discussed the potential costs involved - from running the business in public ownership, and from the remediation and regeneration of the sites. He said: "If this were a matter of public ownership, we would have to pay off the creditors, reach an accommodation with them, acquire the assets, and then inject some working capital over a period of between one and three years. I would expect the cost of that to be about £350 million, and I would expect something comparable were the option to be regeneration and remediation."

The government already has the powers following its previous work on British Steel in Scunthorpe. The Steel Industry (Nationalisation) Act 2026 gives the government powers to bring critical steel manufacturing companies into public ownership when it is in the public interest.

Labour’s 2024 election manifesto pledged £2.5 billion to rebuild and modernise the UK steel industry, a commitment now being channelled through the National Wealth Fund. This is on top of £500m that was granted to Tata in Port Talbot under the previous Government.

The Business Secretary was also critical of the way the business was run as Liberty Steel. He told the house that the business only produced when the customer effectively supplied working capital. Reynolds called this "a highly irregular position, but one reflective of the opaque and byzantine financing arrangements under the previous owners. I believe the opportunity exists to operate a successful business in this space. There is nothing ideological about this; my ideal is for the business to be run in the private sector."

Many of the workers at SSUK have been furloughed and the plants have not been operating for several years.

Reynolds concluded: "I want to speak directly to the workers of Speciality Steel UK, who have been stuck on furlough, unable to do the jobs of which they are so rightly proud, through no fault of their own. I know that they feel ignored and let down by previous Governments, but as Business Secretary, I will not duck these difficult decisions, and neither will this Government. I will do all that I can to secure a bright future for you, your communities and your families."

Following the announcement, Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said that the government needs "to get on and nationalise the company.”

Images: SSUK

News: Rotherham reacts to Government's plan to nationalise steel firm

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 08:09:37 +0000

The Government's plan to work towards the public acquisition of Speciality Steel UK (SSUK) has been welcomed in South Yorkshire.

Chancellor of the Exchequer and Rawmarsh and Conisbrough MP, John Healey, said: "UK steel is vital for our economy and security. We produce some of the best steel in the world in South Yorkshire and it supports thousands of good jobs. Since the 2013 national steel summit in Rotherham, as a local MP, I’ve worked with steel company directors, trade union leaders and MPs of all parties to level the playing field for UK still firms.

"The company’s sites support over 1,300 jobs in Rotherham, Stocksbridge, Brinsworth and Wednesbury and have a proud steelmaking history, including the use of electric arc furnace technology. The sites could play a vital in role supporting the Government’s modern Industrial Strategy, having produced specialist steel for sectors, including aerospace, defence and advanced manufacturing.

"The Government’s work towards the public acquisition of SSUK will include considering a sustainable long-term future for SSUK as a speciality steelmaker, as well as opportunities for regeneration.

"The Government is delivering the UK’s first ever Steel Strategy, setting out a long-term plan to rebuild the sector, attract investment and position the UK as a world leader in clean, modern steel production.

"This includes taking bold action across the business environment: tackling electricity prices and carbon leakage, increasing the use of UK-made steel in government-supported offshore wind projects, and making it easier for firms to invest and grow in future-facing, decarbonised technologies.

"The Government is backing the transformation of the sector with up to £2.5 billion of support, alongside reforms to improve competitiveness, drive demand for UK-made steel and support decarbonisation."

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Sarah Champion, MP for Rotherham, said: "It is of course deeply disappointing that Speciality Steel UK remains in administration. I thank the Government for seeing the potential in this key industry. However, Rotherham steel workers deserve clarity about what the future holds and are, I know, keen to return to work as soon as possible.’

"The cycle of failed ownership has held Specialty Steel back for far too long. I’m relieved the Secretary of State recognises this is a business with huge potential as a world leader in specialist steel products, with a strong track record and a skilled, experienced workforce.

"I welcome the Government’s announcement that it will work with the Official Receiver, myself, local leaders and the South Yorkshire Mayor towards public acquisition, while assessing all options for the company’s future.

"Whatever ownership model is ultimately decided, Speciality Steel needs leadership with the vision and commitment necessary to enable the business to fulfil its potential.

“The Labour Government has demonstrated its commitment to the UK steel industry since its very first days in office. From its resolute action to safeguard raw steel production in Scunthorpe, to its landmark Steel Strategy, which sets out unprecedented backing for the industry, Labour has shown time and time again that it is on the side of British steel businesses.

"I am proud to see that same commitment and focus given to safeguarding Speciality Steels UK, to protecting jobs in Rotherham and to continuing our long history of steel manufacture into a prosperous, successful future."

"I will be following discussions closely and will always speak up for Rotherham steel workers."

Cllr Chris Read, Leader of Rotherham Council, said: “The Government’s intention to intervene, developing a plan to bring South Yorkshire’s steel sites into public ownership reflects the seriousness with which the government is taking the task of ensuring Rotherham steel production has a bright future.

“Workers in Rotherham and across South Yorkshire have shown remarkable resilience through a prolonged period of uncertainty. They deserve a sustainable plan that gives them confidence in the future, protects our industrial heritage and preserves the sovereign capabilities that are so important to the UK economy. That is the case that our South Yorkshire team, including Mayor Oliver Coppard and our colleagues in Sheffield, have been making to government over many months. 200 years of steel production in Parkgate will not come to an end.

“We have long argued that the capabilities, skills and infrastructure contained within these sites are of national importance. At a time of growing uncertainty around global supply chains and economic security, maintaining the UK’s ability to produce high-quality specialist steel is more important than ever.

“We will continue to work with Government, industry and local partners to secure the best possible long-term outcome for our communities and our steel industry.”

Images: SSUK

News: Government announces plans to acquire Rotherham steelworks

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 07:58:54 +0000

The Government has announced that it will work towards the public acquisition of Speciality Steel UK (SSUK).

Last August, a judge approved an application from creditors to place SSUK, previously part of Liberty Steel and GFG Alliance, into compulsory liquidation. Teneo Financial Advisory Limited were brought in as Special Managers whilst a formal sale process takes place.

The company’s sites support over 1,300 jobs in Rotherham, Stocksbridge, Brinsworth and Wednesbury and have a proud steelmaking history, including the use of electric arc furnace technology at Aldwarke in Rotherham. It has produced products including aircraft landing gear, helicopter rotors, missiles, munitions and artillery casings.

The government committed £50m to keep the sites open throughout the bidding process. Multiple companies came forward with the government confident a buyer could be found.

In April, the official receiver announced a period of exclusivity with a preferred bidder, with The Financial Times reporting that Blastr was the preferred bidder.

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However, the Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds gave an update this week stating that, "after detailed due diligence and extensive discussions, the Government has now concluded the proposal on the table could not provide the long-term stability, certainty and value for money that workers, communities and taxpayers deserve."

Following on from intervention on British Steel, the Government will now develop a proposal for the public acquisition of SSUK, protecting jobs and securing the time needed to assess the best long-term future for these sites.

All future decisions and spending commitments will be subject to due diligence and funded from existing Government budgets.

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: "We do not intervene in private companies lightly. But nor can we simply stand aside and allow the future of this company and over 1,300 jobs to be decided by default.

"Working towards public acquisition will keep options open while we work with local leaders, workers, industry and investors to determine the best long-term future for these sites, which could play a vital role in the future of the growth-driving sectors in our Industrial Strategy, including defence and advanced manufacturing.

"I am determined that we take the time to properly assess the opportunities available here and make decisions that support growth, jobs and Britain’s industrial future."

The Government's plan to work towards the public acquisition of Speciality Steel UK (SSUK) has been welcomed in Rotherham.

Rothbiz looks at what happens next with plans to acquire the Rotherham steelworks.

Images: SSUK

News: How much Ron Hull paid for CF Booth, the massive Rotherham scrap yard, and Millmoor

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Thu, 03 Sep 2026 10:39:06 +0000

An administrator's report has revealed further details of the deal which saw the sale of the business and assets of historic Rotherham firm, CF Booth Limited, to Hu11 Limited, a subsidiary of Ron Hull Jnr Limited.

James Lumb and Howard Smith from Interpath were appointed joint administrators to CF Booth Limited, one of the UK’s leading metal recycling companies, in January. A number of the company's subsidiaries entered administration in the following months.

All eight companies were acquired by Hu11 Limited in March. The transactions for subsidiaries, Demex and Albion Jones, were going concern sales, allowing the demolition business to continue operations.

Administrators say that, following an accelerated marketing and sale process, six bidders were shortlisted based on value, confirmed funding and the ability to complete within the required timeframe. A sale of substantially all of the group's business and assets was concluded to Hu11 Limited for total consideration of £13.77m exclusive of VAT.

The administrator's report shows that £7.25m was for the freehold of the Armer Street premises - the 35-acre site at Masbrough which includes the Clarence Metal Works and Rotherham United's former home, Millmoor.

£3.4m was for plant and machinery, with the rest for other properties, stock and vehicles.

29 staff moved over as part of the demolition businesses but 149 were made redundant.

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As previously reported by Rothbiz, CF Booth had £46m debts when it entered administration.

The business experienced substantial operational and financial headwinds, including sharp rises in energy costs and pronounced volatility in copper prices.

One of the group's largest debt was with IGF, which only provided a £20m asset-based lending facility in 2025. The debt totalled £14.2m and administrators confirm that IGF has been repaid in full from a combination of book debt collections and the sale of business proceeds.

£1.24m remained outstanding to HMRC in outstanding VAT, PAYE and National Insurance Contributions with Interpath expecting that they should receive a dividend.

£30.6m was owed to unsecured creditors. Administrators say: "Based on current estimates, we anticipate that unsecured creditors should receive a dividend. We have yet to determine the amount of this, but we will do so when we have completed the realisation of assets and payment of associated costs.

"It is intended that the Company will be placed into creditors' voluntary liquidation in order to make a distribution to the unsecured creditors prior to the end date of the administration, which is 15 January 2027."

Unsecured creditors in administration are suppliers, customers, or contractors without security for their debt, ranking at the bottom of the repayment priority list.

The unsecured creditors list released previously included £3.5m - Employees, £14.3m - Intercompany creditors and another £2.2m - Other HMRC and HSE Fines & Penalties. Company trade creditors were listed with the total owed at £8.2m.

Whilst trading, CF Booth received notice that its appeal against an historical VAT Penalty assessment dating back a decade was unsuccessful resulting in a penalty of £1.4m becoming payable to HMRC. C F Booth Ltd was then fined £1.2m by the HSE after an investigation following the death of an employee on site.

Administrators add that they are "reviewing the affairs of the Company to find out if there are any actions which can be taken against third parties to increase recoveries for creditors.

"We have considered matters raised by creditors, reviewed transactions involving connected parties, assessed the Company's governance and record-keeping practices, analysed information relating to asset disposals and creditor treatment, and investigated matters requiring further enquiry in accordance with our statutory obligations.

"Significant time has also been spent reviewing and assessing information received from third parties, including creditor representations, professional advisers and government agencies, together with preparing and submitting our report on the conduct of the directors to the Insolvency Service, which is confidential."

Since concluding the deal, Ron Hull moved quickly to take on the fully operational rail siding which has enabled the provider of a range of metal recovery and waste recycling services to offer decommissioned rail stack handling and the sale and loading of scrap metal via rail.

Buildings on the site, considered to be in poor condition and surplus to requirements, were earmarked for demolition and planning permission was secured to demolish the stands and structures at Millmoor. Work started on the historic football stadium last month.

Ron Hull website

Images: Google Maps / RUFC

News: Pre-pack deal for specialist Rotherham recruitment firm

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Wed, 26 Aug 2026 09:42:49 +0000

A pre-pack deal has been secured for Rotherham-based specialist engineering and manufacturing recruitment business after it entered administration.

Metalis Engineering Recruitment Limited was established in 2019 and provided specialist recruitment services to the engineering and manufacturing sectors, supporting businesses across Yorkshire, the North of England and the Midlands with permanent and temporary recruitment solutions.

The Templeborough company faced increasingly challenging trading conditions, with a slowdown in recruitment activity and continued pressure on margins contributing to significant cash-flow difficulties. Despite steps taken by management to reduce costs and restructure the business, its financial position ultimately became unsustainable, and advice was sought from CY Group.

Steve Currie and Sophie Murcott of business advisory firm CY Group were appointed Joint Administrators of the Rotherham-based company on August 3 2026.

A report from the administrators states that the company's difficulties began in late 2024 with the deterioration in market conditions. It pointed to wider economic pressure, the adoption of inhouse hiring tools by clients and increased competition from smaller agencies and independent recruiters. Late payments from a key client and a dispute with software providers were also cited.

Following COVID, demand recovered strongly and the business grew steadily for around four years. At its peak the Company employed 28 staff across two offices.

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The Joint Administrators completed a pre-packaged sale of the business and certain assets to Metalis Recruitment Group Limited, a connected company, for an undisclosed sum.

The transaction secures the future of the business and safeguards all six jobs, enabling Metalis to continue trading and supporting its customers. The sale also represents a positive outcome for creditors, with the secured creditor currently expected to be repaid in full.

Steven Currie, Joint Administrator and Managing Director of CY Group, said: “Metalis had established a strong position within a specialist recruitment market, but challenging trading conditions and increasing pressure on cash flow had created significant difficulties for the business.

“Our priority was to preserve the underlying business, protect employment and achieve the best possible outcome for creditors.

“We are pleased to have completed a sale that safeguards all six jobs, enables the business to continue supporting its customers and is expected to result in the secured creditor being repaid in full.

“This is a positive outcome in what had become a very challenging set of circumstances and demonstrates the importance of seeking professional advice at an early stage, when there may still be options available to preserve value and protect jobs.”

The business will continue to trade under Metalis Recruitment Group Limited following completion of the sale.

Metalis website

Images: Metalis

News: Changes at The Garrison as Rotherham restaurant announces closure

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 09:43:26 +0000

An independent restaurant in Rotherham has announced its closure with a "small transformation" planned for later this year.

Elliott Vaughan opened his 1920s themed restaurant, The Garrison at Wickersley, in 2020 after securing financial help from alternative lending provider Finance For Enterprise. However, within less than seven days, his plans were thrown into jeopardy when, along with the whole of South Yorkshire’s hospitality sector, the restaurant was ordered to close as South Yorkshire entered into Tier 3 lockdown.

The focus is on British inspired local produce plus unique cocktails and proper beers. Drawing on inspiration from the hit TV show Peaky Blinders, whilst giving a nod to the golden age of jazz and the roaring Twenties, Elliott re-imagined the former tearoom, transforming it into a cosy, atmospheric dining experience.

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An update on social media explained that: "The Garrison as you know it will be closing. We will be undergoing a small transformation, and our restaurant will be changing its identity. More details of what will be following will be announced in the next few months."

The premises benefits from planning permission for a change of use from restaurant into a micropub and a decking area to front of the property.

In his post, Vaughan said that the changes are "as exciting as it is upsetting" but added that "this is not a goodbye, but a see you later."

On the state of the restaurant sector, the founder said: "Please keep supporting your local independent businesses. We know it’s tough out there for everyone, and for the hospitality guys, we are all feeling your pain.

"First the Conservatives and then Starmer’s useless government sapped the living s*** out of our beautiful industry and economy on a whole (in my opinion) and I don’t have much hope that Burnham will save it."

The Garrison facebook page

Images: The Garrison / facebook

News: Peel Group makes £583m offer for Harworth Group

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 08:16:50 +0000

One of the leading infrastructure, transport and real estate investors in the UK, The Peel Group, has made a cash offer worth £582.88m for Rotherham-based Harworth Group plc, a leading regenerator of land and property for sustainable development and investment.

The offer is expected to result in "a significant headcount reduction."

Created from what was UK Coal, Harworth Group owns, develops, and manages a portfolio of over 15,000 acres of strategic land over 100 sites located throughout the North of England and Midlands. With a focus on Grade A industrial and logistics (I&L) space and emerging opportunities in the data centre market, the company has a target of £1bn of EPRA NDV - EPRA NDV is how Harworth measures the value of the its assets.

Manchester's The Peel Group is a long-term investor in Harworth, having held various ownership interests in Harworth over a number of years. The Peel Holdings directors believe that Harworth's assets would be best owned, managed and developed under the full control of Peel Holdings.

In its announcement, Peel said that it feels that Harworth's administrative expenses and net interest expenses are too high and increasing, whilst the investment portfolio's passing rental income has decreased. It adds that it expects the EPRA NDV for the first hald of 2026 to be below 31 December 2025 levels following years of increases, and that the NDV target growth rate towards a £1bn valuation is "highly unlikely to be achieved."

The announcement added: "BidCo [Peel] considers Harworth's direct development and hold strategy to be capital-intensive, slow to deliver value and increasingly unable to generate appropriate risk-adjusted returns. As a result, BidCo believes the business should pivot toward strategic land activities and selective development, a model that has a lower cost base and is more effectively executed within a private-company structure."

The largest three shareholders own approximately 75.7% of Harworth's share capital and are being offered a significant premium of 36.9%. to the volume-weighted average share price over the last one-month period.

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Peel would de-list the business from the stock exchange and on jobs, the announcement said: "Following the Offer becoming or being declared unconditional, BidCo expects to review overlapping functions across the Harworth Group, including senior management, corporate, operational, finance, human resources, compliance and other support functions.

"Based on BidCo's preliminary assessment, the Offer is expected to result in a significant headcount reduction and synergies from overlapping functions and the elimination of costs associated with Harworth's status as a listed company. BidCo has not yet determined the number of roles likely to be affected, the timing of any reductions or the specific functions or locations in which any reductions may occur and will provide further information to affected employees in accordance with applicable legal and regulatory requirements."

Harwoth only moved to purpose-built offices at its flagship Waverley development earlier this year. Peel said that it "has not yet determined whether any changes will be made to the location of Harworth's headquarters or headquarters functions, or to the locations of Harworth's other fixed places of business." Any changes will be considered as part of a review into Harworth's assets.

Peel said that it would review Harworth's fixed asset base, including its strategic land bank and investment portfolio, and then intends to accelerate the disposal of selected assets.

Recovery plans for Doncaster-based UK Coal were put in place in May 2011 when the group reported a £124.6m loss and had a £450m pension deficit. The subsequent restructure in 2012 saw the new company, Coalfield Resources, focus on targeting the realisation of its property assets through the Harworth Estates Property Group Limited. Harworth Estates was completely acquired by Coalfield Resources in 2014.

Harworth Group plc grew to be listed on the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange and is a constituent of the FTSE 250 index.

The developer behind MediaCity in Salford and the Trafford Centre, The Peel Group has a chequered history in South Yorkshire, namely through the purchase and subsequent closure of the region's airports.

Harworth Group website
The Peel Group website

Images: Sotech Architectural Facade Systems

News: Talks continue over Speciality Steel sale

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 10:55:25 +0000

Talks remain underway with the preferred bidder for Speciality Steel UK (SSUK), the Minister of State for Industry has confirmed.

Last August, a judge approved an application from creditors to place SSUK, previously part of Liberty Steel and GFG Alliance, into compulsory liquidation. Teneo Financial Advisory Limited were brought in as Special Managers whilst a formal sale process takes place.

The government committed £50m to keep the sites in Rotherham and Stocksbridge open throughout the bidding process. Multiple companies came forward with the government confident a buyer can be found.

In April, the official receiver announced a period of exclusivity with a preferred bidder. Marking the next stage of a future sale agreement, the announcement said that talks were "expected to last approximately five weeks, during which the preferred bidder will progress their bid."

Rotherham MP, Sarah Champion has received confirmation from Chris McDonald MP that those talks remain underway. Champion added: "He made very clear that he does not want the works to close and he is keen for the site to start production at the earliest possible time."

The Financial Times is reporting that Blastr is the preferred bidder.

The steel industry has been a hot topic in Westminster this month with a recent debate on the Steel Industry (Nationalisation) Bill where Sarah Champion used the opportunity to highlight the importance of steel to Rotherham.

The MP said: "Rotherham is a steel town. It has seen the consequences of past Governments’ neglect up close. Speciality Steel, which is based in Rotherham—and Stocksbridge—should be a crown jewel in our economy, but it has been allowed to lurch from crisis to crisis, choked of investment and left at the mercy of unscrupulous ownership, unfair competition and a lack of vision. The plants currently stand still, shuttered amid the fallout of Liberty’s collapse. The workers are furloughed and uncertain about what their futures hold.

"My concern is not limited to Speciality Steel. Steel in Rotherham is at the centre of our local economy, and the crisis has had a substantial impact up and down the supply chain. The Minister’s ambition for steel’s renaissance could also be a rebirth for local businesses and local communities, but that requires investment, foresight and commitment. The Government’s steel strategy sets out a strategic vision for the industry and, crucially, delivers real and profound change for the sector as a whole. With £2.5 billion of investment in the sector and an ambitious but achievable target of 50% of the steel used in Britain to be produced here, the strategy is a blueprint for a revitalised domestic steel industry; it is one that has been roundly welcomed by the sector."

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In the same debate Chris McDonald MP, said: "That business [SSUK] shows the power of a productive Government intervention, working carefully with industry, because the Government have underwritten the costs of the official receiver to allow a proper sale of the business. The official receiver is in exclusive discussions with a potential buyer, and there was a high level of interest in the business from the market.

"As we look forward to the potential sale of the business, we can see the vital role that the Government have played in recognising that steel undertakings are complex, that it can be difficult and can take time to assess them, and that they require high levels of working capital. That contrasts significantly with Governments in the past, who allowed steel companies to close simply by not allowing that process to continue."

In a subsequent debate on steel tariffs, the minister said: "We all understand the position with Speciality Steel UK in Stocksbridge and Rotherham. That business is going through administration, and it was impossible for it to compete in the UK while there was an influx of subsidised steel.

"This Government have decided that we want to have a full aerospace supply chain, including our own speciality steels production. That is a different choice from the one that the previous Government made when they were approached by industry, offering to co-invest in that site and keep it open. They rebuffed all those responses, because their view was, “Leave it to the market, let the steel plants close.” We are making a different choice."

Images: SSUK

News: Gulliver's brings Great British Summer Savings to Rotherham

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 08:26:11 +0000

The big name operator of a family theme park in Rotherham is backing the government’s Great British Summer Savings scheme designed to help people enjoy days out for less.

Visit Rotherham reports that from June 25 to September 1 2026, VAT will be slashed on eligible activities, helping families "enjoy the weekend treats, the days out, the small plans that make life enjoyable during the cost of living squeeze while supporting the businesses that depend on summer footfall."

Great British Summer Savings will be a targeted and temporary scheme, introduced alongside free bus travel for children that will run from August 1 to 31 and covers participating local bus services across England.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said: "I want families to be able to enjoy the little treats this summer. Great British Summer Savings will help families enjoy time making memories together while boosting business across the UK.

"This comes on top of support we’ve already put in place including freezing fuel duty, taking off £117 off energy bills, and freezing prescriptions and rail fares – all to help families with the cost of living."

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The VAT rate on eligible activities will be cut from 20% to 5%. The reduced rate will apply to:

- Children’s menu meals served in restaurants for consumption on the premises
- Children’s and family tickets for cinemas, theatres, concerts, shows and exhibitions
- Admission tickets, for both children and adults, to a range of attractions, including: amusement parks, fairs, museums, zoos, soft play centres, circuses, adventure parks, nature reserves, wildlife parks and observation attractions.

The scheme is estimated to cost about £300m with £100m to fund the free fares scheme.

Julie Dalton, managing director of Gulliver’s Theme Park Resorts, said: "Government support for the UK’s visitor economy is always welcome, so it’s great to see the launch of the Great British Summer Savings Scheme which will help families get out and enjoy the fantastic attractions on their doorstep.

"At Gulliver’s, we’ve already applied these savings to ticket prices across our four UK resorts - Gulliver’s Kingdom in Matlock Bath, Gulliver’s World in Warrington, Gulliver’s Land in Milton Keynes and Gulliver’s Valley in Rotherham – so combined with our latest summer ticket offer, the next few weeks are the perfect time for families to come and enjoy great value days out with us.

"As a family-owned business, we understand the importance of providing affordable days out and short breaks for children, parents and carers and we’re proud to have been creating these fun-filled adventures and lasting memories for the last 48 years."

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.

Gulliver's Valley website

Images: Gulliver's

News: Lloyds to close another Rotherham branch

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 13:42:11 +0000

Lloyds Banking Group has confirmed plans to close another branch in Rotherham as part of plans to close 79 branches across the country.

The bank says that most customers are now using the app, online services or phone banking.

The Rotherham town centre branch is closing on October 15 2026.

The last closure was the Wickersley branch in 2023.

Lloyds has carried out an assessment of the location on Wellgate which says that just 610 customers were regular monthly branch users - those who transacted at the counter or Immediate Deposit Machine (IDM) four months out of six months ending February 2026.

The Closing Branch Review said that 75% of customers to the Rotherham branch also used other Lloyds branches, and online banking or phone banking – in the six month period ending February 2026.

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Following the closure, Lloyds customers needing to use a branch can visit any Halifax or Bank of Scotland branch to do things like pay in cash and cheques, take out or transfer money and pay bills. Rotherham town centre still has a Halifax on Howard Street.

Customers can also use the nearby Post Office for everyday banking.

The nearest Lloyds branch is in Sheffield city centre.

The bank says: "We regularly review how our customers choose to bank with us. And, with most now using our app, online services or phone banking, we're closing our Rotherham branch.

"Lloyds is proud to be part of the same family as Halifax and Bank of Scotland. We’re introducing more ways you can manage any personal accounts you have with Lloyds, Halifax or Bank of Scotland in one place, using co-servicing. Whether that’s online through the apps and online banking, or with a colleague over the phone, or in a branch."

The freehold of the property at 9 Wellgate sold for £225,000 in 2024. The substantial three storey building totals 5,402 sq ft and was sold with the possibility of future development potential.

Lloyds Bank Plc have been in occupation since 1996.

Lloyds website

Images: SMC Brownhill Vickers

News: AMP transformation makes Rotherham a global story

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 09:55:02 +0000

The Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham is described as one of the best examples of economic development in the country, with its impact something you can see, physically and numerically.

A new report from the Northern Powerhouse Partnership (NPP) has examined Rotherham’s economic transformation over the past two decades, building on a report last year that showed that Rotherham had the fastest-growing sub-regional economy in the North, with a 63.9% increase in productivity between 2004 and 2023.

The latest analysis pinpoints the smaller area that includes the AMP - the site at Waverley developed by Harworth and anchored by the University of Sheffield’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) which now supports a cluster which brings together businesses like Boeing, Rolls-Royce and McLaren Automotive with world-class research capability.

The report shows that real gross value added (GVA) grew in the AMP area from £111.6m in 2004 to £369.8m in 2022, a 231% increase in real terms, the strongest of any area in the borough by a substantial margin.

In 2022, small-area GVA per employee job in the AMP area reached £79,400 (2022 prices), 50% above the borough average and up 46.5% in real terms since 2015. The report says that this strongly indicates that the AMP is generating high-value economic activity.

Henri Murison, Chief Executive at The Northern Powerhouse Partnership, was talking at a Rotherham Together Partnership event last week about the transformation. He said that his organisation has been intrigued by the borough, saying that there was something "unusual and special about Rotherham."

Murison said: "The AMP economic trajectory is way above the borough, and the normal economy, and you can physically and numerically see the impact."

Situated on the former Orgreave colliery and coking works site, the AMP represents a striking example of economic renewal. An area once synonymous with the challenges of industrial decline, it is now home to one of Europe’s most significant clusters of advanced manufacturing, research and engineering activity.

Murison added: "The AMP is one of the country's best examples of economic development and the commitment by the area's leadership to push forward and prioritise employers like Rolls-Royce has had genuine dividends."

He referenced the collaboration with city neighbours, where the innovation district has expanded over the border from the AMP onto the site of the former Sheffield airport, and said that closing the economic productivity gap with city neighbours, as Rotherham has done, was unusual.

Murison concluded that Rotherham will need to take risks to continue the growth and pointed to the potential of the Don Valley Corridor and new Rotherham Gateway station on the mainline.

He said: "The point is, you have done this before, and when people like us say that you are likely to do it again, investors and people in real estate see this."

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Andrew McPhillips, Chief Economist at the Northern Powerhouse Partnership and author of the report, said: “Rotherham has recorded the fastest productivity growth of any major town in the North since 2004, but what is particularly striking is what sits behind that performance.

“Our analysis shows a long-term shift away from traditional heavy industry towards advanced manufacturing, engineering and innovation-led activity centred on the Advanced Manufacturing Park and the wider Don Valley corridor.

“The lesson is not that every place should try to replicate Rotherham exactly, but that through sustained collaboration between universities, businesses, investors and local leaders, we can create the conditions for long-term economic transformation.”

Tom Riordan CBE, Northern Growth Envoy, was also at the Rotherham Together Partnership event. He said: "Rotherham is a global story. It's not just you, it's a story for the North, and the UK - let's use it because this is how you get people working together, this is how you get that flywheel effect."

The former Yorkshire Forward boss also discussed the opportunity with the Don Valley Corridor and new Rotherham Gateway and said that he would continue to be a "friend and ally of Rotherham."

Cllr Chris Read, Leader of Rotherham Council, said: “The story of Orgreave and its transformation into something genuinely world‑leading at the Advanced Manufacturing Park to testimony to an extraordinary group of people, but it demonstrates a model which should inspire us for the future.

“Rotherham’s success story over the last decade is perhaps slightly obscured by the fact that hard work was undertaken in the typically determined, resilient but never showy style of our community. As we look towards the next decade of opportunity, the Don Valley Corridor has the potential to be one of the most important growth areas anywhere in the country and an exemplar for the North. This is about forging ahead, building on the lessons of the AMP while making the most of new industries, infrastructure and investment.

“Our plans for Rotherham Gateway, which would bring mainline services back to Rotherham for the first time since the 1980s, we’re looking to go further still, bringing new connections, new employment space and thousands of good-quality jobs closer to our communities.

“This welcome report shows not just how far we’ve come, but what’s possible when we get that long-term partnership right, giving certainty and stability for investment, and building on our strengths. There is much more to do, but with the momentum we have, we should be looking to the future with confidence.”

Northern Powerhouse Partnership website

Images: JPG / AMRC Training / RMBC

News: S2S Group achieves record growth, surpassing £5m turnover milestone

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 09:39:46 +0000

The Rotherham-based S2S Group has reported a record year, achieving £5.6m turnover for the year ending December 2025, reflecting our continued year-on-year growth.

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

The performance marks another period of strong expansion for us, supported by a £500,000 investment from Bailie Group to accelerate growth.

The funding has enabled the group to strengthen its operational capability, including the addition of a new 18-tonne truck, enhancing its nationwide on-site data destruction service offering.

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S2S Group’s workforce has also grown, with seven new employees joining in 2025, bringing the total headcount to 42. The team comprises nine IT technicians whose specialist capabilities ensure data security and asset recovery through secure processing, testing, sanitisation and refurbishment.

Last year, S2S also expanded iys European presence through a joint venture with Irish data destruction specialist All-Star Shredding, strengthening cross-border capability and reinforcing the focus on compliance, security and service resilience.

Chris Hare, Chief Commercial Officer at S2S Group, said: “2025 has been a year of significant progress for S2S Group, with strong growth across our customer base, operational capability and service offering. Surpassing £5 million turnover is a major milestone and reflects the dedication of our team. This year, our focus is on scaling further, investing in our fleet, and enhancing our systems to support continued growth and efficiency.”

The group processed more than 50,000 IT assets for recycling in 2025 and securely destroyed over 380,000 data-bearing devices. A 51.4% reuse rate was achieved through the refurbishment and redeployment of more than 28,000 IT assets back to customers. In addition, 78% of internal waste was recycled, with zero waste sent directly to landfill.

S2S Group website

Images: S2S Group

News: The reality for retail in Rotherham town centre

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 13:09:20 +0000

A retailer in Rotherham town centre has described the "perfect storm" that has resulted in a decision to prepare to close down after nearly 17 years of being at the forefront of the independent scene on the heritage High Street.

In 2009, the store's owner, Dannii Paston, was the first retailer to move into a unit in the refurbished Grade II-listed Imperial Buildings at the top of the High Street. Since then, Dannii and husband Chris have worked tirelessly at the specialist in fun fashion, alt style and pop culture, expanding and relocating in town at the same time as launching an online store and taking on new challenges such as their Over The Rainbow café a few doors down.

But now, having contemplated closure each year for a few years, a post on social media this week sets out that this could be the end of the Yella Brick Road for good.

The post reads: "A few months ago we made a big song and dance of saying that we were keeping our Rotherham town centre store open. We've been in the town centre for approaching seventeen years and our love for Rotherham persuaded us to hang around with all sorts of misplaced confidence that things would improve. Unfortunately they haven't and we now must now say sorry and share the bad news that 2026 will be our last year of trading in an actual bricks and mortar shop for the foreseeable future."

The entrepreneurial pair point to a range of issues, such as rising costs, a declining footfall - even before the closure of Primark in 2017, and the changes in shopping habits, admitting that they make more via their website than they do in the bricks and mortar store.

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The post continues: "There's no single reason for us going. There's no big evil landlord at fault - ours is a genuinely wonderful human being. The council is not to blame either - obviously they're not perfect, but RMBC have a difficult job and have helped us in various ways through the years. Increased costs such as business rates, utilities etc do not help of course, but they've exacerbated the issue rather than created it.

"A relentless change in shopping habits has obviously made a big difference. The availability of mega cheap alternatives from the likes of Shein et al have certainly had an impact. A massive dip in footfall over the years not least due to huge retailers leaving for out of town retail parks has taken its toll. Constant stresses such as shoplifters, anti-social behaviour, a too low VAT threshold and people relentlessly trying to persuade people from supporting the town definitely haven't helped.

"And of course we've got to look inwards. Quite simply we've made decisions that no doubt contributed to us having to shut our doors. It would be ridiculous if we blamed everyone and everything but ourselves.

"All in all, it's a bit of a "perfect storm" and a multitude of factors have got us to this position."

The post garnered a sad but understanding reaction from followers.

Yella Brick Road remains open for now and will still be getting new stock through the year. The retailer will be staying online after the High Street store closes.

Yella Brick Road website

Images: Yella Brick Road

News: Independent restaurant closes at Rotherham's flagship Forge Island

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Fri, 08 May 2026 07:57:37 +0000

Whilst other tenants are trading well, an independent restaurant set up by local entrepreneurs has closed within a year of opening at Forge Island in Rotherham.

Sygnature Dish opened last summer, bringing steak and seafood to 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.

Sygnature Dish joined the Vetro Lounge at Forge Island and was followed by Heavenly Desserts.

Dalu and Sibbs Sikhosana, the enterprising siblings behind Sygnature Dish, were first involved in Sub Sahara, an authentic family-run African shop and butchery in Rotherham town centre.

Judith Badger, Executive Director of Corporate Services at Rotherham Council, said: “We’re sorry to see Sygnature Dish close and we recognise that any business closure is particularly difficult for the staff involved. We’d like to thank them for being part of Forge Island.

“The hospitality sector is facing challenges across the country, and unfortunately Sygnature Dish has faced difficulties linked to its own operating model as well as wider market conditions. Despite this Forge Island as a destination continues to record strong footfall and a growing customer base amongst Rotherham residents and from further afield.

“Forge Island remains a vibrant and popular place to visit, with Arc Cinema, Travelodge, Vetro Lounge and Heavenly Desserts all trading well and attracting customers throughout the week. Feedback from visitors continues to be very positive, and we’re pleased with the momentum across the site.

“Importantly, the site was always designed to evolve. With that in mind, we’re looking forward to announcing a new operator who will open at the Forge Island later this year. Discussions are progressing and we hope to share news soon.

“In the meantime, we’d encourage residents to continue supporting the fantastic businesses already at Forge Island.”

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At the start of the year, Rothbiz reported on difficulties faced by the council with the scheme.

"Operational issues" meant that a car parking system was delayed and the authority's Parking Services staff were drafted in to ensure the site was being used appropriately after the council received a number of complaints about parking availability and the "heavy usage by non-genuine customers."

An ANPR system is now in place with parking concessions extended to customers of all businesses located within the Forge Island development providing four hours of free parking.

The council report also referenced the difficulty the council was having in attracting businesses to the site and letting the units.

In 2024, Rothbiz reported on the liquidation of a company connected to the restaurant operator that the council had signed up in a pre-let agreement to open a number of brands at Forge Island. The leader of the council said that it was a "challenging business situation" for the operator.

Work began on site in November 2022 after Rotherham Council agreed to fund the Forge Island regeneration scheme itself when the the funding available its delivery partner, Muse, "significantly reduced" due to the volatility of the financial markets.

The council's project budget also includes a contribution towards the fit out of the units.

According to Rotherham Council's leader, Chris Read, there has been a million more visits in the town centre across the two years since Forge Island opened in 2024.

Forge Island website

Images: Sygnature Dish

News: Pricecheck celebrates £200m milestone, doubles down on growth

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Thu, 07 May 2026 08:00:33 +0000

Pricecheck, an international wholesaler and distributor of fast-moving consumer goods, has smashed its ambitious "Vision 200" goal, recording an annual turnover of £200m, marking the completion of a five-year business plan to double the organisation's size.

With its HQ at Beighton Link in Rotherham, Pricecheck is a fast-growing international wholesaler and distributor of Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG).

The financial year ending April 2026 saw Pricecheck grow 11% from its £179m turnover in the prior year, which also marked the company’s 12th consecutive year of growth. In the past year, the international distributor grew its product range, acquiring iconic heritage brands Harmony, Amplex, and Rapport, whilst extending its brand distribution portfolio, welcoming JDE Peet’s market-leading brands, including Kenco, Douwe Egberts, Maxwell House, and Tassimo.

This growth was also supported by a significant expansion of its operational footprint, which now totals over 400,000 sq ft, as well as an increase in its workforce to over 370 staff.

The achievement of Vision 200 comes following Pricecheck’s transition from a traditional specialist wholesaler to a leading brand distribution partner, which now accounts for approximately 45% of the total business, up from less than 10% just five years ago. This has seen the company drastically expand its capabilities to cover all aspects of brand owner support, including eCommerce, marketing, export and display solutions.

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Building on this momentum, Pricecheck has also announced the launch of its "Future 400" business plan. This new strategy sets a clear target to double the business again, reaching £400m in revenue by focusing on maintaining and building on its rapid growth, driven by the expansion of its brand portfolio and diversifying its customer reach.

Mark Lythe and Debbie Harrison OBE, Joint Managing Directors at Pricecheck, said: “Reaching £200m is an incredible achievement by everyone here. We started this journey with an ambition to double our size, and seeing that vision become a reality is a testament to the passion, grit, and heart our team puts into this business every single day.

“We have evolved from our wholesale roots into a true global partner for some of the world’s biggest brands. But at our core, we remain the same as we always have been, a business that cares deeply about our people and our heritage.

“Launching 'Future 400' is the next chapter of our story, creating more opportunities for our team and continuing to prove that with the right people and a compelling offering, there are no limits to what we can achieve.”

The firm first moved to Beighton Link in 2016 and added that 197,425 sq ft former Maplin building on Brookfields Park in Manvers in 2020. Recent expansion includes a new 20,000 sq ft warehouse at Beighton Link and a 13,000 sq ft temporary structure at Manvers.

Pricecheck website

Images: Pricecheck

News: Changes on the way at popular Rotherham pub restaurant

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 13:17:17 +0000

The future of a pub restaurant in Rotherham is unclear after its owners carried out a wide ranging review of its business.

The Brecks in Rotherham is part of Whitbread's Beefeater portfolio and is connected to Premier Inn Rotherham East, part of the UK's biggest hotel brand that is also owned by Whitbread.

Having undertaken a review, bosses at the leading hospitality business are putting in place a refocused growth plan in the UK to replace all remaining branded restaurants.

Expanding its "Accelerating Growth Plan" will see 197 branded restaurants replaced "with a more efficient and tailored F&B [Food & Beverage] offering for our guests."

The company said it had seen positive early results two years into the original plan to optimise the delivery of F&B at a number of sites by converting lower returning branded restaurants into a higher margin and more efficient, integrated F&B offering, and converting space into new hotel rooms.

Whitbread added that it had already agreed the sale of 51 branded restaurants for £50m and agreed terms for the sale, subject to conditions, on a further 60 sites.

The sales are expected to be as going concerns over the next 24 months with the investment into creating more efficient integrated restaurants set to take place in the 2027 financial year.

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An update from Whitbread said: "Moving to a 100% integrated F&B offering will improve the guest experience and add more higher returning extension rooms and we will deliver 15% - 20% returns on capital by FY31 [the 2031 financial year].

"With over 500 integrated restaurants already operational across our UK estate, it is clear that this F&B format is preferred by our hotel guests and delivers better margins and returns than the branded restaurant format."

Dominic Paul, Chief Executive at Whitbread plc, said: "Owning a significant proportion of our property is a unique strength which powers the growth of Premier Inn while supporting our resilience as a business, underpinned by a strong balance sheet. But we can improve our approach. We will refocus our capital spend and recycle more of our freehold real estate, driving increased margins and returns, reducing our capital intensity and increasing cash returns for shareholders.

"By making our assets work harder and focusing on the highest returning projects, we will be able to continue to take advantage of constrained supply to strengthen our position in both of our core markets, whilst at the same time deliver attractive financial outcomes for shareholders.

"In the UK, by reallocating some of our capital spend and building on the success of our Accelerating Growth Plan, we plan to convert all our remaining branded restaurants to an integrated food and beverage offer that is preferred by our hotel guests and will unlock the addition of more highly profitable extension rooms. Our continued efforts to drive our commercial plan and efficiencies will extend our market-leading position and allow us to take share from our competitors, many of which are struggling to grow."

The Premier Inn on East Bawtry Road secured planning permission last year for a 4,800 sq ft two storey extension to the east of the current hotel. It would provide an additional 16 bedrooms but two current rooms would be lost to create a new corridor. It would take the total rooms at the site from 62 to 76.

The update from Whitbread added: "Against a backdrop of limited UK supply growth, we will open a further 3,000 higher returning extension rooms (including the original plan and the extension of the plan) that are being added in locations where we know from our trading data that, at certain periods, demand outstrips supply and so we are confident that these additional rooms will deliver highly attractive financial returns."

Whitbread website

Images: Google Maps

News: New owners prepare to demolish CF Booth buildings

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 07:38:37 +0000

The new owners of historic Rotherham firm, CF Booth Limited, are sizing up how best to use the 35-acre site it has acquired.

Some demolition is proposed, but no plans have yet been revealed for Millmoor, the home of Rotherham United until 2008.

Administrators announced last month that they have concluded a sale of the company’s business and assets to Hu11 Limited, a subsidiary of Ron Hull Jnr Limited.

The sale of substantially all the assets of eight interconnected companies included Demex and Albion Jones as going concern sales, allowing the demolition business to continue operations.

Taking over the Clarence Works at Armer Street in Masbrough, Ron Hull has moved quickly to take on the fully operational rail siding which has enabled the provider of a range of metal recovery and waste recycling services to offer decommissioned rail stack handling and the sale and loading of scrap metal via rail.

The Ron Hull Group has also been assessing the buildings on the site, with many found to be in a state of disrepair.

The company has engaged with the local planning authority, Rotherham Council, over the method of demolition for buildings on the site.

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The buildings set for demolition in the plans include the prominent main office building fronting Armer Street, and the large industrial buildings to the rear and side.

Further office buildings, factory units, a furnance and a maintenance workshop are also identified for demolition on maps submitted with the applications, allthough the applicants stress that the group is currently unsure exactly which buildings will remain and which will ultimately be demolished as they look to see if factory units and furnaces can be reused within the current business.

The plans explain that the three of the smaller buildings that are proposed to be demolished "are showing signs of a long term lack of repairs and maintenance, and are in poor condition. The buildings also are surplus to the requirements of the current owner's needs and business operations."

Industrial buildings are described as being in a state of disrepair, with the main office building's interior "very closed and unsuitable for modern open office use. The building is showing signs of water damage and general neglect." Other buildings are also showing signs of water damage and are in a state of disrepair.

Once demolished, the areas are set to store metals, which is as the current use of the site.

Ron Hull Group website

Images: Google Maps

News: Preferred bidder for former Liberty steelworks in Rotherham

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 12:35:00 +0000

A sale is moving closer for Speciality Steel UK (SSUK), with the official receiver confirming a preferred bidder for the company.

Last August, a judge approved an application from creditors to place SSUK, previously part of Liberty Steel and GFG Alliance, into compulsory liquidation. Teneo Financial Advisory Limited have been brought in as Special Managers whilst a formal sale process takes place.

The government has committed £50m to date to keep the sites in Rotherham and Stocksbridge open whilst the bidding process takes place. Multiple companies came forward with the government confident a buyer can be found.

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An update from the official receiver on what it calls "a major step towards a sale," states: "A period of exclusivity has been agreed with a preferred bidder, marking the next stage of a future sale agreement.

"This is expected to last approximately five weeks, during which the preferred bidder will progress their bid.

"SSUK was wound up in August 2025, with the Official Receiver administering the liquidation, including activity at the steelworks.

"Employees have been informed.

"The Official Receiver will look to complete the sale at the earliest opportunity."

The Times reported in January on a shortlist of bidders obtained from "sources familiar with the situation."

Five potential new owners were listed by the paper including: 7 Steel; Aperam; Arabian Gulf Steel Industries; EIG Global Trust; and Evore Steel.

Sky News reported in February that Blastr was another name on the shortlist.

The Financial Times is reporting that Blastr is the preferred bidder.

Charlotte Brumpton-Childs, GMB National Secretary, said: "This is welcome news and we look forward to engaging with the interested parties on behalf of our members.

"Any sale of SSUK must include due diligence which guarantees ongoing operations and stability of the sites.

"GMB members have been at the sharp end of years of uncertainty at this point - his needs to be a deal that secures the long-term future steelmaking in South Yorkshire."

Images: Google Maps