rotherham business news

News: Council hopes new advisers will help boost Rotherham's high streets

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Thu, 08 Oct 2026 11:43:18 +0000

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

Rotherham Council's three advisers are acting as a familiar face for traders, working with them on a range of issues from street safety and cleanliness to promotion, footfall and access to grants.

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

Providing a local presence, identifying issues of concern, and signposting to other council services for assistance, they provide visible and routine engagement and are becoming known faces to businesses and local ward members, providing regular updates on activity and working to solve problems as they arise. The advisers are providing initial business advice, helping to co-ordinate local promotions, signposting to other grant opportunities and co-ordinating with other council departments.

The advisers are also playing a key role in delivering the popular Shopfront Grants scheme, which has secured a further year of funding for 2026/27 through the Local Growth Fund, worth around £600,000. The oversubscribed scheme has already helped around 50 businesses improve the appearance of their premises.

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

Cllr. John Williams, Cabinet Member for Transport, Jobs and the Local Economy, said: "We've made a big investment to create and establish a new High Street Advisor team, and they'll be a single point of contact for our high streets across the borough to provide business support, advice, guidance, help to access grants and financial support. They're going to be a real practical source of help for our high streets in Maltby, Dinnington, Swinton, Wath, and in Rotherham town centre.

Advertisement
"Our new High Street Advisors will provide support to our traders and to our high street shops and businesses to help tackle those everyday challenges and to provide that business support and help to access the support that's available through the council on a wide range of issues.

"We recognise that our high streets are the real heart of our communities, and this council is committed to supporting our high streets and supporting our centres across the borough."

Rothbiz reported on Rotherham Cuncil's investment in its latest budget as part of a wider push to strengthen Rotherham’s high streets. A £304,000 figure was included in the council's budget for Supporting the High Street along with further cash to continue the authority's Shop Unit Business Grant Project that was oversubscribed.

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

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

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

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

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

RiDO website

Images: Armitage Sorby

News: Rotherham Council approves 24 hour shop licence for town centre pub

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Wed, 07 Oct 2026 11:16:35 +0000

Plans are moving ahead to convert part of a vacant pub in Rotherham town centre into a convenience store.

The Bridge Inn has a prominent position opposite Rotherham Central railway station but was one of four pubs being brought to market by the Old Mill Brewery in 2024.

Rothbiz reported on the demolition of The Trades back in 2022. During the last years of the Greasbrough Road venue, a passionate team of directors created "The Hive" and started working with The Trades to bring a wide variety of live music to the town as an "upstart side venue."

During the pandemic a deal was struck with the brewery to move to the adjacent Bridge Inn and turn, what was a designated pub for visiting football fans, into a live music venue.

Since the sale, the pub has remained closed, but now a premises licence has been secured for almost half of the ground floor.

The application, recently approved by Rotherham Council, is from Kari Retail Ltd and shows the layout of a Go Local convenience store in the part of the building closest to the former Trades site and current car park.

Go Local is the retail brand established by Parfetts, one of the UK's leading cash & carry wholesalers.

Advertisement
The new licence is for a 24 hour operation and the provision of late night refreshment between 23:00 and 05:00, and the sale by retail of alcohol for consumption off the premises only, for 24 hours a day.

The licence comes with a number of mandatory conditions that you would expect regarding the sale of alcohol.

Property specialists Fleurets, marketing the Bridge Inn, describing it as a "very individual and unashamed live rock music operation. Bands perform almost every day on two stages and trade has been developed to cater exclusively for this market.

"Not for the feint-hearted the fit out include ghoul masks, coffins as tables, zombies, skeletons, armour, devils and much more besides. Unique and wonderful."

The property, which had operated under a franchise agreement for several years, was advertised for offers at £295,000 for the freehold with vacant possession.

Although not a listed building. it is in the town's conservation area and was added to the South Yorkshire Local Heritage List earlier this year. The listing explains that the pub was completed in March 1932 on behalf of Mappins Masbro Old Brewery. The neo-Jacobean style sits alongside the medieval bridge and bridge chapel.

When it opened it contained a lounge hall, smokeroom, luncheon room and tap room on the ground floor, with clubroom and hotel rooms on the first floor.

Images: Google Maps

News: Redevelopment plans passed for Rotherham pub

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Tue, 06 Oct 2026 08:08:23 +0000

The owners of a prominent public house in Rotherham have been given approval to bring it back to life following a period of inactivity.

Occupying a prime spot on Kimberworth's High Street, The Green Dragon is a large, imposing pub with restaurant dining to the rear and a first floor function room.

Currently closed, Rothbiz reported last year that the freehold of the pub had gone up for sale for £400,000.

Rotherham Council has recently approved a change of use planning application from Harbham Odedra that shows that the ground floor would change from a pub to a restaurant with the retention of first-floor residential accommodation. The proposals also include the removal of existing outbuildings, and the construction of a single-storey retail extension.

Advertisement
According to CAMRA, the pub was acquired by national operator Stonegate and was extensively refurbished before reopening in August 2022. It closed but reopening again in 2024 alongside Maisha Spice, which specialised in Indian style cuisine.

The proposed retail unit, to the right of the existing entrance fronting High Street, would have an approximate gross internal area of 3,200 sq ft and is designed as a "One Stop–type convenience store."

The plans stated: "The proposal ensures the continued active use of a long-established community building, avoiding vacancy and decline. The restaurant will continue to provide a welcoming social environment for residents and families, function and meeting spaces for private and community events, a family-friendly venue that supports inclusive social interaction.

"The convenience retail unit will provide an important local service, particularly for residents with limited mobility or without access to private vehicles."

Rotherham Council's planning board voted to approve the plans, which come with a number of conditions, relating to things like extraction systems, drainage, restricting the retail unit to Class E(a) only, and marking out the car parking area.

The restaurant use can only be open to customers between the hours of 12:00 and 22:00 and the retail use can only be open to customers between the hours of 07:00 and 22:00 in order to safeguard the amenities of the occupiers of nearby properties. No deliveries to the site can be made between the hours of 21:00 and 07:00 for the same reason.

Images: Savills

News: Rotherham bar operator targets town centre

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Mon, 05 Oct 2026 08:10:25 +0000

The operator of popular venues in Rotherham has announced plans to open another in the town centre, reports Visit Rotherham.

A craft beer specialist, Roadhouse Bar & Bottles originally opened in 2021 in the former supermarket store room at Stag Roundabout. It has hosted art events and live music and also operates as a bottle shop offering beers, wines and spirits.

In 2024, the same vibe was created in a former opticians on Laughton Road in Dinnington.

Now the team has revealed that it has set its sights on an empty property on the heritage High Street in Rotherham town centre.

A post on social media, picked up by Visit Rotherham read: "It's now official!

"After everything that’s happened since we opened our first Roadhouse, we’re incredibly excited to finally announce... Roadhouse Bar & Bottles is coming to Rotherham!"

The post hints that the new Roadhouse will offer great beer, great wine, live music, tasting nights and events and shows 29 High Street as the new location.

Advertisement
Part of a complex of mixed-used retail outlets focusing on listed buildings, the Georgian Town House contained the remains of the Italian restaurant and was painstakingly restored with a new Victorian shop frontage and Doric door. The unit was previously The Craft Corner and Bears' Den and a bridal shop.

The listed building, once occupied by the Badger family, a notable family of solicitors and lawyers, now contains four self-contained residential apartments, a two-bedroom cottage and a ground floor retail unit.

In 2024 Roadhouse's Stag premises closed for the "forseeable future" "due to circumstances outside of our control" but reopened in the summer of 2025.

Later in 2025, Chris Roadhouse joined with new directors to convert a vacant former pet shop, also at Stag, into a new wine bar. Antler & Vine opened earlier this year with a different offer to Roadhouse next door which instead focuses on craft cocktails, fine wines and champagne.

Roadhouse website

Images: Veritas

News: Rotherham street traders move back to market hall site as indoor traders report drop in footfall

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 10:59:53 +0000

Some traders on the outdoor market that have temporarily been using the main streets in Rotherham town centre have moved back to the markets site as regeneration work progresses.

Indoor traders in the new Market Hall are hoping that it will boost footfall in the area following a slow summer.

Rotherham outdoor market relocated from the outdoor covered market to Effingham Street in 2023 as works progressed on the regeneration of Rotherham Markets.

As part of the £46.844m scheme, traders from the old indoor market have moved temporarily into the New Market Hall until the work on the indoor market is complete (previously scheduled for Autumn 2027). When these traders move back into their revamped home, street traders are due to make use of the new Market Hall.

Operator, Rotherham Council, has now made the decision to move the Monday and Friday general market from the street onto the public space around the Rotherham Market Hall.

As part of the works, a new public realm area has been created between the market and Eastwood Lane and the college campus.

It is not yet known if the general outdoor market on a Saturday, Tuesday street market, Wednesday Antiques & bric-a-brac market, or Rotherham Bazaar on a Thursday, will follow.

Rotherham MP, Sarah Champion recently visited stall holders trading temporarily in the new Market Hall to discuss issues impacting their businesses.

Advertisement
Having raised the issues with Rotherham Council, the authority admitted that traders and visitors had faced "temporary challenges" as the construction work on the new library and indoor market continues around the new Market Hall.

In reply to the MP, John Edwards, chief executive of Rotherham Council, said: "We are aware that traders have raised concerns regarding footfall in recent weeks. A number of factors are likely to have contributed to this, including the summer closure of the College and the exceptionally hot weather experienced during the period. However, we recognise that accessibility issues and ongoing construction activity may also have had an impact. We continue to monitor visitor numbers and work proactively to support traders and increase market activity.

"The Council is actively promoting the market through a programme of marketing, events, wayfinding improvements, and town-centre promotional activity designed to increase visitor numbers and encourage repeat visits. These initiatives have been developed in partnership with traders to ensure they respond to the needs of businesses and help maximise customer engagement and footfall."

On accessibility, Edwards acknowledged that there had been issues with the lift accessed via Henry Street which had experienced "a number of operational issues in recent weeks" that have since been addressed by the contractors.

Edwards added: "To further improve accessibility, a platform lift will also be installed within the public realm area. Unfortunately, manufacturing delays meant that this could not be installed before the market opened, however the Council continues to work closely with the contractor to deliver this improvement as soon as possible."

Work has recently completed on the signalised crossing linking the markets with Drummond Street car park. Temporary traffic lights had been causing traffic issues in the area.

The council is also considering extending its rent free period for traders "in recognition that some temporary challenges remain."

Rothbiz reported in May on the authority's support for traders involved.

Edwards concluded: "We remain confident that, once the remaining accessibility and public realm improvements are complete, the new market will provide a high-quality, accessible, and sustainable destination that supports both traders and visitors. We will continue to work closely with traders to ensure that the market achieves its full potential as a key part of Rotherham town centre's regeneration."

Images: RMBC

News: Plans emerge for Snail Yard site

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 09:31:27 +0000

Redevelopment plans are finally taking shape for a site on the heritage High Street in Rotherham town centre that was acquired by the local council in 2020.

Proposals involve new offices and residential units replacing a temporary pocket park and a vacant plot.

Rotherham Council purchased the former Primark building in November 2020, using funding from the Towns Fund Accelerator programme after the Government awarded a £1m grant to kick start regeneration projects in Rotherham town centre.

Demolition work took place and the authority had set out to complete a pocket park by September 2021 before targeting the Women's Euros in July 2022. It eventually fully opened in 2026 with project costs of £920,000.

Now plans are being brought forward by Rotherham Council's development partner for the prominent site.

Rothbiz reported earlier this year on details of the projects from social impact developer Capital&Centric, who have been awarded a contract to develop five council-owned sites that could reach up to £100m in value.

Advertisement
Whilst residential-led plans are being progressed for other sites, for Snail Yard, a smaller-scale, mixed-use development is proposed, centred around a courtyard concept.

Early stage planning documents show two new blocks. A new block fronting the High Street, potentially on top of the current pocket park, would contain 2,600 sq ft of commercial space and four residential units. A second block would create 9,500 sq ft of office space and external deck space. The formation of the blocks would also create a hidden courtyard space.

The plans, drawn up by Urbana planning consultants, explain that the development is "principally commercial-led, bringing a substantial amount of new employment-generating floorspace into the heart of Rotherham Town Centre, supplemented by a modest residential component" that would compliment rather than replace commercial use.

The homes are all set to be four bedroom properties adding larger family accommodation to the residential mix in the town centre.

The plans add: "The proposals seek to reinstate the commercial uses which were once occupying the site prior to its temporary use as a pocket park. In this instance, the proposals bring high street uses back to the High Street, restoring an active built frontage and introducing additional activity, employment and footfall."

New housing and increasing the resident population of the town centre is being used as a way to "support the vitality and viability of its existing and emerging commercial, leisure and community offer."

On the design of the development, and given that the site is in the town centre conservation area and close to listed buildings, the developers set out that the proposals "do not seek to replicate historic development, but instead provide a contemporary development which responds to the established scale, rhythm and character of its surroundings and allows the site to make a positive contribution to the evolving character of the Conservation Area.

"Overall, the proposals represent an opportunity to deliver a significant improvement to the character and appearance of this currently fragmented part of Rotherham Town Centre."

A council cabinet report from earlier this year stated that the scheme is not considered viable without some form of public sector funding and the council is working with Capital&Centric to find gap funding.

Capital&Centric website

Images: RMBC

News: Rotherham-based bed retailer win national business award

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 09:08:04 +0000

Rotherham's MattressOnline has been named as Online Bed Retailer of the Year at a prestigious industry awards.

The Aldwarke company has an emphasis on technology and has established itself as a pioneering force in the e-commerce landscape as the first mattress retailer to bring next day delivery to the mainstream. It also operates a number of bricks and mortar stores.

The firm's success was recognised at the recent 2026 Bed Federation (NBF) Industry Awards.

Advertisement
The judges described the category as "exceptionally close" and said: "MattressOnline clinched the title after another year of growth and development, while retaining the agile and collaborative approach at the heart of its operation.

"It saw healthy year-on-year increases in orders, units sold and revenue. It launched 68 new products, 73% made by NBF-approved members, while maintaining a 4.8 Trustpilot rating. Sustainability remains central, with more than 164,000 mattresses saved from landfill since 2015.

"Its community impact was another highlight, delivering almost 1,800 items to over 400 South Yorkshire families through its support for Baby Basics and tackling bed poverty."

MattressOnline CEO, Steve Adams added: "Winning Online Retailer of the Year at the National Bed Federation Awards is a huge moment for everyone at MattressOnline. It recognises the hard work of our entire team who put helping people find the best night’s sleep at the heart of everything they do.

“Buying a mattress is a big decision - and our job is to make that journey simple and reassuring. To, once again, be named Online Retailer of the Year by the NBF, the voice of our industry, tells us we're getting that right. We're very proud, and we're even more determined to keep doing the right thing for our customers - both here in our home of South Yorkshire and to the wider UK."

Mattress Online website

Images: Mattress Online

News: Huge new children's play area planned for Rotherham garden centre

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Mon, 21 Sep 2026 08:35:44 +0000

A popular garden centre in Rotherham is taking fun seriously as it unveils plans to invest in a massive new children's play area, reports Visit Rotherham.

The last addition at Wentworth Garden Centre was the large explorer ship complete with climbing walls, cargo nets and slides, that was installed in 2020.

The destination garden centre, which already attracts over 400,000 visitors a year, is situated in 16 acres in the former walled kitchen, Italian and Japanese gardens of Wentworth Woodhouse and in the picturesque Rotherham village of Wentworth.

The family owned independent centre has undergone a number of improvements and investment projects, with historic gardens, a craft centre, family farm and restaurants, The Walled Garden and The Bothy.

Visit Rotherham reports that a planning application has now been submitted for a 1,900 sq m (20,000 sq ft) grassed area accessed through the family farm, through an existing doorway in the wall that surrounds the garden centre.

Earth Wrights Ltd, a leading company specialising in the design and build of inspirational play spaces and equipment, has been brought in to help create the new play area.

Advertisement
Plans are for a modern play area focusing on exploration, imagination, social play and physical play.

Play equipment proposed for Wentworth include log swings, tunnels and towers, sand play, climbing clusters, wooden play huts and a zip wire.

The application states: "The two outside children play areas are oversubscribed for the facilities available. In addition the nature of children’s play areas has evolved over the years from conventional static equipment in an almost formal setting, to instead creating a more natural setting. The Directors of Wentworth Garden Centre have recognised this shift in philosophy and have teamed up with Earth Wrights Limited who create play areas with clear, focused goals:

─ ‘exploratory’ play where children can investigate their physical surroundings
─ ‘physical’ play where children can indulge in activities that “challenge their minds and bodies”
─ ‘social’ play where children are encouraged to make friends, co-operate in activities and play together
─ ‘loose part’ play where spaces are created to encourage children to collect objects and make things
─ ‘imaginative’ play allowing children to “create their own worlds” in a flexible play environment
─ quiet play for children to be still in areas for sitting and take a break from active play.

"The current play areas do not allow for creating an environment that combines these elements of play. They are too small in area (730m²) and are located as part of the wider garden centre retail area. (By comparison, Tong Garden Centre some 23 miles away at Bradford, has a 4,000m² childrens play area).

"The current situation is not ideal if childrens play is to be seen as something more than a ‘distraction’ whilst the parents and guardians are shopping. If the play facility to be offered at WGC is to be something which combines some or all of the above child development goals then it needs to be located away from the busy retail areas and instead be located in a self-contained area with no external distractions."

The car park can accommodate up to 758 plus parking for two coaches. Applicants say that "there is sufficient car parking capacity available to meet the increased demand as a result of the extension to the childrens play area."

The development is not regarded as harmful to the Green Belt by applicants given that it is outdoor recreation connected to the existing use and is well screened by walls and trees.

Wentworth Garden Centre website

Images: Earth Wrights Ltd / Wentworth Garden Centre

News: Retailer revamps another Rotherham store

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Mon, 21 Sep 2026 08:15:46 +0000

Grocery retailer Asda has announced that Rotherham will be the latest location to welcome its new stand-alone George concept store, as the retailer continues the transformation of its Asda Living portfolio across the UK.

Launching at 9am on Thursday 1 October, the Rotherham store will be the final George stand-alone opening of 2026. The store follows a succession of well received Asda Living store transformations across the UK, where customers have responded positively to the enhanced shopping experience, expanded product ranges and modern store environment.

Asda has already transformed its other Rotherham store at Cortonwood using the stand-alone George store concept.

Situated at the town’s Parkgate Retail Park, the latest store will offer a dedicated destination for fashion and home shoppers. It will bring together an extensive range of George clothing for women, men and children alongside a significantly expanded George Home collection.

Customers will benefit from larger clothing ranges across all departments, including substantial growth in the store’s womenswear and menswear offering. The home department will also feature a much broader selection of bedding and small domestic appliances, as well as expanded ranges across the wider George Home collection.

The store will also stock George’s exclusive new clothing collaboration with broadcaster and former premier league footballer, Micah Richards, which launched across selected stores on Monday 14 September.

Designed to make shopping easier and more inspiring, the new format will include dedicated homeware and bedroom displays and a combined character and toy shop.

The investment forms part of Asda’s ongoing commitment to growing the George brand and creating contemporary retail spaces that showcase its fashion and home collections while delivering a more convenient and enjoyable experience for customers.

Advertisement
George commercial director Karl Doyle said: “We’re excited to bring our stand-alone George store concept to Rotherham and give local customers an even better way to shop our fashion and home collections.

“Our customers are loving the new stores and have responded particularly well to the expanded clothing and home ranges. The way the stores are presented creates an improved shopping experience, giving customers more opportunities to browse and find inspiration.

“This investment reflects our commitment to growing the George brand and continually improving the experience we offer customers and we look forward to welcoming Rotherham shoppers through the doors in October.”

To allow the transformation work to take place, the store closed at on Saturday 19 September before reopening as a stand-alone George store at 9am on Thursday 1 October.

On opening day, the first 500 customers to spend £5 or more from 9am will receive a golden ticket, with the chance to win £5–£500 to spend in-store.

Celebrations continue from 10am on Saturday 3 October with a high-energy cyclone challenge, where customers can win George gift vouchers and other prizes. There’ll also be a live DJ on both days to mark the occasion and create a party atmosphere for customers.

The Rotherham opening will be the seventh Asda Living store in the UK to be transformed into a stand-alone George store and the second in South Yorkshire, following the launch of the new George store in Barnsley in August.

It marks the latest milestone in Asda’s plans to strengthen the George brand and create exciting new shopping destinations for customers across the country.

George website Images: Asda

News: Council refines Rotherham shop front grant scheme

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 08:45:30 +0000

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Images: Commercial Property Rotherham

News: Clothing retailer revamps Rotherham store

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 08:28:46 +0000

Asda has selected Rotherham as the latest location for a new standalone George concept store.

The new format features expanded ranges, a contemporary layout, improved services, and reflects Asda’s strategy to transition its Asda Living estate into George destinations.

At Cortonwood Retail Park, which is in Rotherham, a special opening event was held last month for the new store which has been created in the Asda Living unit.

Asda is accelerating plans to open ten standalone George concept stores this year, as the retailer continues its plans to replace its Asda Living brand portfolio across the UK.

The move follows the strong performance of the first two stand-alone George stores, which opened in Leeds and Hull in 2025 and delivered an overwhelmingly positive customer response.

Advertisement
A spokesperson from Asda said: "The transformation reflects Asda’s continued investment in creating inspiring, easy-to-shop environments that celebrate its hero non-food categories. From everyday wardrobe essentials to trend-led seasonal pieces and contemporary home interiors, the new concept store aims to deliver quality, style and value synonymous with the George brand."

Customers can expect a significantly expanded clothing offer across womenswear, menswear and childrenswear, alongside a broader George Home range featuring an even wider selection of interiors and lifestyle products. Shoppers will also be able to discover the latest fashion launches, including the Yasmin Le Bon and Amber Le Bon collections and Stacey Solomon’s exclusive George Home ranges.

George is the UK's third-largest clothing retailer by volume and the country's largest childrenswear retailer, serving millions of customers through 580 Asda stores and six standalone George stores. The brand also has ambitious growth plans, including opening 100 standalone locations in the next five years.

The retailer also operates from a standalone Asda Living store at Parkgate in Rotherham. No date has been given for a transition to George.

Asda website

Images: Asda

News: Demolition marks end of a chapter in Rotherham regen scheme

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Tue, 04 Aug 2026 08:27:11 +0000

Demolition work is well underway to make way for a brand-new community hub in the heart of a Rotherham town.

Planning permission was granted for a new library at Wath in 2024 as part of a scheme that is backed by government funding.

A new two-storey building will be built on the site of the existing library, as part of a £9.9m community and commercial development being delivered by Rotherham Council. Last year a Stage 1 Pre-construction contract was awarded to Tilbury Douglas following a competitive tendering exercise.

The new Wath Library project is set to include a state-of-the-art library building, improved public realm, redesign of the site to enhance connectivity and visibility of town centre offer, and address perceptions of security, provision of a new commercial unit in prime location on the market square to attract new businesses, improvements to facilities for learning, working, and making, and improvements to the car park.

Advertisement
Demolition work began in February and as it takes place, stage 4 design work is being carried out.

Cllr. John Williams, Cabinet Member for Transport, Jobs and the Local Economy at Rotherham Council, said: “It’s great to see real progress on site. This project will create a modern, welcoming space for the community and play a key role in Wath’s future.”

In May, Rotherham Council's cabinet approved a further £2.04m for the project which secured £9.9m from the government's Levelling Up funds.

A council report set out that detailed contractor pricing and refinement of the scheme following appointment had "identified cost pressures that cannot be accommodated within existing contingencies."

Cost increases were due to an increase in demolition costs of around £800k, largely due to the presence of previously unidentified and significant levels of asbestos.

An increase in construction costs and inflationary increases due to delays in tendering, contractual negotiations, design and cost assessments and additional design fees all added to the rising costs.

An option to stick with the original £9.9m budget was discounted as providing a smaller building footprint and changing to the external design would require a full redesign and new Planning approval, causing significant delays to the project.

The report adds: "The scheme for Wath Library was developed with the aim of transforming this prominent site in one of the Borough’s principal settlements, with high quality place making in order to restore the cultural heart of the town centre, increase footfall, boost the local economy, and restore a sense of pride within the community.

"The scheme includes demolition of the existing library and the creation of a brand-new library to deliver a modern, inviting, and inclusive community facility. The redevelopment is designed to enhance the visitor experience between Biscay Way and the High Street to encourage visitors into the town centre."

Images: RMBC

News: Lloyds bank to return to Rotherham town centre as Halifax name set to disappear

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 08:33:18 +0000

Less than a month after announcing plans to close another branch in Rotherham as part of plans to close 79 branches across the country, Lloyds Banking Group announced plans that will see the Lloyds name return to the town centre.

Rothbiz reported last month that the Rotherham town centre branch of Lloyds is closing on October 15 2026.

The last closure was the Wickersley branch in 2023 with the group saying that most customers are now using the app, online services or phone banking.

An announcement last month said that Lloyds would become the group’s lead brand in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, as the Halifax brand changes to Lloyds.

The rebrand will mean that the Halifax branch at Howard Street, the last branch in the whole Rotherham borough, will become Lloyds.

Advertisement
Halifax and Bank of Scotland have been part of Lloyds Banking Group since 2009. Since early 2025, customers of all brands have been able to manage their accounts across all Lloyds Banking Group branches and customers can already manage all their accounts in a single app or phone call.

There are no immediate changes for customers, and everything will continue to work as it does today.

Existing Halifax customers will start to use the Lloyds app in the coming months and will see their accounts rebranded to Lloyds over time. As part of this change, the Halifax brand will stop opening new accounts.

Jas Singh, CEO, Consumer Relationships, at Lloyds Banking Group, said: "As Halifax changes to Lloyds, our Halifax customers will keep everything they know and love today – the same fantastic app design, the same friendly faces in our branches – even the same sort code and account number. But as Lloyds customers, they’ll get the best innovation and experiences we offer. Our Lloyds customers are already benefiting from a significant investment into propositions like Club Lloyds, Lloyds Premier, Lloyds Ultra and Lloyds Rewards – and now we’re really excited that Halifax customers can bank on Lloyds for more."

The rebrand is expected to take place in 2027.

Lloyds website

Images: Google Maps

News: Demolition for vacant Rotherham shops

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Thu, 30 Jul 2026 08:59:12 +0000

Demolition work has begun on a parade of council-owned shops on the edge of Rotherham town centre.

It had been expected that the cleared site will be redeveloped as housing.

Rothbiz reported last year that Rotherham Council had secured planning permission regarding the method of demolition for the vacant parade of shops on Wellgate.

The derelict properties that make up 86 - 102 Wellgate were set to be sold off by the council and were scheduled to go under the hammer with Pugh's online property auction. However, the lot was withdrawn before the auction took place.

Now a contractor has been appointed to demolish the buildings and clear the site.

Local Rotherham firm DSR Demolition Ltd has secured the £162,096 contract and the aim is to complete the work, including all substructures and foundations, by September 2026.

Advertisement
Previous plans stated: "The buildings are no longer fit for purpose and deteriorating in condition. The buildings are proposed to be demolished, and future development of the site will then be considered."

Tender documents state: "The site is to be remediated of all spoil and surfacing leaving evenly graded and secured with solid hoarding security panels until future development of the site is undertaken."

In preparation for the completion of the demolition, Rotherham Council is hoping to secure planning permission for 2.5 metre PVC site hoardings for the perimeter of the 0.19 acre site.

When up for auction the lot was given the guide price of £25,000 and advertised as a redevelopment opportunity with a legal clause stating that the site will be required to be redeveloped for residential purposes only.

Clauses showed that the council would demolish all buildings and clear the site with a three year buy back option proposed so the council could reacquire the site if progress was not made.

Images: Pugh Auctions

News: Further delays for Dinnington regeneration project as tender fails

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Thu, 23 Jul 2026 13:29:31 +0000

More delays have been experienced at a long awaited £12m regeneration scheme in a Rotherham town after the council failed to appoint a contractor to carry out the work.

Led by Rotherham Council, the revamp of Dinnington market, originally approved in 2024, includes clearing derelict buildings, creating a new town square, and developing purpose-built commercial units to diversify the local offer.

The council bid for funding for the project in 2022 and eventually secured £11m in Government funding. It aims to improve the outdoor market, pedestrian routes, and public spaces - creating a healthier, safer, and more sustainable environment for residents, visitors, and businesses.

After delays were caused by a lengthy compulsory purchase order (CPO) process, the Government confirmed that the spending on the project can be extended from 2026 to 2028.

An update on the project from the Council reads: "The project has experienced some challenges during the recent tender process, which has unfortunately led to delays in progress. The Council has been working to address these issues and get the project back on track.

"As part of this process, the scheme is currently being re-tendered to ensure the right contractors are appointed to deliver the project."

Advertisement
Demolition is underway on site and Rothbiz reported earlier this month on the updated plans for the scheme gaining approval.

The next steps involve site hoardings being installed around the site with the demolition of the indoor market expected to begin on site in early autumn, this is dependent on Northern Power Grid diversion works having been completed in advance. This will be delivered separately from the main construction contract.

The main works contract will be re-tendered, followed by the appointment of a contractor to deliver the wider redevelopment scheme.

The £12m redevelopment of the high street will include a new public square with a flexible pack-away market, purpose-built commercial units creating new opportunities for local businesses, and improved pedestrian links between transport hubs and the high street.

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

Images: RMBC / AHR

News: New openings in Rotherham town centre

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Mon, 13 Jul 2026 09:51:01 +0000

A range of new food outlets and a play cafe are the latest openings in Rotherham town centre where current traders are also taking on new premises.

At Forge Island, the town's £47m leisure development, a new Smoke & Pepper franchise has opened a modern, vibrant, and flavour-driven restaurant.

Rothbiz reported in June that Rotherham Council had confirmed the letting for Unit 1, a 2,500 sq ft unit next door to Arc Cinema.

The menu includes smoked meats, loaded dishes and indulgent comfort food, designed to appeal to a wide range of tastes. This includes top chef-quality burgers and succulent flame grilled chicken, famous flavourful loaded fries and crispy fried wings and tenders tossed in signature sauces. Smoke & Pepper is also known for bringing the thickest shakes in town, thirst quenching mojitos and freshly baked divine milk cakes.

Across town, a unique independent cafe has brought a Brazilian flavour to the heritage High Street.

Little Rio Cafe at 20 High Street offers authentic Brazilian speciality coffee and freshly baked goods and traditional snacks.

A wide-ranging menu features Brazilian favourites such as pasteis (pastries) and coxinha (croquettes) plus desserts like brigadeiro, a Brazilian chocolate truffle. Larger meals include Brazilian breakfasts, acai bowls, various traditional corn couscous dishes and tapioca crepes.

The independent business has utilised support from RiDO via the Launchpad scheme and to introduce the new flavours to the community, Little Rio has also been hosting Authentic Brazilian Colonial Breakfasts on Sundays.

Advertisement
On nearby Moorgate Street, a former estate agents has been transformed into a play cafe with a soft play area.

Wiggle & Wonder is described as an indoor play experience and family cafe "beautifully designed for little explorers and the people who love them."

Re-imagining the traditional soft play experience to be less chaotic and loud, the new opening focuses on active early-years development and genuine relaxation for parents, grandparents, and carers.

Wiggle & Wonder offers bookable designated play sessions throughout the week. The cafe and viewing area makes it just as enjoyable for the adults as it is for the children.

Within the Grade II listed Imperial Buildings, the latest opening is set to bring something sweet to the prominent Victorian mixed-use site.

From the team at Chaii Street on Westgate, Cafe Treats is due to open soon at Unit 4.

Pokilee's CardCade has recently opened at its new location on Howard Street when hundreds of loyal Pokemon fans queued up to visit the store on opening day.

Rothbiz reported earlier this year that plans were approved for a change of use at 14 Howard Street, a former Argos store, as the new venue includes a shop, cafe and family friendly arcade.

With the opening of the new Market Hall this month, 37 independent businesses have found a temporary new home. Rotherham Council says that 96% of the stalls are let, with everything from fruit and veg and fresh meat to clothing, jewellery and more on offer.

Smoke & Pepper website
Little Rio Cafe facebook page
Wiggle & Wonder website
Cafe Treats facebook page
Pokilee's CardCade website
Rotherham Markets website

Images: RiDO / LinkedIn

News: Trading up - Rotherham stall-holders look ahead to market move

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 11:05:13 +0000

Rotherham’s new Market Hall opens this week - the first phase of a £46.8m redevelopment project in the town centre.

Lead contractors on behalf of Rotherham Council, Henry Boot Construction are putting the finishing touches to the Drummond Street site whilst traders from the indoor market temporarily move into the brand new space.

Alongside a new modern central library, the redevelopment of the markets is divided into two areas, an outdoor covered market, which is being rebuilt, and an adjacent indoor market, which is being revamped.

Paul from P&P Cobbler & Keys, said: "I'm a shoe repairer and key cutter. I can pretty much put my hand to anything. Done it for years, to be honest, since I left school. And here I am today!

"This building has been open since 1971, and it's tired. It's old. It's an old building. It's been a great building. I've been here since 1985 and I think having a new building is good. It's going to be great. Most important to me is that we move forward. I think that's going to be a breath of fresh air that we need. Come down, check the place out."

Andy, from Joe's Butchers, added: "Personally, I've been in market 28 years. We pride ourselves in a lot of home-produced things and try and produce the best quality meats we can, at an affordable price. People do come to us on a regular basis, which I'm very grateful for. We have a bit of a laugh and a joke and things like that. If you're in a supermarket, you look on shelves, you pick things up, chuck it in your trolley, and away you go. They just lack the personal touch.

"When we move into new market, the the main entrance is going to be on Drummond Street, which is straight across from Rotherham College. It's got nice steps leading down into it, landscaped gardens, and a big open space outside. It's going to be all singing, all dancing, all looking nice. We're all moving up there, all brand new stalls, clean, tidy, and all we need is the customers to follow us, which I'm sure they will."

Advertisement
James from Milk from the Hills is a relative newcomer to Rotherham Markets. He said: "We sell milk and milkshakes directly from the farm. The younger generation love it because they've never had it before. They're used to supermarket milk, which is homogenized, quite highly processed, and the older generation love it because it reminds them of what they used to have, when the cream used to rise to the top of the bottle.

"We could see what was happening with Rotherham Market, the investment that was being put in, the rejuvenation of the market. So, we thought, you know what? We'll play the long game and get involved from the very beginning. A new space, a fresher space to bring, well, the youth back into the market again and rejuvenate it is pretty much essential now. Quite proud to be part of it, to be honest."

Hash from Hash's Mobile Phones And Accessories, is one of the longest serving traders at Rotherham Market. He said: "We do repairs. We sell the full range of accessories. We sell phones. We deal in tablets, iPads. I think in a market hall, I think you become a family. That's the reason we don't leave the market. A very friendly atmosphere, I personally think. We offer a good service. I know people put us down because they think we're just market traders and just small businesses, but I think they get a better service from us than the the bigger shops.

"Keep supporting us, keep coming. We'll keep doing what we can do."

With the entrance facing Rotherham College, access is through a new outdoor space where a number of market stalls will be based. A temporary mobility access entrance will also be available on Henry Street opposite Tesco, and clear signage will help residents, shoppers and families find their way.

Parking is available nearby, including three hours free in Tesco, and up to one-hour free parking, Monday to Friday, in the Drummond Street car park operated by Rotherham Council, which also offers free parking in all its off-street car parks on Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays.

Rotherham Council's latest timetable has the library planning to open later this year with the indoor market completing in Autumn 2027.

Rotherham Markets website

Images: Tom Austen / RMBC

News: Footfall up in Rotherham town centre

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 10:11:20 +0000

The number of visitors to Rotherham town centre is above 14 million a year, but is not yet back to pre-COVID levels.

Rothbiz reported in April that Rotherham town centre had attracted a million more visits since 2024, according to the leader of the council.

Now the authority has published the latest annual footfall figures.

In its Statement of Accounts, Rotherham Council said that there were 14.1m visitors to the town centre in 2025/26, an increase of 850,000 from 2023/24.

Revitalising the town centre is a central part of the council's 2025 - 2030 plan, called "Forging Ahead." Long term measures of success include an increase in footfall in the town centre, a decrease in the percentage of vacant units in the town centre and an increase in the proportion of people optimistic about the future of Rotherham town centre.

Although the progress of the plan is monitored, and updates provided to councillors, the data behind these measures is not published.

When data was made public, it showed that yearly footfall figures for Rotherham town centre have been in decline since 2012. From just over 26 million in that year, reducing by ten million to 16 million in 2019, even before the COVID pandemic.

Advertisement
The way footfall is measured varies. Commercial property agents at nearby Parkgate Shopping promote that the popular retail destination attracts eight million visitors per year. Agents for Meadowhall say that the Sheffield shopping centre has 24 million visitors a year. Barnsley town centre attracted a footfall of more than nine million in 2024-25 according to Barnsley Council.

On the ground, Rothbiz recently reported on a "perfect storm" described by local retailers who said that "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."

In Rotherham, the local authority points to the opening of Forge Island in 2024. The £47m development includes an 8-screen boutique cinema operated by The Arc Cinema, a 69-roomed Travelodge Hotel as well as food outlets.

Investment is also being made in events and a dedicated council team designed to make Rotherham’s high streets safer and more welcoming.

Vibrant Town Centres is one of four "gamechangers" in the new plan from the Rotherham Partnership. The vision is for partners to work together to diversify the offer in town centre in order to increase the number of return visits from residents and those outside of the borough.

The plan mentions the continued efforts to create more housing in the town centre, supporting businesses and community organisations to fill previously empty units and revitalise streets, and a collective effort to support residents to buy local.

On using culture and events, the plan states: "An engaging and exciting programme of events will draw people into our town centres, making them vibrant hubs for our communities and places where people come together. In Rotherham town centre, this sense of surprise and discovery will drive a renaissance in the visitor and nighttime economy."

The plan adds: "Across our town centres, including Dinnington, Maltby, Rotherham, Swinton and Wath, we will support the regeneration of our high streets with a focus on improving footfall, business support and making public spaces more pleasant and welcoming.

"We are redefining how we measure success - moving beyond traditional metrics of retail and spending, to also prioritise the social, wellbeing and community value which town centres can deliver."

Images: Flux Rotherham / BTG Eddisons

News: Updated Dinnington regeneration plans approved

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Wed, 01 Jul 2026 08:22:15 +0000

Updated plans for the long awaited multimillion pound regeneration scheme in a Rotherham town have been approved.

Rothbiz reported in March on the submission of updated plans for Dinnington at the sime time as work on site began with the demolition of burnt-out buildings.

Led by Rotherham Council, the revamp of Dinnington market, originally approved in 2024, includes clearing derelict buildings, creating a new town square, and developing purpose-built commercial units to diversify the local offer.

The project, backed by £11m in Government funding, aims to improve the outdoor market, pedestrian routes, and public spaces - creating a healthier, safer, and more sustainable environment for residents, visitors, and businesses.

Some £2.2m in capital funding was spent on the £12m scheme in the 2025/26 financial year, council accounts show.

In the original plans, commercial units, the indoor market, a burnt-out building, the Dinnington Colliery Band building, and the fixed outdoor market stalls were proposed for demolition.

The latest plans are for the demolition of the existing retail units at 46-56 Laughton Road and the proposed replacement being a two storey building consisting of six retail units.

After detailed surveys revealed the buildings were in a worse condition than anticipated, the Council now intends to fully demolish and rebuild the buildings rather than refurbish them to deliver a safer, higher‑quality and future‑proofed space for businesses that will also better meet the needs of the community.

Advertisement
The design matches the architectural style of the adjoining previously approved scheme and will considerably improve the character of the area. The planned scheme will now provide two, two storey pitched roof buildings fronting Laughton Road on either side of a new public square where the market will take place, surrounded by commercial units.

The latest additions see 4,300 sq ft of ageing commercial space replaced by new build commercial space totalling 4,900 sq ft.

A report from planners approving the scheme without going to the planning board reads: "The level of intervention required to refurbish the buildings was deemed extensive and costly, leading to the conclusion that demolition and replacement would provide a more viable and beneficial outcome

"As a result, the development evolved into a proposal for a purpose-built replacement that closely aligns with the approved masterplan while improving quality, safety, and functionality. The new scheme maintains the existing footprint, scale, servicing arrangements, and public realm strategy, ensuring consistency within the wider regeneration project while introducing modern retail units that meet current building regulations.

"The design incorporates enhanced accessibility, stronger security measures, improved environmental performance, and upgraded materials to create a cohesive and sustainable high street environment. This approach ensures the development not only integrates with the surrounding context but also delivers long-term benefits for the town centre, businesses, and the local community."

In February, Rotherham Council said that a tender process to appoint a main contractor would begin "shortly", with an expectation that work would begin on site in the summer.

Images: RMBC

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.

Advertisement
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: Opening date for Rotherham's new multimillion pound market hall

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 14:33:24 +0000

Operators, Rotherham Council, have confirmed an opening date for the new market hall in Rotherham town centre - the first phase of a £46.8m redevelopment project.

Lead contractors on behalf of Rotherham Council, Henry Boot Construction, began enabling works on the Drummond Street site in 2023. Alongside a new modern central library, the redevelopment of the markets is divided into two areas, an outdoor covered market, which is being rebuilt, and an adjacent indoor market, which is being revamped.

The New Market Hall is set to open for business on Friday July 10.

Work will continue on the library and move onto the indoor market. Traders in the current indoor market are expected to move temporarily into the New Market Hall until the revamp is complete.

The existing indoor market will remain open as usual until the move, with the last day of trading on Thursday July 2 to allow traders to relocate to the Market Hall.

Advertisement
Mark Brown, Dalefarm Foods, Market Trader at Rotherham Market, said: "I’m a butcher in Rotherham Market. I’ve worked in this market since I was 16 years old, on and off for years, and I’ve been here for five or six years now.

“There’s a lot of investment going into Rotherham at this time, and moving into the new Market Hall is something we’re really looking forward to.

“We offer a lovely, fresh product at a good price, and people need to get back into the markets and support local traders.

“We do try to give people a good bargain where we can, and we’ll be putting on a lot of good offers to coax people back into Rotherham, so come down and see us on opening day.

“Let’s build Rotherham back up again."

The entrance to the Market Hall will be on Eastwood Lane (on the Rotherham College side of the building), with access through a new outdoor space where a number of market stalls will be based.

To coincide with the move, Rotherham Council has rebranded the markets, with new logos and signage, using the strapline: "More than a market.".

Cllr. John Williams, Rotherham Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, Jobs and the Local Economy, said: “This move means our traders can continue serving customers locally while improvement works to the current indoor market take place.

“We know how important the market is to Rotherham, both for shoppers and for the businesses who rely on it. The priority has been to keep that offer together, accessible and open throughout.

“The Market Hall provides a town centre location where people will still find the traders they know, supporting them while work continues.”

Rothbiz reported last month on the support being offered to traders during the redevlopment.

To complete the work, Rotherham Council's cabinet recently approved the use of various council funding pots to fill a funding gap following an increase in the total budget from £40.894m to £46.844m.

The paper included a timetable that showed that the library is planned to open later this year with the indoor market completing in Autumn 2027.

Rotherham Markets website

Images: Henry Boot / RMBC

News: Rotherham Council vows to help traders as move to new £46.8m market development nears

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Thu, 14 May 2026 08:16:26 +0000

A rent free period and other support has been promised to market traders in Rotherham town centre as operators, Rotherham Council, prepare to open the New Market Hall next month.

The authority's budget included proposals to freeze charges linked to specific scenarios such as the markets, given the transition that will take place and the re-location of traders whilst the regeneration of the market is carried out.

Lead contractors on behalf of Rotherham Council, Henry Boot Construction, began enabling works on the Drummond Street site in 2023. The redevelopment of the markets is divided into two areas, an outdoor covered market, which is being rebuilt, and an adjacent indoor market, which is being revamped.

Rothbiz reported last month that the overall budget for the scheme, which also includes a new library, has risen again and is now at £46.84m.

Sarah Champion MP raised a number of concerns with the council from market traders, and pointed out the number of stall holders forced to close.

In response, John Edwards, chief executive at Rotherham Council explained that: "Fees for the temporary outdoor covered market have now been shared with all traders.

"A rent-free period has been agreed to assist with the move to the Market Hall, fees have already been halved since COVID for traders, and no one will pay more than they currently pay during the forthcoming 2026/27 financial year.

"In addition, funding has been set aside to support traders with their marketing to help them attract new customers. A communications plan has been developed to help promote the temporary market and this will be rolled out over the coming weeks.

"We are in regular dialogue with the traders and will continue to work with them whilst the works continue until full completion next year."

Advertisement
Island stalls at Rotherham Market currently cost between £204.50 and £237 per month to rent, with the rent for perimeter stalls at between £150.50 and £237 per month, before other charges are added. New traders can get a three month rent free incentive.

These rents and charges have been frozen for 2025/2026, however the council has increased charges for the Street Market, which is held on the main streets in the town centre. Outdoor market traders have moved on to the street market temporarily as construction work takes place.

Fees for "RMBC Casual Traders/ Multiple Trading Days" has increased from £23.50 to £24.40 per day. "Regular Traders" on the street market have seen fees increase from £33.75 to £35 per day.

Traders in the current indoor market are expected to move temporarily into the New Market Hall until the revamp is complete.

Simon Moss, Director of Regeneration and Environment at Rotherham Council, recently updated councillors on the issues. He said: "The traders are obviously really key to what we are trying to do. With no traders, there is no market, so we have been working extremely hard to keep the traders involved. In fact, the premise of the proposal to decant into the new market hall to provide a temporary market, that was an idea that was introduced into the project to address trader's concerns. Quite an investment went into that, because they were really keen to stay on site and so we've built that in.

"Obviously the rent levels have been a concern and recognising the disruption that the construction has caused and impacted on some traders so the 50% rent concession remains in place. We've also made a commitment that no trader will be paying more than they currently are during that period.

"We've also been working really hard to reduce the closure period, which was a real concern for traders who would have lost income during that period. We've reduced that to one week and we've increased the rent free period to three months.

"It's also worth noting the new markets team that we've brought in since the start of the year and that's had a real impact, and fresh energy and ideas, and that has really improved the dialogue that we've had with traders.

"I don't want to downplay the level of disruption and some of the concerns that some of the traders will have, but overall we've put a lot of effort into that, and I believe we are in a much stronger position in terms of that dialogue with traders."

Moss added that the move will take place in the summer this year with traders kept up to date on when that will be. He added: "We are obviously in a difficult moment with the costs and the challenges on the project but we believe that it is going to be an exciting moment for the town centre. We have seen that whenever we have invested heavily in the town centre, that has had the impact on footfall, as we've seen with Forge Island. We are hopeful that [the market] will drive footfall and create the kind of vibrant town centre that we all want to see."

A council report explains the importance of investing £46.8m in revamping the markets and library that will enable it "to once again become the beating heart of Rotherham town centre supporting economic vitality, increasing footfall, and reinforcing the town’s identity and sense of place."

The report adds that markets act "as traditional anchors that support independent traders, foster entrepreneurship and provide accessible, affordable shopping rooted in local character. When combined with high-quality public spaces, a food and drink offer and flexible spaces for events and social activity, markets help generate footfall, animate surrounding streets and create inclusive, vibrant destinations. Together, these elements underpin a resilient town centre that supports local businesses, strengthens community life and contributes to economic vitality, civic pride and overall wellbeing.

"The Markets complex was recognised as a key anchor in the town centre, both for its historic significance and the potential to be a modern, attractive destination to draw people back into the heart of the town.

"Modern markets are evolving into vibrant, multifunctional destinations that offer far more than traditional retail. The new Market Hall and its surrounding outdoor spaces will create opportunities to use the markets in fresh and imaginative ways, building on the success of feature events like the Bazaar while also providing a welcoming location for a wider range of gatherings, activities, and a traditional food offer. At the same time, collaboration with the College opens the door for the new market and library spaces to support partnership and enterprise adding real value to this part of the town centre."

The latest timetable for the new markets has the New Market Hall on the site of the outdoor covered market opening in June 2026 and the revamped Indoor Market completing in Autumn 2027.

Rotherham Markets website

Images: Adept Consulting Engineers Ltd / LinkedIn / Neimen Blume / RMBC

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.

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

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Fri, 01 May 2026 08:41:47 +0000

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RiDO website

Images: Savills

News: Pokémon-themed business trading up into long-vacant Rotherham unit

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 07:41:32 +0000

Plans have been approved that will enable the expansion of a Pokémon-themed shop and café in Rotherham town centre, reports Visit Rotherham.

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

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

Having also added a family-friendly arcade and renamed as PokiLee's CardCade, a new set of plans were submitted for a change of use at another retail unit in Rotherham town centre - a bigger building which will allow both businesses to operate cohesively from one location.

Advertisement
Rothbiz reported in January on plans for 14 Howard Street, a former Argos store. The change of use application has now been approved.

Planners at Rotherham Council said: "Although the scheme introduces elements that move slightly away from traditional retail, such as café and gaming arcade, it is unlikely to result in any harmful impact on the Primary Shopping Frontage", it would "not detract from the existing appearance or character of the frontage and would instead make a positive contribution to Howard Street by reinstating an active and engaging street presence."

A post on social media from Pokilee's Cardcade said that: "Everything you love is coming together under one roof. Bigger and Better! We can’t wait for you to see it!"

The update added that the last day in the current Old Town Hall shop would be Saturday May 2 with a closure planned for around two weeks to get everything ready for the new space.

Pokilee's CardCade website

Images: Rees Denton / Pokilee's CardCade / Facebook