Virtual consultation underway for Rotherham’s Towns Fund

Regeneration news

An online, virtual consultation has been launched to ask people across the borough about their thoughts on plans to invest £25m into the town through the Towns Fund Programme.

Rotherham’s Town Deal specifically focuses on a number of projects deliverable within five years.

Over the last six months, Investment Plans have been developed for Eastwood, Templeborough and the ‘central area’. Work has been ongoing, with a wide range of partners, in identifying a number of potential projects and investments.

The plans include better connectivity into town along pleasant, tidy, open areas which are accessible to all, improved landscapes, and new homes.

Rotherham was one of 101 areas asked to produce an Investment Plan for economic growth, in order to access up to £25m of government funding, or up to £50 million for especially ambitious and credible plans.

The focus of Rotherham’s investment is on increased economic growth through regeneration, improved transport, better broadband connectivity, skills and culture.

Rotherham Council’s Cabinet Member for Jobs and the Local Economy Cllr Denise Lelliott said: “We are always seeking out additional funding, and this funding will shape the town centre and its surrounding areas for generations to come. It is very important that people get to have their say putting forward their thoughts that will help directly shape the future of these areas. Although we can’t hold the consultation face to face, we are very excited to be able to introduce this virtual forum where people can view the ideas and comment on the proposals.”

The plans complement works already taking place to revitalise the town centre, through the Town Centre Masterplan, with a large focus on leisure and entertainment along with new housing developments, better transport infrastructure and improved open spaces.

The Council’s Future High Street Fund bid has also been submitted which included plans for the markets to be developed. An announcement on whether the bid has been successful is expected in the autumn.

The virtual consultation can be viewed online at https://vpc.tetratecheurope.com/rotherham/

Residents can still comment on the Rotherham My Town portal at https://mytown.communities.gov.uk/town/rotherham/

Read more about the Town Centre Masterplan and the town centre at www.rotherhamtowncentre.co.uk

Published: 29th September 2020