The
Unofficial Website
Rotherham Renaissance
Rotherham Renaissance is the name for the grand 25 year plan to
refurbish and improve much of the town centre. They use the adjective grand, I would use grandiose. These plans were re–jigged and relaunched at regular intervals over several years as
things changed, but have now begun.
In 2007 the redevelopment of the three car parks at the Old Market Hall site, the Old Baths site and the Old Abattoir are under way. Work commenced in 2007 on building on the Old Market Hall site, a development that will contain 44 flats with shops on the ground floor. The underground car park which was once mentioned seems to have disappeared. In September 2007 the earth movers moved into the Old Baths site and I believe work is due to commence on the Old Abattoir site, now called Keppel's Wharf, some time soon.
Also under way is the refurbishment of The Imperial Buildings which is due to be completed about the end of March 2008. All Saints Buildings in Corporation Street has been emptied and is due for demolition after January 2008. A new building with offices and retail units is proposed for the site.
A new Public Space Scheme called at present the 'Draft Public Realm Strategy' was launched in September 2007. It includes plans for the new design of the town centre streets, seating, lighting and overall environment. The final document is expected in 2008.
Plans are also afoot for the development of the old Guest & Chrimes site on Don Street. I've given it its own page.
The first part of the Flood Alleviation Scheme is well under way, and plans are in the pipeline for Phase Two.
If you want to know more about the Future of Rotherham please contact the Town Centre Management Team on 01709 336854.