Town centre revamp works to press ahead

A revamp of parts of Rotherham town centre is under way after the council approved the final construction contract.

The £4.1m scheme will see transformation work start at Riverside Gardens, Corporation Street, and Upper Millgate.

Plans also include creating a new public space along the riverside, sprucing up Corporation Street, and improving the junction at Ship Hill.

Councillor Robert Taylor, cabinet member for transport, jobs and the local economy, said it was "an exciting time for the town centre".

The work, which is part of the Town Centre Masterplan, comes after a previous attempt to find a contractor failed, prompting the council to rethink its approach.

The authority initially ran a tender process for just the Riverside Gardens element, but several firms pulled out, citing unclear risks and not enough design detail to offer a reliable price, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

In response, the council switched to a two-stage design and build approach, working directly with contractor C R Reynolds to develop final designs and costs before construction begins.

The Riverside car park has closed but alternative parking can be found nearby at Forge Island and the Scala car park.

The council also has free parking for the first hour in council-operated car parks throughout the week, in addition to existing free weekend parking.

Taylor said: "The project will also provide a green space for residents and visitors to relax in, with connections to the river and nature for families to enjoy."

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