Rotherham Council has announced a new five-year strategy focused on local economic development, infrastructure upgrades, and community investment. The strategy clearly emphasises supporting businesses and enhancing the region’s competitiveness.
The strategy, known as “Forging Ahead,” will be presented to the Cabinet on 19 May 2025. If approved, it will guide council actions through 2030. Key priorities include boosting the borough’s business infrastructure, improving transport connectivity, and driving local procurement.
Among the highlights is an £8.4 million investment in the Templeborough Business Zone, designed to create new commercial spaces and jobs. The Council is also progressing plans for a mainline rail station at Parkgate to enhance regional and national connectivity—an initiative expected to benefit freight logistics and commuter access.
The plan includes initiatives to support local enterprises, such as strengthening supply chains, encouraging local spending, and delivering targeted business support programmes like “Go for Growth.”
Investment in public spaces is also central. A £4 million “Our Places” programme will focus on improving town and village gateways. In contrast, upgrades to public parks and the creation of 400 homes in the town centre aim to make Rotherham more attractive to residents and businesses.
From a workforce and community development perspective, the plan includes support for new families, facilities for young people, and expanded housing options for adults with complex needs, measures intended to boost workforce participation and community wellbeing.
A new Street Safe team will be introduced to address antisocial behaviour and improve perceptions of public safety, which often affects high-street businesses.
The Council sees the plan as a continuation of progress made since 2021, including road improvements and significant cost-of-living support. If adopted, “Forging Ahead” will serve as a roadmap for aligning public investment with private sector growth.
