Rotherham Council has agreed to cover the funds required to refurbish Rotherham Market and build a new Town Centre library
The final cost of the delayed scheme is not currently known. With costs believed to have risen above £31m.
The improvement is a key part of Rotherham Council’s regeneration plans aimed at breathing new life into the heart of the borough.
The plans, which were approved in the summer, will bring together the library, markets, food hall, gallery, and event spaces onto one site, off Drummond Street. Once works are complete, visitors will benefit from a refurbished indoor and outdoor covered market, and an external recreation area.
Not only will this provide a modern and accessible central library but will also ensure links are improved between the town centre, library, and college.
The Council expects final costs for the works to be confirmed in Spring 2024.
Cllr Chris Read said: It has been a while coming, but this is a huge scheme, a big important scheme”
“Assuming that a company can deliver within the available money that’s there, this should be the last decision that we take through this forum.”
Site preparation began in October after the contract was awarded to Henry Boot Construction.
Cllr Read added: “Assuming the money is right, and we have got to be careful with that, it will mean that these works then lead directly into the major redevelopment of the markets complex.”
Cllr Denise Lelliott, Cabinet Member for Jobs and the Local Economy, said: “This next phase of the town centre masterplan is a testament to the Council’s dedication to investing in Rotherham’s future and to preserving the heritage of the town while embracing its dynamic future. The redevelopment will not only breathe new life into the community, but also provide economic opportunities for local businesses.
“Small independent retailers play a vital role within the wider town centre offer and whilst the works are on-going, we ask that residents continue to support local traders by visiting the markets.
“The reinvention of the markets is not just a facelift, but a holistic reimagining that aims to boost the local economy, celebrate our diverse community and provide an accessible, enjoyable space for all.”
Rotherham’s markets date back to the 13th Century and have been at their current site since 1971.
A council paper published earlier this year said the existing site was under-utilised and poorly connected to nearby housing.
Main work will begin in Spring 2024, once a developer has been appointed. The outdoor market has already been moved to Effingham Street in preparation and will remain there until the new premises are complete.
