Development partner appointed to deliver major regeneration scheme

Muse Developments, the mixed-use development and urban regeneration firm, has been appointed to deliver the Forge Island scheme in Rotherham.

Rotherham Borough Council announced Muse as its preferred developer for the regeneration programme.

The scheme includes a cinema, food and drink outlets, a hotel, with the new leisure facilities set within a public space and a pedestrian bridge connecting to the rest of the town centre.

Cllr Denise Lelliott, Rotherham Borough Council’s cabinet member for jobs and the local economy, said: “We are extremely pleased with the outcome of the developer selection process and the very high quality proposals we received which reflect the confidence investors have in the future direction and potential of Forge Island to become a quality development which will achieve lasting benefits for the local community.”

The first phase of work will include the main Island and part of the riverside precinct, incorporating the central hub hosting the cinema, hotel and restaurants, with an expected start date of October 2019 and a view to being completed within two years.

Dan Needham, development director at Muse Developments, commented: “We’re delighted to be given the opportunity to work with Rotherham Council on the first phase of their ambitious regeneration of the town centre.

“This is an exciting proposal for the regeneration of Forge Island, as we look to work collaboratively to create a vibrant new leisure quarter for Rotherham town centre, with a cinema, restaurants, hotel and car parking set in stunning new public areas the community can enjoy.

“The Forge Island programme will also maximise the benefits of the waterside location and extend the town’s cultural offer.”

A planning application will also be submitted with a report to be taken to Rotherham Council’s Cabinet and Commissioners’ Decision Making Meeting later in the year.