Rotherham’s regeneration gains momentum

ANOTHER huge crane is to grace Rotherham's skyline as the town's redevelopment gains pace.

The tower, which will be based at the new Keppel Wharf mixed-use development site, is set to dwarf an already existing tower crane on the neighbouring Old Market site.

Its arrival marks a milestone in regional development agency Yorkshire Forward's Rotherham Renaissance urban redevelopment plan as it signifies the start of above ground work on the site.

Once completed, the five-storey Keppel Whard development – one of four sites undergoing construction – will feature commercial/leisure space including a large open terrace area overlooking the River Don.

The remaining four floors will provide accommodation for 53 high quality one and two bedroom apartments with balconies. Tenants and homeowners will also benefit from underground parking.

Neighbouring site Imperial Buildings, will have 19 apartments ready for March with commercial/leisure space opening in the summer.

Meanwhile, the Old Market sire will feature 44 apartments and commercial/leisure space with completion set for August. The All Saints' building is scheduled for demolition after Christmas with the construction of a new building housing retail, leisure and office space due to start next summer.

John Gittins, regional managing director of ISG Totty – one of the firms involved in the projects construction – said that the the latest tower would be an evocative sight for everyone involved in the town's rejuvenation.

“These temporary landmarks are highly symbolic for Rotherham, acting as catalysts for regeneration efforts and sparking regional interest in the revival of the town centre as a vibrant and dynamic place to live and work,” he said.

Iliad, the Liverpool-based developer behind the regeneration development, has appointed Knight Frank as its agent for all commercial lettings on the sites.