Housing transformation takes shape as part of masterplan for town centre

Westgate Riverside is in the council’s Residential Riverside Quarter and comprises 72 homes, including apartments, traditional houses and waterside properties with terraces overlooking the river Don.

44 of the new builds will be available for council rent, 20 for private sale and eight come under shared ownership.

Commenting after touring the site, council leader Chris Read said: “This is an exciting transformation and what we’ve seen today is impressive. The housing looks great and will provide modern living. I’m looking forward to welcoming people into their new homes.”

Councillor Denise Lelliott added: “These homes are well-built and exceptionally well-designed. They’re a key part of the Town Centre Masterplan and we’re delighted that they will attract residents to the heart of our town.”

Nearby Wellgate Place features 54 homes with 23 for council rent, eight for private sale and 23 for shared ownership.

Millfold Rise on Westgate comprises 45 homes for both council rent (31) and private sale (14), including apartments and a modern twist on the back-to-back house. These will be released later in the summer.

The improvements are part of Rotherham’s Town Centre Masterplan, which was drawn up to transform large areas, including historic industrial sites.

Its vision for the town centre will see it move away from large retailers to create more appealing leisure destinations and a new resident community.

Rotherham Council adopted the Masterplan in 2017, after extensive public consultation and stakeholder engagement. The improvements and planned improvements are partially funded by national grants.

That funding is supplemented by the council’s own resources and funding from the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, Homes England, and the private sector.