Shorter journey times promised as £44m highways upgrade is completed

The Rotherham Gateway leads into the Sheffield Parkway and has undergone significant improvements. It now benefits from an additional lane on both the eastbound and westbound carriageway.  

Junction 33, on the intersecting M1, has also benefited from carriageway improvements and resurfacing.

Capacity on the road is now markedly increased, in turn improving journey reliability and reducing travel time.

New street lighting, carriageway surfaces, signals and signs have been installed to enhance safety for drivers. Drainage has also been improved to create better flood resilience.

Rotherham Council’s cabinet member for transport and environment, Councillor Dominic Beck, said: “We’ve already had good feedback from residents who use this busy route every day, and this significant investment in the roads network will continue to make a difference for travellers into and out of the borough.

“That in turn helps to support businesses and jobs in the community. Alongside improving the experience of drivers and passengers, by reducing the amount of time traffic is standing we can also help to address air quality concerns in the area too.”

Rotherham Council’s cabinet member for jobs and the local economy, Cllr Denise Lelliott, said: “The road is vital in connecting Rotherham with Sheffield and links to the M1.

“Completion of these works will make a big difference to thousands of commuters’ journeys every day as well as supporting economic and housing growth in the region.”

The improvements, which were funded through Central Government from the Local Growth Fund, have been carried out in partnership with international infrastructure group Balfour Beatty.

Stephen Semple, area director at Balfour Beatty, added: “Testament to the dedication and hard work of our team over the last 18 months, we are pleased the A630 Rotherham Gateway scheme has now fully reopened to traffic.

“We hope these essential upgrade works will provide a lasting legacy for South Yorkshire and beyond, improving lives through increased connectivity and reduced journey times.”