Rotherham: Council moves to buy up town centre buildings for major revamp
Rotherham Council has taken a step forward in its plans to transform the town centre by buying up properties along Corporation Street.
The move will help pave the way for a major improvement scheme linking the town centre with the new Forge Island development.
Council bosses say the plan is to turn Corporation Street into a more pedestrian-friendly route, with wider pavements, green spaces and better access to Riverside Gardens, the cinema, hotel and restaurants.
The scheme could also see traffic lights removed at key junctions, safer crossing points for pedestrians, and town centre street pedestrianised.
To make the project happen, the council is now working to acquire buildings and land along the route.
Officials say buying the sites outright is the fastest way to deliver the changes, rather than relying on private landowners.
The council has not disclosed how much the acquisitions will cost or which properties are involved, with key details contained in an exempt appendix withheld from the public on commercial grounds
The council says the scheme is a key part of its long-term vision to boost the town centre and support economic growth.