Work to begin on open space near river

Investigation works for the Westgate Project, part of the town's 2bn Renaissance scheme, will begin on Tuesday with specialist engineers carrying out tests on site.

It is hoped that the project will result in a new park next to the river, behind existing shops on the town's Corporation Street. An underground car park could also be built.

Three deep exploratory excavations will be carried out on the Weirside car park, the former abattoir site to ensure the land is suitable for the project before work starts.

A spokesman for Rotherham Council, which is overseeing the scheme, said: "Over four weeks the investigation works will be carried out in sequence, working from the southernmost part of the site, by the road access to Tesco, towards the Riverside Shopping Precinct.

"Unfortunately the works will have an impact on the availability of the temporary car park, which was opened before Christmas last year."

He said that during the first phase of the works the first section of the temporary car park – about 10 spaces situated next to the retaining wall of the NatWest Bank – would remain open for public use.

"But, because of health and safety concerns, all car parking on the site will be unavailable to the public for a short period later in the programme."

The council said local businesses adjoining the site had

been informed of the investigation works and improved signage would be put up at the temporary car park to keep shoppers and motorists aware of the ongoing parking situation.

The spokesman said the work would not impact on Rotherham's free parking incentives, including both Free after 3 and the recently-announced Free Saturdays initiatives.