Yesterday, Rotherham Council’s Cabinet approved ambitious plans to bring new services, homes and jobs to the heart of Swinton. The redevelopment project will rejuvenate the town centre by establishing new community services, refurbishing tired public buildings and creating new shopping facilities in the area. The scheme also includes plans to improve green spaces and build up to 70 new homes on a vacant brownfield site.

Dates of an open consultation, which will allow local residents to discuss proposals with Council officers and councillors, will be announced early in the new year.The regeneration of Swinton is part of a broader effort by the Council to revitalise the area.

Labour’s local Cllr Ken Wyatt in Swinton ward has said: “I’m delighted that the Council is planning to breathe new life into Swinton and am especially pleased that the disused brownfield site can be put to good use.”

A number of buildings in Swinton have closed over the last few years leaving sites vacant as a result of government cuts, leading to anti-social behaviour and vandalism. Now, the sites occupied by the former swimming pool and health service building are proposed for redevelopment in a scheme that will also regenerate the wider area and could mean a new library and civic hall.

Labour’s Cllr Victoria Cusworth in Swinton ward has also said: “Since being elected as local councillors, we’ve listened to people’s concerns about anti-social behaviour and the loss of services. We’re working hard to improve the area for local people and this development project will really revitalise the town centre.”

Following requests by local councillors, South Yorkshire Police made Swinton a high-priority area and increased patrols, while councillors also worked with volunteers to keep the town tidy.

Labour’s Cllr Stuart Sansome in Swinton ward has said: “This new development is once in a lifetime chance to bring much-needed affordable housing, business opportunities, jobs and footfall to Swinton. We want local people to have their say on what plans go forward.”

The Council will release a detailed development brief in the spring and, once a developer has been chosen, work on the site is expected to start at the end of next year. You can read the report for ‘Swinton Town Centre Redevelopment’ online here.