A major regeneration scheme in Swinton has been completed, with the official opening of the new Little Swinton play area at the heart of the community's precinct.
The project is a partnership between Rotherham Council and Ben Bailey Homes. Improvements across Swinton include a new library, upgrades to the Civic Hall and café, a new public space, and the play area opening.
Public realm improvements have enhanced the area around the precinct. A developer-led scheme has delivered 49 new homes, with the first homes on Quarrell Way secured by Vico (formerly Wakefield District Housing) to provide affordable social housing in the community.
Council commitment to local investment
Cllr Chris Read, Leader of Rotherham Council, said: "For those of us who grew up trotting across Swinton precinct to the library, it's great to see this final stage of the redevelopment come together, creating a modern environment for the next generation of Swinton youngsters. For local businesses, we want this to be a real boost, bringing more people and more custom into the neighbouring shops."
Cllr Gina Monk, ward councillor for Swinton Rockingham, said: "It's brilliant to have the first children already running round the new Little Swinton play area at the heart of the new public space. We really appreciate the patience of the community while the scheme has been delivered, and I hope that everyone will help to look after and make a success of it."
Further investment across Rotherham
Improvement work is set to begin on Maltby high street in the coming weeks. Dinnington high street is planned for its own regeneration scheme, while a new library will provide a modern facility in Wath.
Rotherham town centre continues to receive investment, with the £47m leisure hub Forge Island already delivered, Market Hall opened in summer, and a new town centre library set to open early next year. Public realm regeneration work on Riverside Gardens is progressing.
A Street Safe Team operates in each of the principal towns, focused on increasing safety in town and village centres, with additional street cleaning activity and a programme of shop unit grants to help bring empty units back into use.