Dinnington demolitions set for kick off

With Rotherham Council having completed site acquisitions, contracting firm Ron Hull will next week begin to pull down buildings, preparing the way for a £12m high street redevelopment.

The local authority has now engaged the services of Ron Hull Demolition, which will start work on 23 February.

The demolition will include the removal of the former florists and dance studio on Laughton Road, which were destroyed by fire.

Meanwhile, revised plans are also being prepared for the remaining units on Laughton Road.

After detailed surveys revealed the buildings were in a worse condition than anticipated, the Council now intends to fully demolish and rebuild the buildings rather than refurbish them to deliver a safer, higher‑quality and future‑proofed space for businesses that will also better meet the needs of the community.

New building plans will be submitted for planning approval this month, with a tender process to appoint a main contractor to begin shortly, with work expected to begin on site in the summer.

Initially declared under the Levelling Up Fund, the £12m redevelopment of the high street will include a new public square with a flexible ‘pack-away’ market, purpose-built commercial units creating new opportunities for local businesses, and improved pedestrian links between transport hubs and the high street.

Cllr John Williams, cabinet member for transport, jobs and the local economy at Rotherham Council, said: “The demolition marks a significant milestone, clearing away buildings that have long been seen as eyesores and signalling the start of real, visible progress.

“Our decision to demolish the remaining buildings rather than refurbish them means that residents, businesses and visitors to Dinnington can expect a brand-new development to be proud of. We want to make sure the regeneration of the high street is as cost-effective as possible and rebuilding the units now will mean we avoid costly refurbishment work in the future.

“This is just the beginning of a transformation that will bring lasting benefits to the town and its community.”

Rotherham is also rolling out its £4m Our Places Fund, which includes investment in Wath where plans to create a new library and enhance green spaces are underway.