Major town centre regeneration plans unveiled

Rotherham residents are being given the opportunity to see how the town centre markets complex and new central library could look.The redevelopment of the markets and the addition of the new library are key projects in the regeneration of Rotherham town centre.Major improvement plans are currently underway, which will include a modern central library, new community hub, extensive public realm and improved links to the town centre and college.The outdoor market will become a flexible space which could also be used for exhibitions and events when required.The markets will be connected to the town centre by a new terraced public area that will open up the frontage to Eastwood Lane and Drummond Street.The new library will occupy the corner between Henry Street and Drummond Street, and is set to include:A family friendly caféEvents, exhibition, performance and meeting spacesMaker space facilities for use by schools and the publicA Business and Intellectual Property Centre to support business owners, entrepreneurs and inventors to start, run and grow their businessRelaxing sensory spacesThe redevelopment will create a new look building upon the existing mix of shops and services, with the addition of a dining area on the first floor.Councillor Denise Lelliott, cabinet member for jobs and the local economy, said: “The refurbishment will provide an accessible and modern market and library, complemented by a vibrant new dining area.“The second floor will be revamped to include contemporary office spaces for charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups.“This scheme is another key part of the Town Centre Masterplan as we look to create multi-purpose spaces for the people of Rotherham in the heart of their town.”Rotherham Council secured funding from the Government’s Future High Street Fund to part finance the improvements of what is officially known as the Centenary Market.People can out more and have their say on the designs for the markets and library development at: www.rotherhamtowncentre.co.uk