New market scheme hit by further delays

A £13m regeneration project in Rotherham has been delayed again after problems were discovered during demolition

Rotherham Council was awarded government funding in 2023 to revitalise Dinnington high street, but the problems have now forced the main contract to be re-tendered.

Council officers said the condition of buildings on Laughton Road only became apparent after demolition began and could not have been fully established in advance.

The main building contract will not be awarded until November with construction due to start in December 2026.

The discovery caused difficulties during the procurement process and prompted the council to seek fresh bids for the main contract.

Officers say the project will still be delivered in full, without the need for a major redesign, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Plans include a new public square which can accommodate a pack-away market, new commercial premises and better walking routes between the high street and nearby transport links.

Simon Moss, director for planning, regeneration and transport, said: "The Dinnington regeneration project encountered challenges during the tender process due to issues that only came to light once demolition work began.

"These related to the condition and details of the acquired properties, which could not have been fully understood beforehand. The council is addressing these issues to ensure the project progresses as planned.

"The scheme is currently being re-tendered as part of this process, to ensure the appointment of suitable contractors."

The buildings were originally due to be refurbished but surveys of the units had revealed they were in a worse condition than first anticipated.

The council said back in February 2026 that fully demolishing and rebuilding the units would deliver a safer and higher quality development, while also avoiding costly work in the future.

The original Levelling Up funding was £12m but the cost increased to £13.3m after a review identified a possible shortfall caused by inflation and changes in construction and market prices.

The project was also delayed due the need for the council to use compulsory purchase powers to acquire the properties.

The deadline for spending the government funding has since been extended from 2026 to 2028.

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