The accessibility and appearance of the Masefield Road shopping area has been improved, thanks to funding from Rotherham Council’s Towns and Villages Fund.
This marks the fifth Towns and Villages scheme to be completed. Previously, the green space in front of this well-used shopping area was uninspiring and in need of improvement. A new footpath has been created through the green space that connects with the surrounding area.
Landscaping improvements have been delivered. Seasonal flowers have been planted that surround a community Christmas tree. Benches have been installed and street lighting has been upgraded in the area to improve safety. Extensive consultation was carried out before work began. Ward councillors listened to local residents and business owners to establish what improvements they would like to see in the area.
As works to revitalise and improve Rotherham Town Centre progress, it is important that investment in local areas is also made. The Towns and Villages Fund is a multi-million pound commitment from Rotherham Council to deliver improvements to town and village centres across the borough.
Councillor Sarah Allen, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Neighbourhood Working, said: “The Towns and Villages Fund investment is improving the look and feel of our neighbourhoods.
“We are delivering projects at pace, the completion of the scheme in the Hoober Ward marks the end of the first phase of the Towns and Villages Fund programme and is the fifth project that has been delivered so far.”
Councillor David Roche, Councillor for Hoober Ward, added “The work that has taken place supports our ward priority around making good use of green spaces for everyone. This area is now much more attractive and is now a real focal point in the heart of our local community.”
Councillor Denise Lelliott, Councillor for Hoober Ward, added: “The area was in need of improvement and I’m delighted to see the final results — it looks great! The new paths make much more sense and will make it easier for local residents to access the shops.”
Councillor Emily Barley, Councillor for Hoober Ward, said: “Local businesses and people living in the area told us they are worried about anti-social behaviour, and I hope that the upgrades to street lighting included in this project will help with that. I also particularly welcome the new, permanent, Christmas tree which will be enjoyed by generations to come.”
You can find out more about the Towns and Villages Fund on the Rotherham Council website.
Header image shows Councillor Sarah Allen and Councillor David Roche who are sat on the newly installed benches.
