Rosegarth Avenue ‘looks fantastic’ after Towns and Villages investment

Photo caption: From left to right, the image shows Councillor Robert Taylor, Councillor Sarah Allen and Councillor Lyndsay Pitchley at Rosegarth Avenue.

Rosegarth shopping parade is the latest site to benefit from improvements thanks to funding from Rotherham Council’s Towns and Villages Fund.

The space in front of the well-used shopping area in Aston was in need of some TLC. In addition, there was no designated crossing point for pedestrians between the shops and the Parish Hall.

Following the works, the area now boasts improved accessibility to the shops, through new steps and ramp access. New paving and footway improvements make it easier for residents and businesses to access the shops, which line the parade.

Donna Duke, owner of Headquarters hairdressers commented:

The area looks fantastic, everything we have asked for has been done and we couldn’t be happier. Before the work, the area outside the shop was unsightly, but now I feel really proud when I walk up to work.

“Access to the shop wasn’t ideal, so sorting these issues with a ramp and new handrails have been a godsend and have made a real difference, especially to our elderly customers.” 

New car parking bays have been created outside the shops with improved lighting to improve safety.

Landscaping work has taken place at Rosegarth Avenue. New planters improve the appearance of the area. A new crossing point has also been installed to the adjacent Parish Hall, which has also benefitted from improvements to the external area.

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 part of our plan to invest in Rotherham’s future. We are improving the look and feel of our neighbourhoods across every ward in Rotherham. Projects are being delivered at pace for the benefit of local residents.

Consultation was carried out before work began. This was led by ward councillors who spoke to local residents and business owners to establish what improvements they would like to see in the area.

Councillor Robert Taylor, Councillor for Aughton and Swallownest Ward, added: 

We carried out consultation with people who use the area to ensure we delivered the best possible outcome. Local businesses were particularly worried about anti-social behaviour, which is why we upgraded street lighting.

Councillor Lyndsay Pitchley, Councillor for Aughton and Swallownest Ward, said: 

The work that has taken place supports our ward priority to develop initiatives that will improve the environment and the neighbourhood. I’m delighted to see the final results. This area is now much more attractive – it looks great.

You can find out more about the Towns and Villages Fund at www.rotherham.gov.uk/villages

Photo caption: From left to right, the image shows Councillor Robert Taylor, Councillor Sarah Allen and Councillor Lyndsay Pitchley at Rosegarth Avenue.

Published: 22nd August 2023