The Corporation Street improvement scheme forms a key part of enhancing the gateway between Forge Island and Rotherham town centre. The project aims to create a more pedestrian-friendly environment by introducing green spaces, seating areas, and improved crossing points to Riverside Gardens and the cinema, hotel, and restaurants on Forge Island.
As part of the scheme changes will be made to the layout of the Ship Hill junction to improve traffic flow and accessibility.
The changes include:
- Widening and improvement of footways and public spaces along Corporation Street, and reduction of crossing distances to provide better access for pedestrians.
- Keeping the current restrictions to traffic (except buses) travelling up towards Ship Hill, although bicycles will now be permitted to travel up Corporation Street. All traffic will still be allowed to travel down Corporation Street.
- Replacing the existing signals at Upper Millgate (the gateway to Riverside Gardens and Forge Island) with an informal, raised crossing point with a reduced crossing length, to better cater for pedestrians.
- The permanent removal of the traffic lights at the junction with High Street and Ship Hill following a trial period through 2023. The junction layout will be changed to provide better visibility for drivers pulling out of the junction on Ship Hill, with improved public realm and reduced crossing distances.
- Part pedestrianising Market Street and Domine Lane to improve pedestrian safety and access to Riverside Gardens. This will include the removal of on-street parking bays and vehicle access to Corporation Street. Vehicles will still be able to access Corporation Street at the top of Main Street by turning left on to Westgate.
Why are the light-controlled crossing signals at Upper Millgate being removed?
Corporation Street does not carry heavy levels of traffic, and the light-controlled crossing was not located where it is most convenient for pedestrians to cross. The signals also effectively prioritised traffic. The new scheme which will include traffic calming, a raised crossing point, and narrower carriageway, will enable pedestrians to cross more freely and more quickly than allowed for by correct use of the crossing.
Why are the signals being removed on Ship Hill?
The junction does not carry significant levels of traffic, and signals generate levels of delay for all road users, including bus passengers, pedestrians and cyclists.
The new layout will allow pedestrians to cross more freely, allow more space to be allocated to pedestrians with a higher quality environment, and will also allow cyclists to be exempted from the various turning prohibitions that currently exist. The junction will be changed from its current layout to aid driver’s visibility when navigating the junction.
When are the works expected to be completed?
The works on Corporation Street are due to complete in summer 2026 with Riverside Gardens due to complete winter 2026.
