Find information about the proposed station, transport links, funding and project development
This page covers topics that residents, businesses and stakeholders often ask about as the Rotherham Gateway project develops.
Forge Way is the preferred location for the new station
Forge Way has been identified as the preferred location for the proposed station following detailed assessment work carried out by Rotherham Council, the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) and rail industry partners.
It is currently the only location in Rotherham where the mainline railway and tram-train network are close enough to create a fully integrated transport hub. This will allow passengers to move more easily between local and national transport services.
The location is also well placed to support regeneration and growth. It is close to existing and proposed housing, employment and development areas, including Eastwood, Bassingthorpe Farm, Parkgate Retail Park and the wider Don Valley Growth Corridor.
The proposed station offers greater benefits than reopening Masbrough
The option of reopening Masbrough station was considered as part of the project's assessment process.
The assessment found that a new station at Forge Way would provide stronger long-term benefits by creating direct connections between mainline rail services and the tram-train network. The Forge Way proposal is also expected to provide better value for money and support wider regeneration objectives.
Rotherham Central will continue to serve passengers
The proposed station at Rotherham Gateway is intended to complement, not replace, Rotherham Central station.
Rotherham Central will continue to serve existing rail services, while the new station would provide additional access to mainline services and the tram-train network.
Together, the two stations would help improve local, regional and national connectivity for residents, businesses and visitors.
Active travel, buses and public transport are part of the proposals
The project aims to improve access to the wider transport network through a range of sustainable travel options.
Plans include improved walking, wheeling and cycling routes, helping people travel between the station, the town centre and surrounding areas safely and conveniently.
The design also includes provision for bus services, with work continuing to understand how surrounding communities can be connected to the transport hub through reliable and accessible public transport.
Parking requirements are being assessed
Parking will be an important consideration as the project develops.
Future designs will take account of expected demand and accessibility requirements to help ensure the station meets the needs of residents, businesses and visitors.
Further information will be provided as proposals are developed.
Flood resilience is being built into the design
Flood resilience has been considered throughout the development of the project.
Rotherham Council and Network Rail are progressing work to improve protection of rail infrastructure in the area. Key station infrastructure is expected to be designed and positioned to take account of flood risk and resilience requirements.
Sustainability is an important part of the project
Rotherham Gateway supports wider ambitions to encourage sustainable travel and reduce reliance on car journeys.
The project includes proposals for improved public transport, walking, wheeling and cycling links, helping people access employment, education and services in a more sustainable way.
The wider programme also supports plans for new housing, regeneration and investment that contribute to long-term economic growth.
The project is being developed in partnership
Rotherham Council is working closely with SYMCA, rail industry partners, neighbouring authorities, businesses, universities and other stakeholders to support development of the project.
This collaborative approach aims to maximise the economic, transport and regeneration benefits that Rotherham Gateway could bring to the borough and wider region.
Communities will continue to be informed as the project progresses
Community engagement will continue as proposals are developed.
Residents, businesses and stakeholders will be kept informed through project updates, events, consultations and information published on the council's website.
Opportunities to provide feedback will be shared where appropriate as the project moves through future stages of development.
