Meeting our values
People are safe, healthy and live well
Rotherham has some of the highest health inequalities in the UK. Many health problems can be prevented. We want to create safe spaces where everyone can safely and comfortably include more activity in their daily lives.
Even small amounts of daily activity can help improve mental and physical health. An analysis of 226,889 people from 17 different studies around the world has shown that the more you walk, the greater the health benefits. For example, taking 1,000 extra steps each day can reduce the risk of dying from any cause by 15%.
Children & Young People fulfil their potential
In these neighbourhoods 18.9% to 22.5% of people are aged 15 years and under. As children aren’t able to drive their only options for travelling independently is walking, wheeling or public transport. We want to encourage independence and build healthy habits from a young age. Improving road safety means children are more able to independently play, walk to school, or take part in extracurricular activities.
As Children’s Capital of Culture 2025, we want to ensure Rotherham is a great place to grow up, where children can safely navigate their neighbourhoods. In the last five years 2 under 15s were killed and 94 children seriously injured on Rotherham’s roads, help us reduce this number to zero, by investing in safe and accessible active travel infrastructure and encouraging safe driving.
Everyone has economic opportunities
Investing in sustainable travel improves reliability and efficiency of our bus routes and safety of our cycle and pedestrian routes meaning car ownership doesn’t have to be a barrier to education or employment. In the whole of Rotherham 23% of households do not have access to a car, whilst this rises to up to 61% in some neighbourhoods along the proposed bus route.
The environment is cared for
5.7% of deaths in Rotherham can be attributed to air pollution, providing a variety of safe and accessible routes means people are able to make more climate conscious choices, supporting our 2040 net zero goal for the borough, and improving air quality over time.
We want to design spaces that are welcoming to be in and encourage people to take care and pride in where they live.
Neighbourhoods are vibrant and thriving
Inclusive spaces that cater to diverse groups regardless of ability, age, or socioeconomic status ensure that everyone feels welcome and valued. This inclusivity helps to break down barriers and build a more cohesive and integrated community. Creating spaces that allow a variety of safe and accessible travel options can reduce social isolation by helping people to get out and about.