Rotherham Council’s Cabinet is expected to approve over £1m in funding that will see improvements to healthcare services and green space access across the borough.
The Council is set to allocate funds from its Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) – a £9.2m fund paid into by developers alongside planning permissions for new developments, like housing.
Following initial Cabinet approval in July last year, the Council invited applications for improvement projects. When Cabinet meets on Monday 10 February, the first two proposals are set to get the greenlight.
Around £256,074 is expected to be allocated to enhance five medical centres—serving areas impacted by new housing— which will directly address the strain on local healthcare services.
Dinnington Medical Centre (New Street, Dinnington), The Gate Surgery (Doncaster Gate), Rosehill Medical Centre (Rosehill Road, Rawmarsh), Stag Medical Centre (Wickersley Road) and Thorpe Hesley Surgery (Sough Hall Avenue, Thorpe Hesley) will benefit from improvements that will create additional clinical space, making it easier for residents to access GP services and other healthcare provisions.
Meanwhile, £787,400 will go towards the Trans Pennine Trail Community Access project in Wath, with additional funding from the Council’s rights of way budget. The project, running until 2027, will enhance a 5km section of the Trans Pennine Trail to upgrade the existing infrastructure, improving connectivity for residents.
As part of the project, new access links will be developed, making it easier for residents to access the trail’s green spaces, contributing to the health and well-being of the local community.Top of FormBottom of Form
Cllr Robert Taylor, Cabinet Member for Transport, Jobs and the Local Economy, said: “By investing in healthcare and accessibility to our green spaces, we’re not just responding to today’s needs but building a stronger, more connected Rotherham for tomorrow.
“The funding for our local medical centres will help create more clinical space and improve access to vital healthcare services as our communities continue to grow. This investment is all about ensuring that our residents get the care they need, when they need it, in the heart of their communities.
“Meanwhile, by improving accessibility to the Trans Pennine Trail, we’re encouraging healthier and more active lifestyles. Easy access to our green spaces is vital for the longer-term health and wellbeing of our communities.
“This investment is about forging a future where Rotherham is thriving. These projects are laying the foundation for an exciting, sustainable future, and we’re just getting started.”