Work on Riverside Gardens, a new public space on the opposite side of the River Don to Forge Island, will begin later this month.
The £4.1m project, which will include accessible routes from Market Street and Domine Lane, will boast soft landscaped terraces, a riverside walk offering views of the River Don, natural play for children, new seating and improvements to footpaths and public spaces along Corporation Street, helping to make road crossings shorter. The work will also enable cyclists to travel in both directions on Corporation Street.
As a result of the work, the Riverside car park at the back of Corporation Street will permanently close on Monday 28 April. Alternative nearby parking can be found at Forge Island and in the Scala car park at the bottom of Corporation Street.
From next month there will be free parking for the first hour in Council-operated off-street car parks in the town centre all week long. Free parking is already available at weekends in Council-owned car parks.
Details about other town centre parking options can be found by visiting Rotherham.gov.uk/parking.
Cllr Robert Taylor, Cabinet Member for Transport, Jobs and the Local Economy, said: “It’s an exciting time for the town centre and fantastic that we’re ready to forge ahead and start work on Riverside Gardens. The project will help create a clear, accessible and vibrant route between the town centre and Forge Island.
“The project will also provide a green space for residents and visitors to relax in, with connections to the river and nature for families to enjoy. I look forward to seeing the project develop and would like to encourage all our residents to visit Forge Island as we prepare to welcome two new restaurants soon.”
Forge Island is home to Arc Cinema and Travelodge Hotel, with new restaurants – Vetro Lounge and Sygnature Dish – both set to open this spring. Vetro Lounge’s grand opening will take place on Wednesday 30 April.
For more information, please visit - Rotherhamtowncentre.co.uk/riverside-gardens