Rotherham 2025: The Year Everything Starts to Change
There’s a buzz in Rotherham this year – and not just from cranes, hard hats and street carnivals.
After years of challenges and headlines focused on the past, 2025 feels different. It feels like a turning point. A year where the borough finally gets the investment, attention and belief it has been waiting for.
So what exactly is happening? Here’s your feel-good snapshot of Rotherham’s reboot – and why 2025 might be the year we all look back on and say: “That’s when the future began.”
A Gateway to the Future
Rotherham’s transformation is getting real with big money on the table. The long-promised Gateway Station at Forge Way – once a “maybe” idea – now has £11.35 million confirmed to start design and buy land.
We’re not just talking about a new train station. The masterplan includes new housing, jobs, better transport to the wider region, and a greener, modern arrival point to the town. Imagine stepping off the train into a place that says: “Welcome to the new Rotherham.”
We already have a new cinema and hotel area and next year the Markets will be fully open too!
Pride in Our Place
Regeneration isn’t just about shiny new buildings. It’s about communities feeling proud, safe and seen. That’s why a £20 million, decade-long Pride in Place Programme is being launched – targeting the neighbourhoods around the town centre that need uplift the most.
Locals get a say too. A new Neighbourhood Board puts residents, businesses and community groups right at the heart of the decisions. Grassroots regeneration? We love to see it.
And don’t forget our very own RUFC and the Millers celebrating 100 years next year and the RNN Group (made up of Rotherham College, North Notts College, Dearne Valley College and University Centre Rotherham) celebrating 10 years!
Culture Powered by Young People
For a whole year, children and young people are shaping the cultural heartbeat of Rotherham. As the world’s first Children’s Capital of Culture, the borough is showcasing youth talent in a way no one else ever has.
We’ve already seen Roots, the colourful street carnival bursting with music, puppets and creativity. And just last month something epic happened – the UK’s largest ever community opera, starring over 2,000 local young people in partnership with the Royal Opera House!
Take a bow, Rotherham’s next generation. This stage is yours.
Safer Streets, Stronger Support
Cleaner neighbourhoods. Less fly-tipping. More help for people struggling. These aren’t small wins – they’re everyday life changers.
New teams are tackling environmental crime and street safety head-on, backed by dedicated funding. At the same time, a new mental-health strategy is being developed after the borough saw big rises in depression rates.
It’s a commitment to building a happier, healthier Rotherham.
Businesses That Believe in the Borough
Rotherham companies are growing, winning awards and creating local jobs. At the 2025 annual business awards, the winners were recognised not only for profits – but for community impact, sustainability and supporting local people.
This isn’t just business success – it’s hometown pride.
A Turning Point – With Work Still to Do
2025 isn’t the finish line. But for the first time in a long time, the future isn’t just promised… it’s starting to be built.
So here’s to the people, the ideas, the young dreamers and the do-ers who are reshaping Rotherham. This year is for you. And for all of us who call this place home.
Rotherham 2025: The comeback starts here.