Rotherham is Wonderful – Rotherham Rising
A Town Embracing Culture, Children’s Voices and Community
Rotherham, a town often discussed in the context of its past struggles, is writing a new chapter – one rooted in regeneration, resilience, and real community spirit.
Nestled in the heart of South Yorkshire, Rotherham is steadily emerging as a hub of cultural heritage, green innovation, and inclusive growth.
Rotherham’s transformation
Over the past few years, Rotherham has undergone a quiet transformation. Major investments in infrastructure, education, and the arts are helping to reshape the town’s image and future. The Forge Island development, for instance, is bringing a state-of-the-art cinema, new restaurants, and a modern hotel to the town centre – a symbol of ambition and pride.
The rejuvenation of the High Street and the restoration of historic buildings have also begun to create a new vibrancy in the town centre.
Sustainability
Beyond bricks and mortar, Rotherham is becoming known for its commitment to green initiatives. The town is part of the “South Yorkshire Net Zero” push, with projects that support sustainable transport, clean energy, and local nature conservation.
These efforts not only improve the quality of life for residents but position Rotherham as a forward-thinking community ready for the challenges of the future.
Education and innovation
Education and innovation are thriving too. The University Centre Rotherham is attracting students from across the region, offering accessible higher education and pathways into high-skilled careers.
Meanwhile, Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP), located on the town’s edge, continues to grow as a national centre for research and industry collaboration, hosting global names like Boeing and Rolls-Royce.
Our community
But perhaps Rotherham’s greatest asset is its people and its children! In a bold and inspiring move, Rotherham is making history as the UK’s first Children’s Capital of Culture – a unique initiative designed to put young people at the heart of the town’s cultural future.
Launched with support from the UK Government’s Towns Fund and Arts Council England, the programme empowers children and young adults to shape, create, and lead cultural activities across the borough. From music and theatre to digital arts, film, and heritage, young voices are driving the conversation about what culture means today and what it can be tomorrow.
The initiative includes a year-round programme of events, workshops, and festivals, all co-designed by local youth. It offers training, mentoring, and real-world opportunities in the creative industries, giving participants the skills and confidence to lead change in their communities and beyond.
Rotherham’s Children’s Capital of Culture is more than a title – it’s a statement of belief in the power of young people to transform the places they live. It’s also a model for how towns across the UK can invest in youth-led regeneration, culture, and pride of place.
In Rotherham, the future is being written by the next generation – and it’s full of creativity, ambition, and hope. With continued investment, creativity, and the dedication of its residents and children, Rotherham is rising – and it’s a real story worth celebrating.