More than £3 million from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund is set to support businesses, events, and skills development in Rotherham, pending approval by the council’s cabinet on 17 March.
The funding aims to revitalise high streets by improving shopfronts, boost local events to increase visitor numbers, and provide training opportunities for residents. It will also support businesses through entrepreneurship programmes and help firms transition to low-carbon operations.
Key allocations include £945,000 for business support, £390,000 for shop unit grants and market improvements, and £444,000 for a skills programme focused on young people and basic training. The Children’s Capital of Culture festival will receive £200,000, with £275,000 allocated for event traineeships. The Rotherham Show and Bonfire Night will share £255,000.
Community support initiatives, including cost-of-living advice through the Open Arms project, will receive £359,000, while £86,000 is earmarked for a new multi-use games area. The package also includes investment in Rotherham’s markets and library development.
