Dinnington, UK – Independent business owners in Dinnington are voicing fears that their livelihoods could be in jeopardy as Rotherham Council moves forward with an £11 million regeneration project funded by the government’s levelling-up initiative. The plan involves demolishing several retail units along Laughton Road, with the council promising new shop units, a town square, and a community building. However, the future appears uncertain for the small businesses currently operating in the affected area.
Several buildings and market stalls, described by the council as “underused” and “poorly maintained,” are slated for demolition to make way for the redevelopment. Yet, business owners along Laughton Road, where many of the demolitions are planned, are raising concerns about the impact on their trade and future prospects. The council has stated that assistance is being offered to help affected businesses relocate, and it insists that long-term benefits for the community will offset any short-term disruption.
One shop owner, who remained anonymous, expressed deep concern about what the project could mean for her business. “Knocking the buildings down isn’t solving the situation,” she said. “There’s nowhere like this on the street. We have a lot of lonely, older customers who come in for a chat.” While acknowledging that Dinnington needs regeneration, she questioned the decision to demolish existing businesses instead of upgrading them. “Customers are going to go elsewhere if we have to close for two years,” she added. “It’s sad.”
Another business owner who operates a bike shop voiced his fears that the relocation costs—estimated at £50,000—might force him to close permanently. “Legally, we can’t do anything. I’m done,” he said. “There’s no way I can go forward. It’s appalling. This has been so mismanaged. I’m faced with eviction, and the council doesn’t care.” He noted that the development is expected to take up to two years to complete and that he has been unable to find a suitable alternative location for his shop, leaving his future uncertain.
In response, Simon Moss, the assistant director of regeneration and environment at Rotherham Council, defended the project, citing its potential to reduce anti-social behaviour and stimulate economic growth. “Rotherham Council is committed to economic opportunity and wants every neighbourhood to thrive, where people work together to achieve a good quality of life,” he said. “The regeneration of Dinnington will reduce persistent anti-social behaviour, create attractive public spaces, and increase footfall on the high street.”
Moss added that the plans had been positively received during consultations and emphasized that the council has contacted affected business owners to offer help in relocating nearby. “There are vacant retail units on Laughton Road, and we encourage affected businesses to enquire about these for potential relocation. We also continue to offer free expert business advice and support,” he said. He acknowledged the disruption the redevelopment might cause but argued that the investment would ultimately improve the local trading environment and boost the economy. “Regrettably, as with any redevelopment of this nature, there will be short-term upheaval, but it will bring long-term improvement. Compensation may be available to some businesses.”
Despite the council’s assurances, many local business owners still need to be reassured about the uncertain future of their livelihoods as Dinnington prepares for a significant transformation.
Fresh retail spaces, a civic plaza, and a communal facility are slated for construction on Laughton Road in Dinnington.
