Living And Working In Rotherham

The large town of Rotherham is in South Yorkshire and is situated between Sheffield and Doncaster. It lies on the banks of the River Don and is part of the larger Sheffield City Region. It is well connected to other parts of the UK, being close to major roads including the M1 and M18  motorways.The nearest airport to Rotherham is Leeds/Bradford Airport which is a little over thirty miles from the town.

Rotherham is a historic town with its own Minster which dates back over a thousand years. The Minster is significant not only because of the splendid architecture and prominent position within the town centre itself, but also for its role in bringing people of different communities together.

Like many similar northern towns, the Industrial Revolution certainly helped Rotherham to flourish. Relying heavily on the iron industry, the construction of a canal that reached the town in the early part of the 18th century ensured that coal could be brought in much easier and quicker. Production of iron and steel boomed and the town was also known for being a coal mining town as well as having manufactured other goods such as glass and pottery.

Rotherham’s economy is continuing its shift from traditional industries to more diversified, high tech and service based sectors. Historically known for coal mining and the production of steel, the town is now seeing growth in other areas. Rotherham is part of the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District which also includes parts of Sheffield. The Advanced Manufacturing Park, located at Waverley in Rotherham is a major hub for high tech manufacturing and engineering. The AMP is home to world leading companies as well as the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre. These businesses drive innovation in the aerospace, automotive and nuclear sectors, creating highly skilled jobs.Rotherham is investing heavily in green energy and sustainability projects, aligning with the UK’s commitment to reduce carbon emissions. There’s increasing investment in renewable energy technologies such as solar power, wind energy and hydrogen. The Clean Energy Technology Park located near the AMP, focuses on developing sustainable technologies, attracting businesses involved in green energy solutions.

Ongoing infrastructure and regeneration projects are stimulating the local economy, particularly in housing and transport. Major housing developments are planned while improvements in road and rail networks are enhancing connectivity.

Rotherham’s strategic location near major motorways make it an important hub for logistics and distribution. Several large logistics companies operate out of Rotherham, benefitting from its central location and access to major transport routes. The town continues to attract investments in warehousing and logistics parks, supporting the growth of ecommerce and goods transportation industries.

Like many parts of the UK, Rotherham is experiencing growth in digital technologies and creative industries. The town is encouraging investment in tech startups and businesses focusing on digital transformation, software development and media production. With improved digital infrastructure, including widespread 5G and broadband connectivity, Rotherham is an attractive place for tech businesses and remote workers.

Rotherham College and partnerships with the University of Sheffield are helping to boost education and training, particularly in sectors like advanced manufacturing and digital technologies. This focus on skills development is essential for supporting the town's transition to a knowledge based economy. Additionally, the AMRC Training Centre plays a crucial role in providing apprenticeships and upskilling opportunities, ensuring the local workforce is equipped to meet the demands of the high tech sectors.

The service sector, including retail, hospitality and financial services continues to expand. The Parkgate Shopping Centre and Meadowhall are key retail hubs, drawing consumers from South Yorkshire. The tourism and hospitality sectors are also seeing growth, driven by local heritage sites and improved leisure facilities.

Rotherham is becoming increasingly popular yet it retains and offers some delightful and unspoilt nearby countryside. With so many beautiful places to visit and exciting ways to spend time, a few of the many attractions include the atmospheric ruins of Roche Abbey, Aston Springs Farm with their many animals, the pretty Wentworth Village and The Mansion Wentworth Woodhouse with its exquisite gardens.

In addition to the historic charm, beautiful surroundings and fantastic job opportunities, Rotherham extends a strong sense of community and friendship to all who visit, work or live here.

The next event being hosted by the UK Careers Fair will be held on October 3rd 2024 between 10am - 2pm. The venue is Aesseal New York Stadium, the hub of sports, events, conferences and private hire spaces with state of the art facilities. Having opened in 2012 with a capacity for 12,000 people, it has achieved an unrivalled reputation whether hosting world class sporting events or catering for hospitality events.