Compulsory purchase order for Corporation Street expected within 12 months

Rotherham Council has approved its own plans for 19 flats and three commercial units to replace Envy, Muskaan and Kyber Pass, which were destroyed by fires between 2005 and 2011.

And the authority will fund the development itself if no private sector partners show interest in delivering the long-awaited scheme.

RMBC will use grants from the government’s Town Deal and Levelling Up pots — once the ownership has been transferred.

Cabinet members pledged their commitment to the Corporation Street redevelopment when an update report was presented on Monday.

Cllr Denise Lelliott, cabinet member for jobs and the local economy, said: “I seem to have been doing this for years.

“Every time I come back with this, it’s a step closer to achieving our aims, which is exciting.”

Plans must be in place for a compulsory purchase order to be granted — but RMBC is still hoping an agreement can be made without the need for a CPO.

Talks are currently ongoing through probate following the death of the neglected site’s owner.

Paul Woodcock, regeneration and environment director at the council, said: “Once we get hold of the buildings, either through agreement or by CPO, the next stage will be going out to seek a private developer.

“If that is not forthcoming, the council will continue and develop the site.”

The CPO was served on landowners in April, after which there was a statutory 28-day period for any objections to be made. The apartments plan was approved on May 24.

Council leader Cllr Chris Read said: “The use of a CPO is not something the council takes lightly, but in this case the buildings have stood empty for far too long.

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“If we continue to be unable to make progress with the owners, it is justified to support the continued transformation of Rotherham town centre.

“The current burnt-out buildings are situated in a prominent position in the town centre which, when redeveloped, will provide residents and visitors with a welcoming first view into Rotherham and new amenities.”