Do you agree with our High Street plans?

The cash is what was left unallocated from RMBC’s £4 million Towns and Villages Fund, which is delivering small-scale improvements away from the main town centre.

The council said from the outset of creating the pot of cash that a “significant amount of funding” would be saved for a larger project at Maltby.

Now a development proposal has been produced to transform the High Street, with a focus on road surfacing, soft landscaping and street furniture.

RMBC deputy leader Cllr Sarah Allen, cabinet member for neighbourhood working, said: “We are investing in Rotherham’s future, by transforming our towns and villages.

“To show our commitment to this, members will be asked to agree to pour a significant amount of council money into Maltby, which is one of our key district centres.

“To ensure that the funding is used effectively, we have set out our proposals for where we think the investment should go.

“However, we want the citizens of Maltby to tell us whether these are the plans they want.

“Their views are essential in helping us to deliver a fit for purpose scheme which will enhance local lives and boost trade and investment into the town.”

The development proposal document notes the decline in traditional retail and the growing importance of high streets as social meeting places.

“People tend to come to Maltby High Street for very short periods of time,” the paper adds.

“By improving the quality and appearance of the High Street, visits should encourage other more social activities.

“Maltby High Street benefits from having people living in and close by. A popular and well used high street could be animated by local residents during the day and evening, and support local businesses.

“Smaller local businesses and the self-employed often prefer the vibrancy of a local high street with access to facilities and amenities over out-of-town business parks or being isolated working from home.”

Further consultation is planned with residents at events over the two months after cabinet members have approved the spend on August 7.