RMBC's move to keep more jobs in Rotherham

The council has used voluntary clauses in planning conditions on major developments but these will now become an expected part of the planning process.

Cllr Denise Lelliott, cabinet member for jobs and economy, said: “It is another way the council is ensuring that local people get all the opportunities possible so that we can expand our local economy and keep more Rotherham pounds in the borough.”

Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust is among the developers to have agreed to voluntary arrangements already.

Chief executive Sarah McLeod said: “ By providing opportunities for local residents, WWPT is building a long-term skilled workforce, resulting in positive economic, social and environmental benefits for the area.”

The aim is to build on the council’s social value policy, which it says was worth £13.6 million last year, with 1,500 weeks of training and 302 employees hired or retained in council-related projects.