Town on the up with the Millers

THE prospect of 1,000 new jobs for Rotherham has moved a step closer with news that heritage campaigners are backing plans for a major town centre development.

Rotherham United chairman Tony Stewart wants to take down part of the derelict former Guest and Chrimes foundry on the site of the AESSEAL New York Stadium to make way for a hotel and call centre.

And town centre businesses were in no doubt that Championship survival for Rotherham United means far more than just a better quality of football for fans.

Pub workers, caterers and shop owners were among those celebrating the Millers’ victory on Tuesday night as it brought the promise of bumper crowds and busy streets on match days.

Executive director of Barnsley and Rotherham Chamber of Commerce, Andrew Denniff said: “After the past nine months, the effect that Rotherham United’s success in staying up will bring to the town can’t be underestimated.”

See tomorrow’s Advertiser for pictures, reaction and more reports on what the Millers’ survival means for the town.