Fresh plans approved for former Rotherham Foodbank HQ

Both previous tenants have moved to new premises, and plans had been approved in 2022 for the building to be converted to 13 apartments.

But a change of mind has seen a new application from Hope Offices Limited approved by planners at Rotherham Council.

The development will include office space with a capacity for more than 200 desks, plus meeting rooms, reception and eight car spaces in the existing undercroft parking area.

An RMBC spokesperson said: “With regards to highway impact, the council’s highway engineer has noted that staffing numbers are yet to be determined, but the proposed could accommodate approximately 220 employees.

“Whilst existing car parking provisions are limited, the application does include cycle parking, and is located within the town centre, which is well served by public transport and public parking facilities.

“The site is therefore considered sustainable in transport terms.”

The development will keep the 1920s frontage, including the stonework and sash windows.

The council said: “It is the case that bringing the building into an active use and management, with office tenants using the building daily, will prevent the building from falling into decay by introducing active management and tenancy which will ensure that the building’s maintenance is ensured into the future.”

IWG – which has 3,500 locations in 120 countries – is the firm behind the application. It said the Grove Road site would be an important location for employment in Rotherham.