New road into Parkgate Shopping planned as part of transport blueprint
Public consultation has been launched on the changes, which aim to make travelling around Parkgate easier.
South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive is gathering views before submitting a planning application to Rotherham Council and said public opinion would help shape the plans.
One of the proposals put forward is reviving the previously-considered idea of an extra road into Parkgate Shopping from the Aldwarke Lane side – something that has failed to come to fruition in the past due to the rail line crossing its path.
Improvements to Taylors Lane roundabout - widening the access from the south with an extra lane in each direction - and a 300-space park-and-ride for the tram train station are also on the agenda.
SYPTE’s director of customer Services, Tim Taylor, said: “Our proposals for Parkgate aim to bring benefits to everyone living in, working at and visiting the area.
“By easing congestion and improving traffic flow these changes will offer greener journey options for a cleaner environment.
“The proposed new link road and highway improvements will improve bus reliability and journey times in the area, as well as access to the Tram Train network and a proposed new, larger capacity park & ride.
"New public realm proposals also aim to encourage more active travel, by making it easier to walk and cycle around Parkgate.
“This important consultation will shape how we progress to the next stage of our proposals for the area’s highway, walking and cycling infrastructure. We’re seeking views to develop our plans and we are encouraging everyone that lives, shops or works at Parkgate, or uses the local transport network, to have their say on the proposals.”
The council’s cabinet member for jobs and the local economy, Cllr Denise Lelliot said: “These plans for investment in better cycling, walking and public transport options offer huge benefits for people’s health and wellbeing and the environment, as well as for the local economy.
“I urge everyone who uses this area to examine these proposals and ensure Rotherham gets the very best from this scheme.”
Consultation is open until April 16 at travelsouthyorkshire.com/parkgate and views can be given by phone on 01709 515151 or via a paper form available from the Customer Service Desk at Rotherham Interchange.
You can also register on the above website to join an online Q&A session at 6pm on Wednesday, March 24, or noon on Tuesday, April 6.