View plans for 140 homes at consultation event

Property consultants Harris Lamb will host a drop-in event to give more information about the proposals for Swinden Technology Centre.

Owners Tata Steel announced in 2014 that the research operation would move to the University of Warwick and relocation would be offered to 135 staff.

Historic elements of the Moorgate site, such as grade II-listed Swinden House, will be kept and converted while other elements will be demolished under the plans.

Swinden House was built by solicitor Thomas Badger between 1878 and 1880. It was used by the National Fire Service during the Second World War before being used in steel research for more than 60 years.

Harris Lamb associate Sam Silcocks said: “It’s a very nice part of Rotherham and quite an attractive site.

“There are a number of elements about the site to consider because there’s one listed building, two heritage assets, as well as newer offices.

“It was decided that the best option would be a combination of conversions and new buildings. The laboratory buildings, it was suggested, wouldn’t be viable to convert, for example.”

The consultation event takes place at Carlton Park Hotel on Wednesday (April 26) from 2.30pm to 8pm.