Rotherham High Street scoops national title

The town triumphed in the voting over Altrincham and Tamworth in the battle to win the best town category in the "Great British High Street" competition.

Rotherham, alongside Altrincham and Tamworth, was one of just three towns to be shortlisted in this section, and online voting took place throughout October and November.

Public votes contributed to half of the selection of the category winners, with the other half coming via the judging panel made up of industry leaders from across retail, property and business.

Rotherham Council’s Advisory Cabinet member for housing and the local economy, Cllr Denise Lelliott, said the win was wonderful news for the town.

“We are delighted that the efforts to regenerate the town have been recognised in this national competition — having seen the other entries this is a huge honour,” said Cllr Lelliott.

“A number of partners have come together to make a real difference to the town centre and their hard work and belief in the High Street is paying off.

“A combination of restoring the town’s historic core, creating high quality public spaces and supporting independent retailers to help differentiate our offer has been a winning formula.

“The response from shoppers and residents has been fantastic and our success in this competition is thanks to their support and the fact that so many people voted for the town is a huge boost to everyone working and running a business in the town centre.”

Rotherham's win means a share of a prize pot worth £80,000, alongside expert training and tailor-made tips from Google’s training taskforce — the Digital Garage on Tour — for 100 of shops, bars and restaurants.